Introduction to Snowshoeing Basics

The quick and dirty rule of clothing to bring on a snowshoe trip is NO COTTON  (this means no blue jeans!)  While cotton is comfy, it can make for an unpleasant trip. Cotton, when wet, loses all insulating value and will actually take the heat away from your body, possibly causing hypothermia.   Additionally, sweaty or wet cotton clothes can cause severe chafing (your “tighty whities”, blisters (your cotton gym socks) and all around “icky-ness”. Try putting on a cotton t-shirt sweaty and damp from the previous day. Talk about a wake-up call! Imagine walking in wet, heavy and cold clothing in winter ?!?!?!? Ack!  ( There are exceptions for winter use, but that is better for much colder and/or stationary activities. )

In winter, it is very important to use layers of clothing. Rather than one bulky garment (that alternately will leave you sweating and then cold when you take it off), it is better to wear a few different layers that you can take on and off as conditions warrant.

 

 

The basics of the layer principle for winter:

1)    Wicking inner  base layer
2)    Middle  layer to retain body heat
3)    Outer shell layer to keep out the wind and snow

4)    What I call the “puffy” layer – a  down or synthetic filled jacket

The wicking inner layer is sometimes wool but is usually synthetic. Think of this layer as your “long undies”. Typically the synthetic underwear is known by such names as Polypropylene, CoolMax, DuoFold, etc.  This layer will move the sweat away from your body, helping you to regulate your body temperature. This layer is a very important one for keeping you warm and dry.

The middle layer is usually a fleece jacket or a wool sweater.

DO NOT use a cotton sweatshirt. A wet cotton sweatshirt will take forever to dry and has no insulating value. Though chattering up in the mountains may be romantic in a “braving the elements kinda way”, it is much easier to enjoy hot cocoa when you are not shivering.

If you get cold easily in the legs, some light fleece pants or even expedition weight long underwear may not be a bad idea as another layer. I personally find that my legs do not get cold easily and do not need the fleece pants/heavier long underwear.

The third layer is the shell layer. This layer is meant to keep out the wind and the snow. You can use anything from an expensive Gore-Tex jacket to a simple coated nylon pullover. The key is to wear something that keeps out the wind and the snow. I like a simple nylon shell myself. Find it to be more breathable and lighter than a heavy Gortex jacket meant for mountaineering. Your rain gear from hiking will probably work well.

You will also need a shell layer for your legs. You can use expensive mountaineering Gortex-type pants, but that is overkill for most people.   Your hiking rain pants will work well, or even unlined wind pants if you are on a budget. Keeping out the wind and the snow is the key.  I would not use insulated ski bibs such as the ones used for (ughh!) downhill skiing. You will probably overheat and these are not versatile as separate layers.

The “puffy layer” is the last layer and is usually thrown on during breaks when it is esp cold and rarely worn while snowshoeing. Synthetics are less expensive, but a little heavier. Down is lighter (and very well suited for the cold, dry conditions of Colorado), but is generally more expensive. It is a good layer to have stowed in your pack. For less than two pounds, it can mean the difference between an enjoyable break to look over the scenery and freezing your tuckus off!

Keeping the noggin’ warm is very important in winter. With so much body heat escaping from your head (esp. if you are bald like me!), it is important to keep in the heat via good head cover. Adequate management of your head gear can mean the difference between being too cold, too hot (and soaked in sweat) or just right.

The basic components that I find useful for head gear are:

1. Wool, Fleece or Acrylic Hat: Your standard winter hat. Too cold? Thrown on a hat! Too warm? Take it off! Your most important piece of winter gear in my opinion for regulating body temperature.
2. Balaclava : AKA the Ninja Ski Mask.  Not to be confused with a delicious pastry… A very versatile piece of clothing. I find a lightweight one to be the most useful. Roll it up for a light hat, roll it down for a neck warmer, roll it over your ears to be worn with a ball cap, wear it normally for more warmth and protection in the high winds and cold.
3. Sun Hat: When it is not cold out, or you just need light headgear, a simple ball cap will keep the sun off your face. Some people like a broader brimmed hat in the winter.
4. Neoprene face mask: In very cold and windy conditions, the combo of a winter hat, a balaclava and this mask is very useful. I keep it stowed in my pack at all times “just in case”.
5. Goggles: When the wind is blowing fierce, esp if you are in an area with little-to-no tree cover, the goggles make sure you can see!  You don’t have to buy anything fancy, even used $10 work well for most people.

