I’ve been winter hiking and snowshoeing for over 20 years. I also used to work at the head office of a large outdoor retailer where I wrote about hiking gear, including writing staff training materials. So I’ve got a fair amount of winter knowledge to share.

This guide to winter traction devices includes:

• A comparison chart for microspikes, crampons and snowshoes showing their strengths and weaknesses
• Microspikes: What are they? When to use them? And my picks for the best microspikes.
• Crampons: What are they? When to use them? And my picks for the best crampons.
• Snowshoes: What are they? When to use them? And my picks for the best snowshoes.
• Other winter traction devices: A quick overview of other traction devices including Yaktrax, STABILicers and more and how they stack up against microspikes.

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support. -Taryn

Microspikes vs. Crampons vs. Snowshoes Comparison Chart

Microspikes

Best for: Hiking or trail running on packed snow or icy trails

Pros: Inexpensive, lightweight, can be worn with any footwear, good traction, easy to take on and off

Cons: Not safe for steep slopes, don’t provide flotation in deep snow, not as durable

What are microspikes?

The term “microspikes” can mean a lot of things. It gets even more confusing because even though “microspikes” is actually a trademarked name from Kahtoola, people tend to refer to all similar products as microspikes. (It’s kind of like how everyone calls adhesive bandages band-aids, even if they aren’t made by Band-Aid brand.)

In general, microspikes have a flexible rubber-like plastic harness that stretches to fit around all kinds of boots and shoes. Some also have a velcro toe strap.

On the bottom, they have metal teeth connected by stainless steel chains. The teeth are usually fairly short (less than 1/2″/1.25 cm). You can wear microspikes with flexible footwear like trail runners since the metal chains aren’t rigid.

Heads up: You might see products with a stretchy harness and then studs or just chains on the bottom. These are NOT microspikes. While these go by a lot of other names, they provide less traction. More on these in the Other Traction Devices section below.

When to use microspikes?

Microspikes are best suited to hard-packed snow or icy trails. They excel on flat and low-angle terrain – they don’t provide enough secure grip for steep slopes, especially where a fall could be dangerous. The spikes on microspikes also aren’t very long. That means that if there is a thin layer of snow over ice, the spikes might not be long enough to bite into the ice.

I think microspikes are great for winter trail running and hiking. The spikes are fairly durable, which means you can wear them for short periods on bare dirt.

I keep my microspikes in my backpack for winter trips when I expect freezing temperatures. They are good to have when conditions are too slippery for hiking boots.

I also bring them snowshoeing as they are much more secure in steep terrain than snowshoes. (More on that in the snowshoes section below.) In hard-packed snow, they are also much more comfortable to wear than snowshoes since you have a more natural stance.

Check trail conditions before you go to figure out if microspikes are the right choice. My guide to how to find trail conditions has lots of resources.

My picks for the best microspikes

I have both the original Kahtoola Microspikes and Hillsound Trail Crampon Ultra (which despite the name are NOT crampons). They are both great, but I have a slight preference for the Hillsounds since they have a velcro toe strap, which improves the fit.

Other good microspike options include Black Diamond Access Spikes and Black Diamond Distance Spikes.

There are lots of cheap knock-off microspikes on Amazon. The reviews on them aren’t great – lots of people say that the spikes bend and the plastic harnesses rip. But if you want budget microspikes, the best ones on Amazon are the Cimkiz microspikes.

Crampons

Best for: Mountaineering, ice climbing, or hiking on steep ice or snow slopes

Pros: Very secure attachment to boots, tons of grip, durable

Cons: Bulky, heavy, expensive, requires training to use, may require specialized footwear, doesn’t provide flotation in snow, time-consuming to take on and off

What are crampons?

Mountaineers developed crampons to help them traverse steep and precipitous slopes on glaciers, ice, and frozen waterfalls. They consist of a two-piece metal frame that fits under the sole of your boot. The frame is linked by a center bar that is sometimes a bit flexible for easier walking. The frame usually has plastic plates under the ball and heel of the foot to prevent snow build-up

Spikes stick out of the bottom of the frame. There are usually four spikes under the heel and six or eight under the forefoot. Some crampons have two front points as well, which can be used to kick your toe into vertical slopes. One of the main differences of microspikes vs. crampons is that on crampons, the spikes are sharper and longer.

Crampons attach to your boots very securely with a system of straps and wire bails that only work with specialized mountaineering boots – these boots have special welts or grooves on the heels and toes for the crampons to attach to. These are called step-in crampons.

It is also possible to get crampons that only attach with straps and be used with any boot. These are called strap-on crampons. However, since they don’t attach as securely as step-in crampons, they are best for less technical terrain.

When to use crampons?

Crampons are the most helpful on steep slopes with firm snow or ice. They bite much deeper into the ice and provide better traction than microspikes, so they are the best choice (along with an ice axe) for any situation where falling would result in injury or death.

You should use crampons for mountaineering, ice climbing, and any time the slope is steep enough that a fall would have high consequences.

Using crampons requires mountaineering training as there are special techniques for walking and climbing in crampons.

My picks for the best crampons

I’m not a mountaineer, so I have limited experience with crampons. However, I spent seven years writing about gear for a big outdoor retailer including writing staff training materials, so I know a fair bit about crampons.

Grivel’s G12 New-Matic are a popular choice since they are quite durable and are easy to adjust. These hybrid step-in style crampons have 12 spikes but the front points aren’t designed for ice climbing, making them a good all-around crampon for pretty much everything else. The downsides are that they are on the heavier side and they only work with mountaineering boots.

If you’re looking for inexpensive, non-technical crampons, the Kahtoola K 10 Hiking Crampons or the Hillsound Trail Crampon Pro are both good choices. These are both great for hiking on steep slopes, but not enough grip or security for mountaineering.

Snowshoes

Best for: Hiking in deep snow

Pros: Can be worn with any footwear, provides flotation in deep snow

Cons: More expensive than microspikes, bulky, don’t provide enough traction for icy slopes, harder to walk in, time-consuming to take on and off

What are snowshoes?

Snowshoes increase the surface area of your foot to help you float in deep snow. There are two basic designs for snowshoes: a solid, one-piece deck or a perimeter frame with a floating deck made of fabric (or traditionally of laces).

Snowshoe bindings use straps to attach to any kind of footwear including trail running shoes, hiking boots, and sometimes bigger winter boots or snowboard boots to the snowshoes. Most snowshoes have a bit of traction underfoot, especially under the toe.

My guide to choosing snowshoes has tons more details about snowshoe construction and features.

When to use snowshoes?

Snowshoes are designed to provide flotation in deep snow. They work best when trails are snowy, especially when the snow is fresh. When the snow is shallow or when it is so hard-packed that you don’t sink in, snowshoes aren’t helpful.

Snowshoes can also be dangerous on steep slopes since they don’t provide enough traction. That, combined with the wide platform of the snowshoes, makes it easy to slip and fall while wearing snowshoes. On steep slopes with long run-outs, that can result in injury or death. I’ve got more detail on this in my guide to snowshoeing safety.

My picks for the best snowshoes

I’ve been snowshoeing for over 20 years and I think MSR makes the best snowshoes. They are durable, provide great traction, and have bindings that are easy to use and fit lots of types of footwear.

My budget pick for snowshoes is the MSR Evo Trail. My upgrade pick is the MSR Lightning Ascent because they are much lighter and more comfortable to wear. You can read more about my snowshoe recommendations in my guide to choosing snowshoes.

Other Winter Traction Devices

There are also tons of other winter traction devices on the market so it can get confusing. In general, these other traction devices provide less grip than crampons and microspikes. They are all best for use in the city.

