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Techniques
Home » Skiing » Snowshoeing » TechniquesYou may develop your own techniques as you begin snowshoeing, but here are some recommendations for different types of terrain.
• Uphill
To climb up a hill, kick the front of your snowshoe into the snow and step down hard to compact the snow. Then shift your weight to the other foot and repeat the process. You may also choose to step sideways so that more of the snowshoe comes in contact with the mountain. You may wish to use poles for extremely steep slopes to help maintain your balance.
• Downhill
Climbing down a hill is much the same principal as going up, except that you concentrate your weight at the back of the snowshoe. This is the point of your climb where your cleats come in handy.
• Traversing
Traversing is traveling horizontally along a slope. This is another situation where poles could come in handy. The technique for this is similar to what you would use with skis when edging yourself along. Edge one foot in front of the other, using your cleats and your poles for balance.
• Reverse
There are two different ways to reverse, or turn around, when you are snowshoeing. The first is to simply take baby steps, moving one shoe a little, and then the other, until you are pointed in the direction you wish to go. The other is to plant your poles on either side of you, then jump, twist, and land.
• Breaking the Trail
When traveling in a group, each person should step into the leaders footsteps to create an easy trail. Take turns leading since breaking the trail can be somewhat strenuous.
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