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...