WHICH SHOE FOR SNOWSHOEING?
The great outdoors, the silence of nature, and its wildlife: snowshoe hikes are becoming increasingly popular. To be well-equipped for this outdoor adventure, choosing the right snowshoe footwear is essential. Stiffness, warmth, waterproofing, or even sizing—Ekosport guides you through this crucial decision.
The three main types of shoes for snowshoeing
For an initiation test or a first snowshoeing outing, you could simply wear après-ski boots! However, they will quickly reach their limits. To be properly equipped for your next snowshoe hike, you will have three shoe options.
First, entry-level snowshoe shoes for short hikes offer foot support and good grip. Despite their high ankle support, they remain lightweight, comfortable, and warm. However, most of them have breathable mesh that is not waterproof enough. Paired with gaiters, they can work for occasional hikers or those on a budget.
More suitable for snowshoeing, hiking boots are designed for steep inclines over long distances. They provide excellent cushioning, protecting the hiker's joints and lower back. With a grippy sole, crampons, and a waterproof membrane, they are perfectly suited for snowshoeing, even in wet, slushy snow. Ideally, opt for models with minimal seams to reduce the risk of water infiltration and easy lacing systems.
Finally, experienced hikers can opt for mountaineering boots. These highly technical snowshoe shoes are designed for extreme conditions, whether in terms of terrain (steep inclines, slopes, ice) or climate (down to -20°C). Rigid or semi-rigid, they allow for additional crampons to be attached and are designed for high-altitude trails.
THERMAL INSULATION OF WINTER SHOES
Shoes designed for mountain activities generally feature a thermal membrane to keep feet warm. You can boost insulation by replacing the original insole with a thermal insole—perfect for those who are sensitive to the cold!
The criteria for choosing snowshoeing footwear
Each shoe model prioritizes certain technical features over others. The best choice depends on your personal needs, including usage frequency, preferred terrain, and budget.
Some key factors to consider include:
- Stiffness: To test a snowshoe shoe for stiffness in-store, try bending it. If it flexes easily, it is considered "soft"; if it resists bending, it is "stiff." While stiff soles may seem uncomfortable at first, they provide better foot support and reduce effort on long hikes. Rigid or semi-rigid shoes are recommended for extended treks.
- Support: The shoe’s high ankle support provides stability. While it protects against cold and moisture, its primary function is to reduce strain on the foot, ankle, and calf muscles, which are heavily engaged during mountain hikes.
- Grip: Snowshoes provide grip, so why worry about the shoe’s sole? In reality, it’s important for transition areas like parking lots or when taking a break. Non-slip shoes are versatile and can be used for multiple outdoor activities.
- Protection: Good winter footwear prevents cold and wet feet. Apart from being uncomfortable, frostbite is a real risk. A waterproof but breathable membrane is crucial to wick away sweat while keeping external moisture out.
GAITERS
Gaiters connect the top of the shoe to the bottom of the pants to keep this area dry and warm. Waterproof and insulating, they are particularly useful for long hikes in wet snow.
How to choose the right size for snowshoeing shoes?
In snowshoeing, as in hiking, feet tend to swell due to exertion. To compensate, it is recommended to choose a snowshoe shoe that is half a size to one size larger than your everyday shoes.
If trying them on in-store, perform this test: slide your foot in until your toes touch the front. You should have about a finger’s width (approximately 1 cm) between your heel and the back of the shoe. Despite this margin, the heel should not lift when bending your knees. This space allows for a thicker sock and accounts for foot swelling.
Shoe size measures only foot length, but for a comfortable fit when choosing a snowshoe shoe, width is also important. Some models cater to narrow feet (often women’s versions), while others accommodate wider feet with a spacious toe box.
OFF-PISTE SAFETY
Snowshoeing, like freeriding, requires avalanche safety gear. If venturing off the beaten path for sportier outings, at a minimum, you should carry an avalanche transceiver, a probe, and a shovel.
Maintaining and waterproofing your snowshoeing shoes
For mountain snowshoeing, waterproof footwear is essential. In addition to regular maintenance, an annual waterproof test helps determine wear and whether it's time to replace your shoes.
By examining the boot’s materials, you should be able to identify where the waterproof membrane ends, either due to a fabric change or color shift. Fill the shoe with water up to this mark and wait a few hours. If no moisture seeps through, the snowshoe shoe is still waterproof. If water leaks through the fabric or sole, it's time to invest in a new pair of snowshoeing shoes.
Success in snowshoeing depends on choosing quality, well-adapted gear that ensures maximum comfort during exertion. This way, you can focus on the breathtaking landscapes rather than on discomfort or muscle fatigue. Don't let poor equipment ruin your best outdoor experiences—your feet are crucial, so choosing the right snowshoeing shoe is essential.
THE THREE KEY POINTS FOR CHOOSING SNOWSHOEING FOOTWEAR:
- A high-ankle boot preserves ankle stability and prevents injuries.
- Waterproofing and insulation in a snowshoeing shoe ensure comfort and reduce frostbite risk.
- For optimal comfort, even on long hikes, choose a shoe that is half to one size larger.