Snowshoeing in Tahoe

A Brief History of Snowshoeing

From Europe to North America to Asia, people began using snowshoes over 3,000 years ago out of a basic need to find food and explore new territories in the wintertime.

Snowshoers looked to the naturally efficient design of animal paws and began modeling their snowshoes after animal prints they found in nature. Some early styles like the beavertail and bearpaw are still in use today.

Some of the earliest snowshoes were over seven feet long which, though unwieldy, were helpful in navigating through very deep powdery snow.

As cities grew and society shifted from a farming to an industrial culture, people who no longer had to trap, hunt or forage for food took to the woods for pure enjoyment. The recreational sport of snowshoeing was born!

Large sporting organizations formed in Northern New England and Eastern Canada to enjoy this new winter activity. Some legendary snowshoeing clubs of Canada's Quebec Province had over 200 members and were known for wearing flamboyant costumes on their outings. Others set out with their own drum and bugle corps and special club flags and banner.

While the length and width of snowshoes varied over the years, they were typically made with ash timber frames and untanned cowhide webbing.

It was not  until the 1970s that metal alloy frames and solid fabric decking were introduced, once again revolutionizing the sport. Modern designs also include features like spring-loaded bindings and heel cleats, making them even more efficient and easy to use.

Snowshoe advancements have spurred a renewed interest in the sport, with new organizations and events that carry on the rich snowshoeing traditions of the past.

Tips and Tricks for Snowshoers

Climbing

To ascend a slope kick the front of your snowshoe into the snow and press down to compact it into a step. Make sure that each new step is sufficiently above the last one to avoid collapse.

Descending

Heel cleats are the key to an easy descent. Keep your knees slightly bent, lean back and  keep your weight on the heel cleats to maintain control.

Edging

The best way to traverse a slope is to kick the side of the snowshoe into the hillside, engaging the cleats. Swing your heel hard towards the uphill slope, then stomp down, securing the snowshoe edge in the slope. Poles are also helpful.

Breaking Trail

When snowshoeing in a group, walk in a single line behind the leader who is breaking the trail. When it is your turn to lead, take consistent, even steps that are easy for everyone to follow.

Safety Tips for Snowshoers

• Check with the local weather service before you head out. Conditions can sometimes change abruptly.
• Make sure someone knows where you will be snowshoeing and your expected time of return, even if you are not going alone.
• When snowshoeing with a group, make sure everyone is comfortable with the pace and demands of the trail. Count the number of people in your group before you leave and make sure everyone in the group knows this number. Stop every 30 minutes to allow everyone in the group to catch up.
• Know your limits and don't surpass them!

Clothing Tips for Snowshoers

On Your Body

Think in layers!The first layer of clothing should be lightweight and breathable. You should avoid cotton garments. The Second layer should be insulating. Lightweight fleece or wool is ideal. The outer layer should be waterproof.

On Your Feet

Your number one objective is to keep your feet dry! Wear socks made from moisture wicking materials like wool, silk or polypropylene. Your boots should be stable and comfortable. Waterproof hiking boots are your best bet. Gaiters are essential for keeping snow out of your shoes.

Supply Tips for Snowshoers

Essential Supplies

It is a good idea to take along a few things that always come in handy when you are out on a snowshoeing adventure. Be sure and have plenty of water. Plan for one quart per person, per hour. Take extra food or energy bars. Carry a compass and a trail map and know how to use them.  And pack a first aid kit.

Handy Tools

Snowshoe poles will help to keep you stable and to propel you forward. If you are a serious adventurer or mountaineer, an ice axe is absolutely necessary when crossing steep and icy terrain.

Pictures of snowshoers and text Copyright © 1998 Atlas Snow-Shoe Company. All Rights Reserved.