Frequently Asked Snowshoeing
Questions
Individuals and families looking for a great way to enjoy snow sports without making a
huge investment need look no farther than their shoes-snowshoes that is. Snowshoeing has
been one of the fastest-growing snow sports of the 1990's.
With its easy accessibility and inexpensive equipment, it's no wonder so many people are
finding out how much fun hiking through the winter woods, or across a snowy parking lot,
can be.
There are three main snowshoe markets and shoes developed to suit each one: recreational
hiking; advanced mountaineering; and snowshoe racing or sport. The recreational hiking
market is the fastest growing, but snowshoe manufacturers also continue to build upon
their high-performance shoes.
Although snowshoes have been a mode of transportation for thousands of years, only
recently has snowshoeing become popular as an on-snow recreation activity. Because the
sport is so new, you probably have lots of questions about getting started and getting off
on the right foot.
Is snowshoeing a hard sport to learn and master?
Actually, if you can walk, you can snowshoe. The key is to get snowshoes that are the
right size and fit for you and how you plan to use them.
Where can I snowshoe?
Anywhere there's snow. Parks, winter resorts - even your own backyard. If you go on land
that's not your own, be sure and check for regulations that may apply to snowshoeing. Your
dealer can also help you locate designated snowshoe trails in your area.
How
do I know which snowshoe size is right for me?
The rule of thumb for snowshoes is - smaller is better. A small shoe size makes
it easier for you to move around consider how difficult it is to walk wearing downhill or
Nordic skis. Determining the right snowshoe size specifically for you is based on three
factors: the weight your snowshoes will carry (your weight plus equipment weight), the
terrain or snow conditions you'll encounter, and the activity you plan to enjoy in your
snowshoes.
Weight. Snowshoe sizes are fairly standard among manufacturers. In
general, extra small or children's sizes are for weights under 100 pounds, an 8" x
25" shoes are for 100 to 175 pounds; 9" x 30" shoes are for 175 to 250
pounds; and 10" x 36" shoes are 250 pounds and above.
Terrain/Snow Conditions. Two major terrain/snow condition categories exist (1) flat
terrain, rolling terrain or deep powder, where a larger snowshoe does a better job of
keeping you on top of the snow; and (2) mountainous terrain, dense brush or packed snow,
where you're less likely to sink into the snow, and where a smaller snowshoe makes it
easier to maneuver
For excellent information, tips, techniques and clinics on
snowshoeing, check out this site. www.carlheilman.com/snowshoe.html
Activity.
How you plan to snowshoe is just as important as weight and terrain when
determining the shoe size you need. You've got lots of choices; casual neighborhood walks,
hikes through a park, winter camping adventures, vigorous workouts and even races. Sherpa
Snowshoe Co. has developed simple merchandising categories, organized by activity, that
make it easier for you to find the right snowshoe for you.
Another aspect of the binding is the type of rotation pivot system. A fixed rotation pivot
system allows your foot to pivot off the snowshoe at about a 450 angle, then stop, fixed
rotation gives you more maneuverability when backing up or going around obstacles, and
lifts the snowshoe tail up on packed trails to eliminate drag. A free rotation pivot
system does not limit how far your foot pivots off the snowshoe, keeping the snowshoe
parallel to the ground for easier asceke the exclusive, patentee APSTM (Adjustable Pivot
System) from Sherpa Snowshoe Co.
Claws. Claws or cleats are your
primary source of traction when snowshoeing. They come in a variety of materials, lengths
and shapes either as a standard feature on a snowshoe or as an accessory. Talking to your
dealer about the kind of snowshoeing you plan to do can help him or her determine the
right claw type for you.
How much does it cost to get started?
One of the great things about snowshoeing is that it doesn't require a lot of equipment. A
pair of snowshoes may be all you need, assuming you already have the appropriate clothing.
In fact, when you compare snowshoeing to other winter activities, it's surprisingly
inexpensive. A family of four can easily be outfitter for as little as $400. Sherpa
recommends that you also purchase balancing poles and foot warmers or foot gaiters,
depending on the type of snowshoeing you plan to do.
What kinds of features do I
look for in a snowshoe?
Snowshoes are best defined by four features the frame, the lacing, the binding and the
claws.
Frame. The frame is essentially the snowshoe's skeleton. It impacts weight as well as
maneuverability. Older snowshoes had wooden frames that were fairly light, but offered
limited durability. Modern snowshoes are built of aluminum and similar materials to give
them both light weight and added strength. Abrasion resistant coatings repel snow and ice
for even longer performance.
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Construction. There a two methods
of assembling a snowshoe The traditional process is to lace the snowshoe's deck to the
frame. Most modern snowshoes use rivets instead of lacing. While both rivets and lacing
give you ample durability and help protect the frame from wear and tear, lacing can give
you additional traction in a range of snow conditions.
Keeping the snowshoe's tail on the ground also helps you save energy by allowing the
snowshoe to shed snow in deep snow conditions. The ideal pivot system is the one that
automatically gives you the benefits of both fixed and free rotation, l
Binding. The binding is what holds your foot and snowshoe together. The keys to a good
recreational binding are versatility, simplicity, support and comfort. A versatile binding
lets you use a wide variety of footwear, from heavy snow boots to tennis shoes. Simplicity
means that it's easy to get into and out of, and requires little if any adjustment. A
binding that properly supports your foot and ankle lessens the possibility of soreness or
even injury. Finally, a comfortable binding allows you to focus more on the experience,
and less on the snowshoes themselves.
Another aspect of the binding is the type of rotation pivot system. A fixed rotation pivot
system allows your foot to pivot off the snowshoe at about a 450 angle, then stop, fixed
rotation gives you more maneuverability when backing up or going around obstacles, and
lifts the snowshoe tail up on packed trails to eliminate drag.
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What should I plan on bringing along on my
snowshoeing excursions?
What you bring depends on how long you plan on being out of doors. You'll want to have
ample snack food and water along to keep your energy reserves up. Extra layers of clothing
in a backpack will help you in case weather conditions change. The clothing should
includes lightweight materials that wick moisture from your body and protect your from
wind and water. This will help you stay dry, warm and comfortable, regardless of how long
your excursion. A fully charged cellular phone puts help within easy reach. Matches and
candles are also a good idea, as are a flashlight, binoculars, compass and a map. Be sure
someone knows where you'll be and now long you plan to be out. Remember that safety starts
and ends with you. Use your best judgment and you'll be ready to fully enjoy the kind of
adventures that last a lifetime. |
