Snowshoe-ing
Anyone out there doing this? Any tips for proper clothing and/or techique (is there such a thing?) |
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debcram wrote: Ok...I have a new passion to pursue. Snowshoe-ing! I've asked Hanuakkah Harry for snowshoes for Hanukkah, and rumor has it, he is going to get them for me.
Anyone out there doing this? Any tips for proper clothing and/or techique (is there such a thing?) I am sure there is proper technigue. the good thing is you can enjoy it even if you don't know how:) I think I may use poles next time I go out, but its been a couple of years since we hade the right combination of snow and temps and time for me to go out. |
| Harry is getting me poles, too. That was something I never thought of. What sort of boots do you wear? |
debcram wrote: Harry is getting me poles, too. That was something I never thought of. What sort of boots do you wear?
warm ones!  |
debcram wrote: Harry is getting me poles, too. That was something I never thought of. What sort of boots do you wear?
well I agree wiht Darcy  actually depends on the snowshoe bindings. I use LLbean type snowshoes and they work with whatever boots I am using for the winter. better quality snowshoes might need more ski type boots I think..... |
kerry wrote: debcram wrote: Harry is getting me poles, too. That was something I never thought of. What sort of boots do you wear? well I agree wiht Darcy actually depends on the snowshoe bindings. I use LLbean type snowshoes and they work with whatever boots I am using for the winter. better quality snowshoes might need more ski type boots I think.....Mine are coming from LL Bean. THEY ARE PINK!!!! I wear uggs. Will that work? |
| they may marr them. I have used them with bean boots and my lands end marinac boots and squall boots.
I really need to order my uggs.... |
| You want waterproof boots, or at least water resistant because you won't always be on your feet as you learn. Also snow may not support you totally (even with your new trim size) and you may sink a bit or snow will tip over onto your feet.
I highly recommend wind pants or so other water proof covering that will go down to your boots. These fit over whatever pants you have underneath. Now you can keep these wind pants rolled up in your fanny pack and whip them out as necessary. Gaiters are an option, waterproof covering for boot tops, ankles and lower leg. Pants: knickers and socks are always fashionable (put tights on under them, those wool socks can get itchy). Jeans or other tight weave pants with tights or longjohns depending on temperatures are fine...if you don't plan on falling on your butt (remember wind pants.....) Upstairs, depends on climate/temp. Layers of course! undershirt, even some of the newer thermal shirts, then maybe a turtleneck, cardigan and waterproof outer covering (remember, falling in the snow??) You can strip down if you get hot with the layers. Hat or headband and of course sunglasses and sunscreen. Gloves. If you are just going around the city parks or close to civilization, then no need to be outfitted so greatly: tights, jeans, turtle neck, sweater and parka (that can be easily removed) or lighter shell type outer covering will be fine. Yes to a fanny pack for water and other supplies. Good way to burn up calories and fat! |
| I found a great pair of Merrel waterproof boots on Eddie Bauer. They recommend them for snowshoes. For some reason, I just can't get to the checkout area. I'll have to try from the house. Could have something to do with our crazy firewall here. |
| I agree. Think ski clothes. Waterproof or water resistent and Warm! Preferably, light weight warmth. LL Bean and Land's End are good sources. Also, probably you could find them in Cabelas, which I find is as good a quality and a bit less expensive. I bought my flannel lined jeans there last year and I LOVE them. |
| I love Cabelas for warm clothing! May not be super fashionable, but are warm and cozy. |
| I just ordered Merrell Thermo Arc Forecast Waterproof boots! We are getting a big snow storm tonight! I wish I had all my stuff already!!! I will need some warm/waterproof pants, since I will probably be spending sometime on my tush! |
| The hardest part is getting used to walking in them. You really have to pick up your feet. Especially in deep snow. It isn't hard just different than normal walking. I highly suggest using poles. I have a pair I always carry with my when doing backcountry skiing. Nothing worse than having to post hole out of somewhere. Now we have graduated to snowmobiles but I still bring them just in case.
