SNOWSHOEING: Is it for me? I Winter In The Dolomites

#snow #snowshoeing #dolomites

What is it? Could I do it? Snowshoeing through fresh, powdery snow on forest tracks or on mountain pastures can be one of the most enjoyable things to do in the winter. If you've wondered what it's like or whether you're capable of doing it, then I hope this short video will provide some answers for you

Music
'Natural Light' Chris Haugen

This video was prompted by Sue Lyth so please check out Sue's channel @FIVE-FOOTLyth

For what it's worth, these are my thoughts on snowshoes having used different types over at least ten years.
I think the first thing to consider is where they will be used the most and therefore, what sort of conditions they will need to deal with. I've only used them a few times in the UK (Lakes and Scotland) where the snow can vary from wet and heavy to hard and icy so a pair that do not 'ball up' and that also have good grip should keep you upright. On continuous hard snow or ice I would use crampons rather than snowshoes.
It's also worth bearing in mind the type of terrain they will be used on. For gentle, rolling ground a fairly basic pair that do not lock down at the heel would probably be sufficient. However, on steeper, more technical terrain I think a pair where the heels can be locked down is essential, especially on descents.
Another consideration is your weight. Snowshoes have different weight ranges so ideally it's best to get a pair where you are somewhere near the middle of the weight range if possible.

Some current snowshoe manufacturers (in no particular order)
https://www.tsloutdoor.com/snowshoes
https://tubbssnowshoes.com/
https://www.msrgear.com/ie/products/snowshoes
http://www.raquettesinook.com/index_GB.php

It's worth considering renting snowshoes before committing to buying a pair.

Видео SNOWSHOEING: Is it for me? I Winter In The Dolomites канала Ian Tupman Outdoors