If you want to explore snowy mountains in winter, learning how to use snowshoes is the first step to doing so safely and comfortably. Snowshoes are ideal for walking on snow-covered terrain, making otherwise inaccessible places reachable.
In the past, it was primarily hunters and farmers who struggled through snowy landscapes with cumbersome snowshoes strapped to their feet to avoid sinking into the soft white blanket. In the Dolomites, these early snowshoes were made of an oval or circular wooden frame, with strips of hemp or leather woven together. A moderately tight strap secured the shoes to this device. At the turn of the century, the army stationed in the Alta Pusteria Valley introduced alternative methods for winter mobility, and snowshoes were gradually forgotten.
In recent years, however, snowshoeing has made a comeback. Excursions have become popular once again, particularly on gentle slopes. With snowshoes, it is also possible to cross snowy fields with ease, even in late winter.
Even if you’ve never used them, you’ll find that snowshoes are surprisingly simple. With just a few tips, you’ll be ready to enjoy a day out in the snow. This guide provides all the information you need to get started.
Basic Information
Snowshoes are tools that attach to shoes and allow for easy walking on snow without sinking.
Choosing snowshoes should take into account the specific needs of the user. There are many models of snowshoes available on the market, which differ in terms of:
Price;
Materials used;
Type of crampon;
Pivoting attachment system.
The ideal shoes for snowshoeing are winter trekking boots or hiking boots. Snowshoe shoes should preferably be high to protect the ankle and have relatively rigid soles. They must be waterproof to keep your feet dry on the snow. If you are sensitive to the cold, choose models with thermal insulation. Avoid après-ski boots and MoonBoots, as they do not fit into the snowshoe bindings.
The size of snowshoes does not depend on the foot size, as the bindings are universal and adjustable for different lengths. The size of snowshoes is usually expressed in inches, indicating their length. Each size corresponds to a weight range of the user, typically following this scale:
22″ / up to 70 kg
25″ / from 70 kg to 100 kg
30″ / over 100 kg
It’s important to note that when choosing the size, you should also account for the weight of your backpack.
Additionally, larger snowshoes allow you to sink less into powdery snow but are heavier and bulkier.
A complete guide for beginners and enthusiasts
Snowshoes are tools that attach to hiking boots or trekking shoes. They allow you to walk on fresh snow or powder without sinking. Their wide surface distributes your body weight, preventing you from falling into the snowy ground.
Modern snowshoes are made from molded plastic or feature an aluminum frame with a base made of neoprene or polyurethane. They come with pivoting bindings that enable a reasonably natural walking motion, and in some models, the pivot can be adjusted depending on the terrain.
Nowadays, some snowshoes feature a heel lift that helps reduce the effort on steep ascents, or they can be adjusted in length with an extension that adapts to the type of terrain and snow conditions.
All snowshoes have fixed crampons beneath the binding, varying in width, positioned at the toe and heel of the boot. These crampons help provide traction on hard or icy snow.
Long snowshoes are used in deep snow and mostly flat terrain, while shorter and more maneuverable snowshoes are preferred on steep slopes.
Modern snowshoes are lightweight, ergonomic, and adjustable, suitable for every type of hiker. To choose the right model, consider your weight, the kind of terrain, and the snow conditions. But how do you use them correctly? Keep reading to find out!
How to use snowshoes step-by-step
1: Preparation
Before putting on the snowshoes, it’s essential to prepare properly.
- Choose the right equipment: Make sure you have snowshoes in the correct size, telescopic poles with wide baskets, and waterproof boots.
- Footwear for snowshoes: You can wear either hiking boots or summer-type shoes, varying in weight depending on the hike’s difficulty. Lighter boots are fine for shorter routes if they are sufficiently waterproof. Bulky après-ski boots, like MoonBoots, are unsuitable and often incompatible with snowshoe bindings.
- Ghette: Utile accessorio che impedisce alla neve di entrare nelle scarpe.
- Crampons: Crampons may be necessary for some hikes. I recommend lightweight alloy ones with classic strap binding, which can be adjusted to fit various shoes.
- Dress appropriately: Use the usual ski-hiking clothing, dress in layers, and always pack an extra shirt for the end of the trip. Of course, gloves, a hat, and sunglasses are essential and should be stored in your backpack when not in use. Wear technical socks to keep your feet dry.
- Check the weather: Avoid poor visibility or avalanche risk conditions, as they are crucial for your safety.
2. Putting on the snowshoes
Place the snowshoes on a flat surface and position your foot correctly.
- Attachment: Snowshoes are generally differentiated into left and right by the closure buckle, which should always remain on the outside. The boot should be positioned so the toe is placed just above the front crampon, typically found on all snowshoes. Tighten the straps or fastening system, ensuring your foot is stable but not restricted.