Note: For the beginner backcountry winter enthusiast, who is probably sticking to lower elevation trails, a standard winter beanie and possibly a sun hat are fine.. As you go to higher elevations or places with more exposure, you’ll definitely want some more items to make a more weather resistant and versatile system!

 

 

When I think of winter activities, I think of three parts for footwear: The socks, the boots and the gaiters.

Socks: Unless you are trail running, you will probably be using a heavier boot. As such, I find the combo of a liner sock and a thicker sock to work well. The liner sock helps prevent blisters and wicks sweat away. A thin nylon dress sock also works for some people. You then place a thicker wool or synthetic sock (usually a little thicker than the ones used for hiking) over the liner. Of course, some newer socks may work bette without a liner…every foot/sock is different. When picking out socks, be sure that they are not so thick that your toes are bunched into the boot. Too tight a fit means poor circulation, which means cold feet. No fun!  Also DO NOT use cotton socks! Cotton tends to soak up moisture from your feet. Besides causing blisters, it can cause cold feet as well. Remember wet= cold= badness!   An advanced technique is using a Vapor Barrier Liner (VBL), but that is for colder weather than  I suspect most beginners would appreciate…

Boots: While in a pinch, your normal hiking boots may work, they will probably wet-out and not be insulated.  If you find you winter trek fairly often, you will want to pick up better footwear for winter.

Four general  types of boots that can be used:

1. Pac Boots (Sorel Caribou being the most well known) .  Very warm, but heavy and bulky. I find they work best for winter backpacking with more camp time and less hiking time
2. Winter hiking boots. Many companies now make insulated boots designed for winter hiking/snowshoeing. Similar in size, style and weight to fabric hiking boots, but with insulation. Not as much insulation as pac boots; this choice works well for the typical day snowshoe outing and winter camping
3. Insulated hunting boots also work well. Even if you don’t have visions of being Elmer Fudd, these boots are a little higher (keeps out snow!) than hiking boots and tend to be highly water resistant. They are often (but not always) less expensive than winter hiking boots and are avail at such places as the Sportman’s Guide, surplus stores and any other stores that cater to the Field and Stream crowd. Remember, many hunters are out all day in the snow and often track their game in off-trail conditions.  These boots are little heavier and less flexible than winter hiking boots, but can be warmer.  Hunting boots can be a nice compromise between the warmth of pac boots and the lightness of winter hiking boots.
4. NNN-BC Ski touring boots. Similar to the above winter hiking boots, but meant for skiing. The advantage of the ski boot  versus winter hiking boots is that you can use them for skiing, too.   They easily fit into the snowshoe bindings. These types of boots are often found used in many places and can also be a good alternative for someone on budget and/or a person who also backcountry skis with that type of gear

Gaiters : Unless you stick to very packed down trails, gaiters are a must have item. They slip over your boots and go up to your calves. They will keep the snow out of the boots. I think that may be useful…

In all but the warmest conditions, your hands need protection in the winter. As with other clothing, it is better to layer rather than wear one bulky garment. Gloves allow more versatility; mittens are warmer. I bring them both…

Glove Liners: A thin liner (fleece or wool) is very versatile. When moving, I find this be enough in many conditions.  A glove liner allows you to take photos, eat food, drink water and the other myriad chores without getting your hands excessively cold. I’m a big fan of military surplus glove liners. $5 or less a pair, fairly durable, warm when damp and one of the few items I use for all four seasons.

Shell Mittens: Shell mittens will keep the snow and the wind off your liners. I find a shell and liner combo to be  very warm, and rarely need a middle layer. Size the shell large enough for your liner and middle layer combo.

Middle Layer (thick mittens): I rarely need it, but I always have thick wool (or fleece) mittens stowed. When it is VERY cold, the combo of liner/thick mittens/shell keeps the hands warm

Chemical glove (or foot) heater packs: I rarely use them, but they are inexpensive and not a bad item to keep in your pack for an emergency. I’ve used them more for others than myself.

