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Purchasing Snowshoes
Home » Skiing » Snowshoeing » Purchasing SnowshoesThere are several things to consider when choosing snowshoes. You first need to determine the type of snowshoeing you plan to do. Once that is decided, you should look at the size, shape, type, and flotation of the snowshoe.
• Sizes of Snowshoes
The size of snowshoes you need depends greatly on your weight and how you plan to use them. Here are some guidelines to follow:
For backpacking or extended winter hikes:
(Including the weight of your pack)
Up to 140 lb.- 8x21
Up to 180 lb.- 8x25
Up to 200 lb.- 9x30
200 lb. or more- 10x36
For recreational day trips:
Up to 140 lb.- 8x21
Up to 180 lb.- 8x25
180 or more- 9x30
• Types of Snowshoes
Once you have determined what size of snowshoe you need, there are a couple of different types of snowshoes to choose from.
1. The Beaver Tail- This snowshoe resembles a tennis racquet. It’s tail drags behind, supporting the weight of most of the shoe, and acts as a rudder to keep the shoes tracking straight. Only the toes clear the snow when this snowshoe is lifted. It works better in open-terrain than it is in wooded areas since changing course can be difficult.
2. The Bear Paw- This snowshoe is shaped more like an oval. They are not as efficient as the beaver tail snowshoes since they require the user to lift more of the shoe’s weight, but they are easier to maneuver on trails.
• Shapes of Snowshoes
You should also take into consideration the shape of the snowshoe. Snowshoes that are shorter and wider are desirable for their maneuverability, but are more difficult to walk in. This shape of shoe is preferable for wooded areas. Models that are longer and narrower are desirable for hiking in open-terrain.
• Flotation
Flotation refers to the ability of the snowshoe to keep you above the snow. The flotation of snowshoes varies depending on the weave of the lacing. The tighter the weave, the greater the flotation will be. The amount of flotation will also vary with the weight of the snowshoer and their pack. It’s also important to keep in mind that fresh powder requires more flotation than firmly packed snow.
• Prices
For recreational snowshoes, you can expect to pay between $80 and $140. Backcountry snowshoes are more expensive since they are made out of a sturdier material. For this type of snowshoe, you will pay between $120 and $230.
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