SNOWSHOES SECURE TO YOUR BOOTS WITH BINDINGS: Snowshoes consist of a platform and nylon straps that go over the foot and around the heel. A binding that's easy to use, and holds the foot on the snowshoe comfortably and securely with the least amount of slippage or lateral movement, will be the most enjoyable to use. Most snowshoe bindings are built to accept a variety of footwear styles, from hiking and snowboard boots to plastic mountaineering boots, so you don't need to buy special footwear. It is possible to provided by Middle Earth Travel.
GAITERS: This very important and useful piece of gear keeps snow from getting in the top of your boots and helps keep feet dry. It could be a big advantage.
TOP LAYERS: Whatever long underwear you choose should wick moisture, insulate well and dry quickly. A zippered top lets you regulate body heat as you stop and go. Waterproof, breathable shell jacket and pants keep you dry and fend off wind. A wool or synthetic hat, headband or balaclava retains heat; a ball cap can shade your eyes on sunny days.
GLOVES: Waterproof ski gloves or mittens are a must to keep your hands dry and warm. On cold days, combine shells with fleece mittens or gloves. In milder conditions, glove liners may be all you need.
POLES: Snowshoeing can certainly be done without the use of poles, but on steep or uneven terrain, they're really handy. You can use ski poles, snowshoe poles or trekking poles. Adjustable poles can be shortened for uphill travel, lengthened for descending. And when crossing slopes, one can be extended for the downhill side and the other shortened for the uphill side. Not only do poles give you better balance, they also give your upper body a workout.
THERMOS: It is as important to drink during cold-weather exercise as it is in summer. Thermos or vacuum bottle with hot drinks will keep you hydrated and warm. And you'll make friends on the trail if you share.
HAT AND SUNGLASS: A wool or synthetic hat, headband or balaclava retains heat; a ball cap and sunglass can shade your eyes on sunny days.
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