Revolutions in snowshoe design over the past few years have made them lighter, stronger, and more comfortable. Today, snowshoes even come with engineered bindings that focus on foot pressure points, control, and ankle and foot flex, and crampon systems designed for maximum spike penetration and traction. From a gear perspective, it’s a great time to be a snowshoer. Get all the details on how to choose a snowshoe: size, weight, crampons, etc. in Chapter 2. (Click on Chapter 2 in the table of contents.)

PRODUCT REVIEW:

The Denali Evo have been the most popular MSR snowshoe for years. This youth snowshoe is just a smaller version made for kids up to 125 lbs. The bindings are easy to handle with gloved hands, but personally I love the durability of them. The shoes have an injection molded fight-deck (shoe itself), so it will stand up to RUGGED use. You can fit changing shoe sizes in the bindings and they will last forever so you have great hand-me-down options. I also like that they have bomber traction so my son is secure on side slopes. Stellar performance as my 9-year-old follows me up steep slopes as well--Great crampon and traction system. Five-Stars here for a Youth snowshoe.

• For adventurers 7-12 years-old
• Superior Traction - steel traction blades
• Modeled after the Denali Evo
• Super Durable
• 3-strap FlexLite bindings
• 19.5" long and 7" wide
• Weigh 2 lbs. 7 oz.

MSRP $89.95

PRODUCT REVIEW:

This snowshoe is one of my favorite snowshoes. The binding is easy to get on an off and it stays snug the entire trip. I also like that it’s easy to use with gloves. The maximum traction provided by the teeth that cover the entire rim of the snowshoe is also helpful on slick terrain. Having bite when you need it lends great comfort. This snowshoe is designed for steep and challenging terrain and as such, the 2008 design added a strap to the binding as a safety measure (just in case you’re in the backcountry and one of the other straps breaks- from my experience this is unlikely). Love this snowshoe. I use it on all terrain.

• For challenging terrain
• Different sizes of the snowshoe carry different weight capacities
• Weight of the shoes vary by the size you buy
• Super light with maximum traction

MSRP $259.95

I'm often asked if you really need poles for snowshoeing. Certainly there are times when one would not "need" poles, but the primary uses for poles include balance, stabilization, increased cardio and upper body workout, and as an instrument to ward off bears and other wildlife (I'm just kidding about that last part.). Things to consider when looking for poles include the ability of the pole to adjust in height. Adjustability is useful when you need to stick the poles in/on a backpack and also when you are on in traverse incline where one half of your body is closer to an uphill and the upper pole needs to adjust to a smaller size. Weight and strength of the pole are also considerations. The lighter a pole the easier it will be to carry. And, it can ultimately be very frustrating to have a pole bend on you when serious pressure is applied. For more information on how to use your poles, go to chapter 2 on equipment and dressing.

PRODUCT REVIEW:

I've used these poles for a few months now and I have to say that my favorite things about them are the exact things they are touted for. I have used adjustable poles before so I have experiential comparison and the Flick Lock rocks! Screw-together poles have never held in my experience. Super easy, even with gloves on, to adjust. Easy to shorten in order to throw on my pack or in my trunk. The shaft grip allows me to quickly take a shorter grab-stance when needed, and the wrist straps are durab. Grips are ergonomically shaped, comfy and strong. A light, thin pole.

• "Zero slip" Flip lock
• Engineered grips and straps
• Carbon fiber shafts = light weight

MSRP $109.95

There’s nothing like cold, wet feet to ruin a great experience. When choosing footwear, go for warm, dry, and comfortable.
Your choice of footwear will depend on the type of snowshoeing you do. If you’ll be cruising deep, backcountry snow, an insulated, waterproof boot will serve you best. If you are taking a run on a packed trail, a pair of waterproof trail-running shoes will do the job. Make sure whatever you wear is waterproof or can be waterproofed. Because snowshoeing requires foot articulation, flexible boots are essential. For more information on choosing the right boot, go to the Table of Contents and click on Chapter 2.

PRODUCT REVIEW:

I used the COMP yesterday because I thought I'd be on a packed trail. Turns out we got lucky and found a foot of powder. The COMP still performed. Definitely waterproof, and with a gator they even handle deeper snow. I like the COMP because it looks great on - it has a sort-of hard-core look to it with the big traction nobs, and the fleece keeps it cozy. GoLite has a unique fitting system where you can add or subtract heel inserts to make the shoe fit your foot. This option means the shoe fits great, keeps you dry, and is light enough that snowshoeing is not a heavy stomp up the mountain. If you're interested in these shoes, grab a pair quick as they are only available until June 2010. Bottom line is that they are an IDEAL shoe for trail snowshoeing and with gators their usability broadens.

