Snowshoe Magazine's Guide to Snowshoeing: Knowing What to Buy, Where to Go, How to Get Started and Learn What's Important There is no better way to begin snowshoeing than just going and doing it. Take a risk, rent or buy a pair of snowshoes, dress for the elements and enjoy. However, that's just a start - there is more to it than just taking a refreshing plunge in some snow.

Snowshoeing has been around for thousands of years. And, obviously, the art of snowshoeing has become more sophisticated over time - now it's considered a winter sport. From the early wood-frame to the aluminum- frame models, snowshoeing has garnered quite a following throughout the world. Modern day snowshoeing is made up of casual snowshoers who hike trails for pleasure, the snowshoeing enthusiasts who trek through the backcountry, and the competitors who race.

Considering this is the fastest growing winter sport in the world (snowboarding is growing fast too, but not fast enough), snowshoeing is poised to become a monster of a market. Many involved in skiing and snowboarding utilize snowshoes to participate in some great backcountry hikes to find the holy grail of mother nature: Deep, unscathed powder. Snowshoeing is a great alternative for many sports - especially those who like running.

What's So Great About Snowshoeing?

The sport is easy to learn, virtually inexpensive (compared to other winter sports), poses little risk of injury and is a great way to exert energy during the cold winter months. According to research provided by Snowsports Industries America (SIA), 40.8 percent of snowshoers are women (a number that is increasing rapidly), 9.4 percent of snowshoers are children (ages 7-11), and 44.2 percent of snowshoers are ages 25-44.

One of the more appealing facts about snowshoeing is how it can help enrich a person's health. Known to help maintain or improve cardiovascular fitness, the sport helps burn more than 600 calories per hour. Snowshoers can burn more than 45 percent more calories than walking or running at the same speed, according to SIA. Snowshoeing is a great way to pursue losing weight; however, a healthy diet should be maintained to seek the appropriate effectiveness in a healthy lifestyle as well.

What to Look For in a Pair of Snowshoes?

When buying or renting a pair snowshoes, keep in mind the following details:  There are three types of snowshoes available: Recreational Hiking, Aerobic/Fitness and Hiking/Backpacking.

1. Recreational hiking snowshoes are a basic selection and are perfect for first-timers. Usually, these snowshoes work best on simple terrain that doesn't require a lot of steep climbing or descents. 2. Snowshoes for aerobic/fitness are best suited for those who are active snowshoers - like runners and cross-trainers. This type of snowshoe has a very sleek design and is generally tougher than most available. 3. If you like the powder and are more experienced with snowshoeing, purchasing a pair of hiking/backpacking snowshoes is your ticket. These are as tough as they come: Strong aluminum frame, durable material for flotation, and bindings that support all types of boots.

 The cost for a pair of snowshoes is generally inexpensive. Look to spend on the low-end around $100 and on the high-end around $300 (sometimes higher depending on the manufacturer).

 Many retailers will offer a package deal that will provide poles and a snowshoe bag. These are generally good deals, but pay particular attention to the type of snowshoe you will be receiving. If you want to do some backcountry snowshoeing, a starter kit won't be the best option. Ask your retailer for more details.

 It is highly advised not to purchase a used pair of snowshoes. If you decide to go through with buying a used pair, inspect them thoroughly: Check the frames for damage (including chips), check the bindings for overstress and check the flotation material for holes and rips. Know who you are buying your snowshoes from. Don't get caught in the backcountry with a faulty pair of shoes.

 Finally, as one of the most important factors in snowshoeing, choose according to the size available. Usually measured in inches, the length will depend upon how much you weigh. The most common sizes (excluding kids lengths) are 25 inches, 30 inches and 36 inches. Your retailer should be able to help you when deciding snowshoe length.

Where to Buy or Rent a Pair of Snowshoes?

There are plenty of snowshoe retailers to choose from. However, there are more obvious choices than others. For example, REI and Eastern Mountain Sports (EMS) sell snowshoes around the nation - they are the obvious retailers. The less obvious retailers are independent stores that may include equipment for running and local mountain outfitters.

Although price may be similar between retailers (unless they are having a sale, which they often do), snowshoe brands will differ. If you really want a nice selection of shoes to purchase from a retailer, visit Backcountry.com: Click here. Backcountry.com is the place to buy not only snowshoes but accessories as well. They also have great prices on certain brands, models and snowshoe starter kits. eBay is another great place to purchase snowshoes for a reasonable price. If you decide to purchase from eBay, be on the lookout for used snowshoes (you won't be able to inspect them before you buy). Don't forget Craigslist! Your local Craigslist site can provide you with many used snowshoe options: Run a search for the word "snowshoe" or "snowshoes" in the for sale category.

If you would like to rent snowshoes, the best place to start is with a ski and snowboard rental store. They will most likely have a decent selection for you to choose from. However, many retailers (like REI) will let their customers rent snowshoes. Ask your retailer for more details.

The other alternative to widen your snowshoe selection search is to purchase directly from the manufacturer.