In general, I don’t recommend any of the traction devices below. I think microspikes are the best choice, even for the city. And if Kahtoola microspikes or Hillsound Trail Crampon Ultras aren’t in the budget, get the Cimkiz microspikes on Amazon – they are a better price than all of the other winter traction devices below and provide a better grip.

Here’s a quick run-down on a few other winter traction devices you might have heard of:

Kahtoola NANOspikes: These are made by the same company that popularized microspikes. They have a similar harness, but they have rubber plates underfoot with small metal studs. Snow can build up under the rubber plates.

Kahtoola EXOspikes: The EXOspikes also have the same harness as microspikes and NANOspikes but have slightly more aggressive studs than the NANOspikes and less rubber underfoot so snow won’t build up as much.

Yaktrax ICEtrekkers Diamond Grip: These have a stretchy harness that holds beefy chains with small metal cleats under your foot. These are good for the city but could cross over into a bit of hiking use.

Yaktrax Diamond Go: Similar to the Diamond Grip but less expensive since they just have a circle of cleats under your forefoot – there’s nothing under your heel. Due to the lack of heel traction, I don’t recommend these at all.

Yaktrax Run: A rubberized plate under the forefoot has short metal studs while the back has steel coils. Designed to be lightweight for running. In my experience, snow clogs in the coil style and it doesn’t provide very good grip.

Yaktrax Walk: A set of steel coils underfoot. I don’t recommend these because I find they don’t grip well.

Hillsound FlexSteps: Similar to the Kahtoola NANOspikes but with much more burly studs set into a flexible plate. Snow can build up under the plate.

STABILicers Walk: Rubber plates under the forefoot and heel have short, blunt spikes. Ok for walking on a sidewalk but I wouldn’t recommend them for hiking. Snow can build up under the rubber plate and the spikes are not sharp enough to be helpful on most surfaces.

Final Thoughts

Now that you know the difference between microspikes vs. crampons vs. snowshoes, which ones will you be bringing on your next winter hike? I take microspikes on pretty much every winter hike – I even pack them in my backpack when I snowshoe to deal with steep terrain.

READ NEXT:

• What to Wear Winter Hiking and Snowshoeing
• How to Choose Snowshoes – Get the Right Ones for You
• Snowshoeing Safety: 14 Ways to Get into Trouble and How to Prevent Them
• How to Find Trail Conditions

The post Microspikes vs. Crampons vs. Snowshoes: What’s the Difference? appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

I definitely had all of these questions when I first started winter hiking and snowshoeing, and through years of trial and error (oh so many errors!), I’ve come up with a bunch of pretty good winter hiking outfits that work for a variety of cold temperatures.

So here it is – my guide for what to wear winter hiking and snowshoeing. In includes:

• How to dress in layers: What is each layer called and what is it for?
• Base layers for winter hiking: recommendations for long underwear tops and bottoms
• Mid layers: When do you want a fleece jackets vs. an insulated down or synthetic puffy?
• Outer layer jackets: What to look for in a waterproof breathable jacket
• Outer layer pants: What kind of pants should you wear for winter hiking? (Ski pants, rain pants, soft shell pants, or winter tights?)
• Boots for winter hiking: Insulation and waterproofness are key!
• Socks: Warm, cozy, and blister-preventing
• Gaiters: Keep the snow out of your boots
• Snowshoes and microspikes: Add traction and flotation in snow and ice
• Accessories to keep you warm: hats, gloves, and neck gaiters (buffs)
• Winter hiking checklist: use this list of winter hiking clothing to plan your next trip

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support. -Taryn

How Cold Will it Be?

The first thing to do is figure out how cold it will be. Don’t just look at the weather forecast for your city – the temperatures can be MUCH colder in the mountains. Use my picks for The Best Weather Apps for Hiking to get a better idea of the forecast on the trails.

In my hometown of Squamish, BC, our winters are typically not that cold: temperatures between +5°C and -10°C (41°F and 14°F) in the mountains are pretty typical.

In that climate, as long as you are moving and not taking long breaks, you won’t need any Everest expedition-level super warm clothing.

If you are heading out in colder temperatures, you will obviously need warmer clothing.

Dress in Layers

The secret to staying comfortable while winter hiking or snowshoeing is layering. You take off layers when you get too hot and add more when it cools down.

It’s also important to wear the RIGHT amount of layers. If you wear too many, you’ll overheat and sweat. Then when you stop, all that cold perspiration in your clothing will cool you down too quickly, or even worse, turn to ice.

My winter hiking and snowshoeing mantra is “Be bold, start cold”. I always wear less layers to start with since I know I’ll warm up as I move. I carry warm gear in my pack to put on when I stop.

The classic layering system consists of a base layer, mid layer and outer layers. Here’s what each layer does:

• Base layer: Wicks sweat and provides warmth.

• Mid-layer: Provides customizable warmth that you can add or subtract depending on the temperature and how hard you are working.

• Outer-layer: Provides protection from wind and rain.

I’ve got details on each of those layers below.

Base Layers to Wear Winter Hiking and Snowshoeing

A good winter hiking outfit starts with a warm and wicking base layer (also known as long underwear). If you are starting from scratch, choose mid-weight base layer pants and a long sleeved mid-weight base layer top.

Polyester and merino wool are both great options for fabric that retains warmth even if you get wet. I mostly wear polyester since it’s cheaper and more durable, but merino wool can be great if you can afford it. (Read my guide to whether Merino wool is worth it for more info.)

If you get cold easily, live in a very cold climate, or plan to go winter camping, consider getting heavy-weight base layers instead of mid-weight.

For synthetic base layers, I like Patagonia’s Capilene Midweight collection. It has a subtle grid-texture on the inside that traps warmth without adding bulk.

If you’re looking for merino wool base layers, I love the Smartwool Classic Thermal series. It provides the right amount of warmth for snowshoeing. Their base layer bottoms have a wide waistband that stays put. (And they come in fun patterns too).

Underwear

You’ll also need to wear quick-drying underwear underneath your base layer. (Skip the cotton – it will just get soggy with sweat!) Read my guide to hiking underwear to find out which ones are best.

Mid Layers to Wear Snowshoeing and Winter Hiking

The next layer is the mid-layer. The main job of the mid-layer is to provide extra warmth. This is the most customizable layer – choose a warmer mid-layer for cold conditions and a lighter one for milder weather.

Your mid-layer is also the layer that you will take on and off the most as the temperature changes or your exertion level increases or decreases.

Mid-Layer Jackets: Fleece vs. Synthetic Insulated vs. Down

A lightweight insulated puffy jacket or a mid-weight high-loft fleece jacket is a good option to wear winter hiking and snowshoeing for extra warmth. Or just keep it in your bag to throw on while taking breaks.

There are two types of jackets to consider: fleeces and insulated jackets.

Fleece jackets provide a moderate amount of warmth and wick sweat, so they are great to wear when you are moving fast or in mild weather.

In colder weather you will want an insulated puffy jacket for extra warmth. I prefer to snowshoe and winter hike in a fleece jacket, then carry a lightweight down jacket to put on when I take breaks or if it’s extra cold.

For insulated puffy jackets you have a choice between down and synthetic insulation. Many people like the warmth and compressibility of a down jacket. A synthetic jacket can be a better choice in damp conditions such as humid coastal climates, temperatures close to freezing, or during sweaty activities.

Synthetic jackets dry faster than down and keep you warm even when wet. But they aren’t as light or compressible. Down jackets don’t provide any warmth once they are wet and take a long time to dry.

Fleece Jackets

I have a few fleece jackets but I love, but most of them are discontinued. In general, I look for fleeces that have a bit of stretch. I also like grid fleece since it breathes well but still provide lots of warmth.

