Cross training - does anyone snowshoe?

[LBTC]

DH and I are trying to find the least expensive winter cross training activity that can be done outside, that also won't hurt his knees.

We have lots of indoor training stuff, and we walk to work/school each day, but on a nice day we do think it would be good to get outside.

Neither of us are really keen on cross country and/or skate skiing, at the moment. Not sure if it's because of the learning curve and coordination required, or because of the cost of the equipment, or because you must always be on groomed trails. Snowshoeing seems like a better alternative, where there's only one thing for each of us to buy, the snow shoes, and, if we buy the right ones, we can do the trails at the local cross country area, or we can just go wherever we want in the woods.

Have any of you done much snowshoeing? Do you have any tips for newbies?

We are planning to do a one day rental / lesson at the cross country area some time this winter to help us decide, to learn some and to get the feel for it, but your thoughts are always helpful, too.

Thanks!
~T~

[spokewench]

A lesson? Snowshoeing is great and it does not take any special talent and you can just walk anywhere in the woods that you want as long as you know your way and don't get lost!

The only learning curve at all with the new snowshoes is that you just have to pick your feet up a little bit higher and don't step on the other snowshoe.

We have Redfeather (metal frame) walking length snowshoes. They are great! They make them in shorter length for running also. If your SO has knee problems, walking is probably the better choice.

A lot of times, the crosscountry places rent the cheap plastic shoes. I recommend if you want your own , buy the metal framed ones A lot of times, you can get a deal on them online, at Campmor type stores; REI, etc.

Hope you get some, they are lots of fun and like I said, don't take any special abilities except the ability to walk.

spoke

[Crankin]

I started snow shoeing last year, mainly because there was very little snow to x country ski. You can snow shoe in about an inch or two of snow. I love it, and my husband loves it even more. We have trails everywhere close by, so it is convenient. But several x country centers also have dedicated snow shoeing trails. I have been cross country skiing for about 14 years, but it wasn't until recently that I ever got off of the green trails. I think cycling gave me more confidence to go down hills on those skinny skis and climbing up was no problem! But, it doesn't look like we will be having much snow this year either (I guess I shouldn't talk yet), since I am still cycling outside. What I mean to say is that the learning curve for x country isn't that bad for the basic stuff, but snow shoeing is less. Just put them on and walk or run. It's basically hiking on snow. Make sure you have winter proof hiking shoes and buy a pair of gaiters to put on your pants. Otherwise, the snow flops up your pant leg. Have fun!

[DebW]

I don't think of snowshoeing as an activity in itself, just as the proper footgear for winter hiking (unless you need crampons instead). Modern snowshoes are really very easy to use (compared to flat 13x23 inch bearpaws) and most have built-in traction devices. Hiking on an already-packed trail is a synch - just avoid stepping on your own snowshoes. If you are packing a new trail with a group on relatively level terrain, the followers should step in the spots not stepped in by the leaders to make a broad evenly-compressed path. Breaking trail is exhausting, so best done with a group where everyone rotates the lead position (just like a paceline). If breaking trail on steep terrain, everyone should use the same footprints and attempt to keep them level like stairsteps. On gentle slopes where your shoes may tend to slip, keep weight on your heel to provide better traction (good achilles tendon exercise). Most people probably use ski poles or something similar for balance while snowshoeing, expecially in deep unbroken snow.

[Aint Doody]

And remember that snowshoes are designed according to your weight.

[Trekhawk]

I love snowshoeing. My family and I pack up a big picnic lunch, snowshoe out to somewhere nice, eat our lunch and enjoy the beautiful scenery and then snowshoe back to our starting point. Its such a great way for us to see more of this amazing country.:)

[Trekhawk]

Here is a snap of us from a snowshoeing day last winter.:)

[wannaduacentury]

I would love to go snowshoeing, but the absence of snow in Ga makes it difficult, maybe one day. Have fun. Jennifer

[Lifesgreat]

During the winters, the local bike club sponsors snowshoe outings in the Wasatch Range, just minutes from my home. I have never tried snowshoeing, but plan to do so this winter. It looks like lots of fun!

[roadie gal]

Snowshoeing is a blast. It's just like walking, but uses up a LOT more calories. :D

I go out a lot during the winter with my dogs. Here are a few things I've learned:

1. Use poles. They're very helpful when you start to tip over or for extra balance when you have to step over roots and things.

