7 Snowshoes and Poles to Help You Survive Winter Trekking
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Yes, winter has been pretty mild in the US this year, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t more to come, or that you can’t head up into the mountains and literally get your feet wet. In preparation for the potential of a less-than-likely major snow storm, we’ve provided a small list of some of the best snowshoes on the market.
Redfeather.com
Vapor Race Cross Country Snowshoes
Redfeather, $254.95
If you’re a hardcore snowshoe racing enthusiasts, (which obviously we assume everybody is), these lightweight shoes should do just the trick. The titanium crampons will let you glide across the snow like Legolas from 'The Lord of the Rings.' ('Cause he doesn't leave behind footprints on the snow… Get it?!)
Komperdell.com
Mountaineer Snowshoes
Komperdell, $139.95
Stainless steel crampons, fast-clip bindings and a sturdy aluminum frame make these snowshoes formidable footwear, which will easily get you to the top of the hill, mountain or whatever thing your trying to trek through.
Rei.com
930 Snowshoes Starter Kit
Atlas, $159.93
Are you just getting into the sport of snowshoeing? Then this fairly inexpensive starter kit, geared toward novices, should help you along your way. Adjustable poles, solid Atlas snowshoes and a mesh storage bag make up the complete package. There are starter kits available for both men and women, in case you wanted to make this a couple’s activity.
Rei.com
Wilderness 25 Women's Snowshoes
Tubbs, $159.93
These snowshoes were designed to cover all kinds of snowy environments, while maintaining a high level of comfort for the wearer. Padded heel straps, heel lifts, a lightweight design and carbon steel crampons are just some of the special features that will keep you safe and happy.
Cascadedesigns.com
Evo Ascent Snowshoes
MSR, $199.95
These bad boys were built to get you across the roughest patches of snow, no matter the terrain. With rugged traction, a unibody design, and a ton of security features, you can rest assured when strapping these monsters on. You’ll be able to conquer great swaths of wintery wilderness, no problem.
Amazon.com
Aspect 28 Snowshoes
Atlas, $214.97
These backcountry snowshoes boast saw-toothed traction along the edges, as well as solid fore and aft traction, which will let you tackle the toughest of snow conditions. If you’re a hardcore backcountry hiker, these snowshoes are definitely for you.
Leki.com
Trekking Poles
Leki, $159.95
If you’re going to spend an extended amount of time in the snow, you need some well-built trekking poles. Leki offers a variety of them at a variety of prices. Most poles come with soft grips, speed locks and performance baskets (the little pieces that cup the snow at the bottom of the pole). Of course, the more you’re willing to spend, the more features you can get.