Recreational Snowshoes
Recreational snowshoes are perfect for beginners or anyone who plans to stay on flat or rolling terrain. These inexpensive snowshoe models are more suitable for firm snow than they are for deep powder. They have easy to adjust bindings and less aggressive traction systems than the adventure and backcountry models.
Hiking Snowshoes
Hiking snowshoes are a step up from the recreational models. These snowshoes can handle on or off-trail day hikes on moderate to steep terrain. However, they are not recommended for extremely steep or icy terrain. these snowshoe models have more aggressive crampons and beefier bindings than the recreational snowshoes.
Backcountry Snowshoes
Backcountry snowshoes are designed for those who enjoy hiking icy, steep terrain. They are constructed with climbing-style crampons and rugged bindings, which are designed to withstand the harshest conditions and terrain. Since backcountry snowshoers often hike in deep powder, these snowshoes have greater flotation abilities. They are also designed to fit larger footwear, such as ski or snowboard boots. As such, they are suitable for skiers and snowboarders who like to earn their turns by climbing up the hills.
Fitness Snowshoes
Fitness snowshoes are designed for aerobic enthusiasts. Since your feet are more active during aerobic snowshoeing, these snowshoes have flexible bindings and an asymmetrical shape, which allows for a greater variety of leg movements. Fitness snowshoes are usually made from a lighter weight material such as titanium.
Article Written By Lisa Mercer
In 1999, Lisa Mercer’s fitness, travel and skiing expertise inspired a writing career. Her books include "Open Your Heart with Winter Fitness" and "101 Women's Fitness Tips." Her articles have appeared in "Aspen Magazine," "HerSports," "32 Degrees," "Pregnancy Magazine" and "Wired." Mercer has a Bachelor of Arts in psychology from the City College of New York.