2. If you think you may be carrying a pack or other heavy thing on a regular basis and you're near the top end of the weight for a certain snowshoe, get the next size up. Same goes if you are going to be in deep powder. Go for the extra flotation.

3. If you're going to be traversing (going across rather than up or down) a lot of slopes make sure the shoes have a heavy duty crampon on both the toe and heel area of the shoes. You will slide and be very unhappy without an aggressive heel crampon. My roommate gave herself an awful groin pull when her snowshoe slid out from under her one day. Since then she's bought some better ones and been much happier.

4. We've discovered that wearing light hikers, or other shoe that fits well for long hikes, with a pair of overshoes like Neos, seem to make our feet the happiest. We tried using our Sorels, but they're just not made for long walks, and our feet ended up with blisters.

Go out there and enjoy. It's a great low key way to be outside in the winter.

[Grog]

I also love to snowshoe, and wish there was more snow just out of my door to do it in the winter instead of having to drive at least half an hour... (Mind you, I can ride my bike right out of my door so it's a tradeoff!!)

What the others have said is all very true based on my experience. I'm not crazy about doing even terrain, but I love hiking up mountains. I like the poles going up but I find them to be a pain going down.

I got myself a pair of Denali Ascent (the plastic, rectangle type) last year and much enjoyed them. I find them less bulky and more convenient than the metal-frame type, but it's really a personal thing. Sweetheart is getting a pair of the same from my mom for Christmas and we're going to go try them on on the 26th. He's a little bit heavier than me and I think I'll need to get him tails to add at the back, although for trails it would be fine without them. For unbroken snow, he'll need the tails I think.

Enjoy!!!

[SadieKate]

Hey, Trek! Where do you go? Bill and I haven't snowshoed in forever because of the traffic going up toward Truckee. We used to hike up to the bowl by Castle Peak and glissade down if it had powder (tough in find in the Sierras). If we can go someplace without the weekend ski traffic, we'll be there! We even have a Mountain Smith sled to haul a boat load of snacks.

Roadie Gal has it right. Poles are great and you want aggressive crampons if you are going off trail and doing anything steep. Best to climb or descend perpendicular to the contour lines so you don't slide, twist and pull stuff.

Do some reading on the net or maybe REI. Shoes are specific to weight (including gear) and terrain. If you have groomed trails to run you'll want small running specific shoes but if you're like us and go off trail looking for adventure you'll want bigger with more flotation.

I don't know if all shoes are this way today, but right and left specific shoes are much more comfy for walking.

Waterproof hiking boots and gators keep your tootsies happier longer.

[Kathi]

I went snowshoeing yesterday at Copper Mtn. Redfeather offers a free snowshoeing clinic with a Copper guide.

I used their equipment instead of my own. The snowshoes were men's models which was a hazard for me because I kept stepping on the inside of them. I had to use a wider stance to walk without tripping. The poles were basic poles and by the end of the hike my hands and wrists hurt.

So, I recommend women specific showshoes, they're tapered and very easy to use. I use my Leki hiking poles, the baskets are interchangeable, small for hiking, big for snow.

Using poles gives me a good upper body workout, helps maintain balance going up and down hills and takes the stress off my knees.

REI has a woman's clinic every Nov. sponsored by Atlas, with tips on what to wear, techniques, etc.

We usually carry a backpack with water, extra clothes and food. One suggestion from the REI clinic was to get a small thermos and fill it with coffee or hot chocolate. Great refresher when your out in the cold.

[roadie gal]

To SadieKate,

I have a few suggestions for places to go on the eastern side of Donner Summit, toward Truckee.

1. We go off of Glacier Rd in the Tahoe Donner area of Truckee quite a bit. There's parking at the end of the road and in a small parking area at the beginning of the road. It's usually not crowded and you can wander quite a ways.

2. There's Paige Meadows which is above Tahoe City.

3. When there's a bit more snow than we have now you can snowshoe around Donner State Park.

4. There's always Mt. Rose meadows. It can get crowded on weekends but it's up pretty high so the snow is frequently better than a lot of other areas.

If you want any directions or more info, let me know.