SIDE NOTE: Wool vs Fleece (or Wool vs Synthetics)           There has been a bit of resurgence in the use of wool for backcountry use (esp in  base layers). So what to use? It honestly does not matter for most people; it comes down to personal preference. As long as you do not use cotton, you should be  fine. Many people use a combo of wool and synthetics (esp in winter).  If you are curious of the pros and cons of each, here is my personal take: Wool Warm when damp Can be inexpensive (thrift stores, surplus) or expensive (Smartwool, Ibex, etc) Tends to breathe better than synthetics More durable for traditional  items such as sweaters, ragg wool socks and pants. Thermal base layers? I find just opposite versus synthetics Less odor Takes longer to dry when wet (and becomes heavier) Usually bulkier and heavier than comparable synthetics or fleece Synthetics or Fleece Dries quicker (but is not warm when damp) For base layers, good ole’ polypro can be ridiculously cheap Usually less heavy and bulky than the wool equivalent Can get a pungent odor So what do I use? For winter use, when I am more concerned about warmth than weight (and I am wearing most of my layers), I tend to favor wool base layers (except for the liner socks) as it is more forgiving of sweating I find.  In the cold and dry conditions of Colorado,  I find wool works very well overall. In three season backpacking, when weight and bulk is a chief a concern (and most of my layers are stowed), I tend to wear synthetics. Any moisture in spring through fall tends to be rain (or very wet snow), so  the quick drying properties of synthetics comes in handy. Overall, you may find one combo works better than another based on your budget, availability of what you may already have or just personal preference. Check out this great website for a lot of info as well…. Wool and synthetics. They both work…..

Sun protection is very important in the winter. You need to protect your skin and your eyes from the harsh UV radiation

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SUNSCREEN!!!!!!! – The UV radiation in Colorado, esp. at higher elevations, can be fierce. Bring a small amount of sunscreen.  A sun hat is also suggested for similar reasons.

 

SUNGLASSES!!!!!! – For similar reasons to the above, be sure to wear sunglasses. Do not need anything fancy. As long as they have 100% UVA and UVB protection. Even the $15 drug store glasses  offer this type of protection now. Most ski goggles offer this kind of protection as well. But, unless it is very windy, sunglasses are better suited for most snowshoeing conditions. I am  big fan of safety glasses. 

Lip Balm – Some lip balm protects those lips from the dry, windy and sunny conditions.

In winter, it is very easy to not drink. Psychologically, because it is cold, you don’t feel the need to drink as often as during summer. But, it is essential to keep hydrated. Otherwise, you will feel sluggish, not process food as well and ultimately get colder. Not fun!

I do not suggest using a CamelBak. The tube tends to freeze making it so you can’t get water. Even the insulated CamelBaks have had mixed results at best.

I am a big fan of a Gatorade bottle or two stowed in my pack. Wrapped in my clothing (or even an old wool sock), the bottles rarely freeze. Another trick that works well is to heat some hot water at home and pour it into a Nalgene and then stow it in your pack.  You can buy an insulated bottle holder if you feel the need (or simply use the old sock trick, with the sock placed in plastic shopping bag for waterproofing)

An optional item, but one enjoyed by everyone, is a thermos of your favorite hot beverage. Some hot tea is always welcome! I also enjoy Lipton’s soup or similar: A hot drink, much craved salt and some carbs/protein in one lovely package. Mmmm…

As for food, standard hiking food is fine. You may want to take a bit more quick sugar (like chocolate) to give the body a needed boost if you feel the need to warm up.  Also remember  that it is better to munch all day rather than have one big meal. Your body is a furnace. Esp in winter, it needs constant stoking!

OK. You have all your gear assembled. You understand how to stay warm. But which snowshoes to buy? There are many choices, but they can be broken down into three basic categories:

1. Racing Snowshoes – Very light, not much of a crampon for a grip. Meant more for snowshoe runs on well packed trails. Most people into snowshoeing from a hiking background can probably skip this type
2. Day Use snowshoes – Generally ~8″x25″ (or similar size +/-) and holds up to 175 lbs of person AND gear. The most useful, all around size. Good for all but the deepest “fluffy” powder and with the crampons found on most of these, can go up all but the steepest slopes
3. Backpacking Snowshoes – About 9″x30″ +/- and can hold up to 225 lbs of person AND gear. If you winter backpack, are a heavier person or going into very deep “fluffy” powder, you may need to use these snowshoes. There are even larger ones available.  These snowshoes are typically much heavier and awkward to use then the day use ones

If you live in an area where you can use snowshoes regularly (northern New England, the Pacific Northwest, the Rockies, etc.) there is a good chance many of the outdoor stores will rent snowshoes for a reasonable fee. Good way to try out different varieties and types without plunking down a lot of money. Many of these places that also rent snowshoes will often apply part (or all) of the rental fees towards a pair for purchase as well.

