snowshoeing ( go back to camping links and blog )
Snowshoeing is a fast-growing sport. Popular because anyone at any age can do it. If you can walk, you can snowshoe.
Some simple preparation and you're ready to enjoy the pristine solitude of winter wonderlands.
First decide which snowshoes are best for your needs. They range from a simple shoe for easy conditions to and advanced shoe for extreme conditions. more about that later.
We decided to go with an all around shoe for almost all conditions to avoid having to buy multiple pairs. Prices range from around $60-$300.
The sizing goes by your body weight plus any pack weight you will carry. For our weight the 25" shoes are more than adequate. more on that later.
While not necessary for easy hikes, a pair of poles is recomended for up/down hill hiking, and add stabilty to any conditions. Prices for poles range from around $25-$$200.
It's important to dress correctly when snowshoeing because winter weather conditions can change suddenly and you need to stay dry and warm. Never wear cotton because it doesnt wick moisture and will stay wet from sweat or snow which can lead to hypothermia.
You need to wear a base layer ( long underwear) , a mid layer ( fleece), and an outer layer which should be waterproof. A hooded outer layer is good for changing weather conditions.
Merino wool socks, or moisture wicking socks are recommended. A waterproof pant is a good idea, but just a pair of leg gaitors will work as well. You need a waterproof boot or shoe too.
Extras to always have along are a neck gaitor or balaclava, extra socks, a warm hat, and thick mittens or gloves. You should also carry a warm insulated coat like a compressable jacket for when you take a break or stop to eat and cool down.
Snowshoeing is a very aerobic sport so you will work up a sweat easily which is why you need moisture wicking clothes on. You dont want to be sweating or it can freeze and lead to hypothermia. you can always take something off if you get too warm, but you must have extra clothes if you get too cold !
Other essentials to carry along with you are sunglasses, sunblock, heat packs, a compass, maps, writing pad, pen or pencil, flashlight or headlamp, multitool, first aid kit, a tarp, a sitting pad, fire starter, food, and water. It's always smart to bring a cell phone.... or even a GPS, especially if you are doing a longer hike, or in the wild.
click here for the complete list of essential items for snowshoeing
DONT FOREGET YOUR DIGITAL CAMERA or CAMCORDER !
It's a good idea to learn how to use a compass and basic orienteering skills so you dont get lost. Trails are often not as clearly indicated when everything is snow-covered.. Nothing is worse than that feeling of being lost in harsher winter conditions. Always have a baseline ( a road, a river, a path, telephones line etc.) and waypoints ( specific places along your way such as a bridge or river crossing or bend in the path) to help find your way back should you veer off course. A good GPS unit is the Garmin venture hc check it out ! It's a smart idea to use this unit along with a map and compass for sure-fire accuracy.
With these preparations you should feel secure while enjoying you snowshoeing experience.
More about snowshoes: The 3 big brands are Atlas, MSR, and Tubbs. There are also many other brands out there with competetive prices and compare equally. If you research online you can find all that's available. A good place to start looking is at http://www.snowshoemagazine.com/ there you can find links to many snoewshoe manufacturers including the old style wooden shoes which there are newer versions of also. There you can learn about snowshoeing much more extensively than here.
More about sizing: As a general rule this is how sizing goes...just remember to add the weight of your backpack to the mix...generally 15-45 lbs extra. these are general guidelines, and the bigger the snowshow the more floatation you will get.
21"=80-125 lbs. 25"=120-200lbs. 30"=170-250lbs. Sizing will vary from shoe to shoe so read the manufacturer's recommendations.
we went with the 25" lighting ascent form MSR price $207-234 ... find them online at http://www.orssnowshoesdirect.com/
I can tell you from personal experience that ORS Direct has a friendly, courteous customer service who went the extra mile to help me to be a satisfied customer. Their site is dedicated to snowshoeing and has many articles and videos on their products and the sport of snoeshoeing.