Snowshoeing Basics for Hikers
Snowshoeing is the easiest winter sport to learn. If you can walk, you can snowshoe. It opens up winter trails that would be impassable on foot and provides an excellent workout.
Choosing Snowshoes
Size by Weight
Snowshoe size is determined by the total weight they will carry (your body weight + pack weight):
| Total Weight | Snowshoe Size |
|---|---|
| Under 150 lbs | 22 inches |
| 150–200 lbs | 25 inches |
| 200–250 lbs | 30 inches |
| 250+ lbs | 36 inches |
Types
- Recreational: Flat terrain, groomed trails. Simple bindings, moderate traction. ($80–150)
- Hiking: Varied terrain, moderate inclines. Better traction, heel lifts. ($150–250)
- Backcountry/Mountaineering: Steep terrain, deep powder. Aggressive crampons, secure bindings. ($250–400)
Key Features
- Crampons: Metal teeth on the bottom for traction on ice and packed snow
- Heel lifts/Televators: Flip-up bars that reduce calf strain on uphill sections
- Bindings: Quick-entry BOA or ratchet systems are easiest. Strap bindings are lighter and more adjustable.
Top Picks
- Budget: Tubbs Xplore ($100) — great for beginners on easy terrain
- All-around: MSR Lightning Ascent ($320) — excellent traction and versatility
- Best value: MSR Evo Trail ($150) — reliable, fits any boot
What to Wear
Footwear
- Waterproof hiking boots or insulated winter boots
- Snowshoe bindings fit over most boot types
- Avoid running shoes (cold, wet, no support)
Clothing
Same layering principles as winter hiking:
- Moisture-wicking base layer
- Insulating mid layer (lighter than you think — snowshoeing generates serious heat)
- Wind/waterproof shell
- Gaiters: Essential to keep snow out of your boots
Accessories
- Waterproof gloves or mittens
- Warm hat
- Sunglasses (snow glare is intense)
- Sunscreen (UV reflects off snow)
Technique
Walking
- Take a slightly wider stance than normal (to avoid stepping on your other snowshoe)
- Lift your feet a bit higher than usual
- Walk naturally — do not try to shuffle
Going Uphill
- Point toes straight up the slope for moderate grades
- Use heel lifts if your snowshoes have them
- Kick the toe of the snowshoe into the snow for traction on steeper slopes
- Switchback on very steep terrain (zigzag up the slope)
Going Downhill
- Lean slightly back and keep knees bent
- Dig your heels in with each step
- Take shorter steps for more control
- Use trekking poles for balance
Traversing (Sidehill)
- Kick the uphill edge of the snowshoe into the slope
- Keep your weight over the uphill snowshoe
- Use a pole on the downhill side for balance
Trekking Poles
Highly recommended. Poles provide:
- Balance on uneven terrain
- Propulsion on flat and uphill sections
- Stability on descents
- Snow baskets (large round discs) prevent poles from sinking
Where to Go
Best Terrain for Beginners
- Groomed snowshoe trails at nordic centers
- Flat to gently rolling terrain in national forests
- Summer hiking trails with gentle grades
- Frozen lake shores (confirm ice safety first)
Winter Trail Etiquette
- Do not walk on groomed cross-country ski tracks
- Stay on established snowshoe trails when available
- Step aside for cross-country skiers
- Break your own trail in deep snow (it is part of the experience)
Safety
- Tell someone your plans and expected return time
- Carry the winter hiking essentials: extra layers, food, water, headlamp, navigation
- Be aware of avalanche terrain if venturing into the mountains
- Start with shorter outings and build up distance
- Snowshoeing burns 45% more calories than walking — bring extra food and water
Recommended Gear
Based on this guide's topics, here are some top-rated products to consider:
- Mystery Ranch 3 Way 27 Backpack ($229, 2.0 lbs)
- DAKINE 365 21L Backpack ($58, 309 g)
- DAKINE 365 Pack 28L Backpack ($68, 454 g)
- Fjallraven Abisko Trek 65 Backpack ($309.95, 2.7 kg)
- Primus Alika Stove ($329.95, 4.7 kg)
- Snow Peak Bipod Stove ($79.95, 221 g)
- BioLite CampStove 2 + ($199.95, 2.0 lbs)
- COROS APEX 2 GPS Outdoor Watch ($349, 43 g)