How to Choose a Snowshoe
Answer these simple questions to figure out which snowshoe is best for you:
1. What is your gender?
Choosing the appropriate shoe for your gender can be an important part of your purchase decision. The truth is, men and women are shaped differently and walk differently. A women's specific snowshoe should include a narrower frame shape to accommodate a woman's narrow stance, as well as a binding that is molded to a women's boot last.
2. What is your primary intended use?
Consider what type of terrain you will snowshoe on. If you plan to venture into the backcountry you should have a snowshoe with aggressive traction in a size that will give you proper flotation in deep snow. If you plan to stay on packed trails, aggressive traction and flotation are less important than, say, ease-of-use and comfort.
3. What is your total weight with gear?
If you are planning on venturing in to the wilderness off trail you should be sure to select a snowshoe that is the right size for your weight. Having a snowshoe that is too small will cause you to sink deeply into soft snow. A snowshoe that is too large, conversely, will be heavy and clunky. Always consult the product hangtag, website or a shop employee to learn what the best size for your weight is.
Where to go Snowshoeing
Got your snowshoes, now wondering where to go? Lucky for you, there are several resources to help you find a great snowshoeing spot.
- Tubbs-Trailnet® on Snowshoes.com: Tubbs-Trailnet®
features over 3,300 user-submitted trails on an easy-to-use Google® Maps interface. Search the map for trails in your area, filter the results by difficulty or distance, and access easy driving directions! You can even log in to submit your own favorite trail or write reviews on trails you have been on. Click here to try it out.
- Hiking trails: Do you have a favorite summer hiking trail?
There's a good chance that it's a winter snowshoeing trail as well! Check with your local forest or park services to ensure the terrain is passable in the winter.
- Local resources: Visit or call your local forest service ranger,
check with local golf clubs or find a local Nordic center to find nearby, lesser-known snowshoeing spots.
Essential Gear List
Depending on where you plan to explore on your snowshoes, there are some must-have items to make your trip safer and more enjoyable. Use this guide to help plan for your adventure.
- Small day pack
- Water (16 oz/hr)
- Trail snacks (snowshoeing burns 420-1000 calories per hour!)
- Adjustable Poles
- Sunscreen
- Camera and/or binoculars
- All of the items above
- First Aid Kit
- Detailed map of the area
- Compass and/or GPS unit
- Headlamp
- Multi-tool for repairs
- Matches or lighter
- Avalanche transceiver, shovel and probe if traveling into avalanche-prone areas
Other Snowshoe Resources
Snowshoes.com is a leading resource in education and outdoor access for everyone from first-timers to dedicated snowshoers. The website was built to introduce and engage people on the beauty of winter on foot, supplying the tools, resources and community you're looking for to explore winter.
Some of the features of Snowshoes.com include: