How to Pick Snowshoes

Snowshoeing is a great way to explore the back country when snow leaves few options for getting out. Choosing snowshoes involves knowing the type of snowshoeing you intend to do and the terrain you want to snowshoe on. Armed with a little bit of knowledge, you can get started in an activity that doesn't cost a lot but delivers miles of enjoyment.

Things You'll Need

  • Waterproof insulated boots
  • Knee high gaiters
  • Moisture-wicking socks
  • Trekking poles (optional)
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Instructions

    • 1

      Choose your activity. Are you interested in back-country, recreational or adventure snowshoeing? Back-country snowshoes are designed for the free-spirited trail blazer who wants to day hike, back-country snowboard or backpack in steep, icy terrain. For adventure snowshoeing, you should choose an adventure snowshoe for hiking on terrain that varies in altitude and is sometimes off trail. The recreational snowshoer should choose a recreational model for walking on flat to moderate rolling terrain. The recreational model is considered the entry-level snowshoe due to value-focused pricing and is also an excellent choice for families.

    • 2

      Review the composition of the different snowshoes offered. Most snowshoes are made of aluminum or Hypalon rubber. Both are lightweight and are complemented with synthetic material for the decking. The frame materials determine weight and the stability of the snowshoe. Consider factors like your weight, as the heavier you are, the more surface area is needed.

    • 3

      Test out the different bindings. Floating or rotating bindings pivot at the balls of your feet, enabling you to walk with a natural gait and to climb hills. The pitfall of this type of binding is the awkwardness of stepping over obstacles and backing up. The second type of binding are fixed bindings. They don't pivot as much as rotation bindings but are great for tracking straight with an easy stride. Their downside is they throw snow onto the back of your legs.

    • 4

      Size your snowshoes by trying on different pairs. Snowshoes generally come in sizes 8 by 25 inches, 9 by 30 inches and 10 by 36 inches. Snowshoes vary by size and gender and are made to accommodate larger boots for men and narrower shoes for women.

    • 5

      Consider the snow covering the terrain you will snowshoe on. Know the snow accumulation for your snowshoeing adventures. Powder snow requires bigger snowshoes, while wet snow can easily be mastered with a compact style. Packed trails will require compact styles, while open areas with snow drifts will require larger, broader style snowshoes to keep you floating on top of the snow.