Gear Up for Snowshoeing

Want to explore the beauty of the mountains and get a great workout without it feeling like hard work? Snowshoeing is the perfect answer! It brings you close to nature and gives you a whole new way to push yourself. Here are some tips on how to gear up before strapping on your snowshoes and heading into the mountains…

About snowshoeing

Better known simply as a snowshoe, the snowshoe allows you to move across deep snow. Fixed under the walking shoe, it extends the contact surface with the snow, making it possible to avoid sinking in and to find purchase to propel yourself forward — unlike skis, which allow you to glide across the snow's surface. Snowshoes are also slightly raised at the front to shed snow and improve manoeuvrability.

A Softshell jacket for snowshoeing

For optimal comfort on your outings, choose a jacket that's flexible, waterproof, and breathable. Softshell jackets are specifically designed to deliver effective protection through a 3-layer membrane system:

• An inner fleece layer for warmth,
• A breathable membrane
• A waterproof membrane

They also typically offer wind protection through a windproof fabric. CimAlp softshell jackets are well suited to this activity, featuring ventilation openings on the sides to prevent overheating during effort, plus a removable hood to shield you from wind and rain.

Trousers for snowshoe hiking

For your snowshoe outings, go for stretch, waterproof trousers that keep you dry while ensuring optimal comfort. Ski trousers work very well for snowshoeing, especially as they feature gaiters at the hem to stop snow getting into your shoes. Choose a pair with thermal insulation to keep you warm enough.

For your safety, RECCO® beacons are available — continuously active and sewn directly into the garment, they help rescuers locate you more quickly and easily in an emergency. CimAlp ski trousers are fitted with this system.

Hiking poles for snowshoeing

While hiking poles aren't strictly necessary, they can help you stay balanced on the snow and protect your body during effort. Poles offer many benefits: they relieve pressure on the lower back and knee joints, strengthen the upper body, and boost circulation.

If you'd like to use poles with your snowshoes, the Corklite telescopic hiking poles are a perfect match. Adjustable in length, extremely sturdy, and fitted with cork grips to absorb perspiration and dampen vibrations — these poles will be by your side on every snowshoeing outing. Just add snow baskets and you're ready to go…

Compression socks for recovery

Snowshoeing requires no prior learning — just the ability to walk. That said, a good level of fitness is essential as the effort can be intense. To make the most of your outings and get back on your feet without too much difficulty, proper recovery matters.

Wear them straight after exercise for 2 to 4 hours — the 3D Compression Recovery socks deliver intensive recovery. With their zone-based compression system, they boost blood circulation and improve venous return. An essential piece of kit to keep in your bag — helps prevent muscle soreness and speeds up recovery so you're ready to go again quickly!

Snowshoeing holds no more mysteries for you — now go for it! Strap on your snowshoes and head out to conquer majestic snow-covered mountains…