The Joy of Snowshoeing

Snowshoeing is often overlooked among more glamorous and high-profile snow sports, like skiing and snowboarding. But as an inexpensive, fun way to enjoy the great outdoors not to mention have a great aerobic workout, there's nothing better.

The pleasant rhythm of walking, the crunchy, squeaky sound of snow underfoot, the thick smell of pine trees, the unexpected appearance of a rabbit or deer scampering across your trail snowshoeing is an energizer for body and mind. An hour-long snowshoe can burn upwards of 1,000 calories. Bring along a couple of old ski poles and add an upper-body workout to your trek the extra balance they provide is most valuable.

There's no need for a rigorous training schedule or fancy equipment to prep for snowshoeing. And it's easy to learn. If you can walk, you can snowshoe, but snowshoes can take you places you could never get without them. Many people with minor knee, back or shoulder problems or with aging joints and muscles find snowshoes a satisfactory, sensible way to enjoy the outdoors and snowshoes are as trustworthy as your feet. They go up hills at the same speed as they go down. Your own pair of snowshoes can cost anywhere from $50 to several hundred, but many outdoor shops and most ski hills will rent them for under $10 for an afternoon.

All styles of snowshoe are designed to distribute your weight evenly over a larger, flat surface area. Strap them on, and you won't sink or struggle as you wander over snow-covered ground. Instead, you float.

If The Shoe Fits

The right snowshoe for you will depend on your weight, how much you want to carry and what you want to do. There are specific models for recreational hiking, back-country adventures or mountaineering. There are even racing shoes. Ask an expert to point out the right pair for you it'll make the difference between a joyful experience and a frustrating one.

Traditional snowshoes have wood frames and leather or rawhide lacing and bandings natural materials are quieter and these shoes often have a larger surface area, making it easier to stay on top of the snow. But they're heavy and don't have cleats or crampons on the bottom to dig into the snow and prevent sliding. Newer, "urban" snowshoes have recently taken over. Made of aluminium, rubber, plastic, fibreglass, neoprene or other man-made materials, these slickster shoes are lighter and smaller. They usually have crampons, which you will love when you hit the hills.

There are kid-sized shoes and some very basic ones made of plastic for smooth terrain: cheap, light and great for family expeditions.

Keep it Natural

The key to successful snowshoeing is to walk naturally. Your stride may have to be a little wider than usual, so that you don't step on the opposite shoe, but don't exaggerate it (you'll wake up the next morning with an extra-sore behind).

Letting snow build up on the top of your snowshoe will make it heavier and more awkward to navigate. Avoid the problem by lifting your feet as you walk (don't just slide your shoes along the surface) and landing heel first.

On your first time out, start on flat or slightly rolling ground. When you graduate to hills, kick your toes into the slope, not your snowshoe. Always allow your snowshoe to rest on the surface of the snow. Heading downhill is a bit trickier. Keep your weight directly over your feet or lean back slightly on the tails of your shoes. Use poles to give you extra control.

On old-style models, without crampons, feel free to sit back on your snowshoes, pull your toes up and slide (attempt this move only if you don't mind a face full of snow).

Walking across a hill takes careful balance and poles are useful. If you happen to have adjustable poles, shorten the uphill pole and lengthen the downhill pole until your grips are even.

Snowshoes are great for winter backpacking. Snowboard enthusiasts often strap their boards to their backs and snowshoes on their feet and head out to uncharted hills. The adventures are limitless. You don't need groomed tracks or carefully-maintained trails for snowshoeing, in fact, you're better off without them! Snowshoes will take you almost anywhere, through any type of woods or fields.

You'll want to take sunscreen, sunglasses, snacks energy bars, fruit and trail mix--water, a first aid kit, map, compass, matches and maybe a flashlight. Throw an extra pair of gloves and socks in your pack as well.

Dress in layers, including long underwear. Don't forget a hat, scarf, wool socks and water/windproof jacket, pants and gloves. Be safe, be sensible and enjoy your time outdoors.

Snowshoe Safety

Snowshoeing can be as adventurous as any other snow sport and many of the same cautions apply. A few things to remember:

• • Always tell someone where you are going and when to expect you back. Try your best to make it back on time.

• • Before you leave, check the weather forecast.

• • Make sure you know where you're going. If you're headed somewhere new, bring a map and compass (know how to use them). Bring a friend, too.

• • Watch out for those snowboarders. More than one snowshoer has been taking a quiet walk in the woods, only to have a neon-clad daredevil launch over a drift towards her. Keep your ears and eyes open for skiers and snowmobiles too.

• • If you're going back-country or into the mountains, learn what an avalanche-prone slope looks like and stay away.

• • Stay hydrated. You will sweat and you will need to drink water. Herbal tea in a thermos is also nice.

• • Keep warm and dry. Again, you will sweat and when you stop for a break, you'll get clammy. Bring an extra long-sleeve to change into if you start to get a chill.

• Know your limits. Fatigue can set in quickly and that could be dangerous.