Echinorhinidae are traditionally classified in the order Squaliformes, together with kitefin and gulper sharks.

[2][3] However, a phylogenetic estimate based on gene capture data and mitochondrial data suggests that they are not squaliform sharks, but may be more likely to be appropriately classed in their own group, as a sister group to angel sharks and sawsharks.

They are characterized by a short nose and by rough, thornlike dermal denticles scattered over its body, some of which may be fused together.

They are ovoviviparous, with the mother retaining the egg-cases inside her body until they hatch, producing litters up to 24 pups.

These sharks are found worldwide in cold temperate to tropical seas from the surface down to 900 m (3,000 ft).