Tuesday, November 22, 2011

Putting On A Nice Pair of Snowshoes for Snowshoeing And Other Winter Sports

By Jake Harrison


Snowshoe is a type of shoes used for walking on the snow. A pair of these shoes is used to make our feet somewhat "float" and not totally sink into the snow. It makes it enjoyable and pleasurable for us to go outdoors during the snow-covered winter. Walking is not that hard when one is using a good pair of snowshoes.

Our feet could sometimes sink and stock in the snow while we are walking. Deep layered snow can be very challenging to walk on. Snowshoes are made to help us tackle the snow-covered track by helping the feet float. Its main purpose is to make us walk and glide easily on the snow. These kinds of shoes are made of metal, plastic and synthetic fabrics which are very light-weighted. The weight of the person is distributed over the wider area so that he or she can walk on without sinking.

Years ago, snowshoes were used by traders, trappers and hunters or forest rangers to hunt for food in the middle of the deep snow-layered roads. But today this kind of shoes is used by most people for recreational activities like running, and hiking, as a way of transportation and also for a sport activity called snowshoeing.

The fastest growing winter sport in America is now the snowshoeing. It is just as simple as walking on the snow with the use of snowshoes. Most people are now enjoying this outdoor activity as their way of exercise and to some a great form of transportation.

Snowshoeing is not even hard to learn. There is no learning curve if you are a starter. As long as you know how to walk, then eventually you will learn how to master the stride and glide with the use of snowshoes. You just need to put your feet a bit further from each other compared to the usual walking.

Snowshoes come in different styles which are tailored for snowshoeing activities. The sizes and durability of the shoes depend on the level of snowshoeing that a person is usually engaging in. Multiple layers of clothing are also recommended before going outdoors to keep the body in the right temperature. Warm clothing such as sweatshirts, wind or waterproof jackets, hat, gloves and scarves can be worn. These layers can also be easily removed if the temperature suddenly rises. A good quality, comfortable pair of boots is also needed. Trekking poles can be helpful as well to provide stability when walking or striding.

Most pairs of snowshoes work in a different snow conditions. However, a pair of good snowshoes is best to match your level of activity to provide more comfort and functionality. Recreational Snowshoes are used for walking or hiking on not too steep terrain. These are good for beginners and casual snowshoers. Mountaineering Snowshoes are used by serious hikers for steep climbs over rough terrains. These snowshoes have added durability and grip to help mountaineering hikers complete their rigid activities. Running snowshoes are used for strenuous activities such as cross-training or exercise and competitive racing.

Before you consider buying a pair of snowshoes, bear in mind to evaluate first the type of activities that you will be engaging in, to make sure that you choose the best type of snowshoes for you.




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