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Apr 27 2019

Snowshoeing Tips

Start Your Snowshoe Adventure Here…

We proudly offer Crescent Moon snowshoes for sale and for rent. Crescent Moon is based right here in Colorado and the company’s shoes are made in Boulder. Owners Jake and Tamara Thamm have spent the last two decades making and perfecting snowshoes that fit everyone’s needs. Their philosophy: Build snowshoes to last a lifetime using materials that do harm the environment. Eight-five percent of the aluminum and steel used to manufacture Crescent Moon shoes is recycled and the company’s manufacturing facility is 100% powered by wind.

10 Tips for a Successful Snowshoe Adventure

  • Be prepared. Check local weather conditions before you go anywhere and be aware that conditions can change very quickly. Regularly check local weather forecasts and advisories. What’s happening in your backyard may wildly differ from where you’re going.

  • Layer Up. Wear comfortable, layered clothing that includes a base layer, mid-layer, wind-proof jacket, hat and gloves. Wear wool or other moisture-wicking material socks and bring an extra pair in case they get wet. Steer clear of anything made of cotton. There’s a reason the Boy Scouts say, “Cotton kills.”

  • Fuel Up. Bring plenty of water and snacks. The last thing you want to do is bonk in the middle of the woods. Many backpacks have hydration compartments. Fill it with warm water and it will not only keep you warmer, it will be less likely to freeze.

  • Speaking of backpacks. Make sure you bring one. Even if you don’t want to use a hydration-based pack with a reservoir, you’re still going to want something to stash your discarded layers, extra socks, water bottles and snacks.

  • Be prepared II: Bring basic equipment including a map, compass, sunglasses, sunscreen and a first aid kit. If you are in the mountains, familiarize yourself with avalanche danger areas and safety precautions. Check out fs.usda.gov for maps and www.fsavalanche.org for information on avalanche safety, education, and current snow pack.

  • Stretch. Snowshoeing can be strenuous so make sure you stretch before you begin your trek.

  • Choose the right shoe. Determining the right snowshoe for you isn’t difficult but it can make a difference in your outdoor adventure. Use a smaller shoe for groomed areas and a larger shoe for backcountry excursions. Using poles can be very advantageous, especially in backcountry areas. Figuring out what size shoe to use will also depend on how much you weigh. And remember that when figuring out that number, add in the weight of all the gear and stuff you’ll be carrying in your backpack.

  • Be prepared III: Don’t snowshoe alone. Tell someone where you are going and when you’re coming back.

  • Be responsible. Pack out your trash. Your adventure should leave an impression on you, not the landscape.

  • Have fun! Snowshoeing is one of the best and easiest ways to enjoy the great outdoors. Pretty much anyone who can walk can snowshoe. It’s a great way to stay active and healthy and see the world in a way and in places you might not otherwise.

Written by Castle Rock Bike & Ski · Categorized: General

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