As for clothing, get a good base layer that wicks moisture away from skin. NO cotton. Then I wear a sweatshirt (hoodie) and my ski jacket and pants. Do not over dress. It may be cold out but you will be working up a sweat. I promise. Even when it's cold and I'm sking/boarding all the vents on my jacket and pants are open with just a base layer on under pants and upper torso has base, hoodie and jacket (which is just a waterproof/windproof shell). It may be chilly on the lift but I'm hot when I'm riding. Not sure where you will be snowshoeing but if there is any avalanche danger, have the appropriate gear and training. People die every year in Co "just snowshoeing". I do play in backcountry "a lot" more than at a resort. But I always have my beacon, probe, shovel, poles, extra clothing, and friends, who know how to use the equipment. We all have taken an avalanche safety course. BTW, Obe is never allowed to go where there is avalanche danger. Have fun and enjoy it is great exercise. |
| Sheepieboss mentioned wool is itchy, but smart wool takes the itch out and leaves you with a natural moisture wicking, warm base layer and sock(s). My base layer is smart wool top and bottom and all my socks are smart wool even the ones I wear in the summer (not as think as winter socks). |
| Thanks, Shon, that is great advice! I will be sure to layer. Here in flat Illinois I don't think we have avalances! I've always loved being out in the snow, but fear speed and heights, so skiing is out for me. Snowshoe-ing seems perfect! I'll probably just be in forest preserves or neighborhoods. I'm very excited about this new adventure! |
| I've not crossed REIs doors in decades or anyone else for that matter. Hadn't heard about Smartwool. After reading about it, I think there's an order going out soon! Thanks Shon! |
| I LOVE my smart wool socks - worth every (considerable) penny!!! |
| Deb,
I envy you. This is one sport that I've always wanted to do but have never taken the time and energy to get there. Right now DH is worried about his job so I think thats out as a gift from Santa this year. Oh well, there's always next year. |
Simon's Mom wrote: Deb,
I envy you. This is one sport that I've always wanted to do but have never taken the time and energy to get there. Right now DH is worried about his job so I think thats out as a gift from Santa this year. Oh well, there's always next year. Well then, next year, we'll meet between Milwaukee and Gurnee and snowshoe together!!! |
| Oh, I love snow shoeing!!!
I grew up doing it. We had a couple pair of the real cool old ones - varnished wood and rawhide strung ones. They were beautiful. We had the teardrop and the bear paw shapes - I like the teardrops best.
I got a pair at a humane society fund raiser about 5 years ago. They are the more boring modern ones. Aluminum frame, black plasitcy/fabric stuff. They have serrated cleats under the part where your feet go too. The logo says "Indian Summer" and has a picture of an indian (native american) in a headdress. There is an event in WI by the same name - so it may be from that. I just wear my regular winter boots - the practical, sorel type ones. Definitely dress in layers - you will get very, very warm. It is a workout, but so beautiful. Yes to nylon - windpants are perfect. You will fall! I wore gaiters or even the old scrunchie legwarmers to keep the snow out (It was the 70's - they were in style and available!  )
The main adjustment is the wide stance for walking - hence the falling! Have fun - it is fun and good exercise. |
Simon's Mom wrote: Deb,
I envy you. This is one sport that I've always wanted to do but have never taken the time and energy to get there. Right now DH is worried about his job so I think thats out as a gift from Santa this year. Oh well, there's always next year. Pam - they aren't that bad priced, I just checked on ebay. Lots under $100, and quite a few under $50. |
kerry wrote: I LOVE my smart wool socks - worth every (considerable) penny!!!
The stuff may be a pricey but I think it's worth it as well. There is also merino wool which is basically the same, may be a little cheaper. |
got sheep wrote: Simon's Mom wrote: Deb, I envy you. This is one sport that I've always wanted to do but have never taken the time and energy to get there. Right now DH is worried about his job so I think thats out as a gift from Santa this year. Oh well, there's always next year. Pam - they aren't that bad priced, I just checked on ebay. Lots under $100, and quite a few under $50. The ones I'm getting (even though I'm not suppose to know, cuz they are a Hanukkah gift  ) are from LL Bean, and about $99. Lightweight and PINK! Tony knows I'm a pink girl from way back! I bet the wood ones are beautiful...I just don't know where to find them. It was a litte sad to me, that these are so "high tech". But probably better for a beginner.I'm so excited. We are expecting a big snow tomorrow, and I wish I had them for the weekend. By time I get them...we probably won't get anymore snow in Chicago!!!! I would really like to be able to take the dogs to the dog park (forest preserve) in the snow and let them go crazy!!!! |
| The pink sound so fun!
Make sure to post a picture with them when they come. |
Of course they CANNOT be as good as a pair of OES/wool mixture knitted socks!!  |
  
I got my snowshoes and poles yesterday!!!! I spent about an hour and a half tromping around the yard with the dogs. IT WAS SO MUCH FUN!!!!! I wore my jeans, and I am going to need waterproof pants of some sort. I also only had gloves, so my hands got pretty cold. Gotta find some warm mittens. My new snow boots were perfect!!!!! My feet stayed dry and warm. I have some pictures to post later. It was really fun, although boring just staying in the backyard. I can't wait to get on a hiking trail, or into the forest preserve. I have to admit, I'm really sore today! My back, chest and arms are sore from the poles, and my legs and tushie from my tromping around. Unfortunetly, its getting warm here for the next several days, so we'll lose our snow, but I'm sure we will get more...AND I CAN'T WAIT!!!! |
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