HOW TO CHOOSE THE SNOWSHOES PERFECT FOR YOU

Snowshoeing is a fun and healthy activity that can be enjoyed by just about anyone. Strap a pair on, grab a pair of adjustable poles, and you'll soon be an expert. Whether you're using snowshoes to help push your way out of bounds to the top of a snowcapped peak, or you're using them for recreational purposes while you stroll through the woods in your backyard, the benefits of snowshoeing are the same: flotation and traction on snow are significantly improved, and a good romp offers a solid dose of safe, low-impact exercise. On average, snowshoeing burns about twice as many calories as walking, utilizes more major muscle groups, and is a lot more fun. Perhaps best of all, it's an activity that you can do with the whole family. It's no wonder that each year, more and more people are getting hooked.

Choosing the right pair is much easier than it may appear. Yes, there are many different types of snowshoes, and the selection at first can seem overwhelming, but when armed with a reasonable amount of knowledge, you’ll be able choose the right pair for you. This article will explain the key elements of the function of snow shoes, as well as snowshoe anatomy, and the different categories and intended uses. Once you’ve read this, you’ll have a much better idea of what to look for and your selection can then be narrowed down to just a few pairs.

FUNCTION
The function of snowshoes can be broken down into four key elements: Flotation, Articulation, Control, and Traction, or F.A.C.T. The importance of these four elements varies based on your intended use.

Flotation (Determining proper size)
Snowshoes keep you "on top" of the snow by distributing your weight over a wide surface area. When we say they keep you "on top" of the snow, we really mean that they limit how much you sink into the snow. Snowshoeing isn't like walking on water. Depending on how deep and fluffy the snow is, you're going to sink a bit, but not nearly as much as you would without snow shoes. The concept is simple: the bigger the snowshoes, the more surface area, and the less you'll sink in. Does this mean that you should buy the largest snowshoes available? Not at all.

Snowshoe size is determined by a number of factors. The biggest factor is the weight of the user including equipment. Someone who weighs in at 120 lbs won't need a shoe as large as someone who tops 200 lbs, for example. Another factor is snow density. If you are sticking to mainly packed snow, flotation is less critical, and a smaller snowshoe, which is more maneuverable, can be used. Snowshoeing in Colorado Champagne powder will require a larger size to achieve the same amount of flotation that snowshoeing in wet, heavy Vermont “Champlain” powder would. The final factor is usage. Smaller shoes are more maneuverable, especially in tight places, so someone who likes to bushwhack would want a smaller shoe than someone who heads for wide-open expanses. Sizes can often times overlap different weight ranges, i.e. your weight may be suitable for a 25" or a 30" shoe, so a user must decide whether optimal flotation or optimal maneuverability is a priority. Simply refer to our handy sizing charts found on each snowshoe product page, and remember to take into account any additional weight you intend to carry in a backpack etc.

Articulation
Articulation refers to your foot, and how much movement it has in relation to the frame, so that it is free to find the most comfortable position on uneven terrain. If you're sticking to mainly flat terrain and primarily packed snow, articulation won't be of much concern to you. However, if you do encounter varying terrain, especially when traversing, you will want as much articulation as possible as it will greatly improve you're traction, balance, and comfort. The type of toe cord used to attach the binding to the frame, and even the flexibility of the frame are factors that affect articulation.

Control
Control, like articulation, also comes from how much support the binding offers. A binding that fits securely and keeps your foot centered over the snowshoe will result in more control. As with articulation, if you're walking around a golf course, you won't need as much support from your binding as you would when snowshoeing up and down your favorite summer hiking trail. However, there is no disadvantage to using a snowshoe with a binding that provides a more secure fit with excellent support, even for golf course excursions. Who knows, you might feel adventurous and want to head into that sand bunker.

Traction
The metal crampons, or cleats, that stick out from the bottom of the showshoe provide traction for uphill grip and downhill braking. The amount of traction varies greatly between models and is based on the intended use of the snowshoe. You don't need a whole lot of traction when trudging around a golf course, but when you're in the steeps and deeps, you can never have enough.