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

This snoeshow thread is getting me inspired about perhaps taking the plunge.
Here in upstate NY we do tend to get some significant snow each winter (who knows what this winter will bring however :( ). Last winter I walked 3 miles a day through the winter- a few times through very deep snow. We also have a public conservancy trail just a block from our home that goes nicely through woods for a couple of miles.
I am intrigued by the idea of snowshoeing instead of walking through the snow on my walks- partly for the extra calorie burning concept. I hate the thought of getting so out of shape once I can't bike on the icy roads. I can't stand the thought of a trainer in the dank basement, I can't ski or jog because of weak knees and ankles, and I'm not quite ready to invest in the crosscountry ski thing.

My weight fully loaded would range between 140 and 165, so I figure a size 25"-27" might be right. I would be walking mostly gently rolling terrain, some packed trails with perhaps some ice under the snow, a few steep hills and some woodland walking trails, but no huge mountains or trail-less wilderness, and no running.
I know that women-specific snowshoes are a good idea because of our different stance and stride from men....but I worry because i have fairly big feet (size 9) and my winter boots are all quite bulky- the bindings on the pictures of some of the better snowshoes look like they are made for dainty women's size 6 or 7 boots with narrow pointy toes. My boots are all big and chunky and have thick blunt toes. Is this an issue? Anyone with big boots have any favorites?
Thanks...

[SadieKate]

Thanks, roadie gal, for the suggestions of where but it is the getting there and back that is the problem. We want to avoid the hectic traffic corridors of I-80 and Highway 50. Going up 49 towards Nevada City might be a better option. It just simply isn't worth the terror of driving with all the fatigued and drunk skiers/partiers/pseudo drivers.

[Kathi]

Here's an article from today's Denver Post,

http://www.denverpost.com/fitness/ci_4896676

[sarahkonamojo]

I've only used snow shoes once. The modern ones are nice and simple to use. I prefer skis because I like to go downhill fast.

There are limitations to snow shoes: they aren't very good on ice/hardpark or a traverse. Breaking trail can be a lot of work. Take your terrain into consideration when chosing gear. Don't forget the safety gear: first aid, repair kit, hand warmers, etc.

Whatever gets you outside and moving, that is the key.

Enjoy the winter anyway you can
sarah

[DebW]

My weight fully loaded would range between 140 and 165, so I figure a size 25"-27" might be right. I would be walking mostly gently rolling terrain, some packed trails with perhaps some ice under the snow, a few steep hills and some woodland walking trails, but no huge mountains or trail-less wilderness, and no running.
I know that women-specific snowshoes are a good idea because of our different stance and stride from men....but I worry because i have fairly big feet (size 9) and my winter boots are all quite bulky- the bindings on the pictures of some of the better snowshoes look like they are made for dainty women's size 6 or 7 boots with narrow pointy toes. My boots are all big and chunky and have thick blunt toes. Is this an issue? Anyone with big boots have any favorites?
Thanks...

I've never used women-specific snowshoes. I currently use the MSR Denalis, which are a plastic deck with very good traction for steep hills and traverses, plus a heel elevator for the steeper stuff. I also used flat wooden 'shoes for many many years (with 1/2 a crampon lashed to the bottom). If you have long legs and a long stride, I don't think you need women's 'shoes. You don't have to walk with your feet wider as long as you step far enough to avoid landing on your own 'shoe. Also compare your boot side to the 'shoe size to ensure that your weight will be balanced fore-aft on the 'shoe. I much prefer a binding that pivots freely rather than the springy ones that throw snow up your back at every step, but they all work pretty well.

[xeney]

We used to snowshoe regularly, but the problems SadieKate identifies have kept us out of the mountains for the last three or four years. Castle Peak is my favorite spot for snowshoeing, and if you go mid-week it tends to be fairly deserted, but it's hard to take a day off like that in the middle of the school year. We tried some trails above Donner Lake once, but dogs were prohibited, and our oldest dog loves snow so much that we can't leave him behind. (He has been known to jump out of the car window at the sight of a snow bank.)

My husband also has knee problems and he has had some difficulty with snowshoes. I think it depends on the type of knee injuries involved, because just walking and hiking are hard on him, as well, and snowshoeing is basically hiking x 10.

[Kathi]

I've never used women-specific snowshoes. I currently use the MSR Denalis, which are a plastic deck with very good traction for steep hills and traverses, plus a heel elevator for the steeper stuff. I also used flat wooden 'shoes for many many years (with 1/2 a crampon lashed to the bottom). If you have long legs and a long stride, I don't think you need women's 'shoes. You don't have to walk with your feet wider as long as you step far enough to avoid landing on your own 'shoe. Also compare your boot side to the 'shoe size to ensure that your weight will be balanced fore-aft on the 'shoe. I much prefer a binding that pivots freely rather than the springy ones that throw snow up your back at every step, but they all work pretty well.


