Loved your weekend snowshoe rentals so much you almost forgot to return them? Or perhaps you're a veteran trailblazer who's ready for an upgrade. Unlike many other snow sports, snowshoeing can be easily learned by anyone. If you can walk, you can snowshoe.
If you're in the market for a new pair of snowshoes, Sierra Trading Post has the best deals on every type of snowshoe, from beginner models for the whole family to technical models for the serious racer. Snowshoes, by design, are pretty uncomplicated and easy to purchase. Just know your weight (including the gear you will carry), the type of snowshoeing you want to do and the type of terrain/snow you'll encounter, and you're ready to start shopping.
Although it's okay to fudge your weight on your driver's license, it's important to be accurate when sizing yourself for snowshoes. The more you weigh, the more surface area you need for optimal flotation in the snow. With the proper size, you'll still sink into fresh powder, but not nearly as deep as you would in boots alone.
Snowshoes typically come in a variety of lengths between about 20 in. to 36 in. The width is designed to be proportional to the length, so a lighter hiker's snowshoe will be narrower to match their narrower gait. All snowshoes sold by Sierra Trading Post list the weight capacity specific to each snowshoe to help you determine which size is best. (See the chart below to help you determine your ideal size.)
If you are in-between sizes, think about maneuverability and traction — a smaller snowshoe will offer more of both. Smaller snowshoes are also better for steep slopes, thick forests and wet snow. On the other side of the spectrum, larger snowshoes will compress more of the snow below you to give you the feeling of floating higher. In light, dry powder and on flatter, straighter terrain, you'll want a bigger snowshoe.
You need to address the local terrain and your snowshoeing plans to find your best snowshoe style. Snowshoeing styles can be broken down into three main categories: Recreational/Trek, Backcountry and Race. There are also women-specific snowshoes that come in multiple styles.
A great place to start, recreational snowshoeing allows you to explore the gently rolling terrain and packed trails found in your own backyard or a city park. Easy-to-use bindings and less-aggressive crampons work well on moderate hills and fairly deep powder. If you enjoy hiking, you'll love recreational snowshoeing. Recreational snowshoes usually have a wide, rounded Western tail for better flotation. Trek snowshoes may have a tapered tail for faster hikers whose primary goal is an aerobic workout on a designated trail.
Backcountry snowshoes are designed for 'shoers who enjoy multi-day hut trips, winter camping and epic days in the wilderness. Made of highly durable materials, backcountry snowshoes are lightweight and perform well in the deepest powder and on the steepest slopes. Secure, durable bindings support every step, and their aggressive crampons grip into icy pitches. These snowshoes have plenty of surface area and a rounded Western tail to let you navigate easily through unpacked snow.
Serious aerobic athletes will want to look at snowshoes designed for speed. Race snowshoes are ultra-light and designed for moving fast. On a groomed trail or race course, flotation is not the main concern-instead you need reliability and a lightweight design. You'll find both in race snowshoes, which have a shorter length and tapered tail. Most race snowshoes will be branded as such, and are usually in the 25 in. range.
Regardless of style, some snowshoes are designed just for women. Why? Women have a different body shape and stride than men. Most women will find that these snowshoes, with their unique bindings and slimmer frames, are easier to use than general snowshoes.
Poles are invaluable on snowshoeing excursions. They add stability and balance, and help you muscle your way up slopes and control your descents. Telescoping poles with large baskets are best; you can use these same poles for Nordic skiing or summer trekking.
Warm, waterproof boots are vital for off-trail snowshoeing. Their insulation and added height will keep your feet warm and dry. Almost any waterproof or water-resistant boots with adequate insulation can serve as good snowshoeing boots. Check out our Guide to Winter Boots for more information on selecting good snow boots.
Outerwear is what keeps the wind and falling snow from ruining your day. It needs to be at least water-resistant and should cover your entire body. Our Head-to-Toe Winter Dressing Guide expands on features to look for when buying outerwear.
Layered clothing items like wool or polypropylene socks, moisture-wicking long underwear and insulative layers are essential for a safe and enjoyable day of snowshoeing. Our Layering Guide can give you the tips you need for dressing right for the weather and your activity level.
Hats, gloves and other accessories that cover your extremities should always be on your person when snowshoeing - even if it's warm and sunny when you start out.
Be sure to properly strap into your snowshoes. First, place the balls of your feet over the top of the hinges. Next, tighten the front strap, then the heel strap, and finally the instep strap. Adjust straps to fit snug only — don't over-tighten them.
Once your snowshoes are on, start out by walking on packed snow or dry ground to get comfortable with them before you plunge into fresh powder. Just walk like you normally do - there's no need to take bigger steps, although your stance will be slightly wider than you're used to.
In deeper snow, it is important to lift your knees higher and avoid dragging your feet. Otherwise your snowshoes will plow through too much powder and their crampons may snag on hidden, hard surfaces. When you head up steep slopes, aggressively dig the front crampons in. When you head downhill, avoid leaning back onto the tails of the snowshoes, instead keeping your weight over the center of the snowshoes. This allows the crampons to grip the snow and prevent sliding. When you traverse side slopes, stand upright, take short steps and lean into the hill.
Turning in snowshoes is perhaps the most difficult maneuver. If you forget your shoes are on and try to quickly turn in deep powder, you're likely to give yourself a whitewash. If you must abruptly turn in snowshoes (180 degrees, for example), be sure to lift your knees very high and clear the entire shoe free of the powder before you turn your foot.
Although the slow, controlled nature of snowshoeing means you're less likely to have an unpredictable accident than in other winter sports, there are a few things you need to remember for a safe outing:
Sierra Trading Post is a proud sponsor of Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics. Please follow the seven principles outlined below to ensure future enjoyment of your favorite hiking trails.
