Snowshoeing

Without traction you're going nowhere.

The whole point of snowshoes is to allow you to "float" over the snow, instead of sinking in too deep. Don't be alarmed if you sink into the snow a little bit, that's normal; you just don't want to sink down so low that you have to pull yourself out. The way this works is by distributing your weight over a wider surface area.

Secondly, you're gonna need some traction. With snow often comes ice and either one is a little hard to get past without something to dig in with. The main point of traction will be from the toe cleat. Depending on the type of snowshoe, there can even be traction rails running the length of the deck on either side of your foot for mega-traction. Cleats, traction rails, all that good stuff is often aluminum or steel and they resemble jagged teeth.

When it comes to snowshoes, before grabbing any old pair, you need to think about weight. The heavier the weight, the bigger/longer your snowshoe needs to be. Not just your own body weight, but don't forget to add in the weight of the gear you'll be carrying along with you. A pack that weighs 40lbs will certain tip the scales and you'll need to get a bigger snowshoe to accommodate.

Snowshoe Length Based on Body Weight

The chart below recommends an appropriate snowshoe length based on your body weight.

Wide, long, short, narrow.

GENDER + KIDS - Snowshoes for the most part are gender neutral, but they definitely make Men's, Women's, and Kids' versions. Men's snowshoes tend to be wider and longer. Women's snowshoes tend to be narrower and shorter. The reason for the different lengths and widths is related to the general heavier weight of men verses women as well as the natural gait of each. Men have a wider stance than women when they walk. Kids are pretty small compared to adults and if they try to use too large of a snowshoe, they probably won't get far before falling face-first into the snow. Might be cool for a fail video though. If you're a male but have a narrow stride and lighter weight, don't hesitate to see if a women's pair of snowshoes will be better fit for you, and vice versa for women with a wider gait.

RECREATION - These types of snowshoes are simple and the most common. They get just about anybody outdoors and on the snowy trails for a little exercise. Best on flat and rolling terrain, they are also great for packed trails. The cleat underfoot won't be as aggressive, so if you plan on moving into steeper terrain, you may want to get a different model.

EXPLORE - Snowshoes designed for backcountry travel are going to be better suited for the non-groomed trails. Out in the backcountry, you'll find deeper snow, steeper hills and probably ice. The cleat will be aggressive and often there will be additional traction rails running the length of the shoe. These snowshoes will tend to be wider and longer than their recreational friends. This is where you'll also start to see heel lift bars come into play for those strenuous uphill treks.

RACE - Racing snowshoes are built for running on the snow. They're light, short and narrow. Built for groomed or packed trails, they won't need to float so much, but they'll have fairly aggressive traction to help propel you forward as you stride.

Styles + Materials

TRADITIONAL - Made with a wooden frame and rawhide for the decking, the traditional snowshoes look great when hung on your cabin walls and are still plenty functional when taking them out for a spin in the snow. The bindings can be a leather harness to a simple strap.

ALUMINUM - More common these days are snowshoes featuring a lightweight aluminum frame with a plastic, composite or synthetic decking. They're incredibly durable and are great for the cold temperatures you'll meet. Bindings are usually 2 to 3 plastic straps over the top of your boot, with 1 at the back of your heel. Some feature a "wrap / harness" method, with a bit of foam on the interior for a bit of comfort.

MOLDED - Still more snowshoes feature a molded, full plastic decking. Instead of an outer perimeter (like an aluminum frame shoe), the plastic decking is molded around a metal frame and cleat structure. The metal frame is hidden by the decking, but flip that shoe over and you'll see the main structure and all the traction it creates. This style is sturdy, durable, and easy on the ankles in rough terrain, making them a great option for those newly pursuing this winter sport.

Tell me all the best spots!

When starting out and learning, usually the best spot will be a city park or even a golf course. Just make sure there is enough snow on the ground and you're allowed to be there. Check websites for information and hours. Another great place is a ski resort. Ski resorts may have designated trails, and heck, maybe you want a break from skiing for a different type of fun. As you become more advanced or adventurous, you can seek out trails or ungroomed areas to explore. As always, safety first!

ETIQUETTE - Be aware of those around you. Just because you have snowshoes strapped to your feet, doesn't mean you rule the world. They can take you far, but take into account winter hikers, other folks on the snowshoe prowl and especially cross-country skiers. Cross-country skiers rely on tracks to glide and it's much harder for them to blaze their own trail. If you see these tracks, do your best to avoid them and walk alongside. It's much easier for you to stop and step aside than it is for a skier to do so.

Cake is delicious though.

Winter is cold and that can certainly bring some dangers with it. Prepare yourself and dress the part and be sure to check the weather before heading out. First off, this means no cotton! Start with a base layer of synthetic or merino wool that will wick sweat off your body and dry quickly. Then you need a midlayer, which can be a fleece or a down or synthetic insulated jacket. Third is a wind- and/or waterproof layer, of which you'll need pants and a jacket. This can be a little controversial here, but it really depends on the weather. In cold but dry weather, you can probably grab a softshell. It'll breathe better as you exert yourself. In wet, cold weather, definitely grab your hardshell for the waterproof protection. If you begin to overheat, typically these jackets will feature pit zips to dump that excess body heat.