Hey snowshoers! It’s Bill again from Yukon Charlies, here to talk a little Snowshoeing 101.
Here at Yukon Charlies, our great customer service folks have come up with this list of the top 10 most commonly asked questions and answers on our snowshoes and the activity:
1 Is there a right and left snowshoe?
The answer is yes. For our adult and junior snowshoes equipped with either ratchet or fast fit bidings the buckles of the binding should always face the outside
2 What kind of footwear to I need?
Our binding will accommodate most any footwear but we have found that good water proof hiking boot seems to work best.
3 Is there any specific technique for walking on snowhoes?
We always say if you can walk you can snowshoe but like any activity the more you go the better you will become at manuevering on your shoes.
4 What size snowshoes do I need?
Snowshoes work by dispersing the users weight across a larger area of the snow. While not an exact science because there so many elements that change like snow condition . Here are the industry standards and we always suggest going slightly larger rather then smaller:
- 10×36” for user and gear up to 300 lbs
- 9×30″ for user and gear up to 250 lbs
- 8×25″ for user and ger up 200 lbs
- 8×21″ for user and ger up 150 lbs
- 7×16″ for junior users and gear up 100 lbs
5 How do I store or take care my snowshoes?
There is no maintenance other then we suggest wiping them down before storing and keeping in cool dry area when not in use
6 Do I need any additonal equipment?
The most common accessory is poles which allow you addtional balance on uneven terrain but we there is also gaiters which will keep snow and debris out of your boots and backpack to carry additional clothing, water,etc. Check out www.Yukoncharlies
7 What do I wear snowshoeing?
Snowshoeing is an aerobic activity similar to cross country skiing so we suggest dressing in layers with wicking base layer and waterproof top layer and add or remove as the temp and conditions change. Always better to be over prepaired
8 What do I do if I have problem with my Yukon Charlie’s snowshoes?
We suggest contacting us via the contact us page here on our website, or calling 1-866-snowshoe to speak with customer service rep
9 What are the major components of a snowshoe?
Frame: this is the aluminum tube that form the shape forms the shape and size of the snowhoe.
Deck: this is the materail that is attached the frame with the graphic on it that provides the flotation prporties for your snowshoe.
Crampon: this is the traction claws on the bottom of the snowhoes can be either aluminum , steel, or molded abs an can fixed or rotating.
Binding: this is the harness system that allows the users foot to be secured to the snowshoe. Can be ratchet system or soft strap system
Heel plate: the plate behind the binding that the heel of the users boot strikes when walking
Axle/toe cord: this is support that the binding is fastened to it is connected to either side of the snowshoe. Can be fixed, rotating, steel or strap material.
Molded: our juinor shoes are made from molded abs plastic instead of aluminum frames.
10 Why should I buy Yukon Charlie’s over other brands?
We are focused on providing only highest quality gear at prices families can afford. Our products are time & field tested to ensure you have the best outdoor experience possible.