Snowshoe 101
Snowshoeing has become one of the fastest growing sports in the world today and it is easy to see why when considering the ease and enjoyment of this low impact winter sport. Not limited by age, fitness level or expertise, participants can access unlimited winter environments while receiving the benefits of a fun aerobic outdoor activity.
In order to improve your awareness and understanding, Yukon Charlie’s has prepared a few useful tips:
How do I know what size snowshoe is right for me?
Although it is not an exact science due to varying terrain and snow conditions, Yukon Charlie’s uses a simple weight chart when recommending snowshoe sizes for an individuals needs.
| User and Gear Weight | Snowshoe Size | Snowshoe Model |
| Up to 100lbs | 7” x 16” | 716 |
| Up to 135 lbs | 7” x 19” | 719 |
| Up to 150 lbs | 8” x 21” | 821 |
| Up to 200 lbs | 8” x 25” | 825 |
| Up to 250 lbs | 9” x 30” | 930 |
| Up to 350lbs | 10” x 36” | 1036 |
Is there a right and left shoe?
While both snowshoes will fit on either right or left foot, we recommend facing the binding buckles toward the outside of your feet.
What kind of footwear should I use when snowshoeing?
Yukon Charlie recommends using a stable, insulated, waterproof hiking boot when snowshoeing. Staying comfortable and dry is critical.
What is the difference between a man’s snowshoe and a women’s snowshoe?
Since most women are smaller and lighter than men they do not require as large a snowshoe. Women also have a narrower stride / gait. To accommodate this difference Yukon Charlie’s tapers the tails of the women’s models and allows for a smaller boot size to fit comfortably and securely in the binding.
Is the binding an important feature to consider when choosing a snowshoe?
Yukon Charlie feels that the binding is the most important component of the snowshoe; it must be comfortable durable and easy to get in and out of. The strap and buckle binding on our Trail Series snowshoes has stood the test of time by being one of the strongest and easy to use in the industry. Our more advanced Quick Clik II ratchet binding system offered on our Pro-Guide Series snowshoes is well respected for its comfort, efficiency and strength.
What type of clothing should I wear when snowshoeing?
Since snowshoeing is an aerobic activity it is common to warm up quickly while doing it, therefore, it is important to dress in layers allowing you the option to take off clothes when necessary, so not to overheat, and to put clothes on when necessary, so not to get chilled. Gaiters are also a recommended accessory that keeps snow from getting in the top of your boots and helps keep feet dry.
Are poles required?
Poles are not required but they are recommended. Using poles with bales or baskets on the ends will provide much greater balance and stability on challenging terrain. Using poles also reduce the level of stress on the knees and increases overall cardiovascular activity as it involves the use of your upper body. Yukon Charlie’s has developed a variety of three-piece telescoping poles that can be easily adjusted to meet the needs of the individual user.
NEWS
SNOWSHOEING WINTER 2007/2008
Yukon Charlie's continues to be the snowshoe industry leader by providing the highest quality products and service at the "family" price point. Snowshoeing is a great family activity that requires no additional specialized gear or athletic ability, just the desire to be healthy and enjoy the natural beauty the winter has to offer.
Enjoy the Winter!
Health Benefits
Snowshoeing provides a healthy aerobic activity for people of all ages to participate in during a time of year when options are sometimes few and far between. Snowshoeing also allows for a chance to enjoy the outdoors in the winter alone or with family and friends. Snowshoeing is considered a low impact sport in that the risk of injury is low. The snow provides a natural cushion and the mechanics of snowshoeing are very similar to walking or hiking.
One of the great things about snowshoeing is that you can go anywhere you can find snow. Snowshoe equipment is inexpensive and you do not need a lift ticket to get out and enjoy the sport. Forests, State Parks, Ski Centers and Golf Courses are all great places to snowshoe.
Longer snowshoe walks will help to build overall strength, endurance and balance. Using poles during snowshoeing will also help to build upper body strength. The chart below outlines the calorie burning benefits of snowshoeing.
| Activity | Snow Type | Terrain | 120 lbs | 150 lbs | 180 lbs |
| Walking | Packed | Flat | 360 | 450 | 540 |
| Walking | Packed | Hilly | 410 | 515 | 620 |
| Walking | Powder | Rolling | 560 | 700 | 840 |
| Walking w/poles | Packed | Hilly | 475 | 590 | 710 |
| Walking w/poles | Powder | Hilly | 671 | 840 | 1005 |
| Running 12 min/mile | Packed | Flat | 575 | 715 | 860 |
| Running 8.5 min/mile | Packed | Flat | 690 | 860 | 1030 |
The benefits are countless. We’ll leave it up to you to decide how to
EXPERIENCE WINTER!