Many enthusiasts refer to non-wood snow shoes as modern or new-style, however, metal versions of the shoe have been around for more than fifty years. Many people like to experience what the Native Americans went through thousands of years ago and opt for more traditional wooden shoes. However, aluminium snowshoes are by far the most popular currently being manufactured. There are an increasing number of designs and outrageous colours available that have become collectable by the most ardent enthusiast. The design of these shoes hasn’t changed much at all in the last fifty years, however, the rise in popularity of serious competitive snowshoe events in the 1990s has led to the emergence of hundreds of brands, colours and logos. While many like the authentic feel and look of wooden shoes, Aluminium versions will always have the edge on their wooden counterparts, due to the durability they offer.