Snowshoes

Why use snowshoes, is snowshoeing difficult?

Do you like hiking? Why not discover marvellous landscapes in a unique atmosphere this winter? This activity doesn’t require any dedicated infrastructure. Simply put your snowshoes on and go for a walk on snow-clad hiking trails. You’ll enjoy the winter atmosphere, contemplate nature differently, hear the sounds of ice under your feet, snow falling from the surrounding trees and see traces left by wildlife. Pleasant to do by yourself or with family, snowshoeing is easy and affordable. Recent equipment is very well-designed, reliable and easy to use. Snowshoeing is a low-impact physical activity for your body, and good for your mind, give it a go!

Where can you snowshoe?

Where you want, as long as there’s snow, which is a nice thing about snowshoeing. You can hike with snowshoes everywhere if the terrain is walkable and covered in snow. Ideally, it’s best to follow trails. No need for ski lifts, runs or snow groomers, just some snow and nature. Snowshoeing is a sport that can be done anywhere and a great way to take a breath from your daily routine. Of course, it can be done at various levels and multi-day hikes are an option!

How to choose a pair of snowshoes?

To offer the model best adapted to your skills and pace, manufacturers have grown their ranges. If you’re new to hiking with snowshoes and are planning short outings this winter, Glisshop recommends an entry-level model. It’ll provide good float to remain on the surface without tiring. After setting the snowshoes to your size, it’s only a matter of seconds to put them on the rest of the season. On easy trails or in forests, discovery models allow to venture everywhere at your own pace. The TSL Escape or Inook Futura are high-performance entry-level models.

High-performance snowshoes for long mountain hikes

You’ll find model in the touring range such as the Odyssey and Odalys from Inook, as well as the TSL Tour. These models are designed for long distances, and it’s even possible to run with them. They’re lighter than entry-level models and feature heel lifts for easier climbs. This heel lift is easy to action with a hiking pole. It provides a more natural posture on steep gradients. For descending or challenging sections, you can lock the snowshoe to prevent it from unnecessarily swinging under your feet. If you encounter ice, the crampons under the frame and at the front take care of everything and provide secure grip. Be aware that snowshoes are meant for hiking and not mountaineering and will never replace proper mountaineering crampons. They provide impressive grip in the climbs (on reasonable gradients) but, in the descents, the front crampon becomes useless.

Choosing the right snowshoe for kids

Children also have the right to models dedicated to their morphology, with snowshoes at adapted to their size, easy to put on and light. Kids’ snowshoes generally feature a simple elastic strap to be easy to use and provide enough stability to walk on flat areas. They’re aimed at kids over 2.6 stones.

What shoes to use for snowshoeing?

Right off the bat, forget some après-ski boots that are too soft, such as Moon Boots. To enjoy snowshoe hikes in good conditions, you absolutely need effective ankle support. Glisshop recommends leather winter boots, a robust material that can withstand the friction of straps. Preferably waterproof with a high ankle to prevent snow from getting inside. When it comes to thermal insulation, it all depends on your preferences and weather conditions. If you’re planning on going out in very low temperatures, a wool lining is a good option, or high-end fur. Glisshop offers a wide range of compatible winter boots.

Do you need poles for snowshoeing?

It’s better to use trekking poles for snowshoeing. They improve your balance and help better distribute your weight. Poles don’t need to be as sturdy as skiing poles, as they’re submitted to less stress. Weight and adjustable length are key elements to consider. Depending on how deep the snow cover is, you’ll need taller or shorter poles. We may even need to adjust their length during your hike.

Keep in mind that good gear is essential to enjoy your snowshoe hikes. Neglect your equipment and your day may turn for the worst!