Wear the snowshoes securely attached to your boots. Typically, snowshoes have a fastening system that can be adjusted to fit your shoe. Ensure they are firmly secured but not too tight to avoid discomfort while walking. - Check: Take a few steps to make sure they are securely fastened. Before starting your hike, it’s essential to choose the right snowshoes. The size of the snowshoes mainly depends on your weight and the snow conditions. The softer the snow, the larger the snowshoes should be. Ensure you also have durable hiking boots and suitable clothing for low temperatures.
3. Backpack
You should never set off for a hike, even an easy one, without checking that your backpack contains everything you need to face a winter day in the mountains. Ideally, the backpack should have straps to secure it at the waist and chest and be large enough to hold:
- a first aid kit;
- a windbreaker for when it’s not being worn;
- a spare t-shirt;
- a thermal flask to keep drinks hot;
- wire, cords or paracords, duct tape, and a multi-tool knife to repair any damage to the snowshoes;
- a topographic map of the hiking area.
4. Walking with snowshoes
Walking with these unusual tools on your feet takes some practice, but it’s not complicated. The natural movement is similar to normal walking, though it requires slightly more effort initially. Avoid lifting your legs too high, and find a steady rhythm.
One common mistake that could cut your hike short is starting too fast without adequately gauging the effort. Starting slowly and conserving energy by avoiding unnecessary movements is always a good idea.
Keep your feet slightly apart to prevent the snowshoes from overlapping, which could cause you to trip.
Remember not to walk backward, as the snowshoe tail may dig into the snow and make you fall.
Use trekking poles to maintain balance, especially on uphill or downhill sections. The poles ‘ alternating support will help you keep your arms slightly spread, helping with stability.
5. Techniques for Different Terrains
Ascent: When the snow is hard-packed, tackle the ascent directly on the steepest line using the crampons under the snowshoe. Push with the front of your foot to ensure the crampons grip effectively.
Ensure the leading foot is stable before advancing the rear leg.
Keep your tibia, knee, and femur aligned.
Some snowshoe models come with a heel lift to ease steep climbs.
Descent: Spread your feet slightly and keep a low center of gravity to avoid slipping. Use small steps and descend on the steepest line to ensure the crampons grip and prevent the snowshoe tip from getting caught in the snow.
If the slope becomes steeper and you start to slide, switch to a telemark technique instead of a classic ski stance.
Maintain the steepest descent line, and when sliding, lower your center of gravity significantly for better balance and stability.
To execute this movement, bend the knee of your forward leg slightly while lowering the rear knee close to the snowshoe.
Move swiftly and decisively to transition to the next step.
Keep your arms broad and forward to help maintain balance.
Traverse: The technique varies based on snow conditions when crossing a slope diagonally. Soft snow poses no issues, but on hard-packed or icy snow, take the following precautions:
Many snowshoes lack lateral grip, so traversing can be unstable.
On gentle slopes, proceed as usual.
Position both snowshoe tips uphill for steeper, more challenging slopes and move sideways. Shift your poles and arms first, then move your legs and snowshoes step by step.
Turning Around: To perform a turn, make small circular steps rather than attempting to pivot in a single movement.
Deep Snow: Walking in fresh, deep snow requires more effort. Maintain a slow, steady rhythm and focus on your breathing.
Avoid long strides; take short, controlled steps to conserve energy and stay balanced. Sync your movements: advance your foot, secure it firmly, and shift your weight forward, engaging your quadriceps to maintain a smooth motion.
Hard-packed or Icy Snow: Distribute your body weight evenly across the entire surface of the snowshoe to ensure the crampons grip securely. Avoid placing excessive weight on a single area, as this could reduce traction.
6. Snowshoes on your shoulders
There may be situations where carrying your snowshoes is necessary, such as when the trail starts with a snow-free section or transitions to terrain unsuitable for snowshoeing. In these cases:
Attach your snowshoes securely to your backpack using the provided straps or loops.
Ensure they are well-fastened to avoid swinging or hitting you as you walk.
For safety, position them so the sharp parts, such as crampons, face away from your body and others.
Carrying snowshoes on your shoulders can be practical, but be mindful of their weight and balance, especially on uneven terrain.
Sometimes, you walk in pairs, with only one person carrying the backpack. So, how should the person without the backpack carry the snowshoes? They can be taken “on the shoulder”: the poles should be inserted into the front part of the snowshoes, then rest the poles on the shoulder, allowing the snowshoes to slide down the back, slightly tilting the poles for balance.
7. Maintenance after use
After using the snowshoes, taking care of them is essential to ensure their longevity and functionality. Here are the main steps for maintaining your snowshoes:
- Clean them: Remove snow, dirt, and debris from the snowshoes. Use a soft brush or cloth to clean the frame and bindings.
