Clothing Basics :

Dress in layers and be prepared to shed or add layers if you heat up or cool down or if the weather changes abruptly, as it often does in Colorado’s high country.

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Thermal underwear, windproof pants, an insulating layer of synthetic fleece or wool and a windproof and water-repellent shell jacket are the basic components of a layering system. Some snowshoers like to add a vest, or use a vest instead of a long sleeved pullover, sweater or shirt as the insulating jacket. A hat and a pair of warm gloves complete the basic outfit.

If you are going for a short snowshoe at an established resort center, you can be casual with the number of layers and options you take along. However, if you are going out for several hours and particularly into the Backcountry, never assume that the weather will be as good when you are out there as when you get out of your car.

Being prepared for worse – often far worse – weather than at the beginning of your excursion isn’t just a good good idea. It can save your life.

by Ryan Alford – Snowshoe Magazine

One thing is for sure…snowshoeing IS for everybody.

Well…almost everybody, but the sport has been around long enough to earn itself a cliché statement: “If you can walk, you can snowshoe.”

So, I challenge you to try snowshoeing. If you are a first-timer to the sport, understand that snowshoeing is probably the most versatile winter sport in existence. Where there is snow, there is the potential landscape for a snowshoer. Also understand that snowshoeing equipment is a fraction of the cost compared to many popular winter sports today – there are no pricey lift tickets either.

However, snowshoeing takes a commitment and an effort that will test your strength and willpower. The health and fitness aspects of the sport are significantly greater than any other winter sport in the world. An avid snowshoer will become aware of their heightened physical condition over time. By itself, snowshoeing is almost a wonder diet.

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That’s my public service announcement on snowshoeing. I’m proud to be a snowshoer myself, but I am uniquely involved in the sport and the industry. I represent the quickly growing and rising publication Snowshoe Magazine – a Web-based effort with plans to provide a print version soon. Not only is this forum your portal to more information on the sport, I will lead you through a season that will direct you to Snowshoemag.com for information updates, exceptional content and more.

I hold the sport of snowshoeing close to my heart. I first became interested in the sport after a growing frustration for the increasing prices of ski equipment and resort tickets. After discovering how cost-effective snowshoeing is, I jumped at the chance to purchase a pair of shoes. Later, I found myself tromping through the backcountry and enjoying the tranquility.

More and more snowshoers are born every day. I invite you to become part of the worldwide community of snowshoers and make a promise to try it out. Not only do you have the option to purchase equipment, you can also rent snowshoes. The sport is well-suited for families (including children ages 3 and up), the sport appeals to seniors who find it easy on aching joints and muscles…it appeals to virtually any person interested in the outdoors. Snowshoeing’s ideally universal in every aspect.

Snowshoeing can also be…”cool,” I guess. As the sport evolves, more and more backcountry snowboarders are finding snowshoes to be helpful. Plus, snowshoe races and competitions are very exciting to watch and participate in – something that a youthful audience can appreciate. Snowshoeing ain’t just a family sport!

Much is in store for snowshoeing, including its potential as an Olympic game. Plans are underway to begin working with the International Olympic Committee to hold snowshoeing demonstration races at the winter games, Vancouver 2010. Although we are far from that time frame, the participation needs to increase now. That’s where you come in. We need your help to increase awareness. We need your help in making snowshoeing a mainstream sport. We need your help by becoming a snowshoer.

As you maintain your visits to this area on eSnowshoes.com, if it starts here, I welcome you to the sport. If you already snowshoe, help me increase interest among those who have yet to take the snowy plunge. There’s plenty of information to be shared and discussed.

I would like to extend an invitation to you to visit Snowshoemag.com and sign-up for our free e-mail newsletter. When registering, remember to enter promo code “ESNOWSHOES” for your chance to win a free pair of snowshoes.

Basically, a GPS (global positioning system) device is a battery-operated handheld gadget that connects with a constellation of 27 Earth-orbiting satellites. The U.S. military developed and implemented this satellite network as a military navigation system, but later opened it up to anybody and everybody.

