Running News Daily

Getting off on the right foot on snowshoes

Snowshoeing can be a relaxing romp in the woods or a serious workout. You may have to widen your stride to avoid stepping on your own snowshoes, and a pair of trekking poles can help your balance, especially on hilly terrain. But mostly it's just like walking.

Choose the right 'shoes

Snowshoes come in different shapes and sizes, even women-specific models. The pair on the left are for deeper snow or heavier people; the pair on the right work best for packed trails or racing. Snowshoes have a weight rating. Consider not only your body weight but the clothes and boots you're wearing and what you're carrying in your pack.

Pack a snack

Snowshoeing can burn up a lot of energy. It's also important to stay hydrated. A waist pack is convenient for carrying water and snacks.

Travel with a friend

Although a solo trip can be relaxing and reflective, there is safety in numbers, particularly when outside in cold weather. Juergen Schroeer of Normal and Patricia Carlson of Bloomington travel together on a trail at McLean County's Comlara Park, northwest of Hudson, during a recent winter

Follow the signs

Some places have marked snowshoe trails, such as this one at Rapid River, Michigan, in the Hiawatha National Forest. But regular hiking trails in parks are generally fine for snowshoeing. Even city parks or public golf courses can be a fun options

Stay off of ski tracks

It's common winter courtesy to stay off ski tracks when hiking or snowshoeing. That's true whether its a track left by a skier on their own or a groomed trail, such as this one at Razorback Ridges in Sayner, Wisconsin, which has both ski trails and snowshoe trails

Don't forget to laugh