How do you prepare to brave the elements? Whether you’re an avid adventurer or a budding hobbyist, there is gear and preparation needed to ensure you are ready for whatever awaits.
Our new “Educate for the Elements” series is here to help. Each month, Sunnysports will feature a new outdoor activity with educational content and handpicked products from our professionals. From snowshoeing through the winter months to swimming in the summer heat, we have anything you need to embark on your next adventure with confidence.
Now is the time to get out and enjoy the snowy landscapes. Don’t let deep drift stand between you and incredible winter scenes. Get into the heart of the action with this year’s top snowshoeing gear. From the best floatation to fuzzy warm layers, this list of top gear for snowshoeing will have you ready for winter.
Snowshoes
For snow trail walking, nothing compares to the Tubbs Frontier Snowshoes. Keeping with the classic shape and utilizing cutting-edge material technology, the Frontiers keep you afloat while also keeping your wallet happy. Efficiency is key in the winter. The Frontiers feature SoftTec decking and a unique FitStep frame that lets you move quickly without the added weight. There are sizes available for both men and women.
Gaiters
Tubbs Snowshoe Gaiters are an essential piece of snowshoeing gear that keep your feet dry and the snow at bay. Simply strap these waterproof attachments over your pants and around your boot and you’re ready to hit the trails. These must-have accessories keep you on the trail longer, without having to worry about getting snow in your boots. The men’s version of the gaiters offer a stylish look, while the women’s version is specifically designed with leg shape in mind.
Backpack
When you want to get into the wilderness during the winter, you’ll need a heavy-duty backpack to get the job done. Aim for a pack that’s between 30 to 40L so you’ll have plenty of room for all your extra layers and that thermos of hot cocoa. The North Face Borealis Daypack gets the job done with plenty of storage, a removable waist belt, and even a fleece stash pocket for your snow goggles. The FlexVent back gives you the ergonomic support you need and is even backed by the American Chiropractic Association. What’s better, is this pack comes in women-specific models too. Not to mention, with plenty of color choices, you can show off your personal style on the trail.
Trekking Poles
Trekking poles help you stay balanced while you snowshoe. Also, they take pressure off your core and legs on inclined trails. The Tubbs Trail Walking Trekking Poles are the perfect piece of snowshoeing gear to help you stay balanced. Featuring a twist-lock extension for adjusting to your height and collapsing for storage, these poles can easily be customized to fit your size. The rubber grip, steel tips, and removable snow baskets keep you comfortable and moving.
Insulated Water Bottle
Think you can use your water bladder on winter hikes? Think again. Hose lines can freeze, making it impossible to drink even with those insulating tubs. Instead, a water bottle is the best way to ensure you’ve got something to drink on your hike. The Camelback Eddy+ Vaccum Insulated Water Bottle won’t freeze. Pack either a hot beverage or some cool water to drink on the trail. The sweat-proof technology means that when you put your bottle in your bag, other gear won’t get wet.
Hiking Shoes
The Mammut Duncan Hiking Shoes keep your tootsies cozy, warm, and dry on winter hikes. Innovative Gore-Tex technology means your feet will stay dry. While the Mammut Flextron system puts a pep in your step. The Duncans come in a men’s and women’s version, meaning they are specifically designed with the unique features of your foot in mind.
Warm Socks
Cotton kills in the winter, but the Stance Divide ST is a wooly sock that keeps your feet dry and warm. The crew length fits perfectly over the Mammut Duncans so you can stay high, dry, and comfortable. The added cushion will keep your feet from feeling tired.
Winter Jackets
Your puffy layer keeps you warm when you stop for a quick break or you’re hiking in frigid temperatures. The Marmot Guides Down Hoodie features ripstop polyester with a DWR coating that keeps pesky tree branches and moister out. While the 700 fill down is a lightweight way to stay warm and snug. The elastic cord hem and handwarmer pockets are a bonus designed to keep you warm on the coldest days out. Marmot also makes a Highlander Down Jacket with a Pertex Quantum fabric that’s designed to keep blustery gusts from penetrating the jacket.
Base Layer Tops
If you’re looking for a base layer that wicks away sweat while keeping you warm, look no further than the North Face Ultra-Warm Poly Crew. This simple, yet stylish crew base layer is the perfect addition to any winter wardrobe. The thumb holes allow you to ensure that you don’t have exposed skin showing when you put on gloves. You can find similar comfort while wearing the Terramar Cloud Nine Base Layer. It works with your body to regulate your body temperature and keep you comfortable in the elements.
Snow Pants
With two layers of Mammut DRY Technology, you’ll be sheltered from the wind and water with the Mammut Stone Hardshell Thermo Pant. If you need more fresh air, utilize the two side zips for easy breathability. A side pocket also lets you stash useful essentials like a phone and sunscreen without hindering movements. For budget-friendly snow pants, look no further than the Arctix Essential. The elastic waistband delivers premium comfort while the reinforced scuff and hem guards offer superior durability.
Headwear
Featuring several different color options and two ways to wear each one, the North Face Reversible Beanie is a must-have for any snowshoeing adventure. Insulating your head maintains your body heat and the North Face Reversible Beanie delivers a stylish, yet functional way to stay warm.
Gloves
Fingers freeze in the winter — even when you’re moving — but the North Face Salty Dog Etip Gloves make sure you can still feel your fingers throughout the day. Its Etip technology means you can still use your cell phone to snap all the selfies while you hit the wintery trails.
If you’re looking to hike in the snow, you want to have all the snowshoeing essentials to stay safe, warm, and cozy. This list of the top snowshoeing gear has you covered from head to toe.
Article and Photos by Meg Atteberry
Meg Atteberry wants to empower you to have the ultimate outdoor adventure. She loves to use her writing work to help people level up their outdoor skills. You can find her climbing, camping, and hiking across her home in Colorado and the American Southwest. When she’s not out exploring, she’s at home cooking up delicious meals from around the globe and curling up with a good Sci-Fi book. You can follow Meg’s adventures at Fox in the Forest.