Oh yeah..what about wooden versus aluminum ones? There is lovely debate about this issue (odd….but true) For the average person, though, the modern aluminum snowshoes are easier to maintain, lighter and less expensive than the older wooden ones. YMMV.

With the winter trails being used by many different people (snowshoers, skiiers, sometimes even snowmobilers) it is good to remember a few different items to make everyone’s time in the backcountry a little more enjoyable:

• Dogs –If you bring your furry friend, I strongly urge you to keep the dog on a leash. Esp where there are skiers, a dog off leash can run into people and cause an accident. Very few dogs can resist chasing someone moving downhill at a fast pace. For the skiers’ safety, and your dog’s safety, please be honest about your dog’s behavior and keep a dog on the leash if it is one to wander off and/or chase people.  Also, remember when the trail signs say NO DOGS or DOGS MUST BE ON LEASH the signs really do mean NO DOGS or DOGS MUST BE ON LEASH.
• Breaks – Again, something to really keep in mind in mixed-used environments: Please try to not break at the bottom of a hill on a narrow trail. For obvious safety reasons, it is not good to be in the way of people coming down a narrow backcountry trail.  Move to the side of the trail and a little aways from the bottom of a hill if you need to stop. Better yet, try to make your breaks at the top of a hill and off to the side.
• Snowshoeing/Ski Trails: Some skiers are more of a stickler about this than others, but in heavily used areas, it is nice to walk on the side of the trails and not in the middle (where ski tracks usually are) of the trail. Deep in the backcountry, I honestly don’t think it is an issue. (Others my disagree). In popular areas, everyone can agree it is a nice gesture not to put snowshoe-shaped potholes in ski tracks. 
• Skier Only Trails: In some popular areas, there are SKIERS ONLY  trails. Please be courteous and do not snowshoe on skier only trails. Often times, there will be parallel SNOWSHOERS ONLY trails in these areas, too.
• Snowmobiles: I am not a big fan of snowmobiling to say the least, but if they are in an area legally then simply step aside, let them pass, and give a wave and a smile. In an emergency situation, guess who hauls the people out? 
• Yielding: Snowshoes are generally easier to control, more maneuverable and slower  than skis (or snowmobiles). Overall, it is easier for a snowshoer to yield to a skier (esp when you are going uphill and the skier is going downhill on a narrow trail) than the other way around. When it is “snowshoer to snowshoer” on a narrow trail, it is like hiking or running – those going downhill should yield to people going uphill.

These are not rules, but just suggestions. Use common sense and courtesy above all else and every user can enjoy the winter backcounty together.

In Colorado (and other mountainous places), avalanche danger is a real concern. This modest document  really can’t go into all the details of this complicated issue. If you are a beginner snowshoer, you are probably not going to be going into any avalanche prone (steep!) terrain.  However, as you can gain more experience, you should educate yourself more about avalanches.

And when you would rather glide than plod…take a look at this link! 😀

Hope you found this document enjoyable and informative. As I always like to say: Be safe and have fun!

Here is a quick and dirty list of suggested items to brings. As always, what items you bring depends upon your  personal comfort and safety level.

Clothing – Worn

 

_Boots

_ Liner Socks (optional; depends on sock type)

_ Wool or synthetic socks

_ Gaiters
_ Long underwear top
_ Long underwear bottoms
_ Shell pants

_ Wool Sweater or Fleece Jacket

_Liner Gloves
_Sunglasses

_Wool or fleece hat

***WEAR SUNSCREEN!!!***

Clothing – Packed

_ Shell Jacket
_ Light fleece pants/ exp wt long underwear (optional; mainly if you get cold easily)
_ Down or synthetic filled “puffy” jacket
_ Shell Mittens

_ Thick Wool/Fleece mittens

_ Sun Hat

_ Balaclava  (conditions dependent)

_ Face Mask (conditions dependent)

_ Goggles (conditions dependent)

_Map and Compass
_Small tube of sunscreen
_ Pocket Knife
_ Headlamp/Flashlight
_ Water and food
_ Shovel
_ Small first aid kit

_Lip balm

_Lighter (optional)

_Thermos (optional)

_Duct Tape

_Zip ties

…..a DAY PACK  to haul it all in!