How To Choose A Snowshoe

©SIA 2007-8

Although there are a lot of different snowshoes, the basic rule is this: For packed snow, any model will work. For deep snow, the more you weigh, the larger the snowshoe you need. A "deeper" cleat is also helpful to provide additional traction.

Today's snowshoes are made with high-tech components. Most are made out of durable plastics, aluminum and synthetic rubber and other lightweight materials that require no maintenance, and are easy to use.

Snowshoes came in a wide variety of shapes and sizes for a wide variety of snow conditions. Factors to consider when choosing a shoe are "float," shape and the binding.

Float: The most important factor is the "float," which is what keeps you from sinking down into the snow.

Shape: Rounded snowshoes will provide better float than tapered ones. However, tapered snowshoes are easier to walk in because you can maintain a natural stance, rather than having to walk ever so slightly bowlegged. Most snowshoes on the market now are tapered. You will want to select the smallest and lightest weight snowshoe that will provide the best flotation in the type of snow and terrain on which you'll be traveling.

Binding: The more advanced sport snowshoe bindings work in association with a hinging or pivoting point on the snowshoe frame. Basic sport shoe models will be fixed to the frame, similar to their traditional wooden cousins. Features to look for in bindings are durability, ease of use and secure positioning of the foot.

Almost all snowshoes come equipped with some type of crampon or claw. These provide traction on icy or crusty surfaces and are necessary on steep terrain for both ascending and descending. Long serrated teeth are frequently added along the length of the frame to provide stability while traversing.

Which One Should I Buy?
What type of snowshoeing will you be doing and where will you be doing it? How much do you weigh, and how much will your personal equipment weigh while snowshoeing? How much does the snowshoe weigh and how is it shaped? Most specialty outdoor stores will have charts on recommended snowshoe sizes by load weight. Discuss with the salesperson your interests and requirements.