One of my faves that is still available is the MEC Rockwall Fleece. It has a smooth water resistant outer face but is fleecy and soft on the inside. It’s also pretty stretchy.

Insulated Puffy Jackets

I have a ton of puffy jackets, so I find it hard to choose which one to bring on some trips. For a synthetic puffy, I reach for my Arc’teryx Proton most often. It’s really breathable, and the synthetic insulation keeps me warm even when its wet.

Sometimes I also pack my Arc’teryx Cerium down jacket if it is going to be really cold. It’s super warm and squishes down really small so it is great to have in my pack. Since it is down, I save it to wear when I’m taking a break since (like all down jackets) it doesn’t deal with sweat well.

Mid-Layer Bottoms: Fleece Pants

For midlayer bottoms some people like to wear lightweight fleece pants. I find fleece pants are too warm to wear when snowshoeing, especially if I’m wearing long johns or tights.  

Unless you are really a cold person or out in very cold temperatures, I’d go with either a baselayer or a midlayer on the bottom but not both. I have an older pair of MEC Trek pants that I wear for winter camping.

Outer Layers Jackets for Snowshoeing and Winter Hiking

Even in nice weather, it’s important to have an outer layer for snowshoeing and winter hiking. Your outer layer protects you from wind, rain, and snow. I often winter hike in just my base layer under my outer layer (no mid-layer).

For hiking in any season, you need a rain jacket since it can rain or snow at any time of year in the mountains.

Make sure you choose a jacket that is both waterproof and breathable so you don’t sweat inside it.  That usually means a jacket with Gore-Tex or another waterproof breathable technology. (Check out my guide to why rain jackets wet out to learn more about waterproofing.)

There are lots of technologies out there and many brands use their own, but as long as the jacket is advertised as a waterproof breathable garment, you can be sure it is waterproof.  

If you spend more money for Gore-Tex or another branded technology you’ll often get more durability and a lot more breathability, but the waterproofness straight off the shelf will be comparable to the cheap jackets.

I like high quality waterproof breathable jackets to wear winter hiking and snowshoeing since the consequences of getting wet are so much higher when it’s cold out.

I just upgraded to the Outdoor Research Aspire Jacket. (The men’s version is called the Foray.) It’s a durable 3-layer waterproof breathable jacket with a bit of stretch so it’s comfortable to wear. I also love the huge pit zips which are great for venting heat when I’m working hard or giving me access to the pockets in my mid layer.

Outer Layer Pants for Winter Hiking and Snowshoeing

You have a few choices when it comes to picking a type of outer pants for snowshoeing or winter hiking. The type you choose will depend on your budget, how cold it is where you hike and what style of hiking you do.

Below I’ve got info on winter tights, soft shell pants, rain pants, insulated ski pants, and insulated skirts.

Winter Tights/Leggings

In mild-weather or when I plan to do a short hike where I’ll be working hard, I often wear winter tights for snowshoeing.

I have a pair of Athleta Altitude Leggings that I love so much I bought a second pair. They are made of stretchy and warm Polartec fleece. (These aren’t the crappy yoga tights with a fuzzy lining that you see on Amazon.) I wear them on their own without a base layer when it’s cold but not windy.

If it’s windy, I like leggings with a fleece lining and wind resistant outer fabric. I keep a pair of rain pants or an insulated skirt in my backpack to put on overtop in case it gets cold. (More on those below.)

I have an older pair of discontinued winter biking tights that I wear for snowshoeing and winter hiking. They have a cozy fleece lining and windproof panels on the front only, since they’re designed for biking.

Tights designed for cross-country skiing will also be great for snowshoeing since they have windproof panels. Craft, Swix, and Salomon all make great options.

READ NEXT: 18 Best Hiking Leggings

Soft Shell Pants

For most trips, I like to wear softshell pants for winter hiking and snowshoeing since they are wind resistant and water resistant.

Key point: they aren’t waterproof so they won’t hold up to constant rain, siting in the snow, or bum sliding.

They are also quite breathable so they are good for days when you are working hard or it’s not that cold.

There are a few softshell pants on the market designed for snowshoeing or winter hiking, but I’ve found that pants designed for ski touring also work really well for snowshoers. Many softshell pants designed for winter have a thin fleecy layer inside for extra warmth so on warmer days you can skip a baselayer.

I have an old pair version of the MEC Tobo soft shell pants. They breathe well but still block the wind. They also shed snow but won’t stand up to heavy rain.

Ski touring pants like the Outdoor Research Cirque pants are similar. They are built for ski touring and have a fleece lining.

Rain Pants

Many people (including me) like to wear waterproof breathable rain pants over their base layer for winter hiking and snowshoeing. They are windproof so they’ll retain body heat. This means you might get overheated in them, so get ones with zippered leg vents if you run hot.

They also tend to be light weight and packable so you can take them off on bluebird days and just go in your tights or long johns. And since they are totally waterproof they are the best option for days where it is sleeting, for sitting in the snow, or for bum-sliding.

The bonus is that you can use them as rain pants at other times of the year so you don’t have to buy a dedicated pair of winter pants.

I have the MEC Hydrofoil Stretch Pants. I love them since they have 3/4 length zips for easy on/off. I’ve worn them on countless summer backpacking trips and winter hikes. I also love that the fabric stretches a little so they are more comfortable.

Insulated Ski Pants

Another option for winter hiking and snowshoeing is to wear ski or snowboard pants.  Many people already have these in their closets. If you don’t, they are easy to find at used gear shops or on clearance at ski stores. 

Most of them have good waterproofness, although they often aren’t as waterproof as rain pants.  Most ski pants are insulated which can be too warm for hiking in, especially in warmer weather. It’s waaay too easy to overheat and start to sweat.

If you want to snowshoe or winter hike in ski pants, I recommend you buy a cheap pair. You don’t need to worry about durability the way you would with ski pants since you won’t be falling down on them. (Or I hope you won’t anyway!)

There are tons of budget options on Amazon, but insulated ski pants from Arctix get the best ratings.

If you want insulated pants from a more reputable brand, Columbia’s Bugaboo Omni-Heat Snow pants are value-price, but great quality.

Insulated Skirts

When I first heard about insulated skirts I thought they were silly and for people who cared about fashion. But I’ve since come around to the conclusion that they are so functional!

Often when you’re exercising in cold weather your butt and thighs get cold but the rest of your legs are warm. That’s where insulated skirts come in.

I got an insulated skirt a few years ago and have worn it a LOT the past three winters. I like to layer it over winter tights. If I get really warm, I take it off and stow it in my pack, then put it back on when I take a break or cool down. Some have a full side zip so they are easy to take on and off.

I have a Smartwool Smartloft Skirt. It has stretchy and warm side panels with insulation on the front and back. Since it’s from Smartwool, the waistband and inside lining are cozy merino wool.

READ NEXT: Best Insulated Skirts to Keep Your Butt Warm on the Trails

Boots for Winter Hiking and Snowshoeing

If you already own waterproof hiking boots, they will work great for winter hiking and snowshoeing. Just make sure they are really waterproof. If they’re not, the heat from your feet will melt any snow on the outside, which will leak inside and cause cold feet. Brrr!

If you snowshoe regularly, I recommend investing in a pair of insulated winter hiking boots. Read my guide to the best boots for snowshoeing to learn what features to look for in snowshoeing boots.

(Tip: Winter hiking can cause blisters since the slippery snow moves your foot around inside your boots. Get my tips for preventing blisters.)

I wear Salomon Vaya Powder insulated hiking boots for snowshoeing. They are warm, have ankle support, and are totally waterproof. Unfortunately, they are discontinued.

