snowshoes

 This is just a reminder to me on how to buy snowshoes.
How To Buy Snowshoes
Features To Covet

• Anodized aluminum frame or molded plastic deck / frame.
• Adjustable binding. Choose "limited rotation" to minimize tail drag on groomed snow, "free-rotation" for best traction and control on unbroken surfaces.
• Upturned toe for easier maneuvering and minimizing snow build-up.
• Ratcheting buckle on the binding for ease of use.
• Solid decking of Hypalon or molded plastic or other synthetic material.
• Toe and heel crampons underfoot to increase traction.

Variables To Consider

An Adventure Network Truth from the gear guru himself, Michael Hodgson:
You simply cannot buy one pair of snowshoes that will serve you well in every snow condition you'll encounter.
Size does matter...a quick guide to finding the right shoe for your weight:

• For backpacking / extended winter hikes: Your weight including the weight of a pack if you're carrying one:
  Up to 140 - 8x21
  Up to 180 - 8x25
  Up to 200 - 9x30
  200 and over - 10x36
• For recreational use, day trips by the hour: Your weight including the weight of a daypack if you're carrying one:
  Up to 140 - 8x21
  Up to 180 - 8x25
  180 and over - 9x30

Other sizing considerations:

• Hiking alone or breaking trail for a group? or Is the snow deep and powdery? Then size up. As a rule, you'll need a in the range of 9x30 or 10x36.
• Hiking with a group and sharing trail breaking duty? Then you'll probably do fine with a shoe in the range of 8x21 or 8x25.
• Planning on running? Then opt for one of the running-specific designs.

Size does matter...a quick guide to finding the right shoe for your weight:
Contributed By: Michael Hodgson

Michael Hodgson is a an award-winning journalist and author of numerous books including Camping for Dummies, Compass and Map Navigator, and Facing the Extreme. He is a volunteer instructor for the American Red Cross, Nevada County Sheriff's Search & Rescue team and was a former mountain guide. Michael is well-known for his sense of humor and eagerness to try anything once in the pursuit of a really good story. His friends remain amazed that he can still walk. He has partnered with his journalist-wife, Therese Iknoian, on four web sites: his own www.AdventureNetwork.com, plus www.GearTrends.com, www.TotalFitnessNetwork.com, and www.SNEWSnet.com








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