by Debbie McKeown Shoe Fetish “Snowshoeing is the fastest-growing winter sport in North America.” “If you can walk, you can snowshoe.” I can’t recall how many times recently I have read and heard these well-worn clichés. I would love to report an alternative viewpoint, but the truth is, I can’t. They are both accurate. Snowshoeing is indeed a wonderful and easy-to-learn sport that is gaining enormous popularity. It can be enjoyed at many ability levels, is affordable, an excellent full-body workout and best of all, provides access to beautiful and otherwise inaccessible winter landscapes.

My introduction to snowshoeing came on a winter hiking trip to California’s Sierra Nevada mountains. As I gained elevation and the snow got deeper and deeper, I watched enviously as snowshoers strode easily past me. Soon I was bogged down in knee-deep snow and had to turn back. The next day, I started to research my first snowshoe purchase. The Internet is a great resource for snowshoers. Selecting a model that is right for you can be confusing, but most of the major snowshoe manufacturers have guidelines on their websites to help you make the right choice. Several models of snowshoes are now made exclusively to accommodate a woman’s gait. For snowshoers new to the sport, a great approach is to rent the first few times to discover what works best for you. Clothes-Minded You may already have most of the clothing and footwear you need for snowshoeing, particularly if you are a hiker or runner. Dressing in breathable synthetic layers is the best approach. Waterproof hiking boots are ideal, but I have also used non-waterproof boots with a waterproof sock. Gaiters are important to keep snow out of your boots, especially in powder conditions. Many snowshoers like to use trekking poles for balance and stability. My summer hiking poles work perfectly if I simply substitute larger snow baskets. What you carry with you is as important as what you wear. The most crucial item is water. Drink more than you think you need, and take along some high energy snacks. Otherwise, some extra warm clothing, a map, matches and the usual emergency preparedness items should set you up safely for a day on the snow. Destination Anywhere Destinations for snowshoeing are limitless. We are fortunate in North America to have many pristine wilderness areas that are excellent for snowshoeing. Several national, state and provincial parks now offer guided snowshoe hikes geared specifically for beginners and those not familiar with the area. Likewise, downhill and cross-country ski resorts are catching onto the snowshoe craze, often providing marked and groomed trails especially for snowshoers. Community recreation programs and outdoor stores are also great places to check for local outings. For almost anything you want to know about snowshoeing, check out Snowshoe Magazine. A quick Internet search will reveal several manufacturers of snowshoes including Atlas and Tubbs. Both provide particularly good websites with a great deal of information about snowshoe selection, destinations and events. I have been snowshoeing for several seasons and have grown to love the sport more every winter. For me, few things can compare with the beauty of snowshoeing on a bright January morning after an overnight snowfall. The snow-covered tree branches, crisp air and easily discernible animal tracks are pure magic, and I always feel privileged to be a part of this quiet winter world. So, go ahead and give snowshoeing a whirl … make this the year that you fall in love with winter.