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How To Snowshoe--
Oops you already know how
TECHNIQUE... Improve
your snowshoe IQ
There’s not much technique to snowshoeing.
In fact, if you know how to walk, then you know how to snowshoe. But
there are a few things you’ll want to bear in mind.
CLIMBING
To ascend a slope, kick the front of your snowshoe into the snow and
press down to compact it into a step. Make sure that each new step is
sufficiently above the last one to avoid collapse.
DESCENDING
Heel cleats are the key to an easy descent. Keep your knees slightly
bent, lean back, and keep your weight on the heel cleats to maintain
control.
EDGING
To traverse a slope, kick the side of the snowshoe into the
hillside, engaging the cleats. Swing your heel hard towards the uphill
slope, then stomp down, securing the snowshoe edge in the slope. Poles
are also very helpful.
BREAKING TRAIL
When snowshoeing in a group, walk in a single line behind the leader
who’s breaking the trail. When it’s your turn to lead, take
consistent, even steps that are easy for everyone to follow.
POLES... The benefits of using
poles
•Stabilize upper body
•Increase cardiovascular output by including upper-body
movement
•Improve balance and stability on difficult terrain
•Reduce wear and tear on your joints and ligaments
•Improve respiratory function by improving posture
CLOTHING... The air is 0° and your
body is 98.6°—let’s keep it that way
ON YOUR BODY: The Layered Approach
First layer - lightweight and breathable, such as Capilene; avoid
cotton garments
Second layer - insulating, lightweight fleece or wool is ideal
Outer layer - waterproof/windproof
ON YOUR FEET: Dry Is Key
Socks - Wear socks made from moisture-wicking materials (wool or
polypropylene)
Boots - A pair of stable, comfortable, and waterproof hiking boots
is your best bet
Gaiters - Keep cold snow away from warm feet
SUPPLIES, important things for the
backcountry
THE 10 ESSENTIALS:
1-First Aid kit
2-Extra food/water
3-Extra clothing
4-Firestarter
5-Matches
6-Knife
7-Compass/GPS
8-Map
9-Sun protection
10-Flashlight
ISSUES OF SAFETY, take Mother
Nature seriously
There are thousands of untouched acres to explore. To ensure a safe
journey, we recommend you consult a local mountaineering guide service
before setting out. Exploration of the backcountry in winter requires an
advanced level of preparation, experience, and outdoor know-how. To find
the backcountry area nearest you, contact your local Atlas dealer, the
National Park Service, or a local guide service.
And remember to respect the environment–tracks should be the only sign
you leave behind.
PRECAUTIONARY TIPS... Misfortune
stalks the unprepared
•
Hypothermia tends to hinder good judgment. So do yourself a favor
and keep your head, hands, and feet well protected (that’s where you
lose the most heat).
• Check to see what Ol’ Man Weather has in store for the day and
prepare accordingly.
• Tell someone where you’re going and when you’re coming back.
Search parties love clues like that.
• You are aware, of course, that there’s less daylight in the winter
months. So avoid the embarrassment of helicopters and bloodhounds and
get back before dark.
• Familiarize yourself with a trail map; trails that were easy to
follow in the summer may now be hidden by deep snow.
• Check all your equipment in advance and use an equipment checklist
to ensure that you don’t forget anything crucial.
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