Being a snowshoer is a fun and exciting  and can bring many opportunities that others may not have. Snowshoeing unlike many winter sports can be done practically anywhere there is snow, this means places you love in the summer are not off limits in the winter. Being from Michigan I have always loved going and spending time walking and hanging out at our states lovely sand dunes. I have now stumbled upon the fact they do and have allowed snowshoeing at most these great places.

Most sand dunes will offer snowshoers to walk their dunes and some have specific trails. For the most part you would have to bring your own equipment as many do not offer rentals. An inexpensive way to spend a beautiful day outdoors as most parks only charge admission to the park through a daily or yearly pass. Specific parks also offer guides that can show the best parts of the park, show animal tracks and chaperon you safely around.

You can typically find information on these programs if they exist either on the Internet or by simply calling your local park and asking some questions. Snowshoeing will continue to offer people new and exciting ways to do things and to see new people.

Over the weekend a few friends and I were able to slip away from the daily grind to Northern Michigan for a wintry getaway and while there we noticed an evolving trend. Being in a few small local towns over the weekend which were being hit with some decent snow we noticed many people using snowshoes to get around and to move from place to place. These town were mostly small and the restaurants, stores and other establishments are typically fairly close. I have heard stories of people getting snowed in and using snowshoes as a way out of sticky situations but to actual see first hand people using snowshoes as an activity as well as a mode of transportation was amazing.

It was evermore evident when stopped at a gas station that also offered a selection of sandwiches and sides there was a man dressed in what looked to be a very warm snow suit and he was standing in line for the register, sandwich and snowshoes in hand. I’m sure some out of towners may have snickered and laughed at such a site but not me, I envied, it was amazing to see someone not going out to their car after shopping but out to their snowshoes rather!

It may have been a fluke or this may be a trending topic but either way it is something that when done is helping the environment and helping promote healthy snowshoe users, both of which are great things. Living a couple miles from home I’ve never given much thought to snowshoeing to town but maybe during the next big snow I’ll ditch the car keys in exchange for some snowshoes.

What is a Hydration Pack?

Who uses a Hydration Pack?

Uses for a Hydration Pack?

Structure and Design

Accessories

Maintenance

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What is a Hydration Pack?
A hydration pack is essentially a large plastic bag or bladder that can be filled with water. A long hose with a valve is attached to the bag so the user can drink from the bag. The bag is then placed into a backpack and carried on the users back. The hose is run from the bladder, out of the backpack and to the users’ mouth. Hydration packs have become a much preferred alternative to the traditional water bottle. This is because hydration packs carry more water, fit comfortably on your back and can be used while on the go.

Who uses a Hydration Pack?

Hydration packs are most popular for athletes who want to drink on the go, and don’t like the hassle of a water bottle. Because hydration packs are carried on your back, they are comfortable and can be taken anywhere. But the most important feature is the fact that the user can take a drink without stopping. All they have to do is bite on the hose and take a drink. Therefore, hydration packs have become very popular among hikers, skier, snowboarders, snowshoers, bikers, rollerbladers, and many others. With the exception of sports played on a field or court, water bottles have been replaced by hydration packs.

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Uses for a Hydration Pack

The obvious reason to use a hydration pack is to get water into your system to stay hydrated when taking part in any activity. One of the best perks of owning a hydration pack is the fact that it is quintesentially a backpack so you can easily pack ample equipment for a days activity. The hydration pack becomes a keep all for anything you may need and relieves stress of trying to find a place to put things that will not interfere with your activity.

Structure and Design

Hydration packs similar to many items in sporting goods have many variations to how they are made and to what specifications. Here we will get into what different parts go into a pack, how they vary and what that means to you. Getting to know what goes into the structure and design of a hydration pack will ultimately ensure you are an educated shopper who gets what they need when making that purchase.

Pack Size
The higher the volume of the bladder, the larger the pack which carries it needs to be. This is an important thing to consider. The larger and bulkier the pack, the more cumbersome it will be. However, in certain situations, it may be an advantage to have a larger pack. For example, if you are a road biker, you most likely do not want a very big or bulky pack. It will feel awkward and weigh you down. However, of you are a backcountry skier, a large pack will give you a place to put extra gear, a lunch, spare clothes, ect. So think about the sport you will be doing and how much room you would like you pack to have.

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Closure Systems

Different hydration packs come with different closure systems. The two most popular are the zip-lock closure system, and the screw cap closure system. The zip lock closure system works basically like a heavy duty zip lack back, requiring the user to seal it together after it is filled. The screw cap system is our favorite, and it requires the user to simply screw a cap back on after filling. We like this system better because it tends to have fewer problems with leaks.

