1. These Boots Were Made for Shoeshoeing
Any style of boot will allow you to walk in snowshoes. You don't need special snowshoeing footwear, but it's a good idea to invest in a good pair of boots that will keep your feet warm and dry. Mountaineering boots are a good choice because they tend to be lined with Thinsulate, which will keep your feet warm and dry. Some boots are lined with wicking materials like DriClime, which is even better. Mountaineering boots also provide great moisture protection.
2. Banish the Bow Legs
It's not necessary to walk bow-legged with modern snowshoes. You can walk at a completely natural stride with a light step. Lead with your heel down and continue the step as a rolling motion from heel to toe. The only thing you can't do when hiking in snowshoes is walk backwards because of the way snowshoes are made. They have little metal cleats at the bottom that will catch on the snow if you try to walk in reverse. If you need to backtrack, just turn around in a tight circle.
3. Handle Those Hills
The cleats on snowshoes will help you walk uphill. They'll grip into the ice and provide traction which makes it really easy to walk up a hill. The same holds true for going downhill. Try to avoid the steeper hills if possible, especially if you're a beginner. The gravity of the snowshoes might make it difficult to navigate steeper hills because it'll feel like you're being pulled down. If you have no choice but to travel up a steep hill, go back and forth across it at a 45-degree angle. Telescoping trekking poles will help you keep your balance and can adjust to different lengths for uphill and downhill climbs. Ski poles work as well, but they won't adjust to the changing terrains.
4. Watch Your Surroundings and Check the Weather
It's important to observe weather and terrain changes around you as you walk in snowshoes. Don't cross questionable areas. If you're uncomfortable, then listen to those feelings. It's better to be safe than sorry. If you're hiking at higher elevations, be aware that weather can change very quickly. Listen to the weather forecast and watch the sky for any sign of an imminent snowstorm. If you're snowshoe hiking in an unfamiliar backwoods area, then consider hiring a guide who is knowledgeable about the area. Otherwise, listen to the advice and cautions of area officials.
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