Snowshoeing is a fun and exciting way to get around in the snow. Once made out of wood, animal hide and sinew, modern snowshoes are made from an array of materials that have made them lighter and stronger.
Metals
Tubular aluminum has replaced wood for the frame on modern snowshoes. It makes modern snowshoes lighter and gives them a smaller footprint.
Synthetics
Nylons and plastics have replaced sinew for the material used to stretch over snowshoe frames and provide movement in the snow. These synthetic materials have a flexible quality even in extremely cold temperatures and allow the snowshoes to be dynamic and light.
Crampons
Aluminum, hinged crampons are common on modern snowshoes. These are metal cleats that provide traction in the snow. Using aluminum, or in rare cases, titanium, for a hinged crampon makes snowshoes more versatile in climbing steep slopes, while helping to keep them light and strong.
Plastics
The use of high-tech plastic for modern snowshoe bindings has given snowshoes better grip for the foot and boot. The plastic also helps cut down on weight.
Nylon Cord
Although rawhide once held snowshoes together, nylon cord now does the job. It is stronger, lighter and more reliable.
About The Author
A former Alaskan of 20 years, Eric Coufal now resides in California. He has written for publications including "Outside" and "Backpacker" and has written a book on life in small-town Alaska, "North by Southeast." Coufal attended Syracuse University and was a professional mountain guide and backcountry expedition leader for 18 years. He worked in Russia, Iceland, Greece, Turkey, Belize and much of Alaska.