Straps

Almost all hydration packs come with padded shoulder straps. However, you may want to investigate if a given hydration pack has a sternum strap and hip straps. A sternum strap connects the shoulder straps across the chest. This is a very nice feature if you plan on using your hydration pack while on the go, as it prevents the shoulder straps from slipping off. Hip straps are very convenient if you plan on carrying a significant amount of weight in you pack, as the take much of the weight off your shoulders and displaces it to the hips. The more types of straps a hydration pack has, the more is can be custom fitted to your body and needs.

A hydration pack should fit similar to a hiking backpack. It should fit snug against your back, with the shoulder straps adjusted so the pack sits comfortably on your shoulders. If you leave the straps to low, the hydration pack will give you a shoulder ache, to high and it will feel uncomfortable and awkward.

bite valve

Valves

At the end of every hose is a valve to keep the water from leaking out when the user isn’t drinking. There are a few different valve designs that hydration pack hoses use. The most common valve is a bite valve. These valves are made of soft rubber with a small slit in it, and are placed on the end of the hose. When the user wants a drink, they simply bite on the valve and suck. When the user stop biting down, the valve automatically closes. However, because these bite valves are prone to leaking, some hydration packs will also have a switch to open and close the water flow. This is a very nice feature, especially if you plan to use your hydration pack in the winter, as the leaking water will freeze to your clothes. Make sure to look for these details when looking at hydration packs for your outdoor exploration.

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Accessories

There are a few accessories which make excellent additions to you hydration pack. The first is a hose insulator. This is a neoprene sleeve which fits over the hose and prevents it from freezing. This is a must have add on if you plan on using your hydration pack in the winter, because as soon as the water in your hose freezes, the hydration pack is useless. The second is a bite valve cover. This is a large rubber cover which easily fits over the drinking end of the hose. This will keep any dirt or dust from getting into your drinking water. It also can act as in insulator, keeping the valve from freezing in colder temperatures. The last handy accessory is a cleaning kit. This will provide you with everything you need to keep your hydration pack clean and sanitary.

Maintenance

With a hydration pack it can be easy to look past storage or cleaning as it is so often looked at as a backpack with no special needs. A hydration pack is very easy to care for and with just a few tips you can have your hydration pack for many years and many memories.

Basic Clean and Care for your Hydration Pack

For the most part hydration packs are a very low maintenance item. However, there are a few things you can do to ensure the longevity of your hydration pack. The first tip is to only put water in your hydration pack. Drinks with sugar make the inside sticky and can cause it to mold, mildew, and clog. Only using water or specially designed flavor tabs will ensure this does not happen. Second, always allow your hydration pack to dry out after use. Draining it completely and opening the closure system will allow the pack to dry and keep from mildewing. If you use your hydration pack frequently, investing in a drying device may be worth your while. This is a device which inserts into the bladder of the hydration pack and keeps it stretched open so air can more easily circulate and the bladder can dry faster.

Be sure to clean your hydration pack every few uses. NEVER run it through the dishwasher, hydration pack bladders are fragile and need to be washed by hand. The first step is to remove the hose from the tube. Once these are separate, use a very small amount of mild dish soap and warm water to fill both the hose and the bladder. If you purchased a cleaning kit, they will provide you with the proper brushed. Otherwise, use a soft brush, like a baby bottle brush to clean the bladder and a long pipe cleaner to clean the hose. Be sure to rinse it thoroughly and let it dry. If you find that your hydration pack has developed an odor, fill the bladder with water and add 2 teaspoons of baking soda. Then let it sit overnight and finish cleaning it in the morning.

Storage

There are only a few things to look for when storing a hydration pack between uses or for the season. If storing between uses you can simply drain any excess water out and rinse the pack before hanging it above the ground. It is recommended hydration packs be hung to keep the hose clean of debris and or household pets, this will also keep the structure of the pack in good order. When storing for an extended amount of time a washing of the bladder of the pack is recemonded to clear any possible dirt or debris out. After washing ensure the pack is dry and hang off the ground until the next time you are looking for some refreshment for an exhilarating activity.

Now that you have all the education needed to pick out a hydration pack for use in your activities we guarantee you will make a good choice and be enjoying water on the go in no time. Remember the basics, refer back to this guide with any questions and remember to stay hydrated!

Hydration packs come in a number of different volumes. Most hydration packs range from one liter to three liters in capacity. Depending on the sport you are doing, how hot it will be, and how long you plan on going without a refill, different size hydration packs are appropriate. For example, skiers tend to drink less water than long distance bikers. When you are picking out your new hydration pack, you will want to think about how much water you typically drink while out. You also want to remember that you will be carrying this on your back. The larger the hydrations pack, the more it will weigh and the bulkier it will be.

