Snowshoeing has become one of the fastest growing sports in the world today and it is easy to see why when considering the ease and enjoyment of this low impact winter sport. Not limited by age, fitness level or expertise, participants can access unlimited winter environments while receiving the benefits of a fun aerobic outdoor activity.In order to improve your awareness and understanding, Yukon Charlie’s has prepared a few useful tips:
Although it is not an exact science due to varying terrain and snow conditions, Yukon Charlie’s uses a simple weight chart when recommending snowshoe sizes for an individuals needs.
While both snowshoes will fit on either right or left foot, we recommend facing the binding buckles toward the outside of your feet.
We recommend using a stable, insulated, waterproof hiking boot when snowshoeing. Staying comfortable and dry is critical.
Since most women are smaller and lighter than men they do not require as large a snowshoe. Women also have a narrower stride / gait. To accommodate this difference Yukon Charlie’s tapers the tails of the women’s models and allows for a smaller boot size to fit comfortably and securely in the binding.
Yukon Charlie feels that the binding is the most important component of the snowshoe; it must be comfortable durable and easy to get in and out of. The strap and buckle binding on our Trail Series snowshoes has stood the test of time by being one of the strongest and easy to use in the industry. Our more advanced Quick Clik II ratchet binding system offered on our Pro-Guide Series snowshoes is well respected for its comfort, efficiency and strength.
Since snowshoeing is an aerobic activity it is common to warm up quickly while doing it, therefore, it is important to dress in layers allowing you the option to take off clothes when necessary, so not to overheat, and to put clothes on when necessary, so not to get chilled. Gaiters are also a recommended accessory that keeps snow from getting in the top of your boots and helps keep feet dry.
Poles are not required but they are recommended. Using poles with bales or baskets on the ends will provide much greater balance and stability on challenging terrain. Using poles also reduce the level of stress on the knees and increases overall cardiovascular activity as it involves the use of your upper body. Yukon Charlie’s has developed a variety of three-piece telescoping poles that can be easily adjusted to meet the needs of the individual user.
If your questions are not addressed here in the F.A.Q., please feel free to contact us using the form below.
