With minimal gear needs and no requirement to learn a new skill, snowshoeing is a very easy and affordable way to enjoy winter in Maine.
If you are looking to get out there this winter on snowshoes, here are 5 TIPS to help you get into the sport:
Tip #1: Snowshoes are very affordable.
Basic snowshoes will start around $100-120 for adults and $60-80 for children. I use LL Bean Winter Walkers and my daughter uses G2 snowshoes. Snowshoe sizes are based on weight ranges. For example, size 16 inch snowshoes are for kids who weigh 50-100lbs. So, in theory, you should be able to get 3 or more years out of a pair for your kids.
And here is an insider tip: You can find gently used snowshoes at outdoor gear consignment stores like the Woods + Water Exchange in Brunswick for a STEAL. Most children’s snowshoes at consignment stores will be deeply discounted. Look to score a pair for less than $40. Head to consignment stores at the beginning of the season for the best selection.
Not quite ready to purchase snowshoes? Check out gear libraries like the Maine Gear Share or the Katahdin Gear Library where you can rent snowshoes for $10 or less.
AND…many public libraries are growing their Library of Things and you may be able to check out snowshoes for FREE. I recently spotted 5 pairs of snowshoes available for checkout at our local library!
Tip #2: Poles are optional.
If you are getting a brand-new set of snowshoes, they will often come with adjustable poles. As a beginner, you are probably (or should be) setting out on some pretty easy terrain. Poles are typically used on uneven/steep terrain, uphill climbs, deep snow, or when breaking a trail. So for our easy treks out on flat, usually broken in trails, poles are really optional for us.
However, my daughter always loves the idea of using her poles….for the first ¼ mile of our adventure (!!) and then prefers to go without them. Instead of us both carrying poles, I bring my adjustable ones so she can use mine when she wants
Nothing kills my mood more than feeling like I am a luggage trolley for my daughter. 🙂
Tip #2: Snowshoe with good waterproof shoes.
While winter boots (I’m looking at you, classic LL Bean boot) are great for shoveling snow and adventuring out to meet friends for coffee, they are not usually great for snowshoeing. Consider a winter WATERPROOF hiking boot or winter sneaker that has good ankle support. My preference is to use my Merrill hiking sneakers or my LL Bean winter sneaker boot with a snow gaiter.
And then…there is my daughter. We have tried a couple different winter sneakers and boots, but prefers her Bogs classic boots for snowshoeing.
Tip #3: Plan to get sweaty.
You will get a sweat snowshoeing. Base layers are a must for snowshoeing, in my opinion. Base layers are designed to wick sweat away from your body, which is essential for staying warm. My go-to brand for base layers is Hot Chillys.
From there, your mid layer, the insulation layer, is dependent on the weather temperatures. Mid layers can range from fleece jackets to down vests or down jackets or to a combination of any of these. I prefer a fleece jacket with my Cotapaxi down vest. My daughter will often use her insulated winter jacket as her mid layer here.
Some people will add a shell layer, the waterproof layer, while others don’t. I usually do not add a shell layer because we are pretty fair weather snowshoers.
For socks, you will want to invest in some good wool socks. My preferred brands are Smartwool, Farm to Feet, and Darn Tough Socks for both my daughter and myself.
As you can see, how you choose to add mid and shell layers to your snowshoe adventures is a very what-works-for-you choice. My only suggestion here is to bring all the options with you. You will never regret having the option to add more layers.
Tip #4: Use a backpack.
As you get into snowshoeing, any backpack will do. This will keep the cost of getting into the sport more affordable. Choose a backpack where you can load up water bottles, snacks, a first aid kit, and give you room to bring along extra gloves, hats, etc. and space to shed any clothing layers. There will ALWAYS be shedding of layers by someone in your group!
Tip #5: Short, Slow and Simple Adventures
Snowshoeing is a very easy and fun way to get out there and enjoy the winter season here in Maine. But for anyone just starting out, and especially for little legs, snowshoeing can be an adjustment. Walking on snow, even with snowshoes, can be exhausting.
Opt for SHORT, easy terrain trails when just getting started. Think 1 mile or less. Yes, that does seem short but having everyone end their adventure with smiles is better than the alternative.
Go SLOW. If you are taking little ones along with you, let them set the pace. Plan to take water and snack breaks in short intervals.
Keep it SIMPLE. Opt for trail systems that are close to home when getting into snowshoeing. Local land trusts and city/town parks are a great place to start out.
Once you get into your rhythm and routine with snowshoeing, you can start to add distance, pace, and taking your adventures farther from home won’t seem so daunting.
To keep up with all of our budget-friendly winter adventures this season, follow me on Instagram and Facebook!
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~Natalie
Thanks Chickadee. I am a novice snowshower. An older person who wants to protect knees. Any hints for using legs instread of knees on higher terraine?
For higher terrain, I definitely suggest using poles and shortening up your strides. I often imagine summertime hiking when snowshoeing and it helps me refrain my mind for those steeper sections.
I hope that helps!