Snowshoeing

[ljcsov]

Anyone out there into snowshoeing?

I was looking to start to do my research on this now and see if I can take advantage of a warmer weather sale on the gear. I am putting together a list of what I need or need to do. Your input is appreciated

1) Get snowshoes - not sure on the brand (MSR, Tubbs, TSL, Komperdell?)
2) waterproof boots (some nikwax formula?)
3) Snow/high gaiters
4) Snow baskets for poles

Anything else I need other than warmer clothing?

I was looking at some of these starter sets:
http://www.campmor.com/outdoor/gear/Product___71916
http://www.campmor.com/outdoor/gear/Product___71912

I weigh 185lb so perhaps the one is better than the other. I do already own hiking poles, so I figured I could just switch the basket to snow baskets. Nonetheless, I wasn't sure if there are advantages to having "snow poles".

Thanks!

[Tom Murphy]

Those are pretty good deals for a starter set. Hiking poles with snow baskets are the same as "snow poles". I used ski poles forever.

But it might be more expensive to buy the snow shoes and gaiters separately, if so get the set.

Both of these sets of snow shoes are for rolling hills. @185# plus your pack, they will be good in consolidated snow and on packed trails.

So if you are doing short day hikes on established trails and snowed-over golf courses these are perfect.
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If you plan on shoeing up steep mountain trails or off-trail into the woods, the "less aggressive carmpons and 8x25 size probably wouldn't be enough grip nor enough flotation.
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The flex are what the kewl kids are using, I still like the traditional design, goes better with my Kelty external and my SVEA.
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[ljcsov]

I was also eyeing up these and getting baskets and gaiters separately.

https://www.campmor.com/outdoor/gear/Product___38971

Is this all I need to get out there on snow shoes?

Also, are normal ankle boots OK with snow gaiters as long as I waterproof them?

[Mags]

Snowshoeing a great way to explore the outdoors in winter.

I wrote this doc as an intro to snowshoeing. Maybe it will help?
http://www.pmags.com/intoduction-to-snowshoeing-basics

[yappy]

I also do a ton of snowshoeg ..I'm an addict.I just usse cheap ski poles and snow pant no gaiters I have a hardcore wintr boot cuz fairbanks is very cold. A knee high boot..good mittens etc it is a great sport 2 do w dogs but thy trap up here so have 2 b very carefl

[ljcsov]

Thanks for the hook up guys. I was afraid it would be really expensive to get into and I would be in need of a lot of stuff. Doesn't seem too bad to me!

[Tom Murphy]

No, I used a pair of Yukon Charlies from Olympia Sports for years. A very "entry model" level but they are still great for their intended purpose.

Wear the boots and layers you would wear for going outside to shovel a really, really, long driveway.

If you start winter hiking [i.e. headed into the woods a few miles from the trailhead], then it becomes a whole different deal since you then need to consider how you would stay warm if you got hurt.

[DLANOIE]

If you are interested or have kids I have one of these for sale: http://www.orssnowshoesdirect.com/kinder_shuttle_ski_pulk_sled.htm

PM me for more info if you are interested. They are awesome, I haul both my kids sometimes and they usually fall asleep in it.