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Your Guide To Snowshoeing
Strap on a pair of lightweight aluminum snowshoes and you'll quickly see why snowshoeing has become one of the fastest-growing winter sports. If you can walk, you can snowshoe. People are using snowshoes for a variety of activities — everything from hiking into pristine wilderness and aerobic conditioning to pure recreation with family and friends. They're using snowshoes for discovery and adventure, whether in far-off mountains or their own backyard.
 Before renting or purchasing equipment, ask yourself a few questions: How much
do you think you'll be snowshoeing? Will you be snowshoeing only on a vacation
or also near where you live? Determining your projected commitment level will
help you decide whether to rent or to buy equipment.Your equipment options include:
There are three categories of snowshoes, designed for different activities.
This includes winter walking, casual hiking and family outings. Snow conditions are primarily packed or broken snow trails over rolling terrain. These snowshoes generally feature a"bearpaw" or Western-style frame. This oval, symmetrical frame shape evenly distributes your weight for greater stability and balance. Built-in crampons ("teeth" that dig into the snow) on the snowshoe's frame maximize traction. Running/aerobic fitness: This includes winter running and fitness training, usually on packed or groomed trails. These snowshoes tend to be smaller and lighter than other styles of snowshoes. Some running/aerobic fitness snowshoes also have an asymmetric shape, allowing for more clearance and a natural, more efficient stride. Hiking/backpacking: This includes making steep climbs and descents. Snow and terrain conditions are variable, including powder snow on unbroken trails and wind-packed snow. These snowshoes are generally the most durable, and are designed to withstand extreme weather conditions and use. They usually feature highly supportive binding systems, built-in toe and heel crampons for maximum traction and durable decking materials. Measure up Snowshoes are usually measured in inches. The size of the snowshoe you need depends on your weight and the snow/trail conditions you will be experiencing. The type of snow you will be snowshoeing in can determine what style and size of snowshoe to use. Wet or icy snow conditions, often experienced in North America in the Northeast and Northwest, call for smaller snowshoes with grip-enhancing crampons. Plastic composite snowshoes can also be a good choice for these conditions because of their molded-in treads. Lighter, drier snow or fresh powder calls for a larger snowshoe with greater flotation. In general, keep in mind that unpacked snow will require a larger snowshoe. Depending on the type of snowshoeing you are doing, the weather and the snow conditions, you have a choice of footwear. For casual recreational hiking and walking, insulated boots or rubber boots should be fine. For running and aerobic conditioning on packed snow, some athletes use running shoes. In powder snow, waterproof hiking shoes or boots are recommended. For hiking and backpacking, use waterproof, insulated hiking boots. If you're hiking in fresh powder, you may also want to wear gaiters (waterproof coverings for your lower legs), which will keep snow out of the top of your boots. Many snowshoers use poles to help with their balance and rhythm. You can choose alpine, cross-country, or backcountry ski poles, which are made from fiberglass, aluminum, graphite or some combination of these materials. Backcountry poles are collapsible and height-adjustable, advantages that many snowshoers prefer. Get going You can either sign up for a short clinic (inquire at your local snow sport or outdoor shop) or just strap on the snowshoes and head out. Modern snowshoes, with their compact, streamlined frames, allow you to have a natural stride in varying snow conditions. You'll soon learn the proper technique to make the most of your new snowshoes. Not only is snowshoeing fun and easy to learn, but you also can do it in your backyard or local park. Snowshoeing is a low-impact activity that allows you to burn between 420 and 1,000 calories per hour, depending on whether you are walking or running, on packed snow or powder. It's great cardiovascular conditioning and excellent winter cross-training for runners and cyclists. Dress in layers and bring along a lightweight pack or waist pack with some high-energy foods such as fruit and energy bars, plus water or a sports drink. Don't forget to bring and use sunscreen. |
Even though snowshoeing is easy to learn, it can still seem intimidating to first-timers.
First-timers can be overwhelmed by new technological advances and the variety
of equipment choices. This guide is designed to give you some basic information
that will help you get started snowshoeing the right way.
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