Choosing Snowshoes for Kootenai Country

On silent feet the Canadian lynx drifted across the snow, following the distinct tracks of the snowshoe hare. Both of these animals have optimally designed feet for snow travel. The wide footpads spread the body weight across the surface area, and the claws dig in like crampons for traction. Exactly two of the more important choices when outdoor enthusiasts are selecting a pair of snowshoes.

Snowshoeing is now officially the fastest growing winter sport! Maybe it is the quiet peace one feels out in the woods as snowflakes fall. Or perhaps it’s the no sink, no struggle healthy exercise that a body gets outside. It could be the allure of slow moving ambles where a person can take it all in, the tracks, the signs, the coyote calls, the owl hoots in the distance. Snowshoeing appeals to family groups, outings with a few friends, and or the lone hiker. Perhaps it is a combination of all of the above that makes snowshoeing so popular as of late.    

There are three main categories of snowshoes:

     • Flat terrain snowshoes are basically designed for mild walking on relatively flat to mellow undulating terrain. Advantageous features of this type of shoe include less aggressive traction systems, hassle free adjustable bindings, and reasonable cost. These are great snowshoes for beginners, casual users, and family oriented outings.

     • Rolling terrain snowshoes are the most popular type and meet the needs of most recreational snowshoe hikers. Constructed for a bit more challenging terrain, the crampons are built with more bite, and the bindings are more heavy duty. These snow paws will more than adequately serve the average snowshoe enthusiasts who like to get off the beaten path, but are not planning to get into extreme grades or intensely icy conditions.

     • Mountainous terrain snowshoes are produced for the more serious hikers, the mountaineering types who wish to blaze their own trails into the back country. Mainly designed for guides, remote snowboarders, and woods professionals. Bindings on these shoes are built super tough for brushy terrain and extreme weather conditions. Crampons on these units are tenaciously designed to withstand ice, rock, and climbing angles. The dove tailed form at the rear of the shoe can greatly aid in turning around in brush, blowdown, or in rocky areas.    

The general rule is that the frame and deck give flotation, and more flotation is needed with heavier folks or in lighter powdered snow. However, smaller decks are easier to maneuver, and are adequate in packed snow. The buyer must be aware to strike a logical balance for his or her use. If a person can rent a pair and try them out, they can see how they feel. When examining snowshoes, its smart to wear the boots you will be wearing in the field.    

Check into options such as heel lifts or televators, which aid in climbing. Think about a pair of cross country ski poles. Measure properly to armpits, and the type with wrap around hand loops and hard plastic cups with serrated edges bite into snow and help in navigation. Rotating or floating bindings that pivot under the balls of the feet are advantageous and allow one to kick into steep slopes.    

In our area, we get both light powder snow and wet compact snow, so plan for diverse snow and rugged terrain. Todays high tech gear is both lightweight and durable. Like most things, you get what you pay for and a wise investment can last many years. So consider all the aspects for your personal use, get your snowshoes and poles, and get out there in the quiet winter wonderland of Kootenai Country Montana!    

(Author, Brian Baxter’s Note: Reference-Snowshoe Magazine)