In our last post, we outlined some of the best places to go snowshoeing in Idaho. If you found this post inspiring, you might have found yourself charging out the door to the nearest outfitter to buy some snowshoes. But you’ll need a little bit more than just the snowshoes to enjoy your next winter hike. Here at Killgore Adventures, we want to keep you prepared and ready for an excursions you’re going on (including the ones we offer). So here’s a quick guide on what to wear while snowshoeing.
One of the great things about snowshoeing is that it’s an extremely accessible sport. Anyone who enjoys the winter weather and hiking will love snowshoeing. The shoes themselves can either be purchased or rented and are significantly less expensive than other winter sport equipment like skiing or snowboarding.
To find the right size snowshoes, work with your local outfitter. They’ll need to know your height and your weight (including anything you might be bringing with you in your daypack). From there, they’ll fit you with a set of snowshoes that will serve your needs.
The obvious answer, of course, is snowshoes. But what are you wearing in addition to those? Most snowshoes are able to adjust to fit to nearly any shoe or boot, so you should find footwear that keeps your feet warm, dry, and comfortable while hiking. We’re a fan of insulated and waterproof winter boots. With their rubber soles and heavy-duty uppers, they keep your feet feeling fine even in the chilliest of temps. But before you slip into your winter boots, make sure you pull on a pair of sturdy wool or synthetic socks. These socks will keep your feet warm even if they get wet, and will dry a lot faster than their cotton counterparts.
Back in October, we wrote an in-depth post on the layering system and how it can keep you comfy in nearly any environment. If you didn’t have a chance to read it, here’s a quick break down.
You should bring a daypack with a few essentials packed in it whenever you set out for a day of snowshoeing. Inside your pack, consider packing items like a map and compass, snacks for a few hours, an extra insulating layer, and of course, plenty of water. You might not feel thirsty because of the cold air, but staying hydrated is extremely important in winter. It helps to keep you warm.
If you’re looking for some fun additions to your day pack, consider bringing along a light camping stove and a pot. You can boil some water and make hot cocoa while out on the trail. If you’re looking for a place to sit while you’re traveling, you can bring a closed cell foam mat to sit on, or even just a small tarp. These will keep you warm and dry even on the snowy ground.
Killgore Adventures is the Best Way to Experience the Best of Idaho
As Idaho’s #1 adventure company, we’re always finding new ways to help our customers explore the natural beauty of our state. Come by and visit us in Whitebird and take incredible trips like whitewater rafting, jet boat tours, and even helicopter rides! Book your next adventure today!