I recommend you check out the Salomon X Ultra Snowpilot Waterproof Winter Boots. I’ve been wearing the summer version of these boots for years and love them.

Socks for Winter Hiking and Snowshoeing

Comfortable hiking socks are one of the keys to happy winter hiking and snowshoeing. I wear thicker wool socks in the winter time to add warmth. Make sure your socks fit well and aren’t too thick for your shoes. Read my tips for preventing blisters.

My favourite socks for winter hiking are the Darn Tough Midweight Hiker Socks since they last forever.

If you get really cold feet, an easy way to add warmth when you snowshoe is heated socks. I haven’t tried them yet, but a friend with Reynaud’s disease (a circulatory disorder that causes cold hands and feet) swears by heated socks. The have a small battery pack and you can control the temperature with an app on your phone.

These heated socks from Amazon get good reviews are are pretty reasonably price. are a few different heated sock companies out there, but I’ve heard good things about Hotronic heated socks.

Gaiters for Winter Hiking and Snowshoeing

Even if you have waterproof boots, you can’t really go out in the snow without a pair of gaiters. These bridge the gap between the top of your boots and the bottom of your pants and make sure you don’t get snowy socks.  Even really basic and cheap water resistant ones will be fine, but you can’t skip these.

I’ve had a pair of MEC Kokanee Gore Tex gaiters for years. They have been on countless snowshoe trips and I also love them for coastal hiking.

Any waterproof or water resistant gaiters will work for winter hiking and snowshoeing (the Gore Tex is for breathability for summer use in sand and mud).

Snowshoes and Microspikes for Winter Hiking

For deep snow, of course you will need snowshoes. (I’ve got a whole guide on how to choose snowshoes if you need help!)

I love my MSR Lighting Ascent snowshoes since they are lightweight but grip well on steep slopes.

When the snow is not very deep or the trails are icy you still need something to keep you from slipping. (Slip and fall cause the most common snowshoe and winter hiking injuries. Read my post about snowshoeing safety to learn how to prevent them.)

That’s where crampons or microspikes come in. They come along in my pack for every winter hike since I never know when I might need them. (Read my guide to crampons vs. microspikes vs. snowshoes to understand the difference between these traction devices and when to use them.)

For microspikes, I can’t say enough good things about my Kahtoola Microspikes. They are easy to put on but provide lots of grip.

Accessories to Wear Winter Hiking and Snowshoeing

When you’re out freezing weather, your hands and head often feel cold first, so make sure you wear a warm hat and some gloves.  

Actually you’ll probably want two pairs of gloves: one pair of lightweight fleece gloves and one pair of insulated and waterproof or water resistant ski gloves or mitts.  It’s good to have both since your hands will be warmer while you are moving, but cold when you stop or when you are exposed to the wind.

Pretty much any basic fleece gloves will be great for winter hiking or snowshoeing. I like ones with touchscreen pads so I can still use my phone.

Make sure you bring waterproof insulated ski gloves too. I actually prefer mittens since they keep your fingers warmer.

Another accessory that I like to bring is a wool or fleece buff/neck gaiter.  You can wear it as a headband, as a hat,  around your neck or over your nose and mouth – I always bring one and always find a use for it. I always bring a merino wool buff (in fact I have three of them!)

Winter Hiking Checklist

Make sure you have everything you need before you head out on your next winter hike or snowshoeing trip. Here’s a winter hiking checklist that includes everything you need to wear for winter hiking and snowshoeing:

• Mid-weight or heavy-weight synthetic or merino wool base layer top
• Mid-weight or heavy-weight synthetic or merino wool base layer bottoms
• Quick-drying synthetic or merino wool underwear and sports bra
• Warm merino wool or synthetic hiking socks
• Mid-layer jacket: insulated down or synthetic jacket and/or fleece jacket
• Mid-layer fleece pants (optional – likely only for very cold weather)
• Waterproof breathable rain jacket
• Outer layer bottoms: rain pants, winter tights, soft shell pants, ski pants, or insulated skirt
• Warm wool or fleece beanie hat/toque
• Wool neck gaiter (buff)
• Fleece gloves
• Insulated ski gloves or mittens
• Waterproof hiking boots or insulated hiking boots
• Snowshoes
• Microspikes
• Waterproof or water-resistant gaiters

So that’s my run-down on what to wear winter hiking and snowshoeing. I know that this layering system will  keep you warm and dry on your next winter hike. Just remember not to let yourself overheat and get sweaty! Do you have tips for winter hiking clothing? Leave them in the comments.

More Snowshoeing and Winter Hiking Posts:

• 9 Tips for Winter Hiking (You Don’t Have to Freeze!)
• Snowshoeing Safety: 14 Ways to Get into Trouble and How to Prevent Them
• How to Choose Snowshoes: A Complete Guide
• The Best Boots For Snowshoeing
• Best Gifts for Snowshoers (25+ Ideas)
• Microspikes vs. Crampons vs. Snowshoes: What’s the Difference?

More Hiking Gear Posts:

• 17 Ways to Save Money on Hiking Gear
• Best Insulated Skirts to Keep Your Butt Warm on the Trails
• Why Do Rain Jackets Wet Out?
• The 10 Essentials: Things You Should Bring on Every Hike

The post What to Wear Winter Hiking and Snowshoeing appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

Hiking is a year-round activity for me and I’ve been winter hiking for over a decade. (If there’s enough snow I’ll wear snowshoes, but really snowshoeing is mostly just hiking with weird things on your feet.)

Ensure your cold weather hikes are just as fun as your summer adventures with these tips for winter hiking:

• Check the weather forecast and trail conditions – know what to expect
• Be prepared – always pack the 10 essentials
• Be avalanche safe – check the avvy forecast and get training
• Bring the right gear – Bring snowshoes or microspikes to prepare for icy and snowy conditions
• Dress in layers – BUT, “Be bold, start cold”
• Stay hydrated – Avoid dehydration and keep your water from freezing
• Eat lots – And make sure your snacks don’t freeze
• Keep your electronics warm – batteries die in the cold
• Bring a big backpack – to carry all your gear

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support. -Taryn

Check the Forecast and Trail Conditions

Before I leave, I pick a destination based on the weather forecast and conditions. Checking the weather is something I do all year long.

READ NEXT: The Best Weather Apps for Hiking

But in the winter, I also check trail conditions since harsh weather can do a number on the trails.  I want to know if there is ice, how much snow there is, and if there are any washouts or other issues with the trail.

For trail conditions I like to check a local Facebook groups and Reddit threads, Instagram, All Trails and the website of the park I plan to visit.

For snow conditions I use the closest ski resort forecast to my destination from snow-forecast.com since it will provide conditions and forecasts for various elevations. But watch out for artificially inflated snowpack numbers from man-made snow!

Be Prepared

I always carry The Ten Essentials when hiking and it’s even more important to do so in the winter.

I supplement my regular first aid kit and emergency supplies with some chemical hand warmers and a bright headlamp with fresh batteries (in addition to the small emergency light I always carry).

I also add in sunscreen and SPF lipbalm because the snow reflects light and no one likes sunburns and chapped lips.

I use a Petzl Actik Core headlamp. It’s super bright and easy to use without being too expensive. Plus the batteries last a long time on low power.

I also carry the super tiny Petzl E+Lite headlamp in my first aid kit as a backup emergency light. It’s tiny and has a battery that lasts up to 10 years. A couple years ago I met a family of tourists at dusk who had no lights. I was glad to have my E+Lite to lend to them for the walk down.

READ NEXT: The 10 Essentials: Things You Should Bring on Every Hike

Be Avalanche Safe

Avalanches are no joke.  Read avalanche warnings and information about the area where you will be hiking: avalanche.ca (Canada) or avalanche.org (America).

