Where can I RENT snowshoes? Most REI stores will have snowshoes and poles for rent as wall as many local ski rental places. Benefits of Snowshoeing- It's fun: Snowshoeing extends your hiking, climbing or running season into winter. It appeals to anyone who wants to enjoy nature in winter. Plus, snowshoeing can be a social activity. Kids and adults, beginners and seasoned veterans alike, can all enjoy the sport together.
- It's easy: As the saying goes, "If you can walk, you can snowshoe!" The learning curve is much shorter than that of skiing or snowboarding. Since snowshoes offer more control, a beginner can venture sooner onto steeper terrain than he or she could with a board or skis.
- It's inexpensive: Snowshoeing is not likely to break your budget. Required gear includes the snowshoes themselves, appropriate footwear and clothing, and (usually) a pair of poles. That's it! No lift ticket is required.
- It's a good workout: Snowshoeing offers low-impact, aerobic exercise and is a great way to stay in shape during the winter.
- It's versatile: Snowshoeing can be as gentle or as adventurous as you'd like. Keep in mind that you can snowshoe many trails that you can't ski due to trees or low-snow conditions
| What to Wear
FootwearYour footwear should match your snowshoeing style, whether it's walking, backpacking, climbing or running. Some tips: - Insulated, waterproof boots are best. They are made with a thick sole, rubber/leather uppers and insulation inside.
- Leather hiking boots work well, especially if they are waterproof.
- Some people use plastic mountaineering boots, which work fine but certainly aren't necessary for snowshoeing.
- Trail-running snowshoes are designed to be worn with lightweight running shoes or cross-trainers for mild-weather training.
- Wool or synthetic socks with wicking liners promote warm, dry feet.
- Gaiters keep snow out of your boots and keep your feet dry—these are most helpful in deep backcountry snow. Consider a knee-high style made with waterproof/breathable fabric.
ClothingChoose layers that can be adjusted to your activity level and the weather. Avoid cotton. - Base layer: Synthetics and wool offer heat retention when wet. Wear long underwear that wicks away moisture, insulates well and dry quickly. Choose microlight, lightweight or midweight versions based on your comfort in cold weather. A zippered top is nice because it lets you regulate body heat as you stop and go. Recommended: Wool (from SmartWool, Ibex or Icebreaker), REI MTS underwear, Patagonia Capilene underwear, UnderArmor ColdGear.
- Insulating layer: Polyester fleece makes a good insulating mid-layer since it retains heat when wet and breathes as you exercise.
- Outer layer: A waterproof, breathable shell jacket and pants keep you dry and fend off wind. Recommended: Shells made of eVent, Gore-Tex or REI Elements fabrications.
Hat, Gloves and Accessories : Keep your head and hands covered to prevent loss of body heat and to protect from sunburn. - A wool or synthetic hat, headband or balaclava retains heat; a wide-brimmed hat or a ball cap can shade your eyes on sunny days.
- Waterproof ski gloves or mittens are a must to keep your hands dry and warm. On cold days, combine shells with fleece mittens or gloves. In milder conditions, glove liners may be all you need.
- Sunglasses and sunscreen will protect you burning UV rays which are especially intense when reflected off of snow.
For additional information, here is a good article: http://www.rei.com/expertadvice/articles/snowshoeing+first+steps.html |
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