Whether or not you need women's snowshoes doesn't have anything to do with the length of your legs or your stride it has to do with Q-angle.

http://www.gla.ac.uk/ibls/fab/glossary/qangle.html

My ski instructor showed us this test for Q-angle. Start with your feet hip width apart and walk in a figure 8. If your feet come together when you start to turn you have q-angle. When you do it in the snow the walking pattern really shows up. But you can do it at home, just pay attention to where your feet are when you begin to turn.

I suggest demoing before you buy, that way you'll know which ones will work for you.

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

My question is- does anyone here have big feet (size 9 or so) and have any trouble fitting their big winter hiking boots into women-specific snowshoe bindings? I keep reading how women's snowshoes are sized for "women's sized shoes"- does that create a problem for larger boots?

[Kathi]

My question is- does anyone here have big feet (size 9 or so) and have any trouble fitting their big winter hiking boots into women-specific snowshoe bindings? I keep reading how women's snowshoes are sized for "women's sized shoes"- does that create a problem for larger boots?


I use my regular hiking shoes, which are leather and high top. At a REI women's snowshoe clinic the gal from Atlas recommended goretex trail running shoes. One of the snowshoe companies said their womens sizes went up to a size 10.

In my handout they listed Salomon Footwear, XA Comp 2 Gore-Tex XCR.

Also what to look for "FACT" Flotation, Articulation, Comfort, Traction.

Flotation: The greater the surface area the more flotation you achieve.

Articulation: Bindings should keep your heel stable and allow for lateral movement of your foot.

Comfort: Bindings shouldn't pinch and should be right and left specific.

Traction: Snowshoe crampons should allow for three types of stability: climbing, descending and traversing.

Atlas has some women's workshops scheduled in Jan.

http://www.atlassnowshoe.com/snowshoeing/workshop.asp

[Trekhawk]

Hey, Trek! Where do you go? Bill and I haven't snowshoed in forever because of the traffic going up toward Truckee. We used to hike up to the bowl by Castle Peak and glissade down if it had powder (tough in find in the Sierras). If we can go someplace without the weekend ski traffic, we'll be there! We even have a Mountain Smith sled to haul a boat load of snacks.


Sorry SK just saw this post - I have been busy putting all manner of toys together, reading stories and playing What's in Ned's head? LOL dont ask about that one.

We normally head up towards Castle Peak but I agree the crowds, traffic etc can be a drag. Last winter we did do a little snowshoeing off 49 above Nevada City along some trails but you really cant get far enough away from the road for my liking. Also last winter we had a lot of snow (by local standards) so Im not sure if those same areas will have anywhere near that amount of snow this year.

I got a great book last winter that lists lots of good snowshoeing areas in Northern California (I cant seem to find it at the moment). When I manage to dig it out I will PM you if I find any that look good for you and MR SK and that keep you away from the hoards of people and traffic.:)

[Dianyla]

My question is- does anyone here have big feet (size 9 or so) and have any trouble fitting their big winter hiking boots into women-specific snowshoe bindings? I keep reading how women's snowshoes are sized for "women's sized shoes"- does that create a problem for larger boots?
Lisa - I've got bigass feet (10EEEE, as well as being high volume thanks to high arches and a high instep) and I am very happy with my MSR Women's Lightening Ascent (http://www.rei.com/online/store/ProductDisplay?storeId=8000&catalogId=40000008000&productId=48096127&parent_category_rn=40004288&vcat=REI_SEARCH) shoes. Rather than those "bearhug" style bindings, these just have three independent slim rubber straps (toe, ankle, and heel) that will fit over large boots. And, the ascension bar is very very nice to have for uphills. :)

[DebW]

My question is- does anyone here have big feet (size 9 or so) and have any trouble fitting their big winter hiking boots into women-specific snowshoe bindings? I keep reading how women's snowshoes are sized for "women's sized shoes"- does that create a problem for larger boots?

I wear size 9 shoes, and use big bulbous army surplus Korean boots (good to -20F) or double boots for showsnoeing. Never tried women's snowshoes though. I like the MSR Denalis. Don't know about Q-factor but if I could hike mountains in 13x23 flat wooden snowshoes, I obviously learned to compensate.

