Ever Wondered How To Snowshoe?

There’s a saying among snowshoe enthusiasts: “If you can walk, you can snowshoe.” While it takes a little bit of practice, learning how to snowshoe isn’t really all that difficult. You can jog, run, hike, and do almost any other type of movement while wearing snowshoes. Learning how to snowshoe is a great skill that can help you when winter comes. Whether you just want to get around a little easier, or don’t want to give up your favorite sports because it’s snowy out, snowshoes can make a difference.

One of the great things about snowshoeing is the simplicity. All you need is a pair of modern snow shoes. If you’re planning to run, strap a pair onto your favorite pair of running shoes. If you’re intending to take a hike, or are going to be on wet snow, you’ll want to choose hiking boots instead. Use as natural a stride as you can – you don’t want to walk bow leggedly on snowshoes. These simple devices provide you with a great low impact workout – even less damaging than a job on the pavement. The benefits of learning how to snowshoe are great enough that many people are taking the activity up as a form of exercise on its own.

Choose the lightest, smallest snowshoes that are able to keep up above the snow. Racers tend to use eight by twenty-two inch snowshoes. People walking on deep powder, or who are carrying a lot use ten by thirty-three inch shoes. The heavier you and your pack are, the larger your snowshoes will need to be. Be sure to wear layered clothing that can be changed based on how much you’re working out or what the weather is. It’s also a good idea to wear gaiters while snowshoeing, to keep snow out of your footwear, and protect your ankles from being hit by the snowshoes. It you’re running in powder or slushy snow, you may find that you’re kicking up a lot of cold, wet snow. Wear a waterproof shell over your clothes, and stick with snug clothes that won’t get in the way. Some people even choose to use ski poles to help them walk.

Snowshoeing technique is simple. Lead with your heel down, and run or walk with a light step. It’s a good idea to develop the habit of moving with a rolling motion from heel to toe. This is the most comfortable and efficient method, and it provides a lot of traction. Of course, you should proceed carefully. Snow is often unstable, and you may inadvertently disturb it, risking a fall. Don’t cross any area that you think is questionable without a partner around. Don’t go too far or allow yourself to get lost in the snowy wilderness, and move quickly, or you may find yourself cold and wet. However, snowshoeing as a sport isn’t a dangerous one, and can actually be a lot of fun. When the snow starts coming down this winter, grab a pair of snow shoes and keep on going.