Snowshoeing - that is walking with snowshoes on your feet - is a beautiful outdoor activity, which can be done in all places where there is snow. To start, just put on a pair of snowshoes (snowshoes) and walk, but start with already beaten paths. After doing some practice, you will have a better idea of the stamina required for snowshoeing, and then you can organize a longer walk with friends or perhaps look for trails in the mountains where you can run, mountaineering and other activities.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Walking with Snowshoes (or Snowshoes)
Step 1. Lace up your snowshoes
First put on your hiking boots, then put on your snowshoes and lace them tightly. Place the forefoot on the pin. Check the total length of the snowshoe to fasten the straps well, which must be tightened so as not to let the boot come out.
Step 2. Take sweeping steps
You will probably need to keep your feet well apart while walking, so as not to overlap the snowshoes; this way your hips will work harder than usual. Maintain a normal rhythm, placing first the heel, then the forefoot and finally the tip of the foot.
Step 3. To remove the snow from the snowshoe, simply lift the tip
If the snow is fresh and powdery, instead of being compact, raise the tip of the snowshoe above the snow level with each step. Don't try to lift your leg any more than necessary, as it becomes tiring after a while.
Step 4. Use sticks to make the walk easier (optional)
Walking with one or two snow poles helps you maintain balance and give yourself more drive, as well as working your upper body muscles. Poles are especially useful when walking in deep snow, however people who typically hike the beaten paths don't use them at all.
It is not important if the poles are for skis or snowshoes, as long as they are the right length to allow a comfortable walk
Step 5. If you walk uphill, push your toes into the snow
In this way you will stick the snowshoes and you will be able to do more leverage to climb. If you have to create a deep groove with the push given instead of holding on tightly, look for an alternative way to overcome that climb.
Many use the heel lift, a thickness to be inserted under the heel, which allows less calf fatigue and guarantees greater stability during climbs
Step 6. Practice before going downhill
Some models of snowshoes are equipped with crampons at the heel, which stick into the snow when you shift your weight backwards during the descents. If the crampons of your snowshoes are positioned too far forward, you should try to keep the weight in the center of the foot, to make them work as they should.
Try not to arch as you go down. If you lose your balance, try to sit down instead of plunging down the slope
Step 7. When you come down, aim the side of the snowshoe into the snow
When making a diagonal descent, instead of going up and down, push the sides of the snowshoes into the snow for better grip with each step. Keep your body weight upstream to stay balanced.
The sticks will make the crossing easier
Method 2 of 3: Snowshoe hiking
Step 1. Wear suitable walking boots
There are models of snowshoes that are specially designed for running, but which are uncomfortable for walking. If you plan on going steep trails, get a pair of snowshoes that have a great heel lift system. In case of powdery or soft snow, you may need a wider model.
Find more detailed information in the third section of this article, dedicated to choosing the most suitable model
Step 2. Traveling with friends
Snowshoeing with friends is always best, especially for long hikes, even if you know the area well. Inform those who stay in the city about the destination you intend to reach, so that, in the event of an accident, the rescue will be more timely.
Step 3. Dress in layers
Minimize the risk of freezing or getting too hot by dressing "onion", so you can remove or add layers of clothing as needed. Start by wearing underwear and socks that are comfortable and warm; continue with at least two layers of clothing. The outermost one must be waterproof.
- Bring a change in case you sweat or your clothes get wet.
- Avoid cotton clothing, especially in contact with the skin, as it takes much longer to dry. Wear synthetic or wool fabrics, as they wipe moisture and sweat from your skin more easily, keeping you warmer.
Step 4. Don't snowshoe on the ski slopes
It is a good rule not to walk on the ski slopes, because snowshoes leave furrows that ruin them. You can, on the other hand, walk the outer sides of the slopes, trying to stay away from the tracks on which cross-country skiers pass.
Step 5. If you are on an unsurfaced track, take turns to clear the way
If you go off-piste with your friends, try to walk in single file; the first in line will keep pace with the walk, leading the way on the fresh snow. Snowshoeing on off-beaten paths is definitely more tiring, so you have to alternate in the front row to divide the effort.
Step 6. Bring something to eat and drink
It's a sporting activity that can be more strenuous than it looks, so bring something substantial and nutritious to eat so as not to run out of energy. It is very important to stay hydrated, even if it is winter.
Step 7. Don't put yourself in danger
Before starting your hike, check the weather forecast and find out about the avalanche danger in the area. Also keep in mind that the equipment for long walks includes a GPS device, a compass, a flashlight and a portable snow shovel.
Method 3 of 3: Choose the Snowshoes (or Snowshoes)
Step 1. Choose the snowshoe model suitable for the activity you want to do
There are several models of snowshoes, with different features and functions. Before purchasing, think carefully about what kind of business you want to use it for, and find the corresponding models:
- For flat terrain and easy walks it is better to prefer long rackets. They have some grip, although not too much.
- For more challenging trails and excursions, it is better to have snowshoes with durable materials and with greater grip, which are also good for occasional off-piste excursions.
- There are then models suitable for long hikes, off-piste and mountaineering. In this case, make sure they have plenty of grip in both the front and rear, especially if you plan on going down steep descents.
- Finally, you can find suitable models for run on narrow and beaten paths, which are particularly light but which, for this reason, are not suitable for off-piste.
Step 2. Weigh yourself with all the equipment and clothes you will wear on your snowshoe hike
The more weight you have on, the longer and wider the racket has to be to support you.
Step 3. Select the exact measurement
If snowshoes have a weight limit, consider it well to narrow the search. Otherwise, you can refer to the following guidelines for the more generic models:
- The 20x64 cm snowshoes are usually used for weights from 54 to 82 kg.
- Those of 23x76 cm support weights between 73 and 100 kg.
- Those of 25x91 cm are good for weights over 91 kg.
Step 4. Choose your snowshoes according to the type of snow
Once you have selected the models that are good for your weight (you will find two or three), think about the type of snow you will encounter on your route. If you usually prefer to go where there is deep powder and powder, go for the model with a wider base. If you prefer flat or beaten paths, you can opt for a smaller type that is more manageable.
Step 5. Choose a model with comfortable attachments
The bindings that tie the boot to the racket should be tight enough to make you feel secure and well balanced while walking. In addition to the shoe size, there are two other important factors to consider:
- The attacks fixed, which are located under the toe and heel, can be more or less wide, facilitate holding and allow a safe stride. The attacks articulated allow a more natural and snow-free walk.
- Snowshoes can be divided into models for men, women or children, depending on the different shape and size. If you have trouble finding the ones that are right for you, try searching for them among the other categories.
Step 6. Learn about the various materials
You can search for information on the materials used for snowshoes if you want to understand the product better. Here are some helpful hints:
- Many of the latest generation models are made of lightweight aluminum; if they are powder coated, they will accumulate less snow but, sooner or later, cracks will form in the paint. Those made of wood are a classic, but they are more prone to breakage. A particularly light model for marked trails may not have a frame.
- The material of which the frame is made is important in terms of the lightness of the wheelbase. It is usually made from synthetic material, such as Hypalon, or with a stiffer coating of composite plastic material. If you want more detailed information, you can ask the manufacturer.
Advice
If you go snowshoeing with a group of people, stay in line and try to put your feet in the footprints that others have already created. Shift the first in line, because tracing the path is very tiring
Warnings
- Try not to drag your feet, as this could accumulate snow under your shoes, between the crampons and reduce grip.
- Do not cross the snowshoes while walking and try not to make them collide with each other, because they could break and / or no longer allow optimal use.