• Ideal for Packed Trails
• Light - weighs next to nothing
• "Soft Against the Ground" suspension
• off-road adventure shoe
• Waterproof
• Fleece lined
Deep traction
• www.golitefootwear.net

PRODUCT REVIEW:

The Patriot is a great snowshoe boot for the times you’ll be venturing into deeper snow. Tall on the leg, but not too tall, it provides great waterproof protection and my feet have stayed wonderfully warm. This boot is rated to 50 below, so even if you’re snowshoeing the Arctic it should do the job. Kamik, an international boot manufacturer, uses OutDry technology, which keeps the boot dry from the outside in. The OutDry technology gives Gore-Tex a run for its money with this waterproof, breathable system. The things I’ve liked best about the boot are the ease at which it goes on and comes off; the warmth, and the waterproof aspect. It just does the job well. The Patriot is made for men and women—the men’s last is, predictably, a little chunkier.

• Waterproof Full Grain Leather Upper
• Seam Sealed Waterproof Construction
• 400B Thinsulate™ Ultra Insulation
• Moisture Wicking Lining
• Speed Lacing System
• Padded Collar & Gusset Tongue
• Kamik Comfort Footbed
• Lightweight EVA Midsole
• Waterproof, Lightweight & Flexible TPU Shell
• TRIUMPH Rubber Outsole Maximizes Traction
• Height: 10.5 Inches

MSRP $129.99

PRODUCT REVIEW:

At first sight these don’t appear to be a snowshoe boot, but to the contrary, their new eVent breathable waterproof barrier passes the test. The Targhee turns out to be perfect for days with less snow and packed trails. Still high enough on the ankle to keep out kicked up snow flurries, this easy-to-use boot slips in the bindings without problem, has great heal and toe support, but still allows your foot to breathe. Good traction and ankle support are always great in a boot. Added bonus—you can also use the boot for hiking in the summer – double duty. I’ve never gone wrong with a Keen shoe.

• Removable metatomicalfootbed
• Dual density compression molded EVA midsole
• Patented toe protection
• 4mm multi directional lugs
• Non marking carbon rubber outsole
• eVent® breathable waterproof barrier
• S3 Heel support structure

MSRP $125.00

Gaiters are designed to wrap around the lower leg between your knee and ankle to keep the snow from getting down into your boot or shoe. They help keep you dry and warm. Gaiters come in a variety of lengths. A hiking gaiter is usually short and is used to keep pebbles out of the shoes. A snow gaiter usually comes up higher on the leg. Gaiters can be specially reinforced for use in ice climbing, but special reinforcement is not necessary for snowshoeing.

PRODUCT REVIEW:

I have had experience with many an inferior gaiter, so I am very pleased to be able to present this gaiter to you. The ways this one out shines the others include 1. Strength! This puppy is tough, water proof, and will go the distance. 2. Easy to use, secure buckle at the top, reinforced snap and tough Velcro - Solid attachment. 3. Easy to use. The first time you use these you take time to adjust the strap to your boot and become familiar with the fit, but once it's set it is quick and easy to put on. This gaiter is made with superior materials and you won't spend a lot of time messing with it while putting it on or wearing it. Just what you need in a gaiter.

• 3-layer Gortex®
• Welded hardshell upper
• High-density, neoprene-coated nylon instep strap
• Welded double-layer 600d abrasion guard
• Hook-and-loop front closure/Velcro

MSRP $89.95

Good socks are essential. They should keep your feet dry and cradle them in a comfortable cushion. Companies like Darn Tough, Smartwool, and Fox River carry all-weather performance socks with wicking capabilities. These socks provide non-itching cushion and can add a great deal of comfort.

PRODUCT REVIEW:

I’m not taking this review from a highly technical stand point, though I could with the advances put into researching and sock development (odd as that sounds), I’ll just simply tell you why I recommend these socks. The stretch and the support are in all the right places. It makes my foot feel like it’s comfortably supported from toe to heel. The sock breathes well and my foot is always dry or dries quickly when wearing them-- I’ve never had any problem with wet feet while wearing the Adrenaline sock. To me, that seals the deal. It’s comfortable, supportive (you feel spoiled when you put them on), and it performs perfectly.

• Performace wicking sock
• 1x1 roll welt at the top of the sock to hold it in place
• Ankle Brace: Elasticized ankle brace to hold sock in place and prevent boot slippage
• Contoured Flex Zone: 4-way diagonal knit allows foot and sock to flex without fabric bunching
• Flat toe seem: no rubbing

MSRP $17.95

Hydration systems abound on the market. You can get waist-mounted models or larger daypacks that have a built-in hydration system for longer excursions. Hydration pack companies like Camelback even make systems specifically for men and women. Backcountry packs, like the Backcountry Access® Stash packs, have a larger carrying capacity and a built-in hydration system, nice for longer excursions where more water and space are needed for the trip. Hydration packs of all sizes and styles exist – find one that works for your snowshoe groove.

