The History of Snowshoeing: From Survival to Recreation
Snowshoeing is a winter activity that combines history, survival, and recreation. For thousands of years, people have used snowshoes to navigate snowy landscapes, and today it’s enjoyed as a fun and accessible way to explore winter terrains. Let’s dive into the fascinating history of snowshoeing, its purpose, the different types of snowshoes, and how to choose the right size for your snowy adventures.
Origins: Snowshoeing as a Necessity
The roots of snowshoeing go deep into the history of human survival in snow-covered regions. It’s believed that snowshoes were first used by Native Americans, dating back over 6,000 years. Early snowshoes were crafted from wood, bone, and rawhide, designed to distribute the wearer’s weight evenly over a larger surface area, thus preventing them from sinking into deep snow. This invention allowed hunters, trappers, and travelers to move efficiently across the snow in regions where winter conditions made travel otherwise impossible.
Snowshoes were essential tools for survival, particularly for indigenous groups living in regions such as the Canadian tundra, the northern United States, and parts of Europe and Asia. Over the centuries, snowshoe designs evolved, with different styles tailored to various terrains and purposes.
The Point of Snowshoeing: More Than Just Getting Around
At its core, the primary function of snowshoes was to make travel through snow-covered ground easier. Without them, people would struggle to traverse deep snow, as each step would sink them deeper into the powder. Snowshoes distribute a person’s weight more evenly across a wider surface area, effectively preventing them from sinking and allowing them to walk more efficiently.
While snowshoes were originally invented for practical reasons, their use quickly expanded beyond survival. Over time, snowshoeing became an enjoyable activity and even a form of exercise, as it allows people to explore snowy landscapes in a way that wouldn’t be possible on foot alone. Today, snowshoeing is popular for both recreation and sport, enjoyed by outdoor enthusiasts who want to experience the beauty of winter in a low-impact, accessible way.
Types of Snowshoes
Just as snowshoes have evolved throughout history, so too have the different designs and materials. Today, snowshoes come in various types suited for different types of terrain, from flat trails to rugged mountain paths.
- Traditional Snowshoes: These are often referred to as “bear paw” or “lattice” snowshoes. They feature a long, narrow design with a frame made of wood, often with a webbed pattern made from rawhide or synthetic materials. These are great for flat terrain and rolling terrain, where stability and a larger surface area are essential.
- Modern Snowshoes: These are typically made from lightweight aluminum frames, with synthetic decking materials that make them both durable and light. Modern snowshoes are designed to be more versatile, suitable for a range of conditions from flat terrain to mountain terrain. They often feature crampons or spikes on the bottom for added grip on icy surfaces.
- Backcountry Snowshoes: These are specifically designed for use in more challenging, mountainous conditions. They tend to be larger and have more aggressive crampons for better traction in steep, rugged terrain. Backcountry snowshoes also offer greater flexibility and maneuverability, allowing for easier navigation through dense snow and ice.
- Racing Snowshoes: For those who want to add a competitive element to snowshoeing, racing snowshoes are lightweight and streamlined, optimized for speed rather than flotation. These snowshoes are often smaller and more minimalistic, designed for hard-packed trails or races through flat terrain.
Sizing Your Snowshoes
When it comes to snowshoeing, the right size snowshoe is crucial for maximizing comfort and efficiency. The size of snowshoes is typically determined by the user’s weight, including gear, as well as the type of terrain you plan to navigate.
For flat terrain, smaller snowshoes are often sufficient since the ground is typically even and doesn’t require as much flotation. These snowshoes are lighter and easier to maneuver. If you’re venturing into rolling terrain, you may need a slightly larger size to ensure you get enough flotation while also having the stability needed for slight elevation changes.
For mountain terrain, you’ll need a larger snowshoe to handle deep, loose snow and steep climbs. These snowshoes have larger surface areas and more aggressive traction systems to keep you stable on uneven or icy surfaces.
Most snowshoe manufacturers provide sizing charts that take weight and snow conditions into account. A general rule of thumb is that the deeper the snow and the more rugged the terrain, the larger the snowshoe you’ll need.
The Role of Hiking Poles
While snowshoes do a great job of helping you float on top of the snow, hiking poles are incredibly useful in helping you maintain balance and rhythm while you walk. Hiking poles are especially useful in mountain terrain or on rolling hills, providing additional support when you’re navigating uneven or challenging ground. Poles also give your upper body a workout, making snowshoeing an excellent full-body exercise.
Where to Shop for Snowshoes
When it’s time to gear up for your snowshoe trip, there are several great retailers where you can find a wide range of options for all types of terrain. Two of the best places to visit are REI and Sportsman’s Warehouse. Both carry a variety of styles and designs tailored to different conditions. For those who prefer shopping online, Amazon is a convenient choice, providing a vast range of snowshoe brands and sizes with customer reviews to help guide your decision. No matter where you shop, be sure to consider your intended use to find the best snowshoes for your winter adventures.
Before heading to the store, be sure to check out our Snow Sports Deals to save money on all of your winter gear needs!