According to Christopher Paruch, if you're new to snowshoeing, make sure you do your homework ahead of time. Temperatures can vary dramatically during the winter, so check the avalanche forecast and weather forecast for your destination. Getting an early start is critical because the snow can become slushy and wet by late afternoon. Start early to avoid the icy, late-night hikes. Make sure you stay warm and dry by wearing a good pair of walking boots and layers on your journey.
Hiking in the snow can easily increase your overall calorie burn by up to 60% when compared to walking barefoot. If you want to tone up your legs, this is a good thing. Compacted snow increases your calorie burn by up to 60%. It also helps tone your muscles because you're more careful about where you put your feet. You'll have a harder time staying warm, but you'll get a great workout.
Hiking in the snow is more adventurous than hiking in the summer because it can be more freeform. Because the snow is deeper, visibility is reduced, so you'll need to be more aware of your surroundings. It's also important to remember to Leave No Trace principles and to keep an eye out for avalanche conditions. Also, before you leave, make sure you have your navigation in order. After all, you don't want to get lost.
While hiking in the snow is not difficult, it is important to be prepared. Because slippery snow can cause accidents, wear good walking shoes with sturdy soles. Microspikes, which are tiny steel teeth attached to the bottom of the shoes, will help beginners improve their grip. You can also use trekking poles, which are similar to large ski poles and provide four points of contact when crossing snow. Although these tools are costly, you do not need to spend a lot of money on them.
Christopher Paruch pointed out that if you plan to hike in the snow, make sure you leave a detailed itinerary with someone who can get you back safely. Also, keep in mind that hiking in the snow is more dangerous alone than in a group. A body buried in ice can cause serious injury or even death. As a result, it's best to stick with a group or a partner. Hiking alone is not a good idea, even for the most experienced hikers. You don't know if you'll have to deal with an avalanche or get stuck in the snow. A hiker should always be accompanied by a partner to increase their chances of safety and enjoyment.
Crampons, microspikes, and snowshoes may be required depending on the terrain. These traction devices will assist you in staying balanced on slick terrain. If you're hiking on packed snow, you may need to use traction devices such as snowshoes or a sled. Although these traction devices are not required for hiking in the snow, using them in the right conditions is critical.
If you're going on a long hike, make sure you bring the necessary survival gear, such as food for a few days, a flashlight, a fire starter, and a multi-tool. You should also bring a flashlight in case you need more light. When the temperature drops below freezing, there isn't much you can do but watch for symptoms like shivering, shallow breathing, and confusion. In addition, you should wear a headlamp and apply sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
Choose layers with insulation and breathability for extra warmth and comfort. You'll need a fleece or puffy jacket as a base layer and a waterproof shell to protect your feet. Don't forget to bring extra socks and gloves. Finally, wear cold-weather boots. Remember to layer up in case you need to remove some of your layers to warm up. You should also invest in a face mask or a winter hat for added protection.
In Christopher Paruch's opinion, a good pair of hiking boots will keep you dry. Snow can get inside your boots and make them very uncomfortable. Waterproof gaiters will keep snow out of your shoes and cover the gap between your pants and boots. They'll also keep your socks dry and warm. For deeper snow, wear knee or ankle-length gaiters. If you don't want to spend a fortune, get one that's half-length or longer.
