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For many of us new sports can seem intimidating and starting one out can be a stressful process. Snowshoeing, however, is one of those sports one can do almost immediately and there is fun to be had by all ages. Another great perk is all the differing styles of snowshoe activities, one is not limited or forsaken to one type or level. Snowshoe activities can range from a leisurely walk around with the family to an exhilarating 5K or 10K, to get started we need to determine what type of snowshoer you are going to be.
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Looking to get some moderate exercise on your local groomed trails, walk the dog and have the capability to break your own path on occasion, recreational snowshoeing could be for you. One of the most popular categories because of the limitless capabilities of a recreation snowshoe and the fun that can be had. A recreational snowshoe will be very easy to walk with on any flat or rolling terrain have very easy adjustments for anyone to use and are slightly less aggressive than others in varying categories. The crampons, which are the metal pieces that grab the ice and snow, on this style are moderate to not inhibit walking but enough to offer good grip on icy, snowy terrain. These are typically considered an entry level style and can be found at a good price for someones first pair of snowshoes.
Mountaineering and Backcountry
Feeling like breaking your own trail through the woods and deep snow, how about hiking and backpacking up some steep and icy terrain, backcountry or mountaineering snowshoes may be right for you. These snowshoes are beefed up with larger crampons to offer that extra grip and security that you need when your summiting that peak you have wanted to climb for years. The bindings on these models will also be bigger and sturdier to accommodate bigger hiking and outdoor boots. Backcountry and mountaineering snowshoes are also constructed in a whole bigger and beefier to withstand anything you wish to throw at them. A great choice for any serious snowshoe enthusiast looking to go in the deepest snow and in all the varying weather conditions.
If your an active runner and cannot run your favorite trails due to the winter weather change, run all the same trails and keep your heart pumping all year around with race and fitness snowshoes. Much smaller than regular style snowshoes these are lightweight with different and adjustable crampons for varying trails and snow types. The bindings on these styles will cradle and wrap around athletic and running shoes. These snowshoes are not intended for use in off trail situations and perform best on groomed and kept paths. Great for the athletic runner or outdoor enthusiast looking to excel in the winter and take advantage of all season’s and enjoy scenic landscape along the way.
A no brainer, women are made different than men and need a specific product for certain sports, snowshoeing is one of those where a woman will benefit from having the proper equipment. Women’s snowshoes are designed with a woman’s foot in mind, built narrower with a more contoured frame to fit their natural foot type. Bindings are also built specific with a smaller foot in mind to ensure that they are getting properly snugged in all activities and situations. The women’s category of snowshoes will have backcountry, racing, recreational and all other types of snowshoes fit specific to a woman’s foot type.
Now that you have hopefully narrowed down what type of snowshoer you are going to be lets take a look at a few more factors that can help determine which snowshoe is right for you.
Snowshoeing in general is a very cost friendly activity that anyone can get into without breaking the bank. Typically you can get into snowshoeing for around 200 to 300 dollars with a good set up. Many companies will offer packages for beginners that include shoes and poles which is a cost effective way to get into snowshoeing. If your an active person and know that you will excel and enjoy the sport of snowshoeing it may make sense to spend a bit more initially so that you do not have buyers remorse months later.
It is typically not recommended that one purchase snowshoes second hand based on not knowing the structural sturdiness of the shoe. If you do find yourself purchasing a used snowshoe it is imperative that you inspect the shoe very closely to ensure there are no defects, chips, or weak points. Snowshoes can have a long life but they must be cared for and sometimes it is hard to tell if they have been abused or not with the naked eye, be cautious.
Snowshoes like most sports products must be sized correctly for them to perform at their best. We will cover intricate sizing issues in detail in our Snowshoe Sizing Guide, here are some basics. Snowshoe’s are sized by the user’s weight and it is very important to be brutally honest when sizing yourself for a pair of snowshoes. Another often overlooked issue is the gear that many will be taking along with them, factor this in and add this to your weight when picking a pair and they are sure to perform like they were intended to.
Last but not least, envision all the fun you will be having when choosing your new pair of snowshoes and all the beautiful places your going to go. Think of all the beautiful scenery snowshoeing is going to show you and all the unique experiences you will forgo. Snowshoeing is a great exhilarating activity that anyone can take part in and have a fun at their own pace, slow or fast.
Tags: Buying Guides, Snowshoe Gear, Snowshoes