If you plan to regularly travel on snow into avalanche terrain take an avalanche course. You can also check out this great article on recognizing avalanche terrain from Avalanche Canada.

I learned SO much when I took avalanche training and it changed the way I look at mountains.

Bring the Right Gear for the Conditions (And Know How to Use It)

If there is lots of deep snow I wear my snowshoes. But sometimes there isn’t that much snow or it’s so packed down that snowshoes aren’t necessary.  That’s why I always pack my lightweight mini-crampons, also known as microspikes. They are great for packed snow, icy trails or steeper slopes.

Most winter accidents involving hikers occur when someone slips and falls on a steep icy or snowy slope.  Snowshoes are great for providing flotation in deep snow, but they aren’t great at gripping steep slopes.  Microspikes can be much safer! (Read my guide to the differences between microspikes, crampons, and snowshoes.)

READ NEXT: Snowshoeing Safety: 14 Ways to Get into Trouble and How to Prevent Them

I wear MSR Lightning Ascent Snowshoes since they provide good grip on icy slopes. If you’re looking for something a little less expensive, any I recommend any MSR snowshoes. I used the budget-priced MSR Evos for years. They’re not as light, but they grip just as well.

READ NEXT: How to Choose Snowshoes: A Complete Guide

For mini-crampons I like the Kahtoola Microspikes. They are pointy enough to grip most moderate ice and the rubber straps stretch to fit both my trail runners and my bigger backpacking boots.

Dress in Layers, BUT “Be Bold, Start Cold”

A common winter hiking tip is to dress in layers. The trick is to avoid sweating since once you stop you’ll be wet and cold. 

A few years ago my avalanche course instructor taught me her winter mantra: “Be bold, start cold” and I’ve lived by it ever since. I wear as few layers as possible while hiking and save the warm layers for breaks.

The type of clothing I bring depends on the weather and how long I’m out for, but in general I consider the following items as must-haves in addition to regular three-season hiking clothing:

• long underwear,
• a puffy jacket that is compressible,
• two pairs of gloves (one warmer than the other),
• a warm hat,
• a buff or neck warmer,
• gaiters,
• warm socks

It’s also worth keeping in mind that if you take off any article of clothing that is wet from sweat, it will soon freeze and be virtually unwearable. That’s why I always bring extra gloves and often bring extra hats and hiking shirts.

READ NEXT: What to Wear Winter Hiking and Snowshoeing

Stay Hydrated

When its cold out I find that I just don’t feel as thirsty and tend to drink less water.  The downside of this is that I’m often horribly dehydrated after winter hikes.  It’s important to keep drinking, but in temperatures below freezing, but it can be hard.

If the temperature is around freezing you can get away with using a hydration bladder. Follow these tips to keep the hose and mouthpiece from icing up:

• Fill it with warm water at home. 
• Keep as much of the hose inside your pack as possible. 
• Take small sips of water often to keep water moving through the hose and mouthpiece. 
• After each sip, blow air back into the hose to force the water back down into the reservoir. 

You can buy an insulated tube cover and put a chemical hand warmer pack next to your mouthpiece as well, but that strategy will only work for milder temperatures, not extreme cold.

For weather that is well below freezing you’ll need an insulated water bottle or a thermos.  You can also buy insulated water bottle covers or cozies (or just wrap your bottle inside an extra fleece in your pack). 

Fill your bottles at home with hot water, tea or hot chocolate.  You can also turn your water bottle upside down in your pack to ensure that the top doesn’t get frozen shut as the side facing up will freeze first.

For insulated bottles, I love my Hydro Flask. It keeps drinks warm for a reasonable amount of time and comes in lots of colours.

You can also wrap your water bottle in a cozy to keep it from freezing. There are also lots of water bottle cozies on Amazon.

Eat Lots

As well not being thirsty, I’m usually not that hungry when it’s really cold and sometimes it’s not that pleasant to stop for long breaks. 

I like to bring along high calorie snacks like gummy candies, energy chews, nuts, jerky and chocolate that I can keep in my jacket pocket and eat as I hike. 

Traditional hiking food like sandwiches tends to freeze into solid lumps in the winter – not appetizing! (Pro tip: keep your food in your pockets to keep it from freezing.)

Another great option is an insulated container full of warm soup. I bringing a warm meal in my Hydro Flask Food Jar.

If you have the time and can find a good place to stop out of the wind, bring along a backpacking stove and an easy to prepare warm meal (think just add boiling water).

Keep Your Electronics Warm

Cold weather kills batteries.  There is nothing more frustrating than arriving at a beautiful viewpoint only to find that your camera is too cold to function. 

If you are using a GPS for navigation or are carrying a mobile phone that could be used to call for help in an emergency, you’ll want to keep them operational as well.  Carry electronics in a jacket pocket to benefit from your body heat and bring spare batteries just in case.

Bring a Big Backpack

With all the extra stuff you’ll need to carry for winter hiking, you’ll need a bigger backpack.  In the summer I typically carry a smaller 20L daypack, but for winter trips I upgrade to a bigger pack – usually about 30L. 

When considering a pack for winter hiking you’ll want one that has lash points or compression straps that allow you to carry your snowshoes and trekking poles in case you don’t need them. I also like packs that don’t have a lot of mesh pockets on the outside since these can collect snow.

Right now I’m using a Deuter Freerider Backpack that has straps for my snowshoes and lots of interior pockets for organization.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it: my top winter hiking tips. I’m sure they’ll keep you warm, dry, safe and most importantly, happy as you hike and snowshoe this winter.

Do you keep hiking even when the cold weather comes?  What are your favourite winter hiking tips? Leave them in the comments.

More winter hiking tips: 

• What to Wear Winter Hiking and Snowshoeing
• Winter Camping For Beginners
• How to Stay Warm in a Tent: Over 40 Tips
• 16 Things to do Before a Hike
• The 10 Essentials: Things You Should Bring on Every Hike
• 17 Ways to Save Money on Hiking Gear
• Best Insulated Skirts to Keep Your Butt Warm on the Trails

More snowshoeing tips:

• Snowshoeing Safety: 14 Ways to Get into Trouble and How to Prevent Them
• How to Choose Snowshoes: A Complete Guide
• Best Gifts for Snowshoers (20+ Ideas)
• The Best Boots For Snowshoeing

The post 9 Winter Hiking Tips (You Don’t Have to Freeze!) appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

But I don’t want to scare you off winter hiking and snowshoeing adventures. They can be so much fun, as long as you’re prepared.

In this post, I’ve partnered with a Search and Rescue expert to lay out all the ways you can get into trouble when snowshoeing or winter hiking. But we will also tell you how to prevent these issues AND what to do if something does go wrong despite your prevention efforts.

This post includes info and advice on:

• Hypothermia
• Slip and Falls
• Getting Lost
• Getting Caught Out After Dark
• Frostbite
• Falling Into Water
• Avalanches
• Glissading Injuries
• Tree Wells
• Dehydration
• Blisters
• Getting Caught in a Storm
• Cornices
• Your Ego

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase. Thanks for supporting my website! -Taryn

This is a sensitive wilderness area. Learn how to Leave No Trace to keep the wilderness wild. Make sure you are prepared by bringing the 10 Essentials. Get ready for adventure with this checklist of things to do before every hike.

Expert Advice

To really make sure I was getting the most expert info when it comes to snowshoeing safety, I chatted with Michael Coyle, a Search and Rescue volunteer with over 20 years of experience.

You’ll find advice from him throughout this post. Michael has been on countless rescues in the Vancouver area, and many of those rescues involved snowshoers. I’m so grateful that he shared his expertise on this subject.

