5 Basics You Need To Know About Snowshoes

Are you curious but clueless about snow shoes, and not sure where to start looking for info? Have no fear fellow Wanderers! I'm here to share the basics about snowshoes.

1. Snowshoes strap to your boots and work by helping spread out your weight on the snow so you don't sink as far into it. Because of this, it's recommended to use them only if there is at least 5 inches of snow on the ground.

2. The underneath of a snowshoe has a big metal claw - referred to as a crampon or ice cleat - that helps with grip and traction.

3. The size of your snowshoe depends on your weight, and the sizes vary a bit by manufacturer. The important thing to remember when selecting your size, is to add in the weight of any gear you may be carrying. For example if you weigh 150 pounds and are looking at snow shoes that come in a size Small for 100-150lbs. or size Medium for 150-200lbs, you have to consider what kind of snowshoeing you'll most likely be doing. Are you just going to hike a mile or two in them or will you be doing day-long treks requiring a backpack stuffed with food and safety supplies?

4. Trekking poles: you"ll want some of these. When you first try snowshoeing, you'll probably feel a bit awkward and clumsy, but trekking poles can help you with balance until you get the hang of it. Then later on, when you're a pro doing 10 mile hikes, your poles will help you clamber through the tricky spots.

5. Snowshoes are like running shoes: you get what you pay for. Have you ever tried trail running in a $15 pair of Kmart sneakers? I have, and I almost broke my ankle. You can find a pair of snowshoes for about $50 that will probably feel a little heavy and awkward, but they'll get you through a one mile hike and they're a good way to start. Or, for about $125-$150, you can tromp through the whole White Mountain National Forest like an agile arctic fox.

Wanderers Tip: Try before you buy. Places like Eastern Mountain Sports will rent snowshoes so you can try them out before you decide to invest in a more expensive pair. Or, if you just need a budget-friendly pair of snowshoes to get you started, check out discount stores like Ocean State Job Lot for some great deals - they even come with trekking poles!