Snowshoes make it possible for you to explore your favorite woods, parks and hiking trails in the snow. Snowshoes come with a variety of features and advantages, each ideal for different conditions or different types of snowshoe outings. When you purchase a new pair of snowshoes, consider these features in addition to the fit and comfort of the shoes.
Step 1
Itemize your snowshoeing priorities. Consider the type of terrain you enjoy walking and snowshoeing on such as flat golf courses or parks mild hills and hiking trails or steeper hills and mountains. Consider the surface of the terrain you cover and whether the snow is packed and groomed, powdery or icy.
Step 2
Look for recreational snowshoes if you typically snowshoe on flat, packed snow or if you plan to snowshoe with the entire family. Lightweight, recreational snowshoes have easy-to-use bindings. These smaller snowshoes also take up less space than snowshoes designed for hilly or icy terrain.
Step 3
Look for adventure snowshoes if you typically snowshoe on rolling or steep terrain. These types of snowshoes typically have crampons for better traction.
Step 4
Look for backcountry snowshoes if you plan to snowshoe on steep hills, mountains or icy terrain. Backcountry snowshoes have heavy-duty, climbing-style crampons and sturdy bindings that allow you to walk up steep, icy slopes. These snowshoes also work well for backpacking trips and longer outings.
Step 5
Look for fitness snowshoes if you want to run on flat, packed snow in your snowshoes. These snowshoes are much smaller than other snowshoes.
Step 6
Select a snowshoe size based on your weight. Factor in the weight of any gear or backpacks you plan to carry with you when you snowshoe. Consult a chart issued by the snowshoe manufacturer to determine the size and shape of snowshoe recommended for a person of your weight. Snowshoe sizes indicate the length and width in inches. Outdooreyes.com recommends 8x21 snowshoes for 70 to 155 lbs. of weight, 8x25 snowshoes for 90 to 170 lbs. of weight, 9x30 snowshoes for 170 to 220 lbs. of weight and 10x36 snowshoes for more than 220 lbs. of weight. If you will be snowshoeing in packed or groomed snow, you won't need the support of larger snowshoes and you can opt for smaller ones.
Step 7
Try on any snowshoes you are interested in buying before you purchase them. Try adjusting the bindings while wearing your gloves or mittens to test the ease of use. Consider whether your feet feel comfortable in the shoes and bindings. Most snowshoes have rotating or fixed bindings. Rotating bindings let your foot pivot so you can walk more naturally in the snowshoes. Fixed bindings do not pivot, so the snowshoe moves with your foot more. Try snowshoes with both types of bindings to see which type feels more comfortable.
Tips and Warnings
- Some snowshoe retailers will let you rent a pair of snowshoes before buying one. If you can do this, take advantage of the opportunity to try the snowshoes out on a trail before you buy them.
Member Comments