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Types of Snowshoes

• Recreational
• Mountaineering and Backcountry
• Race and Fitness
• Women’s

Other Important Things

• Cost
• Buying Second Hand
• Importance of Sizing
• Have Fun

Additional Media

• Sizing Guide | Snowshoes

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Types of Snowshoes

Recreational

Looking to get some moderate exercise on your local groomed trails, walk the dog and have the capability to break your own path on occasion, recreational snowshoeing could be for you. One of the most popular categories because of the limitless capabilities of a recreation snowshoe and the fun that can be had. A recreational snowshoe will be very easy to walk with on any flat or rolling terrain have very easy adjustments for anyone to use and are slightly less aggressive than others in varying categories. The crampons, which are the metal pieces that grab the ice and snow, on this style are moderate to not inhibit walking but enough to offer good grip on icy, snowy terrain.  These are typically considered an entry level style and can be found at a good price for someones first pair of snowshoes.

Mountaineering and Backcountry

Feeling like breaking your own trail through the woods and deep snow, how about hiking and backpacking up some steep and icy terrain, backcountry or mountaineering snowshoes may be right for you. These snowshoes are beefed up with larger crampons to offer that extra grip and security that you need when your summiting that peak you have wanted to climb for years. The bindings on these models will also be bigger and sturdier to accommodate bigger hiking and outdoor boots. Backcountry and mountaineering snowshoes are also constructed in a whole bigger and beefier to withstand anything you wish to throw at them.  A great choice for any serious snowshoe enthusiast looking to go  in the deepest snow and in all  the varying weather conditions.

Race and Fitness

If your an active runner and cannot run your favorite trails due to the winter weather change, run all the same trails and keep your heart pumping all year around with race and fitness snowshoes. Much smaller than regular style snowshoes these are lightweight with different and adjustable crampons for varying trails and snow types. The bindings on these styles will cradle and wrap around athletic and running shoes. These snowshoes are not intended for use in off trail situations and perform best on groomed and kept paths. Great for the athletic runner or outdoor enthusiast looking to excel in the winter and take advantage of all season’s and enjoy scenic landscape along the way.

Women’s

A no brainer, women are made different than men and need a specific product for certain sports, snowshoeing is one of those where a woman will benefit from having the proper equipment.  Women’s snowshoes are designed with a woman’s foot in mind, built narrower with a more contoured frame to fit their natural foot type. Bindings are also built specific with a smaller foot in mind to ensure that they are getting properly snugged in all activities and situations. The women’s category of snowshoes will have backcountry, racing, recreational and all other types of snowshoes fit specific to a woman’s foot type.

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Other Important Things

Now that you have hopefully narrowed down what type of snowshoer you are going to be lets take a look at a few more factors that can help determine which snowshoe is right for you.

Cost

Snowshoeing in general is  a very cost friendly activity that anyone can get into without breaking the bank. Typically you can get into snowshoeing for around 200 to 300 dollars with a good set up. Many companies will offer packages for beginners that include shoes and poles which is a cost effective way to get into snowshoeing. If your an active person and know that you will excel and enjoy the sport of snowshoeing  it may make sense to spend a bit more initially so that you do not have buyers remorse months later.

Buying Second Hand

It is typically not recommended that one purchase snowshoes second hand based on not knowing the structural sturdiness of the shoe.  If you do find yourself purchasing a used snowshoe it is imperative that you inspect the shoe very closely to ensure there are no defects, chips, or weak points. Snowshoes can have a long life but they must be cared for and sometimes it is hard to tell if they have been abused or not with the naked eye, be cautious.

Importance of Sizing

Snowshoes like most sports products must be sized correctly for them to perform at their best. We will cover intricate  sizing issues in detail in our Snowshoe Sizing Guide, here are some basics. Snowshoe’s are sized by the user’s weight and it is very important to be brutally honest when sizing yourself for a pair of snowshoes. Another often overlooked issue is the gear that many will be taking along with them, factor this in and add this to your weight when picking a pair and they are sure to perform like they were intended to.

Have Fun

Last but not least, envision all the fun you will be having when choosing your new pair of snowshoes and all the beautiful places your going to go. Think of all the beautiful scenery snowshoeing is going to show you and all the unique experiences you will forgo.  Snowshoeing is a great exhilarating activity that anyone can take part in and have a fun at their own pace, slow or fast.