- Dry them properly: After cleaning, let the snowshoes dry naturally in a cool, dry place. Avoid drying them near direct heat sources, such as a heater or in direct sunlight, as this can damage the materials.
- Check the bindings: Inspect them to ensure they are still secure and functioning correctly. Look for any signs of wear and tear, and make sure all straps and buckles are intact. Replace any damaged parts as needed.
- Lubricate the moving parts: If your snowshoes have any moving parts (like the heel lift or the bindings), apply a small amount of silicone-based lubricant to keep them moving smoothly.
- Proper storage: Store your snowshoes in a cool, dry place away from extreme temperatures and humidity. Hang or put them in a bag to prevent unnecessary pressure on the frame.
By following these maintenance steps, your snowshoes will stay in good condition for future use.
Where to use snowshoes in the Dolomites
The Dolomites offer endless opportunities for snowshoeing adventures. Cortina d’Ampezzo, with its breathtaking views and various trails, is the perfect place to venture into the snow. Each route provides an opportunity to immerse yourself in untouched nature and enjoy the silence of the mountains. Now that you’ve learned how to use snowshoes, if you want to know more, don’t forget to visit the “Snowshoeing excursions in Cortina” page, where you’ll find plenty of routes to explore while connecting with nature.
Valuable tips on how to use snowshoes safely
- Check the snow conditions: Verify the avalanche bulletin and choose safe routes.
- Equip yourself properly: Carry a map or GPS, a first aid kit, and a headlamp.
- Trust experts: If you’re a beginner, consider joining a guided tour to learn techniques and safety.
- Avoid going alone: Companionship increases safety and makes the experience more enjoyable.
Why use snowshoes?
Snowshoes are perfect for those who love nature and want to explore the mountains even during the colder months. They allow you to access trails that would otherwise be inaccessible and enjoy snowy landscapes without facing significant difficulties. Walking with snowshoes is also a great workout, combining nature’s joy with full-body physical activity.
Walking with snowshoes is more than just a winter sport; it’s a way to experience the mountains harmoniously with the environment. They allow you to:
- Reach remote places: Traverse untouched landscapes far from mass tourism.
- Engage in a full-body workout: Tone your legs, glutes, and back while improving balance and providing excellent aerobic exercise that benefits your cardiovascular system.
- Enjoy the silence: Immerse yourself in the snow’s peacefulness, a refreshing and rejuvenating experience.
Snowshoeing, yes, but with caution
Now that you’ve learned how to use snowshoes, it’s important to emphasize that going into the mountains in winter without the help of a guide can be risky if you lack the necessary knowledge. You move in the mountains, sometimes at high altitudes, and the weather can change rapidly.
The most significant danger is avalanches.
Anyone planning to undertake serious excursions without the help of a guide must have a significant set of skills: they should know the area well and, if not, be able to read a topographic map and learn how to use an altimeter and compass.
They must stay informed about the weather conditions and plan the hike according to their abilities.
Even a relatively easy excursion, such as the sunny walk to Pousa Marza, can cause orientation problems if there’s no trail left by those who went before.
The itinerary should always be studied in advance before embarking on the hike.
If heading into risky areas, one must have the ARTVA (Avalanche Transceiver) and know how to use it. This essential tool for searching for potential avalanche victims should always be used with a shovel (for digging) and a probe (for searching). Additionally, appropriate winter gear is crucial.
So, exercise caution: if you don’t feel confident, don’t hesitate to ask guides for help.
Who is recommended to use snowshoes?
Walking with snowshoes is simply an extension of summer hiking. On easy and safe trails, it’s an activity accessible to everyone, including children aged 8-10.
Once the bindings are secured, the adventure can begin. Snowshoes offer an extraordinary way to experience the mountains in winter. If you stick to simple routes, snowshoes don’t require any particular technical knowledge.
It’s often said, “If you know how to walk, you know how to use snowshoes.” You don’t need to go to high altitudes to enjoy unforgettable experiences. A blanket of snow on a forest road halfway up the mountain is enough to immerse yourself in the extraordinary experience of nature covered in white.
Conclusions on how to use snowshoes
Using snowshoes is one of the most exciting and engaging experiences for those who love winter and the mountains. Not only do they allow you to explore breathtaking landscapes, but they are also a fun and healthy physical activity. With the proper preparation and equipment, even a beginner can safely enjoy a beautiful snowshoe hike.
Suggested routes in the Cortina area
Giau Wall and Becco Muraglia with snowshoes.
In Val Fonda with snowshoes.
From Pocol to Cortina.
With snowshoes at the foot of Tofana.
Snowshoes: Discovering the Cinque Torri.
Snowshoeing in Fedare.
Easy snowshoeing and sledding on Monte Piana.
Snowshoeing at the Tre Cime.
With snowshoes in the shadow of Col Drusciè.
Snowshoeing in the Great War Sites.