Snowshoeing: Beginner’s Guide

Once a vital means of transportation and migration thousands of years ago, snowshoeing has become one of the most enjoyable means of recreation and fitness. Snowshoeing offers the ideal activity for those who love trudging through unpopulated backcountries, exploring untamed wildernesses, feeling the cold crisp chill against your skin, and getting fit while doing it.

Snowshoeing doesn't require the same learning curve as skiing or snowboarding, but there are certain techniques and protocols a beginner should know.

Snowshoes types and sizes

Though snowshoe parts are generally the same, different types accentuate specific parts for different functions. Recreational or running types are good for mild or flat terrain, good for families and have bindings that are easy to adjust. Mid-level types are made for hiking on rolling and steeper terrains with deeper crampons. Backcountry types are made for icy and steeper terrains with aggressive crampons and bindings for harsh and challenging conditions. Snowshoes made for women are usually slightly different than for men, and are designed specifically for a woman's physiology, gait, and size. Sizes are generally determined by weight, including gear (backpack, supplies, accessories, etc.). The more the weight, the bigger the size is required to maintain flotation above the snow surface.

Extra accessories

Ideal clothing would be a winter hat and waterproof gloves, sunglasses to protect your eyes, sunscreen, and typical insulated clothing that keeps you warm, dry, and comfortable in winter environments. Footwear depends on your specific activity. For hiking and climbing, waterproof boots or leather hiking shoes are ideal. Knee-high gaiters also might be considered for extra dryness of your legs and feet. You will also need snowshoe poles for better movement.

Here's a more in-depth checklist.

Movement and techniques

Anyone can snowshoe with very little practice, but there are techniques you need to learn to make your experience as practical and enjoyable as possible. In order to keep yourself from stepping on the inside of your shoe frames, your stance will be wider than usual. There are certain ways you use your poles, and methods that require the use of your crampons for traction, such as going uphill, downhill, traversing, and methods to keep yourself from falling and getting up when you do.

For better visuals on techniques, here are a couple of great videos:

Monkeyseevideos

REI Outdoors

Outdoor etiquette

Snowshoeing can be done just about anywhere you would normally hike in the summer or ski in the winter. Most ski resorts offer these accommodations. Since you'll more than likely be snowshoeing in areas that are frequented by skiers and snowboarders, it's important to always be courteous. Try and stay off trails designed specifically for skiers and snowboarders. Skiers and snowboarders also typically have the right of way since it's harder for them to safely stop or maneuver.