How much snow do you need to shoe or xcountry ski?
I've been reading the threads on snowshoeing with a great deal of interest. Winter came early to Indiana this year and I'm finding myself less than content with spinning and yoga. I just miss being outside. But how much snow does one generally need to snowshoe? I read a thread where someone (Lisa, I think) said 5 inches, but I've read conflicting information elsewhere. Do you generally need more or less snow to x-country ski?
The snowfalls we get around Central Indiana are so unpredictable. We've had a fair amount of snow some years, very little in others and, as was the case last year, not much snow minus one really bad storm in mid-February. So, I'm having a hard time deciding whether to make the investment.
That said, I have a nice pair of Tubbs Venture shoes picked out along with a few pieces of related gear. I have a lot of cycling stuff--a Gore Windstopper Jacket, Tights, baselayers, wool socks, etc., that should do double duty. Right? I also have a pair of waterproof pants.
So, that leaves gaiters, a wool hat, gloves (my cycling gloves aren't as warm as I'd like them to be), a pack of some kinds to hold a water bottle, and boots. I have these picked out at REI. I don't really know much about what to look for in boot, so do they look okay? http://www.rei.com/product/740631
Thanks for the help!
Kate
Live with intention. Walk to the edge. Listen hard. Practice wellness. Play with abandon. Laugh. Choose with no regret. Continue to learn. Appreciate your friends. Do what you love. Live as if this is all there is.
--Mary Anne Radmacher