So, if a snowshoer was out and about in the wilderness, they could use a device to pinpoint their location on a map (the unit has its own set of maps included). The device connects with four or more satellites to provide the user’s location to within three meters. It’s very accurate. The GPS device also provides coordinates, which are excellent for locating a point on a map. It’s all very simple once you have the chance to test out a GPS device’s capabilities.

I believe snowshoeing with a GPS device is essential. Not only can a GPS device save your life, it’s useful in almost any situation. Of course depending on consumer electronics is not the best suggestion for anybody snowshoeing in the elements, I recommend bringing a paper map and a compass as back up. You never know when those store-bought batteries will run out of life and leave you in a situation of possible danger.

Oh yes, bring extra batteries too.

Snowshoeing with a GPS device can be fun as well. A “sport” called geocaching is an excellent way to get involved this winter with the outdoors and a snowshoeing group as well. Although geocaching is geared for summer fun, it can work in the winter as well (depending on the cache and where it’s placed).

For those of you new to geocaching…it’s more or less a treasure hunt with a GPS device. Snowshoers can visit http://www.geocaching.com and plug in a location to find the caches in your area. At that point, pick a cache and go. Remember to plug-in the coordinates into your GPS device and allow your device to help identify the easiest route to the cache.

Some caches are better than others. But, when visiting Geocaching.com, research the where, what, when, who and how. There’s nothing worse than looking for geocache only to be disappointed near the end of your hike and hunt. That would suck!

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Geocaching can be fun if done with enthusiasm and a sense of adventure. Try it out. Go for it. But, you must have a GPS device to participate in a geocache adventure (a compass and a map would be very difficult, but if that’s what you prefer…by all means).

If you are in the market for a GPS device there are many to choose from. In my opinion, you have three brands to choose from: Magellan, Garmin and Cobra. Each brand has its pros and cons, but I will let you do the research and discover the wonderful world of GPS devices.

Here some Brands to check out:

Magellan

Garmin

Cobra

You will probably spend anywhere from $100 to $500 for a GPS device. There are many to choose from and many offer a myriad of features, but I would suggest purchasing a device that has a built-in compass, mapping included (most do anyway), are durable for the outdoors (waterproof and shockproof), and WAAS-enabled. (This is just a few items to think about when shopping for a device.)

by Ryan Alford – Snowshoe Magazine

The beauty of snowshoeing is how it can really help a person lose weight and become healthy; the sport is somewhat like a miracle diet. Many snowshoers experience an extreme amount of weight loss in the first weeks of regular snowshoeing. And, once a snowshoer couples their activities with a stringent diet the results are insurmountable.

Here are some facts about snowshoeing as an exercise:

*Snowshoeing burns up to twice the number of calories as walking at the same speed.

*You can burn up to 1,000 calories per hour snowshoeing, more than running or cross-country skiing.

*Snowshoeing is fun and effective for all types of athletes, including runners, walkers and cyclists; the added resistance provided by the shoes and the snow enhances your current fitness level.

You can usually find a great snowshoeing fitness group by searching for one at your local gym, town recreation center or regional snowshoe club. If you can’t find a group to join, start your own. Obviously your group will start with friends, but invite others to participate by utilizing health-based resources.

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Here are some tips on snowshoeing for fitness:

*Go Anywhere – All you need is six inches of snow on the ground to go snowshoeing. You can go anywhere there is snow…from golf courses to your favorite hiking trail in the backcountry.

*Create a Routine – Whether it’s a specific route or a snowshoeing date with a friend, developing a routine will help you stay committed.

*Dress in Layers – You can be comfortable at any temperature, shed layers as your body heats up and put them back on as your cool down.

*Add Poles – You’ll increase upper-body strength and endurance for a total body workout.

As you may already know the energy expenditures for snowshoeing are greater than most winter and summer sports. On packed snow and hilly terrain, a snowshoer going 3.5 miles per hour can lose up to 800 calories per hour. If done correctly, a snowshoer can lose up 1,000 calories per hour while shoeing at a pace that remains steady and effective.

by Ryan Alford – Snowshoe Magazine

This “have it your way” concept is what makes the sport so appealing. In fact, some snowshoes can be made to fit your every specification – down to the ounce and rivet. The snowshoeing audience is so broadly based…options are made to be available. This also includes a choice in color, materials, binding, crampons (the metal cleats underneath the snowshoe) and more.