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

Lisa - I've got bigass feet (10EEEE, as well as being high volume thanks to high arches and a high instep) and I am very happy with my MSR Women's Lightening Ascent (http://www.rei.com/online/store/ProductDisplay?storeId=8000&catalogId=40000008000&productId=48096127&parent_category_rn=40004288&vcat=REI_SEARCH) shoes.

With feet like that, why would you even NEED snowshoes?? :eek:
(JUST KIDDING!!!!) :D :D

All kidding aside....
Thank you all for your help!
After reading lots of info online about snowshoeing and doing a lot of comarison shopping, I bought some snowshoes that I think would probably work well for me.
They are the Tubbs Odyssey women-specific, 8" x 25" with good crampons and what seem to be good pivoting features. There are a few pretty good hills here on my walks, though no mountains. Here they are shown on LLBean's site, (but I got mine from another dealer for $155 instead of $199):
http://www.llbean.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/CategoryDisplay?storeId=1&langId=-1&catalogId=1&categoryId=47548&parentCategory=8922&cat4=8926&productId=830002&display_id=54506&feat=sr&catalog_id=TA&from=&rtnComp=&attrValue_1=Lemon
I think they will be the right size for me and the right balance, somewhere midpoint between flat "recreational" and uber-aggressive mountain climbing type shoes.

I also ordered some women's adjustable poles and some Gortex gaiters.
Now instead of dreading snow because I'll be off my bike, I have something exciting to look forward to if the white stuff comes down! This being outside in the winter business is all totally new to me. It's only possible because I finally figured out how to dress properly thanks to my cold weather biking. All my life I've avoided being outside in the winter, shivering miserably in bulky acrylic sweaters, heavy coats, and cheap boots. I also had some good winter wear advice from a pro-skiing girlfriend. She and my DH set me straight, and now I love being outside in the brisk cold. :p :p

Golly, a whole new world opening up for me at 52....whoodda thunk?

[LBTC]

Way to go, Lisa!

With a good 4" of fresh snow today, DH and I just bought the Atlas snowshoes, mine are women's specific 1023, his 1025. They feel good, the bindings are easy to use, and we definitely burn more calories while we are outside in them!

We just went to a local dog trail loop and the dogs and we really enjoyed the whole thing. I just need to get waterproof pants and figure out how to not shoot snow all over my backside! My bum is very cold and was very wet!!

Off to look at gore tex pants....

(this is way above gaitor height!)

Happy snow to everyone, no matter how you get out to enjoy it!

Hugs and butterflies,
~T~

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

LBTC,
That's so THRILLING, you and DH and dogs all out there snowshoeing for the first time together today in fresh snow!! :) How great is THAT? (dogs were using thier "natural" snowshoes though)
Interesting about the wet bum issue- I'll have to see if that happens to me. I did get gaiters so the snow wouldn't get in my boots. I imagine it depends on your walking style, your shoes, and the type of snow all combining to dictate the degree of "snow flip". Did your husband get snowflipbum too, or just you??

I'm so happy for you- I can hear the excitement in your post! :p

[LBTC]

I'm very very happy now as I sit on my hot pack to warm up my bum! hahahaha

DH had much less snow flip than I did. Definitely a lot on his calves, and the occasional splat onto the bottom of his jacket, but not much else. His pants were more waterrepellent than mine, he's taller, and he just didn't have as much snow flipping up as I did! Try as I did to keep my shoes flat, slide my feet forward, even exagerating my weight onto my heels, the snow still flipped up. I think the gore-tex cycling jacket I have that covers most of my bum will really help, and I should have better moisture wicking pants under the shell pants. It's not cold today, so I wasn't that worried about it, but even a cycling tight would have been better, I think.

So now I'm searching online for Gore Tex pants. MEC has 3 to choose from, but only one that is marginally affordable. REI does not have a Gore Tex women's pant even though they have 3 to choose from in men's. We have a FarWest store, but that brand does not make a women's Gore Tex pant either. It's amazing. It's like manufacturers think women don't DO things! heehee

And, yes, the fresh snow is fabulous and the dogs had a fantastic time! They got enough of a workout to be resting quietly now instead of insisting we play with the squeak! :)

When are you going to try your new shoes, Lisa??

Oh and if anyone has any suggestions of where to get gore tex pants (that are remotely affordable) please post!

Hugs and butterflies,
~T~

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

When are you going to try your new shoes, Lisa??


