How-to-Snowshoe - Learn the basics from the experts _ L.L.Bean

Hi , my name is Nathan Mack .

I work in product development at L L Bean .

I'm here at the fog farm in Freeport Maine to talk to you about how easy it is to get started .

Snowshoeing to get started with this sport .

You just need a pair of snow shoes , comfortable , winter boots , winter trekking poles .

A pair of gators can be nice to keep the snow out of your shoes and the appropriate winter apparel to keep you warm and dry prior to going snowshoeing .

It's always a good idea to bring a few things in your pack to help make the experience more enjoyable .

I always like to include an insulated layer , a water bottle , a vacuum bottle with a warm beverage , small first aid kit , a head lamp , should you stay out later than anticipated ?

And it turns dark and an extra pair of gloves .

Now , you have the equipment you need .

Your pack is loaded and it's time to get on the trail .

Snowshoeing is just as easy as walking , but there's a few important tips that will help make it an even more enjoyable experience when walking with your snow shoes on .

You want to keep your feet just a little bit wider so that your snow shoes don't hit .

And if you lead with your poles , it will provide great balance .

Snow shoes are designed to provide excellent floatation and the traction you need on hard snow and ice when climbing or ascending on your snow shoes , it's important to engage the cramp on into the hard packed snow or ice so that they provide the traction that you need when going downhill or descending on your snow shoes .

You also want to utilize the traction provided by your crampon and make sure to provide firm contact with the hard snow and ice .

Snow shoeing is a great winter activity and it's so easy to get started .

I'll see you out on the trail .