“Weight” – From Nimble to Lumber

It’s time to get over your weight issues – if they exist. Working with a salesperson – if it’s with a retailer or with the manufacturer directly – they will need to know your exact weight to determine what size of snowshoes you need to wear.

The sizes range from 25-inch in length, 30-inch and 36-inch. Salespeople will also try to determine if you will be wearing a backpack during your snowshoeing excursions – so be prepared to know that before hand. Usually, a daypack is smart to have when snowshoeing anywhere (carrying, water, food, extra clothing and a first-aid kit is necessary). Obviously, carrying a pack will increase your weight by 10 to 50 pounds.

A great way to begin snowshoeing is to purchase a pair that fits your weight exactly. Don’t worry about the pack. For beginners, it is smart to stick to a trail you are familiar with…something that isn’t too deep and difficult. In the case you want to get off the trail and go more backcountry snowshoeing, purchasing a shoe that fits your weight and pack weight is suggested. Plus, don’t buy a beginner shoe if you think you will be doing a lot more than just strolling down the snow-laden passages of your local Nordic center. Go for the more expensive and tougher-made shoes.

Research the snowshoe brand as well. Although I do not promote one brand over the other, your preference will certainly matter after visiting a retailer in person or visiting their Web site.

Here’s a list of the different manufacturers and their Web sites:

Atlas Snow-Shoe Co. – www.atlassnowshoe.com

Crescent Moon Snowshoes – www.crescentmoonshowshoes.com

Dion Snowshoes – www.dionsnowshoes.com

GV Snowshoes – www.gvsnowshoes.com

Havlick Snowshoes – www.havlicksnowshoe.com

Mountain Safety Research – www.msrcorp.com

Northern Lites Snowshoes – www.northernlites.com

Redfeather Snowshoes – www.redfeather.com

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Tubbs Snowshoes – www.tubbssnowshoes.com

Yukon Charlie’s Snowshoes – www.yukoncharlies.com

Study their offerings and snowshoe design. There are so many different brands available. But, I will go into more detail on brands at a later date.

“Sex” – Mars and Venus Certainly Apply

Nowadays, women can find a snowshoe especially tailored for their abilities and finesse. Although a snowshoe series hasn’t been devoted specifically to men, what’s available nowadays is all about choice. Women called for it, and they received it.

Manufacturers have designed snowshoes with a woman in mind. From its lightweight frame that fits woman’s natural stride to the bindings that fit a woman’s boot efficiently, snowshoes are no longer limited to length and size.

This new and ergonomic way of designing a snowshoe is allowed for women to pursue the sport in comfort. The manufactures made a more ergonomic approach – now women have something that fits their abilities and wishes.

This is all just another reason why snowshoeing is such a great sport.

“Ability” – To Run, or Not to Run…That is the Dilemma

Snowshoers range in ability. Some like to run and compete in races. Others like to walk leisurely on a trail. And, some snowshoers pursue backcountry hikes that are physically demanding.

When choosing a snowshoe, not only will size apply…where you’re going will as well. A salesperson will generally ask, “Where would you like to snowshoe?” Or, “Have you been snowshoeing yet?”

Keep in mind, after the first 15 steps on snowshoes…you’re a pro; don’t let the sport fool you, it’s pretty easy. So, if you want to pursue backcountry hikes and take deep plunges in the snow, don’t be sold on something more first-time level. Try a something that’s manufactured to go the distance – a backcountry model. Ask your salesperson, but don’t allow them to sell you something you want to take back three weeks later. Snowshoes usually last a lifetime if cared for properly.

“Age” – The Kids Can Snowshoe Too

If you want the whole family snowshoeing, there are shoes available for kids. What’s available is pretty simple – nothing too fancy.

However, there are snowshoes available for kids that are shaped like bear paws and dinosaur feet. This really makes the whole experience fun for kids – especially if they’re leaving a unique footprint in the snow.

by Ryan Alford – Snowshoe Magazine