I signed up to do a 72-hour adventure race in Florida in February. This is very exciting, especially since I am training in Wyoming, for a race in a warm, humid climate. Oh well, what’s a girl to do when she likes to challenge herself with athletic endeavors. As I thought about some fun ways to train, snowshoeing kept rising to the top of the list.
During the winter season, it’s important to keep exercising—even though it’s cold. Snowshoeing allows you to relax and take in the sights, or power through and get a good cardio workout in. Snowshoeing is one of the simplest ways to get out and explore the beautifully snow-blanketed landscape that abounds in Wyoming. Casper has an amazing system of groomed, partially groomed and ungroomed trails so you can snowshoe to your heart’s content.
Like running, snowshoeing can be enjoyed in solitude or as a group activity. People of all ages can enjoy the sport together—the learning curve of snowshoeing is much less steep than that of skiing or snowboarding.
Here are the basics for your first-time snowshoeing:
Snowshoes: Before you go out and have fun on the trails, you’ll want to make sure that you have the right snowshoes. There are different types of snowshoes depending on the terrain - Recreational, Backcountry, and Racing. Recreational shoes are best for families and beginners. Backcountry shoes are built for just that, and work for people who blaze their own trails. Racing shoes are for those athletes looking to diversify their winter training on snowshoe trails. Rental snowshoes are inexpensive and easy to find, and there’s no expert training needed to start — just put one foot in front of the other.
Wear suitable boots and socks: The good news is that snowshoes adjust to fit pretty much any type of boot or shoe. So, your main concern is to wear something that keeps your feet comfortably warm and dry. Insulated, waterproof winter boots with thick soles and rubber or leather uppers are ideal, but sturdy waterproof leather hiking boots can also work. Wool or synthetic socks that wick sweat is a must—carry an extra pair in case yours get soaked.
Dress in (non-cotton) layers: As always when exercising outdoors, dress in layers so you can adjust your clothing to suit your activity level and the weather. Avoid cotton because it can get soaked and chill you, and instead choose synthetics or wool styles because they wick moisture and retain warmth even when wet. Note: Cross-country ski clothing is designed for aerobic winter activity, and can do double-duty as snowshoe clothing.
Base layer: Choose a lightweight or mid-weight base layer based on the temperature forecast and your activity level. A zippered top lets you vent as you heat up and zip up for warmth during rest stops.
Mid layer: Soft-shell jackets and pants make good insulating mid-layers because they retain heat when wet, move freely and breathe as you exercise. Polyester fleece mid-layers can also work in a pinch.
Outer layer: For your outer layer, choose a waterproof, breathable shell jacket and pants to help keep you dry, and fend off wind. Pit zips are a good idea for added ventilation because you’ll be working up a sweat and you don’t want to overheat.
Hat and gloves/mittens: Keep your head and hands covered to prevent loss of body heat and to protect from sunburn. A wool or synthetic hat, headband or balaclava retains heat during cold, blustery days; a wide-brimmed hat or a ball cap can shade your eyes on sunny days. Waterproof ski gloves or mittens are a must to keep your hands dry and warm. You can also combine waterproof/breathable shells with wool liners or light fleece gloves. In milder conditions, glove liners may be all you need, but have a backup waterproof pair with you, just in case.
Bring adjustable poles with snow baskets (optional, but recommended)
Sunglasses and sunscreen will protect you from UV rays, which are more intense when reflected off of snow, and can cause both sunburns and snow blindness.
Gaiters keep snow out of your boots. For deep powder, you need a high style with waterproof/breathable fabric.
To ensure all winter sports enthusiasts have a great time, here are a few snowshoeing tips. When you are snowshoeing:
Do your research before choosing a trail or heading into the backcountry to ensure you’re prepared. Trails may have restrictions on certain winter sports, uses, and pets. Additionally, backcountry areas may have seasonal closures or safety restrictions.
Follow Leave No Trace principles whether on a trail or in the backcountry. If you bring it in, pack it out.
It’s okay to go off-trail when snowshoeing. Just be mindful to choose areas with ample snowfall and avoid areas where plants are peeking out of the snow to preserve vegetation.
Avoid stepping on ski or machine-made tracks with your snowshoes. Instead, walk next to the tracks or break your own trail.
The faster hiker always has the right of way. Step to the side if faster hikers are behind you. Allow the downhill hiker/skier proceed first.
Consider and understand your limits.
In relation to planning ahead, there is nothing wrong with a half-hour hike – planned 15 minutes out and 15 minutes back. Shorter hikes are great, especially if you are trying out new snowshoes or are unsure of your endurance level.
By starting slowly and planning for short routes, you can build up your level of adventure once you gain confidence and ability. It’s important to listen to your body and plan your snowshoeing adventure in accordance with any injuries or illnesses as well.
Hydration is not just for summer sports.
While hydration is a keyword connected to many summer activities, and while most hikers would never head out on an adventure without a bottle of water, the same consideration is not given to winter activities and it should be.
Just because you don’t feel as thirsty when the weather is cold, that doesn’t mean your body isn’t using and losing water. Cold, dry air will work to dehydrate you more quickly and you will still sweat under your layers, even if you don’t feel hot.
Understand that the work of movement under the weight of extra clothing, and with snowshoes strapped to you, means you will sweat, despite the cold. Forget the fact that you don’t feel hot. Understand that sweat is often trapped under layers or and it will evaporate quickly in the cold so you may not be aware of it.