PRODUCT REVIEW:

My favorite aspect of the Alterra is its compact body-hugging nature. Everything from the wide front waist belt that snugs the Alterra to your body front and back, to the three clips that help keep the hydration tube close to your body and placed where you need it. There is no flopping around of either the pack or the hose. The Alterra will be best used for shorter jaunts, snowshoe running, or cross training. It’s light weight and has only a 28 oz. reservoir – nice and compact. On below-freezing days you’ll want to add on Camelbak’s Thermal Control Kit, which is basically an insulated sleeve for the hydration hose, with a little cap to keep the mouth piece from freezing solid.

• 28 oz Reservoir
• Dimensions 7.5 in x 8.5 in x 1 in
• weight .83 lbs empty
• weight 2.66 lbs full

MSRP $45.00

When you’re in an alpine environment, it’s important to protect your eyes from the sun’s reflection, from the sun itself, and from blowing snow. Get something lightweight with UV protection that doesn't bounce around on your nose. Companies like Native® and Smith® make interchangeable lens systems with clear, yellow, orange, or dark lenses that can be used according to the day’s light range. Polarized sunglasses reduce the glare from the snow, and venting is a must. The Native Silencer has been my personal favorite.

PRODUCT REVIEW:

My time with the Silencer (two years) has proven the Native claims. For winter sports this pair of glasses has out performed the other styles I’ve set it against. The frame sits away from your face a bit and the venting holes at the top of the frames give the glasses enough ventilation that they stay remarkable clear. I love the interchangeable lense system because some days you just need brighter lenses. It makes this one pair of glasses perfect for any lighting. I have 4 different sets of lenses and I use them all at different times. With purchase, the Silencer comes with an optic gear kit which basically consists of a hard carrying case, a cleansing cloth, sunglass cord, soft case, and 2 lenses. This is a well-made, performance pair of glasses with a price point under $100.

• 0.70 oz.
• Changeable lenses
• Polarized
• Rhyno-Tuff Air Frames
• Venting

MSRP $145.00

There is only one word you need to know about dressing for snowshoeing: layering. With layers you have thermostat control. Too hot–take some off; too cold -–put some on. Snowshoeing generates a great deal of energy and thus heat. Within 10 minutes of starting a trail, I inevitably stop to remove layers. I find that I consistently need to re-layer on the return trip. In addition, winter conditions change. If a storm blows in or the temperature drops, being prepared to add a layer could, in a bad situation, save a life. Pick clothes that give you options. Go to the table of contents and click on Chapter 2 for more details.

LAYERS

Base Layers:

A base layer is the thinner, "long underwear" layer that sits next to your skin. It should breathe and keeps you comfy at skin level. It should also dry quickly when wet. A tight, sleek fit, that resists odor and is easy to care for is ideal.

PRODUCT REVIEW:

Altitude Zip: I have to tell you up front that I love this base layer. IceBreaker makes a quality product - the cut fits comfortably with little extras like the way the bottom edge of the top is rounded in front and dips lower as it wraps to the back. The zippers and seams are quality and I love the extra touches like the thumb holes in the sleeves - perfect for a base layer so you can keep it in place as you're dragging other garments on top of it. The wool is breathable but warm. The zip-up neck has proven helpful in adjusting temperature, which is a real bonus in the base layer, and it's washed up well - no peeling. I heartily recommend Icebreaker's Altitude Zip top - it's become my new favorite.

• Pure Merino Wool
• Low Bulk
• Flat sewn side seams
• Soft and warm

MSRP $99.99

PRODUCT REVIEW:

My favorite aspects of the leggings deal with the quality. The leggings are well made, the seams are sturdy, the weave is dense enough that it doesn't have that sheer look you sometimes get with base layers, and they are soft and comfortable. The leggings have an elegant silky elastic waistband. Every time I pick them up I feel like I'm treating myself to something nice. Sometimes I wear only these under my hard-shell pants. Two thumbs up for comfort and performance.

• Full length
• Flat sewn side seams
• Pure Merino wool
• Soft elastic waist band

MSRP $59.99

The second layer is an insulator—fleece, down, wool, or some other comfortable warm layer you like to wear. On warmer days you may stop at the second layer using a fleece vest which allows core warmth but cooler extremities.

Reviews forth coming

Outer Layer:

Your outside layer should be waterproof, windproof, and breathable. Gore-Tex is perhaps the most well-known of these fabrics, but there are many to choose from. Zippered pits in both the second and outer layer are often helpful. Keep a down jacket handy in case temperatures drop, especially on longer trips. A hood protects you during a storm.

Reviews forth coming