1) I just ordered them 2 hours ago, and they won't get shipped out until tomorrow... :D
2) We haven't had any snow at ALL yet here in upstate NY! Temps still in the 30's and 40's. We're still biking! Weird. Last year we had abnormally small amounts of snow, hope to get some soon...(but not before my snowshoes get here!) A typical winter here we'll get quite a few 3" falls, a few 6-8"ers, and maybe a couple of 10-15" falls. Of course there's way more up in the nearby Berkshire mountains, if I wanted to drive up there to ski country...

Hey maybe you should call Atlas and ask them about your snow flip- they should know all about that and what to do. Are you sure you have the right style and the right size for the kind of snowshoeing you are doing? It can't hurt to call them, surely you'll learn something helpful- they might even suggest you exchange them for another style with them at no charge.
Or perhaps it was just a factor of the type of snow you had today.

Are you looking at ski gear for waterproof pants?- that might be a good place to find them...or snowboarding wear?

[Crankin]

I don't wear waterproof pants when i snow shoe or X country ski. I have a pair of wool Ibex pants that are water resistant and very warm. I wear them for the above activities and for cycling when it is 40 or less degrees. I fall a lot when skiing, and I've never been soaked through. You should look in the Athleta catalog for waterproof pants. They are having a big sale now on that stuff. Sierra Trading Post also has a lot of this stuff, too, but it's a search to look through their web site.
No snow here, another day of cycling... I think Al Gore is right!

[Aint Doody]

The "snow flip" phenomona is puzzling. I have a good friend I go with who ends up with a solid white rear from the waist to her heels. Not me, I'm not a flipper. Others flip only halfway up their legs. I'm quite slew-footed--maybe that's a good thing on snowshoes.

[Dianyla]

With feet like that, why would you even NEED snowshoes?? :eek:
(JUST KIDDING!!!!) :D :D
Well, I used to just stamp about barefoot. But then I started noticing packs of Sasquatch hunters prowling around my favorite winter trails and realized I should probably at least pretend to use shoes. :p


This being outside in the winter business is all totally new to me. It's only possible because I finally figured out how to dress properly thanks to my cold weather biking. All my life I've avoided being outside in the winter, shivering miserably in bulky acrylic sweaters, heavy coats, and cheap boots. I also had some good winter wear advice from a pro-skiing girlfriend. She and my DH set me straight, and now I love being outside in the brisk cold. :p :p
I've often wondered what they would find if they (you know, those people, whoever they are anyway) did a study on winter depression and included information about people who have winter-specific hobbies and sports. Whereas before I used to sigh glumly when looking out the window on a gray rainy day, now I think to myself "yippee! mountain snow!" :)

[LBTC]

I'm quite slew-footed--maybe that's a good thing on snowshoes.

I had to look up slew-footed....from what I gather it's like the dance term for having good "turn-out". I have that. For years I've concentrated on trying to keep my toes pointing straight ahead as it seemed to help me avoid some hip pain I would experience....maybe I shouldn't try that so much! :D

Probably the next snowshoe day is on Saturday. I'll try some new moves then.

oh, yes, and both DH and I can feel those glute muscles that desperately, for both of us, need to work hard. YAY!

Hugs and butterflies,
~T~

[cosc]

This thread came at just the right time as I was planning to buy some snowshoes. Lisa, I purchased some women's 25 Odyssey snowshoes too. We're supposed to have snow and freezing rain for a few days so I'm anxious to go play in the snow. A life-time 28 years ago my family rented cross-country skis to see if we liked it enough to purchase the equipement. My husband and 2 boys got their skis on first and I had my stuff on all of 3 minutes when I fell and broke my elbow. I now have completely put that out of my mind. After all I'm much wiser-cautious,and at 56 very young at heart. I'll keep you posted on my new endeavour.

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

Hey LBTC,
Are you by any chance using snowshoes that have the heel attached? Isn't the back part of the shoe supposed to remain relatively dropped down and sort of drag along the top of the snow as you lift your foot and bring it forward in the next step? Is your shoe pivoting from the ball of your foot? I would think if you have the heel part clamped on then it would more likely flip up when you walk and fling snow up on your backside. Some shoes come with a little heel bar that you can flip up to secure your heel when climbing thus saving your calves- perhaps you have that and are using it on flats when you shouldn't be? Just some thoughts...