Why is Winter Hiking and Snowshoeing More Dangerous than Summer Hiking?

At first glance, snowshoeing might seem pretty similar to summer hiking. You strap snowshoes on your feet, wear a few more clothes and set out on the same trails, right? Well not exactly. As Michael put it:

“Winter reduces the margin for error: Winter has shorter days. Travel in the snow is always slower than walking. Snow creates more problems route-finding because it blocks trail markers and landmarks. The combination of those three factors turns a winter expedition into a more serious thing because you’ve got less time, you’re moving slower, and you’ve already got a challenge navigating. And of course, cold weather reduces survivability. Somebody who gets lost in the winter is automatically in a life-threatening situation.”

– Michael Coyle, Search and Rescue volunteer in Coquitlam, BC

That’s why being prepared and knowing the basics of snowshoeing safety is so important.

Here are 14 ways you can get into trouble snowshoeing, how to prevent them, and what to do if they happen.

Hypothermia

What is hypothermia?

There’s feeling a little chilly, and then there’s hypothermia. A person is hypothermic when their core body temperature drops too low (35°C/95°F). It’s easy to get hypothermic when it’s really cold out, but it can also happen in wet and windy weather that isn’t below freezing.

People with hypothermia shiver, slur their speech, lose their balance, get clumsy, and generally act a bit “slower” than normal.

In the later stages of hypothermia, they may have shallow breathing, a weak pulse, and may lose consciousness. If left untreated, hypothermia can lead to death. Knowing the signs of hypothermia is an important part of snowshoeing safety, and hiking safety all year round.

How to prevent hypothermia

Prevention is key when it comes to hypothermia. Ensure you bring lots of warm clothing. Avoid sweating since it will cool you down when you stop. Pack dry clothes to change into if you do get sweaty.

Dress in layers so you can easily regulate your temperature. Read more about what to wear winter hiking and snowshoeing.

Check the weather forecast before you go out and make sure you have the right gear for the temperature and wind. And keep an eye on the weather as you snowshoe. If it looks like it’s getting worse, it might be a good idea to turn around early.

What to do if someone gets hypothermia

Hypothermia can be difficult to diagnose in the early stages, and the sufferer may not even think they are hypothermic since their mental capacity is diminished. Make sure you check in with your friends so you can recognize the symptoms of hypothermia in each other.

The only treatment for hypothermia is warming up the victim. First, get out of the cold. That may mean setting up a tent or just finding a sheltered spot and wrapping the patient in an emergency blanket.

Cuddling can also be really helpful. Remove any wet clothing and have them put on something dry and warm. Have the patient drink and eat lots of warm things. Bringing a stove on a winter trip can be the difference between life and death! Call Search and Rescue for help if necessary.

Slip and Falls on a Steep Slope

How do slip and falls on a steep slope happen?

Falls on steep slopes are actually one of the most common ways for snowshoers to injure themselves. In Michael’s experience, in places with steep and icy conditions, such as the mountains near Vancouver, slip and falls are far more common for snowshoers than avalanches.

Snowy and icy conditions make things more slippery in the winter, leading to more falls. A few other factors also come into play:

First, when you slip on ice or snow, you are much more likely to slide a long way down, possibly bumping into things along the way. This means that the consequences of a winter fall on a slope are often high.

Second, on a slippery slope, you need lots of traction, and snowshoers don’t usually have it.

How to prevent slip and falls on a steep slope

The first thing you can do is try to avoid steep slopes. Michael says snowshoers need to be careful in any steep terrain since the chance of a slip and fall will have more of a consequence.

Look for gentler, more gradual slopes to travel on. In particular, he says side-hilling and going steeply up or down a slope are the most dangerous.

1. Snowshoes don’t provide good traction

If you need to travel on a steep slope, make sure you have traction. Snowshoes are primarily intended to help you float on top of the snow. They have cleats underfoot for a bit of grip, but in general, snowshoes aren’t very good at biting into the snow. (Read more about how to choose snowshoes.)

Snowshoes can be particularly dangerous when you are traversing across a slope since, in that orientation, the cleats under the snowshoes aren’t biting into the snow at all! Going down is also problematic since the cleats aren’t designed to grip well in that direction.

2. Take your snowshoes off, then kick steps or use microspikes

On steep and snowy slopes you may want to remove your snowshoes entirely and kick steps into the snow using your boots.

If the slope is icy, I find using microspikes to be really helpful and Michael highly recommends them too. They are spikes that strap to the bottom of your shoes and give you a great grip on ice.

Michael recommends you change your footwear “earlier rather than later. Transition on flat terrain if you can or if you know you’re coming up on a steep area. And don’t be afraid of backtracking a bit.” Balancing on the side of a hill is not the best place to be fiddling with straps!

Read more about the differences between microspikes, crampons, and snowshoes.

3. Use trekking poles

You also need to add traction with your hands. I always bring trekking poles when I go snowshoeing. They add extra security on steep slopes.

Michael recommends removing the baskets or flipping the poles upside down so you can “plunge them deeper into the snow to get stability”. He says most people use poles as a balance tool, but that when you plunge a pole deep into the snow, you are essentially creating a self-belay to anchor yourself to the slope.

Another option he recommends is to “shorten the poles, then grab them above the basket and use them like little daggers.”

4. Use an ice axe

Mountaineers use ice axes for even better security. Many snowshoers don’t carry one, but it’s a good idea if you’re getting into steep backcountry terrain.

Michael recommends that you “get an ice axe and learn how to use it” to self-arrest. Take a mountaineering course to learn how. And definitely pick up a copy of Mountaineering: The Freedom of the Hills, the mountain travel bible for hikers and mountaineers.

What to do if you do slip and fall on a steep slope

If you do start to slide on a steep slope, I hope you’ve got an ice axe. Doing a self-arrest maneuver with an ice axe, is the best way to stop a slide. If you don’t have an axe, you can use your hiking poles or try to dig into the snow with your hands, elbows, knees, and boots.

Getting Lost

How do snowshoers get lost?

It’s a lot easier to get lost in the winter since the snow can obscure summer trail markers. If the weather is good and you lose the trail, you can follow your footprints in the snow to backtrack. But that doesn’t work when it’s snowing.

Another way snowshoers get lost is when they lose the trail, they head downhill and end up going down a slope that is too steep to climb back up.

How to prevent getting lost while snowshoeing

In some areas, park rangers mark winter routes with long reflective wands. This makes it easier to find the trail. However, in a snowstorm, even the wands might be hard to find.

If you hike or snowshoe in the winter, you should brush up on your navigation skills. Carry a map and compass and know how to use it. A stand-alone GPS or GPS app on your phone like Gaia GPS is also a good idea. But make sure you pack extra batteries, especially if you use your phone since you’ll need it in an emergency.

What to do if you get lost snowshoeing

If you do realize you are lost, don’t panic. Stop and think. See if you can remember any landmarks you may have passed. If the weather is good, turn around and follow your footprints back the way you came. Look at your map or use your GPS to see where you are and where you might have gone wrong.

If you really aren’t sure where you are or how to get back to the trail, stay put and call for help. Don’t keep moving as it will be harder for rescuers to find you. And DON’T start blindly descending the mountain. Many snowshoers have been injured or died this way.

When you go downhill, you can get into very steep gullies that are hard to get out of or slip and fall off cliffs. Michael says that his Search and Rescue teams have rescued many people in these types of situations where they have gone down a slope and can’t get back up.

Getting Caught Out After Dark

How do snowshoers get caught out after dark?

