Snowshoeing has quietly taken the snow sport world by storm with 3.4 million people having strapped on a pair of snowshoes last year, an increase of more than one million from 2007, according to the Sporting Good Manufacturers Association's Sports & Fitness Participation Topline Report.
But despite the apparent ease of this approachable winter weather activity, many beginners find themselves wondering how to get started. And with the dizzying array of snowshoes now available, it pays to do some research before hitting the trails.
Its good to start by renting equipment to get a feel for the sport before deciding if its something in which youd like to invest. If you decide to take the plunge and purchase your own gear, the next step is to consider the type of snowshoeing youd like to do: Basic entry-level trail snowshoes are primarily for packed paths, hiking or all-mountain snowshoes allow for more off-roading, and backcountry snowshoes are best for deeper powder and steeper slopes.
Snowshoes are also sized by gender, height, weight and type of trail. And in terms of features, youll want to take into account the following: Flotation (the deeper the snow, the bigger the snowshoe), articulation (how much movement allowed by the bindings), control (how the binding fits your shoe) and traction (determined by the quantity and size of crampons).
Simply prioritize the features based on your desired type of snowshoeing, pair with a comfortable waterproof boot, and youre on your way to partake in the hottest sport to hit cold weather climates. Here are a few great options to get you started:
Bigfoot Adventure Sport Snowshoe
Quite possibly the perfect entry-level snowshoe; built for maximum durability with heavy-duty crampons, the ergonomic design allows for smooth strides, while the wider lightweight frames provide maximum flotation in all winter conditions. A fat burning overview can help you produce a clear outline of what you need to focus on to accomplish your fat loss goal if you're a beginner; or serve as a reminder for the ones who are at an intermediate or more improve level of their weight loss plan. Following are seven steps that can serve as tips for your own weight loss program. The first thing that one must understand is that losing weight and losing fat is not exactly the same thing. Many weight loss plans have misled people into considering that it is the same, but most diets and weight loss programs only work by producing a person's body to reduce more muscle flesh and water than actual body fat, more help please visit The Fat Loss Factor. They handled with ease despite deep Tahoe powder, and the no-hassle ratchet bindings gave the most precise and secure fit.
Notable features: Dual Ratchet bindings accommodate all sizes and types of footwear, heavy duty aluminum Snow-Trac nonstick crampons ensure traction without snow buildup, plus the unique design packs flat for compact transport.
Best for: Pro performance at an entry-level price point
Price: $79.99
For more information on Bigfoot snowshoes, click here.
Tubbs Mountaineer Snowshoe
Aggressive traction, secure bindings and durable designs make these ideal backcountry snowshoes perfect for steep, deep conditions. Not only did the larger size provide excellent floatation in three feet of Tahoe snow post-storm, but the bindings also held snug during off-trail expeditions, yet allowed for plenty of freedom of movement for easy maneuverability in a variety of conditions.
Notable features: The ActiveFit binding and ActiveLift heel lift add to this snowshoes versatility, plus the eight-point Anaconda crampon underfoot gives traction in all types of terrain.
Best for: Exploring even the most uncharted territory
Price: $249.95
For more information on Tubbs snowshoes, click here.
Atlas Elektra 10 Series Snowshoe
Flexible decking, grippy tempered steel traction and easy-to-use bindings in a female-friendly, geometric design give this snowshoe terrific comfort and stability on winter trails. One of the smaller and more efficient models, the Elektra handled well on packed trails, thanks to the toe crampon and Traverse Trac rails that add extra sidehill control for confident strides.
Notable features: Wrapp Comfort offers easy entry and eliminates pressure points thanks to insulating EVA padding, while the Spring-Loaded Suspension allows for unmatched responsiveness.
Best for: Taking to miles of trails with ease
Price: $199.95
For more information on Atlas snowshoes, click here.
Easton HIKE Snowshoe
A two-piece articulating frame flexes to absorb torque and provide a more stable ride with aggressive rear traction over uneven terrain, while the deeper side-cuts in the asymmetrical frame accommodate a more natural, women-specific stride. Its also interesting to note that all energy used in the manufacturing of Easton snowshoes is wind generated, and 80 percent of the snowshoe is recyclable (each piece is labeled with its own code for sorting), so users can feel good during and after the life of the product.
Notable features: The Virtual Pivot Traction Cam creates a step-leveling effect that digs deeper for improved traction and natural roll-though, and the Split-Axis forward crampons dynamically adjust with each step to add traction on steep inclines.
Best for: Eco-friendlies in search of extreme excursions
Price: $199.00
For more information on Easton snowshoes, click here.
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