How to Adjust Snowshoe Bindings

The bindings that are attached to the top of your snowshoes basically serve as a harness for your feet. These harnesses can accommodate most types of hiking boots or sports shoes and hold the snowshoes securely to your feet during your hike. When you are choosing shoes for a snowshoeing outing, be aware that snow may accumulate on top of the snowshoes while you are walking, so waterproof footwear is a must.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

Flat surface

Step 1

Make sure that the snowshoes are resting on a flat surface before you attempt to put them on. Trying to adjust bindings on an incline is difficult and may prevent you from tightening the bindings evenly.

Step 2

Step into the center of the binding on the snowshoe. There should be a loop over the top of your foot and another loop extending over the back of your heel.

Step 3

Tighten the heel strap first. Wrap the strap around the back of your foot, and insert it into the buckle on the opposite side of your foot. Pull the strap until it rests snugly against your heel.

Step 4

Tuck the end of the strap into the loop you created to keep it from dangling on the ground. Some snowshoes may have a small loop on the strap itself for this purpose. You may step on a dangling strap while you are snowshoeing, causing the bindings to become loose.

Step 5

Pull up on the end of the strap at the front of your foot until the loop over the top of your foot is tight. Secure the end of the strap in the same manner as the heel strap.

Step 6

Repeat the process with your other foot. If the snowshoes feel loose once you begin walking, stop and readjust them.

Tips & Warnings

To prevent frustration when out in the snow, practice putting snowshoes on and tightening the bindings at home before you need to use them.

Article Written By Kittie McCoy

Kittie McCoy has been a freelance writer since 2008. She is also a part-time personal trainer and licensed entertainer in Las Vegas. She enjoys sharing her love of physical fitness and experience in the entertainment industry via her writing.

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