Many snowshoers forget that there are fewer hours of daylight in the winter and don’t leave enough time to get back to the trailhead. They often also forget to pack a flashlight or headlamp.

How to prevent getting caught out after dark

Look up the sunset time for the day you plan to hike. If your hike takes you into a valley or is in a forest, keep in mind that it will be dark on the trail earlier than the forecasted sunset time.

Research the trail you want to snowshoe. Give yourself enough time to complete the hike before it gets dark.

And remember that snowshoeing can be MUCH slower than hiking. As well, travel times on snowshoes are very dependent on the snow conditions. I like to start my winter trips as early as possible to give myself a buffer of a few hours just in case it takes longer than I think it will.

I always pack a headlamp on every winter hike, just in case. You never know when you’ll end up hiking in the dark. A headlamp or flashlight is much brighter and will last longer than the light on your phone. And you should save the battery on your phone in case you need to call for help.

What to do if you have to hike out in the dark

Try to avoid using a light until you really need it to save batteries. Your eyes can adjust well to the dark. If you brought a headlamp or flashlight, use it once it gets really dark.

Be extra vigilant to make sure you stay on the trail – it’s a lot easier to get lost at night.

If it’s really dark and you don’t have a light, don’t keep hiking. You’ll just get lost or fall and hurt yourself. Stay put and call for help.

Frostbite

What is frostbite?

Frostbite happens when your skin and tissue get so cold that they freeze. Frostbite can cause permanent damage.

The most common way to get frostbite is when skin is exposed to cold air. The first symptoms of frostbite are numbness or a pins-and-needles feeling. As it gets worse, frostbite will start to feel painful and the skin will change colour and feel firmer.

How to prevent frostbite

Bundle up! Protect all your exposed skin from the cold winter air. Wear layers, warm gloves and a hat. (Read more about what to wear winter hiking and snowshoeing.) Consider bringing backups in your pack so you can add a layer or swap damp gear for dry.

In very cold temperatures you may want to wear a balaclava and ski goggles to make sure you have no exposed skin.

Check the weather. If exceptionally cold temperatures or high winds are forecast, stay indoors. The risk of frostbite increases greatly when temperatures are below -15°C/5°F.

What to do if you get frostbite

Frostbitten tissue is very sensitive and vulnerable. Don’t try to rub it to warm it up, as you can damage it. Get out of the backcountry and to medical attention as soon as possible to have professionals rewarm the affected tissue.

Falling Into Water

How do snowshoers fall into water in the winter?

Unfortunately, it’s pretty easy to accidentally fall through thin ice on lakes or streams. Or you might be crossing when you think is a depression in the snow, that turns out to actually be a creek bed. You could crash through the snow bridge over the top of a creek and end up in the water.

Being wet and cold in the winter is dangerous. It can lead to hypothermia and frostbite. No bueno.

How to avoid falling into water in the winter

Know your surroundings! Use a map or GPS app to figure out if you’re actually walking on a frozen lake or stream.

Ice needs to be at least 4″ (10cm) thick to safely walk on it. However, keep in mind that ice is usually not the same thickness across an entire body of water. It may be thinner in some areas, especially where there is moving water.

Keep an eye out for hidden stream crossings as well, especially early and late in the winter. If there’s a trench in the snow, it’s likely there’s a creek flowing underneath. You can use hiking poles to probe the depth of the snow to see if it is thick enough to cross. If in doubt, turn around.

What to do if you fall into water in the winter

If you fall through ice into deep water, try to remain calm and get out of the water as soon as possible.

Try to hoist your torso onto the ice, then use your feet to propel the rest of you onto the ice. Once all of your body is on the ice, roll towards the shore. If you get up, you risk breaking through the ice again. After you are onshore, begin treatment for hypothermia (see above).

If you plunge your feet or lower body into a creek by falling through a snow bridge, climb up out of the creek as soon as you can. The sides of the creek bed may be very steep, so consider taking off your snowshoes so you can kick steps.

Once you are out, remove your wet boots and socks. Try to get as much water out of your boots as possible before they freeze. Change into dry socks if possible. Get out of the backcountry to somewhere you can warm up and dry off as soon as possible. Watch for signs of hypothermia and frostbite.

Avalanches

What is an avalanche?

Many people associate avalanches with skiing, but avalanche knowledge is also an important part of snowshoeing safety. An avalanche happens when snow slides down a slope.

Michael says it’s easy to recognize avalanche terrain: “If it looks like you could ski it – it’s avalanche terrain. For snowshoers, if it looks like you could butt-slide down it – it’s avalanche terrain.”

Another thing Michael says is important to keep in mind: “avalanches are most often triggered by people... most of the time people are on the slope when the avalanche starts.” Avalanches can bury people, causing them to suffocate to death.

Even if people aren’t buried, avalanches also cause grave injuries since they carry people downhill, banging into trees and rocks along the way.

How to avoid getting caught in an avalanche

1. Take an avalanche training course

Every snowshoer should take an avalanche training course. You can find course listings and more information on Avalanche.ca or Avalanche.org. When you snowshoe keep the terrain in mind.

Michael says “steep terrain means more exposure to avalanches.” Avoid steep slopes and the area directly below steep slopes until you have avalanche training and can evaluate the risks.

Summer hiking trails often travel right through avalanche terrain. Just because somewhere is safe in the summer doesn’t make it safe in winter.

2. Check the avalanche forecast

If you don’t have avalanche training and the forecast is rated anything except “low”, don’t go. Michael says “Avalanche accidents don’t happen when the forecast is ‘extreme’, ‘considerable’, or ‘low’. They happen when the forecast is ‘moderate’. When the forecast is ‘extreme’ it’s obviously dangerous, and when it’s ‘low’, it’s obviously not dangerous. At ‘moderate’, people say ‘I think it’s okay’…” but then it isn’t.”

3. Bring avalanche safety gear

If you plan to travel in avalanche terrain (or if you’re not sure if it is avalanche terrain), you should bring avalanche safety gear. That means an avalanche transceiver (also called a beacon), a probe and a shovel. Everyone in your group needs their own gear and training in how to use it.

What to do if you get caught in an avalanche

If you are in an avalanche, try to grab onto something to avoid being swept downhill. If you are swept away, try to stay on the surface of the slide by “swimming”. When the avalanche slows down, try to push yourself towards the surface.

If possible, try to get part of your body sticking out of the snow.  Make an air pocket in front of your face so you can breathe. Try to relax and stay calm as you wait for rescue.

Rescuers will use their transceivers and probes to locate you under the snow, then dig you out using shovels. Take an avalanche class to learn the best way to locate and recover a person buried by an avalanche.

Glissading Injuries

How do snowshoers injure themselves glissading?

Glissading is just a French word for sliding down a snowy slope on your butt. Mountaineers use this technique to descend a mountain quickly and snowshoers often do it for fun. However, it’s easy to injure yourself by going too fast, sliding into something, or catching on something.

How to prevent glissading injuries

Assess the slope before you slide. Make sure you can see the run-out and there aren’t rocks, trees, etc. you will hit along the way. As well, don’t glissade on the main trail. You could hit other people and it makes the path icy and dangerous for others who choose to walk. Be mindful of avalanche conditions. Glissades can cause avalanches.

Remove your snowshoes or microspikes before you glissade. Having a spike catch on the way down is the most common way people injure themselves glissading. When you catch a spike it can send you flying head over heels, break bones, or sprain your ankles and knees.

Use an ice axe or ski pole as a brake to keep your speed under control.

What to do if you injure yourself glissading

Assess the injuries and administer first aid. Call search and rescue for help when necessary.

Tree Wells

What is a tree well? Why are they dangerous?

