How To Get Started Snowshoeing

Snowshoeing is one of the most popular winter activities in Canada and is only growing in popularity. People of all ability levels are jumping feet-first into the sport, thanks to its low cost of entry, short learning curve for mastering the fundamentals, and the huge fun you can have starting with your first outing.

Whether you’re an avid winter enthusiast looking for another winter activity to add to your roster or you’re looking for a new way to stay healthy, happy and fit when the ground is covered in snow, snowshoeing is an excellent sport to get involved in. Before you start striding across city parks and mountain passes, get the information you need to select the right snowshoes, choose appropriate clothing and also learn a few tips for staying safe when conquering winter trails.

 

“There is a very short learning curve with snowshoeing and you don’t need very much snow to be able to go. Also, there are so many places to go snowshoeing and all different types of terrain to explore.” Cailyn Hepburn, Atmosphere Department Manager and avid snowshoer. Read about how Cailyn got into snowshoeing.

Recreational/Hiking

Recreational or hiking snowshoes are designed for use on flat terrain and low rolling hills. They’re easy to get the hang of and come equipped with smaller crampons which provide less aggressive traction and are comfortable over long distances.

• Shop men’s recreational snowshoes & men’s hiking snowshoes
• Shop women’s recreational snowshoes & women’s hiking snowshoes

 

Running/Fitness/Racing

These snowshoes are less common but are generally smaller, narrower and lighter. They allow for fast and nimble movements across easy terrain, provide low amounts of traction and are often used on hard-packed trails.

• Shop men’s running snowshoes
• Shop women’s running snowshoes

 

Backcountry

This is the most aggressive style of snowshoe. Backcountry-style snowshoes feature aggressive crampons with excellent traction control and stability over challenging and unexpected terrain. If you’re planning a trip across difficult trails with many obstacles and elevation changes, you need a snowshoe that provides support, traction and durability. Many backcountry styles also feature heel lifts or climbing bars for assistance in ascending hills.

• Shop men’s backcountry snowshoes
• Shop women’s backcountry snowshoes

Layering

Your best bet is to follow the same three-layer best practices that you would for any outdoor winter activity. First you’ll need a sweat-wicking base layer. These garments are worn tight to your skin and move sweat away from your core outwards, keeping you dry. A good base layer is your strongest defense against the cold on winter days. Choose either Merino wool or a synthetic-material base layer.

Next you’ll want a mid-layer to help create a barrier for air to become trapped between your body and the colder outside air. Warm fleece jackets and other light mid-layers create an area for non-circulating ‘dead air’ to remain trapped and become warm.

Wear either an outer shell or insulated jacket depending on the conditions. Shell jackets offer good defense against the wind and precipitation and likely won’t lead to overheating on warmer days. If the temperature is dropping and you need strong protection from wind, snow and the cold, wear an insulated jacket designed to trap warm air close to your body.

Tip: One way to help stay warm is to ensure your body always has a constant source of fuel to burn. Be sure to carry high-fat and high-protein foods with you as well as plenty of water.

• Shop men’s base layers, mid layers, insulated pants, outer shells and insulated jackets
• Shop women’s base layers, mid layers, insulated pants, outer shells and insulated jackets
• Read more about dressing for winter outdoor activities

Packing for a snowshoeing outing is similar to packing for a day hike during the warmer months of the year. The only difference is the conditions are more extreme in the winter which can make things more dangerous if you’re unprepared.

Carry:

• GPS watch
• Personal Locator Beacon
• Matches or lighter
• Waterproof container
• Knife or multi-tool
• An insulated sleeping pad for emergencies and to sit down comfortably

If you’re venturing into backcountry areas or avalanche zones be sure to carry the appropriate avalanche safety gear which includes a probe, shovel, and locator beacon.

Regardless of where your snowshoe route takes you, here is some advice that all winter enthusiasts should consider:

• Always carry a map, trail guide, and compass. Make photocopies so you don’t have to carry a heavy book.
• Make sure you have everything you need to stay dry, warm, fed, and well hydrated regardless of what type of weather hits or if you don’t make it to your intended destination.
• Carry a first aid kit.
• Check the weather before you leave home. Make sure your daypack has everything you might need to stay safe.
• Let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return.
• Carry plant and wildlife guides to help increase your appreciation of nature.
• Obey trail and area closures and restrictions. These are often in place to protect hikers and wildlife from harming one-another or to rehabilitate delicate ecosystems.

• Animals live more difficult lives in the winter. Stay on established trails and do not follow animal tracks.
• Never dispose of garbage under snow. Carry out what you carry in.
• Be careful not to drop food on the trail. Treat leftover food like garbage.
• Obey all rules regarding dogs in snowshoe areas.
• Be sure to keep dogs on a leash to stop them from chasing wildlife.

• Adhesive bandages
• Antiseptic wipes
• Band-Aids (butterfly bandages)
• Gauze pads
• Antihistamine (allergy medication)
• Epi pen
• First aid manual
• Sterile pads
• Adhesive tape
• Ibuprofen or Tylenol 
• Shop all first aid gear