Snowsheing...beginner question

[tayken]

Hi folks,

Never snowshoed before and looking to get into it this Winter. Any idea what I should look for during the purchase / what to avoid?

Thanks

[ultraslacker]

I actually recommend renting and/or borrowing for awhile. Try to test out a few different styles and models before buying any. I did that and was able to buy exactly the model I wanted because I had tried enough to know what I needed and wanted.

Snowshoes range from ultra light (running snowshoes) which are slimmer and lighter but don't have good traction or stability like a heavier snowshoe will. So there's a big difference if you're doing hardcore mountain snowshoeing or gentle running (mine are in between).

Also, if you walk into MEC and just look at the selection, you'll see some big differences. Turn them over to see the crampons on the bottom, and check out how they're structured. I love that my Atlas' have a pivot foot, but they also tend to kick a lot of snow up at my butt.

Check out this guide:
https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/snowshoes.html