A tree well is a hollow area at the base of a tree. The branches above the hollow collect snow, causing an empty area of powdery snow to collect near the tree trunk. The same phenomenon can occur in a boulder field where gaps between the rocks get covered in snow, hiding the openings beneath.

When a person falls into a tree well, it can be difficult to escape since the snow is so powdery. Usually, people fall into the tree well headfirst. People have suffocated to death in tree wells when no one was around to help them.

How to avoid tree wells

Use caution when snowshoeing or hiking near trees. Assume all trees have tree wells. They may be well hidden. Always snowshoe with a friend and keep an eye out for each other. Clip a whistle on to the strap of your backpack to use to call for help if you do fall in.

What to do if you do fall into a tree well

Don’t panic. Keep your breathing steady and try to find an air pocket. Try not to move too much. If you move, it will just cause the loose snow to pack in around you. If you can, grab part of the tree and hang on to keep from falling in further.

Use your whistle to call for help. Friends can help dig you out, being careful to keep your airway clear.

Dehydration

How do snowshoers get dehydrated?

When it’s cold out, it’s easy to forget to drink. As well, water bottles can ice up and hydration pack hoses can freeze over, making drinking impossible.

Dehydration doesn’t just make you feel thirsty. It can cause muscle cramps, dizziness, headache, and nausea. It can also make you feel so fatigued that you can’t keep hiking or so disoriented that you end up lost.

How to prevent dehydration when snowshoeing

Start by camel-ing up. Chug water in the car on the way there. Remind yourself (and your friends) to have a drink each time you stop for a break.

Pack your water in an insulated bottle to keep it from freezing. If you’re using a regular bottle, store it upside down to prevent the lid from icing up.

If you use a hydration pack get a tube insulator for it. Another pro tip: each time you take a drink from your hose, blow air back into the tube to force the water back into the reservoir and out of the tube. It freezes faster in the tube.

Bring a thermos of warm tea, coffee or hot chocolate to enjoy during your lunch break. Or pack a stove and make a hot drink or some soup.

Get more advice in my tips for winter hiking

What to do if you get dehydrated

Drink and rest until you feel better. Don’t try to eat snow – it actually takes more heat from your body to melt the snow than it’s worth. If it’s serious, call search and rescue for help.

Blisters

What causes blisters? Why are they a problem?

Blisters form when your skin gets irritated or damaged from friction or pressure. Blisters and other foot problems can be severe enough to make snowshoeing difficult or impossible.

Snowshoers and winter hikers are especially susceptible to blisters for a few reasons: They are often wearing heavy socks that can bunch up or cause your feet to get sweaty. Snow dripping into boots can cause blisters. The increased rubbing of snowshoe or microspike straps can cause blisters. And finally, the uneven snow surface causes your feet to be less stable in your shoes, causing more foot movement and rubbing than on the bare ground.

How to prevent blisters

There’s actually so much to know about this topic that I wrote an entire post about how to prevent blisters. Head over there to read it.

But here are the main points for snowshoers: Keep your feet dry, both from snow and sweat. Pay attention to the way your boots, socks, snowshoes, and microspikes fit. If it doesn’t feel good, change something. Don’t wait until a blister has formed.

How to treat blisters

There’s a whole section on blister treatment in my post about blister prevention. But in a nutshell, carry bandaids, medical tape, and blister dressings on every hike. Treat your blisters early so they don’t get worse.

Getting Caught in a Storm

Why are winter storms dangerous for snowshoers?

Winter storms can bring exceptionally cold weather and high winds. Swirling fog and snow can also reduce visibility, making navigation really difficult.

Winter storms often combine with other dangers on this list such as hypothermia, getting lost, avalanches, and frostbite, sometimes with tragic outcomes. Michael says: “when it’s actively snowing the visibility is bad, your tracks are getting buried, and the snow is becoming less stable, which makes avalanches more likely.”

How to avoid getting caught in a storm

Check the weather forecast before your trip and plan to go another time if it looks bad. Keep an eye on changing weather conditions as you snowshoe and be prepared to turn back. Carry extra warm clothing, navigation gear and an emergency shelter like a space blanket just in case.

READ NEXT: The Best Weather Apps for Hiking

What to do if you get caught in a storm

Bundle up in warm clothing and keep exposed skin covered. If you can stay on the trail and hike out, do it. If not, find a sheltered spot or dig a snow cave and settle down to wait it out.

Cornices

What are cornices? Why are they dangerous?

A cornice is a mass of overhanging snow that wind forms on the top of a mountain or ridge. They can break off unexpectedly, sometimes well back from the edge, causing anyone standing on them to fall.

In 2017, five snowshoers fell to their deaths when a cornice collapsed on Mount Harvey, near my home in Vancouver. Michael says that cornices are something that doesn’t get talked about often when it comes to snowshoeing safety, but more people should know about.

How to avoid cornices

Know how cornices form and be careful to stay well back from the edge on slopes where cornices can occur.

What to do if you are in a cornice fall

If you are on a cornice that collapses, you are essentially now in an avalanche. Follow the advice for surviving an avalanche above.

Your Ego

Why is your ego dangerous for snowshoers?

Accidents aren’t usually the result of one big mistake. Instead, a cascade of small mistakes or bad decisions builds up to cause a dangerous situation.

Our egos often make us push forward to the summit when it’s safer to turn around. Or they make us keep going when we are lost, instead of backtracking. Our egos also make us afraid to tell our adventure buddies that we aren’t confident in the situation since we don’t want to look weak.

We can also fall victim to confirmation bias. Essentially, confirmation bias makes us think that since we’ve done something like this before and nothing bad happened then, nothing bad will happen this time.

A lot of people don’t realize the potential dangers of a situation until something goes wrong. Sometimes that just means getting a little bit lost, but other times it can be far more tragic.

How to keep your ego in check when snowshoeing

Keeping your ego in check is a key component of snowshoeing safety. Stay humble. Be okay with turning around. Check-in with your snowshoeing buddies and make sure you are all okay with the conditions periodically.

Your number one goal each time you go into the wilderness should be returning safely. Summiting a peak, reaching a viewpoint, or getting a killer shot for Instagram are all lower priority.

In Michael’s experience, “intermediates get into trouble” most often, not beginners. That’s because people with an intermediate level of experience have enough skills to get themselves into more challenging situations, but they don’t always have the knowledge to assess the risks of those situations. In Michael’s words “they don’t know what they don’t know… and confirmation bias is kicking in.”

What to do if your ego gets the best of you

Try to take a step back and assess the situation with a clear head. The bravest thing to do is admit you made a bad decision and take steps to reverse it.

Final Thoughts

So there’s all the ways you could get into trouble snowshoeing and winter hiking. I hope you never find yourself in any of these situations, but if you do, at least now you’ll have a better idea of what to do.

And honestly, the wilderness gets the best of us sometimes, even if we think we are super-prepared and know about snowshoeing safety. Have any of these situations happened to you while snowshoeing? Leave a comment and tell me about it.

More snowshoeing and winter hiking advice:

• How to Choose Snowshoes: A Complete Guide
• Microspikes vs. Crampons vs. Snowshoes: What’s the Difference?
• The Best Boots For Snowshoeing
• Best Gifts for Snowshoers (20+ Ideas)
• What to Wear Winter Hiking and Snowshoeing
• 9 Tips for Winter Hiking (You Don’t Have to Freeze!)
• How to Stay Warm in a Tent: Over 40 Tips

More outdoor safety advice:

• The 10 Essentials: Things You Should Bring on Every Hike
• How to Prevent Blisters When Hiking
• 16 Things to do Before a Hike

The post Snowshoeing Safety: 14 Ways to Get into Trouble and How to Prevent Them appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.