Snowshoe

Atlas snowshoes

Snowshoe2

Snowshoe-IMG 9650

Snow Shoe Maker between ca. 1900-1930

Ojibwa dance

FMIB 41386 Types of snowshoes used in the Yukon Valley The smaller sized ones are used when breaking a trail The broken portion shows

Snowshoeing is a method of transportation and a winter sport that involves walking over snow with the assistance of snowshoes, which distribute a person's weight over a larger area. This increased area underfoot helps the person's foot to stay on the surface of the snow, a principle known as "flotation." Snowshoeing is accessible to people of all ages and skill levels and can be a form of exercise, recreation, or a means of accessing remote areas during the winter months.

History

The history of snowshoes begins thousands of years ago with the indigenous peoples of North America, who developed the first snowshoes as a vital tool for hunting and trading in snowy, winter conditions. These early snowshoes were made from hard wood frames and lacing made from animal hide. Over centuries, the design of snowshoes has evolved significantly, incorporating materials such as aluminum and synthetic fabrics, which make modern snowshoes lighter and more durable.

Design and Types

Modern snowshoes are designed with a variety of activities in mind, from casual hiking to running and even technical mountaineering. The three main types of snowshoes are:

• Recreational snowshoes: Designed for easy to moderate walks on flat to rolling terrain. They are the most common type, suitable for most beginners.
• Aerobic/Running snowshoes: These are lightweight and designed for speed and agility on packed snow. They are used primarily for exercise and snowshoe racing.
• Mountaineering snowshoes: Built for rugged terrain, these snowshoes have aggressive crampons for grip and can handle steep and icy conditions.

Each type of snowshoe is designed to cater to different needs, including the weight of the user and the conditions of the terrain.

Technique

Walking in snowshoes requires a slightly wider stance to accommodate the size of the snowshoes and to prevent stepping on the frames. Beginners may find this awkward at first, but quickly adapt to the gait. Turning and climbing in snowshoes also require some practice to master efficiently.

Snowshoeing Today

Today, snowshoeing is enjoyed by millions of people around the world as a way to stay active during the winter months. It is praised for its simplicity, low cost compared to other winter sports, and the access it provides to the beauty of the winter landscape. Many national parks and recreational areas offer marked trails and rentals for those new to the sport.

See Also

• Winter sports
• Hiking
• Outdoor recreation