Snowshoe

Snowshoes – Rediscover Winter Wonderland In A Whole New Way

A snowshoe allows you to experience the snow in a completely new light. In the deep of the enchanting forest or high up in the mystical mountains discover the beauty of snowshoeing. You can sense the calm and embrace the magic of winter in a whole new way.

Indulge in a tranquil environment and leave the crowds and ski stations far behind as you walk through untracked territory. Stroll on the glaziers and gaze at the frozen waterfalls and natural beauty that surrounds you. Enjoy every moment of winter wonderland in the comfort and pace that you enjoy.

Snowshoes, which in German are called Schneeschuhe, are lightweight extensions that your winter boots will fit into allowing you to float along the snow. They have aluminum or carbon frames which are light yet durable; the materials used are not limited to those, as wood, polymer and other materials are also incorporated in the production of snowshoes. They distribute your weight evenly so you can easily balance and move around without sinking into the snow.

Almost anyone can enter into the magical world of snowshoeing. You can wallow in the winter landscape without having the technical skills needed for skiing or snowboarding. There is a different type of snowshoe to cater for everyone’s needs. Snowshoes are available for men, women and children. There are a wide number of manufactures that produce different styles, sizes, and ranges of snowshoes so you can find your perfect fit.

Snowshoes For Men

Snowshoes for men have a larger surface area and are more durable than women’s snowshoes because they have to compensate for extra weight. They are specifically designed for a man’s leg structure as their thighs, knees and feet are further apart than women’s legs. Snowshoes for men are available in different designs and shapes which are particularly suited for the corresponding exercise.

For example a difficult route with a rugged terrain will require a snowshoes will added traction and stronger crampons. Men’s snowshoes accommodate for larger and wider feet so your boot will fit perfectly. A women’s snowshoe would be very uncomfortable as men’s feet would be exposed to the pressure and tightness of a smaller binding.

Snowshoes For Kids

Snowshoes for kids are produced by almost all leading manufacturers. They are carefully designed taking a child’s weight into consideration. They have a smaller surface area, to compensate for their high levels of activity, while still maintaining durability.

They are light weight and are designed with special harnesses that are much easier to use when putting on and taking off the snowshoe. GV and Tubbs snowshoes offer fun, colorful and bright snowshoes for kids.

Snowshoes for Women

Snowshoes for women are designed especially for the way a women engages in physical activity. Women’s thighs tend to curve inwards toward the knee which results in their knees, legs and feet to be closer together than a man’s.

Snowshoes for women are lighter in weight and have a tapered and narrower design to accommodate their walking style, in order for the snowshoes to easily clear each other during strides. The bindings also have a slimmer design to accommodate women’s boots which are generally smaller than men’s.

MSR Snowshoes

“MSR” is a reputable outdoor company that produces a wide variety of snowshoes. The award winning MSR snowshoes are available in two main categories. The first being the “Steep and challenging” and the next is the “Flat and rolling” category. The steep and challenging range performs when you need them the most on steep and rugged terrains.

They have aggressive crampons which provide maximum traction. The flat and rolling range can handle any snow conditions. The difference between the ranges is that the flat and rolling snowshoes are well suited for mild to moderate terrains while the steep and challenging range, as the name confirms is designed for tough and sheer terrains.

Tubbs Snowshoes

The company Tubbs was established in 1906 and they specialize in snowshoes. Tubbs snowshoes have two ranges; a traditional series and a flex series. They have four main categories that they group their snowshoes into. They are; “backcountry”, “day hiking”, “trial walking”, and “fitness” which are each specifically designed for the intended purpose of snowshoeing.

Tubbs Snowshoes have just recently released a new range of products called “The Flex Series” which has won the 2010 outdoor “Gear of the year” award. All models have enhanced the shock absorption on the tail of the shoes to further reduce the amount of stress on your joints. They have an advanced “Tortion” deck which adapts to various snow conditions.

GV Snowshoes

GV Snowshoes are one of the world’s only manufacturers that make traditional wooden framed snowshoes with raw hide lacings. Their company was founded in 1959 and has spent years researching new designs and materials to create the ultimate snowshoe. They have great confidence in the snowshoeing sport.

They make an astounding sixteen models of snowshoes in a variety of materials; traditional wood, aluminum, and composite magnesium. GV snowshoes offer a lifetime guarantee on their products. They have innovative styles and designs which meet every user’s needs. They have released a “Carbon Tech” ranges which is built with carbon fiber creating an ultra light snowshoe.

Some Helpful Recommendations When Buying A Snowshoe

When it comes to choosing snowshoes there are a few main points to consider. Firstly buy the correct snowshoe for your gender if possible. Women have a different way of performing exercise to men, so it is unadvisable for women to wear men’s snowshoes or vice versa.

You can purchase unisex snowshoes which are designed to cater for both genders for the same shoe, however it is not ideal to use unisex snowshoes. The next factor to consider is your combined body weight with a back pack. This will help you with determining the correct surface area you would need for optimum performance.

Generally the heavier the weight is, the larger the surface area of the snowshoe needs to be to provide maximum balance and comfort. Next it is very important to consider the type of activity you will be enjoying in the snow. There are different snowshoes for different levels of activity as well as different types of terrain.

Do you prefer to take in your exquisite surroundings on a slow stroll on a flatter terrain or do you prefer a higher activity level on rugged terrain? Deep snow conditions and powder snow require a snowshoe with larger surface areas while steep and icy landscapes require smaller compact shoes for easier maneuverability.

Consider getting collapsible snow poles if you will be doing a tougher route on an uneven terrain. Many snowshoes have a built in heel lifter which reduces muscle fatigue allowing you to enjoy your experience for a longer period of time.

Snowshoes And Snowshoeing

Snowshoeing has become an extremely popular new way to experience the thrill of the winter snow. In fact it has become so popular that there are dedicated snowshoeing holidays that are now being offered. You can enjoy the experience in a way that is perfect for you; there are guided tours that will take you hiking up the slopes or strolling through the forests.

Snowshoeing is truly a unique and magical experience. Leave your tracks deep into the unbroken snow whilst you cleanse your mind body and soul. Rediscover the magic of the mountains and the miraculous snow in a profound way all made possible with a pair of snowshoes.