Snowshoe hiking is gaining more and more followers, yet it remains relatively unknown to many people and still suffers from a slightly old-fashioned image. On top of that, many people associate misconceptions with snowshoe hiking and, as a result, wrongly dismiss it! So let's look together at 6 stubborn myths and clichés about snowshoe hiking. And perhaps you'll be more inclined to try this demanding sport on your next winter sports trip?
You need a guide to go snowshoeing
Most ski resorts now offer well-marked and safe snowshoe routes. Very often, you'll even find a trail guide providing additional information to help you choose your routes. The difficulty of these trails is generally moderate. On these routes, it is perfectly possible to hike without a guide. A guide becomes recommended for off-piste routes or for more demanding group outings. Some guides, however, are invaluable for learning more about the environment and landscape around you.
Snowshoeing is much harder than hiking
If you can walk in summer, you can do it in winter too! Snowshoes are shaped to adapt to the natural movement of the walker. Snowshoe hiking is barely harder than summer walking — especially on well-marked paths. As soon as you leave the trails and find yourself in deep snow, the wider range of movement required makes the effort harder. But in most cases, the difficulty is the same.
It's better to rent your equipment than to buy it
Clearly, if you want to try or get started with snowshoe hiking, renting your kit is the better option. But once you start going regularly, it's preferable to invest and buy your own snowshoes. Economically, it makes more sense. Ergonomically, you'll also be able to choose a pair of snowshoes suited to your size and invest in quality kit — solid enough to last for many years.
You can snowshoe without poles
Poles are the essential tool for balance when walking on snow! The rugged nature of certain trails is much easier to handle with poles. And for descents, this is even more true. Poles can be seen as nothing less than two extra legs that take the strain during effort and help you find your balance. Choose good hiking poles to make progress more easily.
Just buy the cheapest snowshoes!
This will almost certainly be a poor decision, and any savings will be short-lived. Out on the terrain, the comfort and durability offered by slightly more expensive kit will be incomparable. Without going as far as high-tech, premium-priced gear, there are ways to equip yourself properly by prioritising good value for money, while avoiding price points too low to be genuinely quality.
Off-trail is impossible when hiking on snowshoes
It is perfectly possible to go off-trail on snowshoes. As with skiing, it requires experience, good kit, and a safe, confident approach. The key is to practise safely whenever you leave marked routes. In that case, it is better to be accompanied by a guide, to move in a group, or to log your route if going solo. Carrying an ARVA (Avalanche Rescue Victim Apparatus) is also recommended. Far from being limited to trails, snowshoes are a fantastic tool for exploring the winter wilderness.