Here's a list of the snowshoe manufacturers (a majority are based in the United States, some are worldwide):

Arctic Trekker - http://irl.bc.ca/Forestry%20Supplies/snowshoes.htm Atlas Snow-Shoe Co. - www.atlassnowshoe.com Baldas Snowshoes - www.baldas.com Bigfoot Snowshoes - www.bigfootsnowshoes.com Crescent Moon Snowshoes - www.crescentmoonshowshoes.com Dion Snowshoes - www.dionsnowshoes.com Faber Snowshoes - www.fabersnowshoes.com GV Snowshoes - www.gvsnowshoes.com Havlick Snowshoes - www.havlicksnowshoe.com Iverson Snowshoe Co. - www.iversons-snowshoes.com Kahtoola Snow Travel Systems - www.kahtoola.com Louis Garneau Snowshoes - www.louisgarneau.com Mountain Safety Research - www.msrcorp.com Northern Lites Snowshoes - www.northernlites.com Redfeather Snowshoes - www.redfeather.com Schnee Schuh Profi - www.schneeschuhprofi.com TSL Snowshoes - www.tslsportequipment.com Tubbs Snowshoes - www.tubbssnowshoes.com Upcountry Snowshoes - www.upcountrysnowshoes.com Vert Snowshoes - www.verts.com Whitewoods USA - www.eriksports.com Wilcox and Williams Snowshoes - www.snowshoe.com Yeti Snowshoes - www.snowstuf.com Yowie Snowshoes - www.yowies.com.au Yukon Charlie's Snowshoes - www.yukoncharlies.com

(If this list is missing a manufacturer, please e-mail [email protected])

Where Should You Go Snowshoeing?

If it's covered in snow...go for it!

But, be careful. Don't take risks and most importantly, have fun.

The prime areas for snowshoeing are at nordic centers, which are usually placed in or around a ski resort. Other types of snowshoeing destinations include bed and breakfast inns, mountain lodges, state parks, national parks, snow-covered golf courses, open space (provided by your state government), ski slopes, and much more.

Backcountry snowshoeing is particularly dangerous considering avalanche problems can occur. It would be wise to seek educational courses on avalanche safety (purchasing an avalanche beacon is suggested). For more information, seek out your local mountain and/or outdoors club. (Pictured: Sol Mountain lodge in British Columbia - the perfect backcountry snowshoeing destination.)

Although many people like the individuality and peacefulness of snowshoeing, it's a good idea to snowshoe with a friend or partner. And, bring a global positioning system (GPS) device and a compass to help better navigate remote and wooded areas.

There are also snowshoe events around the nation that are organized by such associations and companies like Winter Trails (www.wintertrails.org), REI, EMS, The United States Snowshoe Association (www.snowshoeracing.com), a variety of snowshoe manufacturers and more. Every snow-laden state should have snowshoe events every year, check your local community and recreational listings for more details. Or, visit www.snowshoemag.com for an up-to-date event calendar and snowshoe club information.

Please note: Remember to bring plenty of water or a water filter on your snowshoe travels.

What Should I Wear When Snowshoeing?

Footwear:

It is wise to choose your footwear according to your snowshoeing style. Leather hiking boots that have been waterproofed are great for hiking and backcountry trekking. Trail- running shoes (like those provided by Nike ACG) are perfect for running and aerobic snowshoeing (look for GORE-TEX material). Snowboarding boots are also ideal for snowshoeing. Waterproofing is the key!

Wool socks for hiking and/or a wool/silk combination for running are important to snowshoeing. Never wear cotton socks when in the snowy elements.

And, if you plan to snowshoe in deep snow and don't plan to stay on snow-packed trails, wear Gaiters to keep snow out of your boots and shoes. GORE-TEX Gaiters are great selection for backcountry hikers.

Clothing:

Don't be afraid to dress in layers. And, use layers that can be taken off with ease, considering in some cases it can get hot during the spring season. Consider wearing synthetics and wool to induce heat retention when wet. Long underwear is essential when snowshoeing and a zippered top lets you regulate body heat.

Polyester fleece provides a great insulation, as it too retains heat when wet. And, a waterproof jacket (preferably something with GORE-TEX) will keep you dry and protect you from cold winds.

The more obvious choices in winter wear are gloves, a hat, sunglasses (or goggles) and other personal selections.

Competing as a Snowshoer: Where to Begin and Where to Go to Race

Snowshoe racing and competition is growing quickly within the sport - nationwide. The popularity of events on a state- by-state basis and national championships series is blossoming as more snowshoers gain a considerable amount of expertise.

The best place to search for racers and to get involved is to start with The United States Snowshoe Association. For more information, visit http://www.snowshoeracing.com.

Also, the snowshoe manufacturers hold racing events throughout the winter months. Redfeather, Atlas and Tubbs are the companies that stage a majority of the events in the United States.

Other Important Internet Resources

Wikipedia - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Snowshoeing