Helpful tips & a packing list for snowshoers

As the name of the sport suggests, you need special footwear for it. The fundamental components of snowshoes are:

• Frame: The frame serves as the basic structure of the snowshoes and is typically made from lightweight materials such as aluminium or plastic. Its elongated and flat design ensures that the hiker’s weight is distributed evenly over a larger surface area, preventing them from sinking into the snow and providing stability when walking.
• Bindings: These are designed to securely wrap around your boot or hiking shoe, ensuring a firm connection to the snowshoe itself. Modern snowshoe bindings are generally very user-friendly and easy to adjust.
• Crampons: Many snowshoes incorporate crampons on one or both sides. These elements dig into the snow, delivering additional traction, which proves particularly valuable when ascending or descending steep slopes.
• Climbing skins: Select models come equipped with detachable climbing skins on the bottom. These skins prevent you from slipping backwards when ascending in steep terrain.

Would you like to acquaint yourself with the sport before buying your own snowshoes? Various INTERSPORT Rent shops offer you the option to rent different models. This allows you to get a feel for the sport and find out whether it’s something you enjoy.

Find a shop near you!

In addition to the core snowshoeing equipment, hiking poles are a valuable accessory for the sport. These poles, fitted with snow baskets, provide additional support and stability. They are particularly helpful when navigating uneven terrain and when walking uphill or downhill.

The right attire is crucial if you want to enjoy your tour to the fullest. The following clothing and equipment items are a must-have for your snowshoeing adventures:

• Warm and weatherproof clothing: Dress in multiple layers that wick away moisture and keep you warm and protected from the cold and wet. This includes an insulating base layer, a warming mid-layer and a waterproof outer layer (e.g., a ski jacket and snow trousers).
• Waterproof footwear: It’s worth it to invest in insulated boots or hiking boots that are moisture-resistant and provide good traction.
• Insulated gloves: Wear insulated, waterproof gloves or mittens to keep your hands warm and dry.
• Warm hat or sturdy helmet: Proper headgear protects your head from the cold, and a sturdy helmet offers additional protection against potential injuries.
• Sun and eye protection: Sunglasses or ski goggles shield your eyes from bright sunlight and reflections from the snow. Sunscreen is also advisable to protect your skin from UV rays.
• Backpack: A small, waterproof backpack comes in handy for carrying essentials such as water, snacks, a first aid kit and perhaps extra clothing.
• Food and drink: Pack easily digestible snacks such as energy bars and an ample supply of water or hot tea in insulated bottles to keep you nourished and hydrated during your hike.
• Navigation: Bring a map of the area, a GPS device or a smartphone app for navigation to help you stay on course.
• Emergency equipment: Make sure you pack a basic first aid kit, a mobile phone and possibly an emergency signalling device (e.g., a whistle) in case you need assistance or wish to help others.
• Avalanche equipment (if necessary): If you’re venturing into areas with avalanche risk, you need to bring a shovel, probe and avalanche transceiver. Carrying an avalanche airbag is also a good idea. Please exercise caution and consider postponing your trip or selecting an alternative route if the avalanche warning level is high in the area you want to visit. Don’t put yourself and your fellow hikers in unnecessary danger!

To help you plan your tour, we have compiled a list with all the essentials you need:

• Snowshoes
• Hiking poles with snow baskets
• Backpack (size depending on the length of the tour)
• Avalanche equipment (if travelling in avalanche-prone areas): shovel, probe, avalanche transceiver, avalanche airbag (optional)
• Map of the area, GPS device, smartphone with navigation app or compass
• First aid kit, emergency blanket or bivouac sack
• Multifunctional tool or pocket knife and possibly a repair kit for snowshoes
• Insulating base layer (thermal underwear), warming mid-layer (fleece or insulated jacket) and waterproof outer layer (ski jacket and snow trousers)
• warm socks (preferably made of merino wool) plus waterproof and insulated boots or hiking boots
• Warm hat or helmet and, if necessary, neck or face protection (scarf or neck gaiter)
• Insulated gloves or mittens
• Spare clothing
• Ski goggles or sunglasses with UV protection
• Gaiters or snowshoe covers (optional – to keep snow out of your boots)
• Water bottle or hydration pack and thermos flask with hot drink
• Easily digestible snacks (energy bars, dried fruit, nuts)
• Waterproof plastic bags (for packing waste or wet clothes)
• ID and cash
• Headlamp or torch with spare batteries
• Lighter or matches in waterproof packaging
• Tissues or toilet paper

Generally speaking: It’s smart to adapt your equipment and clothing to the weather conditions and the length of your snowshoe tour. Being well-prepared ensures that you can make the most of your snowshoeing adventure while staying comfortable and safe in varying conditions.