Snowshoeing is a fantastic activity that allows you to get out into the back of beyond and enjoy spectacular surroundings that you simply would not be able to see any other way. However, you need to ensure you have the right kit to enjoy yourself properly and get the most from your adventure. Here are some of the most important must-have items to make sure you pack when you go snowshoeing for the day.
Suitable Footwear
Wearing suitable footwear is essential for the majority of outdoor sports, so visit SportPursuit or another specialist sports store to stock up on what you need. For snowshoeing, you will need a good set of boots to go on top of the snowshoes, and a pair of hiking boots is usually the best option. Make sure they are waterproof and comfortable, which will make them suitable for longer trips.
Gaiters
Waterproof and breathable gaiters are a very useful addition to your kit list when you go snowshoeing. They will help to keep the snow out of your boots, allowing you to focus on enjoying yourself rather than complaining about how cold your feet are. They are especially useful when you are crossing deep snow.
Suitable Clothing
The weather can often be changeable in areas where you are snowshoeing, so the key is to wear various layers so that you can adapt to the changing climate. This could include a base layer that wicks the moisture away from your skin, a fleece for insulation, a waterproof jacket and trousers, thick socks and gloves, and a hat.
High-Quality Rucksack
A rucksack will be useful when you go snowshoeing because you can carry all of your essentials with you. Make sure you look for one that is of a high quality and not too heavy. If you can find a waterproof rucksack then that will be even better.
Hiking Poles
Hiking poles are not essential, but they can be very useful. This is especially true for longer trips. They help to take the weight off your legs and they also provide you with more stability, so consider investing in a pair.
Navigation Resources
There is no better way to ruin your day of snowshoeing than to get lost, so make sure you take along a map, compass, guidebook or GPS unit. You may even want to invest in a device that shows you your altitude and the distance you have covered. In any case, always make sure someone knows where you are going when you go snowshoeing just in case you get lost.
A Repair Kit
Invest in a simple repair kit for your snowshoes so that if something breaks you know you won’t be stranded in the snow.
Sun Protection
Even though the weather is cold, the sun can still be fierce and you will want to keep your skin protected. Take along a good pair of sunglasses, a sunhat and plenty of suncream to make sure you stay safe.
Prepare Yourself for Snowshoeing
Whether this is your first time, or you have been snowshoeing many times before, make sure you prepare yourself properly. Snowshoeing is a fun activity that anyone can do, but you will only enjoy yourself fully if you take the right kit along with you. So keep the above list in mind and make sure you stock up on everything you need for a fun day of snowshoeing.