This thread came at just the right time as I was planning to buy some snowshoes. Lisa, I purchased some women's 25 Odyssey snowshoes too. We're supposed to have snow and freezing rain for a few days so I'm anxious to go play in the snow. A life-time 28 years ago my family rented cross-country skis to see if we liked it enough to purchase the equipement. My husband and 2 boys got their skis on first and I had my stuff on all of 3 minutes when I fell and broke my elbow. I now have completely put that out of my mind. After all I'm much wiser-cautious,and at 56 very young at heart. I'll keep you posted on my new endeavour.

Wow Cosc, that's some story!! I'm 52 and this winter activity stuff is all new to me. I think snowshoeing is supposed to be WAY easier than x-country skiing, or certainly downhill skiing!! You might want to get some poles to feel extra secure...I did. The heavy duty crampons on these are very reassuring. We have lots of hills here and we tend to get packed snow with accumulations of ice underneath.
It's so cool that you got the very SAME exact shoes as I did!!! I love that. Did you get yours yet? Too bad we can't go shoeing together! (I assume you are far from me)

My snowshoes arrived today!!!! :D :D :D Woo-HOOO!
They fit wonderfully, and are SO well made, even DH was much impressed and he's a Tough Customer! I didn't have to be concerned about my big feet and big boots at all- the bindings are able to handle my absolute clunkiest biggest winter boots of all. They adjust in several directions, so they are readily adaptable to varied boots. The crampons are awesome. I am SO pleased. Now I have everything I need: snowshoes, poles, gaiters, and even a snowshoe carrying bag that zips closed and you can lash the poles to. Well, I need maybe one more thing though.....SNOW. :rolleyes:
I can't wait to go tromping at the first 5" snowfall we get.

Heres another nice thing- this morning DH and I were having breakfast at the village cafe before heading out on our bike ride. We were making our ride plans on a map when a couple at the table next to us introduced themselves saying they love biking too. They live in a neighboring town and are similar age as us and they like to ride the same way we do- easy paced bike touring around the local countryside. She is a teacher at my old school and is still commuting to work in the cold on her bike. Then I mentioned I just bought snowshoes and it turns out they bought some last year and love to do that as well! So we exchanged info and will plan on doing some rides and shoeshing together hopefully soon. :p Bikes make good things happen. :)

[LBTC]

Hey LBTC,
Are you by any chance using snowshoes that have the heel attached? Isn't the back part of the shoe supposed to remain relatively dropped down and sort of drag along the top of the snow as you lift your foot and bring it forward in the next step? Is your shoe pivoting from the ball of your foot? I would think if you have the heel part clamped on then it would more likely flip up when you walk and fling snow up on your backside. Some shoes come with a little heel bar that you can flip up to secure your heel when climbing thus saving your calves- perhaps you have that and are using it on flats when you shouldn't be? Just some thoughts...

Mine do pivot, and the back floats free from my heel. And, not anticipating that we'll do any serious back country hill climbing, we bought ones without the heel risers....

I think I just walk funny! haha

Congrats on your new snowshoes! I hope the snow falls for you really really soon!


So we exchanged info and will plan on doing some rides and shoeshing together hopefully soon. :p Bikes make good things happen. :)

That is toooooo cool! Bikes do make good things happen! Look at all the friends we've all made here, too! :p

Hugs and butterflies,
~T~

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

That is toooooo cool! Bikes do make good things happen! Look at all the friends we've all made here, too! :p
Hugs and butterflies,
~T~

Yes, absolutely, and you know I really do have to thank YOU especially. I was sitting around here dreading the coming snows because it meant I wouldn't be able to bike anymore for several months. I was going to just go walking in the snow to try to keep in shape over the worst part of winter.

Then I saw this thread YOU started, and it got me inspired to try this snowshoeing thing. So THANK YOU, LBTC, and thank all you other women on this thread for your help and advice, you have got me off to a good start into something new and healthy to keep me out of Trouble when the snow falls! :p

[DebW]

Hey LBTC,
Are you by any chance using snowshoes that have the heel attached? Isn't the back part of the shoe supposed to remain relatively dropped down and sort of drag along the top of the snow as you lift your foot and bring it forward in the next step? Is your shoe pivoting from the ball of your foot? I would think if you have the heel part clamped on then it would more likely flip up when you walk and fling snow up on your backside. Some shoes come with a little heel bar that you can flip up to secure your heel when climbing thus saving your calves- perhaps you have that and are using it on flats when you shouldn't be? Just some thoughts...


