Snowshoes
Snowshoes come in a range of shapes. Their frames are made with either wood or aluminum. The surface or decking of a snowshoe also varies. Neoprene or rawhide decking sinks into the snow about 20% more than decking with a "solid" surface. New snowshoes with solid decking require no maintenance.
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Poles
Poles provide stability and balance as you snowshoe on uneven terrain and in deep snow. You may use your cross-country or downhill ski poles for snowshoeing. Experienced, backcountry snowshoers often use adjustable poles that can be lengthened or shortened to suit the terrain.
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Bindings
Bindings secure your foot to the snowshoe by straps that cross over your toes and around your heels. Good bindings are critical in preventing your foot from sliding sideways off the snowshoe as you climb or traverse hills. Some bindings come with crampons (see below) already attached.
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Boots
Wear warm insulated winter boots and gaiters with your snowshoes. A sturdy backcountry ski boot is suitable if you are both snowshoeing and skiing. Make sure the boot you select works properly with your snowshoes and bindings before you head out.
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Crampons
Crampons are metal teeth that extend beneath your snowshoe bindings to give you better footing in icy or hard-packed snow conditions. Your snowshoe bindings may or may not come with crampons. They can be purchased separately for most snowshoes.
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Gaiters
Gaiters, usually constructed of nylon or a nylon/Gore-Tex® combination, form a seal around your boot tops to help keep snow from getting inside. Your feet stay drier and warmer as a result.
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If you would like any additional information about snowshoeing, or have questions about any of the procedures or terminology used here, please call 1-800-975-4552, any day between 8 a.m. and 10 p.m. EST.
Please read this regarding the terms of your use of this information.
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