Additional Media

• Sizing Guide | Snowshoes

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If you buy your snowshoes too small, you will sink like a rock, but if you buy them too big, they will feel awkward and be difficult to use. But don’t get discouraged, sizing snowshoes is really very simple. Snowshoes usually come in three set sizes; 8” x 25”, 9” x 30” and 10” by 36” (width x length). Although some models will vary, these are the general sizes. In this article, we will explain all you need to know to fit yourself into the right size snowshoe.

Pick A Type

Know Your Environment

Know Your Weight

• Chart | Weight to Snowshoe Length

Additional Media

• Buying Guide | Snowshoes

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Pick A Type

Snowshoes come in three styles when referring to size; Men’s (or unisex), women’s, and kids. Men’s or unisex snowshoes are designed for heavier individuals with larger feet. Women’s specific snowshoes are an excellent choice for women hikers, as they are designed to for women’s body shape and feet size. This means they will typically be narrower, have smaller bindings, and can be found in sizes as small as 8” x 21”. Kids’ snowshoes are obviously smaller, and usually have more limited features than their adult counterparts.

Know Your Environment

Think about where you will be doing your snowshoeing most. Will there be hills? How deep will the snow be? How dry is the snow? These are all things to consider because the deeper and dryer the snow, the more float, and thus larger the size, you will need. On the same note, if you will be most on trails or in the neighborhood, a smaller snowshoe will be easier to control and will weigh less.

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Know Your Weight

First things first, you need to know your weight. This is the most important step, as a snowshoes job is to keep you afloat in the snow, so NO cheating. Once you know your weight, it is important to estimate how much gear you will usually be carrying with you when you are snowshoeing, as this will add extra weight. Individuals who will be carrying backpacks and gear will need a larger snowshoe then those who are only going for a stroll around the block. So be honest with yourself about how much you will weigh with your gear on.

Chart | Weight to Snowshoe Length

Once you have considered this information, use this chart to the proper size for your snowshoes. Remember, you will need to slide the bar up or down depending on how much extra weight you will be carrying as well as other factors discussed above. The chat suggests the recommended length, width is a function of both style of snowshoe and length, but for the most part, the width will be in line with the proper length.

Additional Media

• Buying Guide | Snowshoes

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• Backcountry: Anywhere where there are not designated trails. Usually “off the beaten path”.

• Binding: The device that attaches your boot to the snowshoe.

• Braking Crampons: Crampons located in the rear of a snowshoe. These are designed to fill with snow to assist in the descent of a slope.

• Crampon: The jagged traction device found under the binding. This is designed to help the snowshoe gain traction on steep or slippery slopes.

• Decking: The surface of the snowshoe that attaches to the frame. This is what distributes the weight of the snowshoe, allowing them to float. This is usually made from a plastic or synthetic material.

• Fixed Binding: Binding which does not pivot and is usually attached directly to the decking.

• Floating Binding: Binding that allows a range of motion and connects to the decking at a pivot point under the ball of the foot. This allows the snowshoes to shed snow far more effectively.

• Flotation: The ability to stay on top of, and not sink into the snow. Usually refers to the ability of a snowshoe to keep the user on top of the snow.

• Frame: The metal or plastic skeleton of the snowshoe. This is what the decking attaches to.

• Gaiters: Leggings which cover the top of the boots. Used to keep deep snow out of a snowshoer’s boots.

• Glissading: Act of descending a steep slope of snow in a controlled manner for pure fun or to bypass a scree or rocky patch.

• Heel Strap: Strap which goes around the back of the heel.

• Hypalon: A very durable and flexible rubber material used for snowshoe decking.

• Pivot Point: The point under the ball of the foot to which the binding is attached to the snowshoe.

• Rotating Toe Cord: Point of the binding which is attached to the snowshoe that pivots on a metal rod so that the snowshoe tail drags or tracks behind as you walk.

• Self Arrest: Planting your ice axe into the hillside which stops your fall by setting your body weight over the axe.

• Self Belay: A self saving procedure which prevents you from falling by planting and hanging on to your ice axe as you walk.

• Step Kicking: Method of ascending a steep snow slope by kicking toes into the snow, creating safe steps.

• Snowshoe Poles: Poles used to help a snowshoer maintain his or her balance while snowshoeing. These are usually retractable and feature large baskets.

• Toe Strap: Strap which goes over the toe.

• Tracking: The ability to continue in a straight line. Better tracking means it is easier to continue on a straight path.

• Traverse: The method of crossing a slope horizontally, with on shoulder facing uphill and the other downhill.

• V-tail: Frame design where the tail thins into a v shape. Helps with tracking.

• Western: Snowshoe shape which features a rounded tail.

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