You won't find snowshoes with attached heels, but some have spring-loaded bindings that flip snow. The old wooden shoes were all free pivot, so you actually drug rather than lifted the shoe as you stepped, and that helped it shed snow as well. The new ones are so light that lifting the whole shoe isn't a problem. MSR and maybe some Tubbs have free pivot bindings so they shouldn't flip snow on you. Atlas have spring-loaded bindings and do flip snow. The binding is mounted at about a 30 degree angle to the shoe but flexible enough to flatten when you step down. Therefore it springs back when you unweight and lifts off the snow at the back of the stride.

[LBTC]

Lisa, that is so cool! Thank you! With your enthusiasm, I just might get outside in the snow again today. Well, at the moment it is around -7 (20F), but the sun is shining. It may warm up quite a bit by the time we can go out. We have to buy the paint and get a coat on the walls of the kitchen first. The prime coat is done, time for the real colour :) All that said, at the moment I'd love to just lounge around bed all day, but I know that I'll feel like blech if I do! So, thank you for your enthusiasm!!

So, first things first - order the MEC Gore Tex pants; get the paint on the wall; find an alternate combination of pants, other than what I wore the other day, so that hopefully the snow will not soak through in no time at all....

And, DebW, darn it, those are exactly the snowshoes we got. They told us they were easier to use....didn't mention the snowflip issue at all. They were on sale, so they are not returnable. I sure hope the gore tex pants eliminate the problem!!
I'll keep ya posted.

Hugs and butterflies,
~T~

[DebW]

And, DebW, darn it, those are exactly the snowshoes we got. They told us they were easier to use....didn't mention the snowflip issue at all. They were on sale, so they are not returnable. I sure hope the gore tex pants eliminate the problem!!
I'll keep ya posted.


Atlas are very well-made snowshoes, sturdy, easy to use, very good bindings. My dh has a pair. They just have the snowflip problem. You should be fine with goretex pants.

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

Deb, thank GOD you're here to calm all us newbie shoers down when we panic! ;) :D ;)

[tygab]

Hi all,

I've stayed out of the snowshoe thread for a while but it's something I've been doing for years. The problem is the last two winters we haven't had any snow - really. It just snowed (and stuck) for the first time this year, but still only about a 1/2 inch. Can't get out the shoes for that. I love snowshoeing and it became my primary winter event, even over alpine skiing (which is a lot of fun but requires travel and lots of $$ for lift tix).

Re: snow on the legs. Generally, it is not a problem (I mean being wet), unless you are shoeing in warmer temps where it is basically packing and melting already. I tend to see this in March for example. I have come back from some of these trips quite wet (I wear non waterproof boarding pants).

I have GV Snowshoes. They are made in Quebec & I got them from a local canoe maker who is a dealer for them. They are extremely well made. I had a different kind before which my hubby inherited (lucky guy), but I like these because they have awesome free pivot and can ratchet well onto my smallish feet. The model I have is pretty backcountry oriented, and I use them mostly on untracked snow, got some awesome Long Trail snowshoeing in two winters ago. The older shoes were more packed powder friendly but were a bit harder to secure on my feet.

There are lots of very good brands. If you can go to a demo center (usually XC ski areas rent or demo them) I would urge everyone to try some different kinds out before buying, it just gives you a much better sense of what you like and want in your own shoes.

[Aint Doody]

I still think the snow flip has to do with the way a person is put together & walks. My friend who gets covered in snow from her waist down has the exact same shoes that I have. I get no snow flip. As I said before, I'm slew-footed (I walk like a duck with out-turned feet.)

[cosc]

Lucky me-5 to 6 in. of snow here. My dh and I went for a hike with my new snowshoes. What a fun to be outdoors and see the beauty of the season. The snowshoes worked great. Easy to get in and out and I was upright the entire time. I didn't get any snow flip! I'm a duck walker too. My dh was impressed with how well I did, but he didn't know how easy it was since he just had on his winter boots. Some advice to the newbies, don't over do like I did. The muscle that lifts my leg is going to have to recuperate a few days. I hope the snow doesn't melt before I'm able to get out again. I definitley need to cross-train. Lisa I'm glad you found some other snowshoers-bicyclist in your area because SD is too far to go for a Odyssey snowshoe outing.
Here's wishing all the snowshoers a good amount of snow!:cool: