The Winter
is full of outdoor activities, and one of the best ways to get out to enjoy them is snowshoeing.
Trails are not necessary and depending on your physical shape, you choose your particular pace. Just you and your snowshoes in the woods or fields feeling the fresh air in your lungs, hearing the crunch of the snow under you. Exploring the natural wonders of winter.

What kind do I need?:
Let us sit back for a moment and figure what your snowshoes will need to be doing for you.
How will you be using your snowshoes?
For occasional users shoes are smaller. For people who will be using them for backpacking or mountaineering carrying heavier loads they will need better floatation so the shoe will be larger. People who run on them may want a lighter more maneuverable shoe.
How heavy will you be?
Figure your body weight and all the gear you will be wearing on your adventure.
Type of snow and how they will be used?
A deep powdery snow needs a bigger shoe for better floatation where packed or wet snow a smaller shoe would be better.
For Example:
I weigh 210lbs. and I go up some steep inclines with deep fluffy snow. With my 45lb. pack, clothes and such I run approximately 265lbs. So I went with the a 9x30 mountaineering shoe so they will support me through the situations that I will encounter. This doesn`t mean I will not sink at all however it beats sinking up to your neck.
Snowshoeing Basics
Lightweight aluminum tubing and plastic make up most of todays snowshoes Wooden snowshoes will do what you want however need more maintenance and can be easily damaged.
Choose a binding that is easy to use and adjust with mittens on or off.
Decks are made of plastic and other synthetics that are stronger, lighter, snow will not stick to them and no maintenance than the webbings of the past.
Todays snowshoes offer a variety of traction innovations, like heel and toe crampons. So when the going gets icy or steep terrain the more traction you will get.
Types of Snowshoes
Recreational:
Great for walking and short two day adventures on fairly level terrain with no real steepness.
Mountaineering:
If you plan on getting into icy conditions with steeper terrain you will find this offer much improved more technical traction.
Aerobic/Conditioning:
A cross training shoe designed with maneuverability, lighter, along with durability for packed trails.
Youth:
A smaller shoe for weights not exceeding 125lbs.

Accessories
Poles:
Are very handy, helping you keep your balance, working your upper body, or giving you support and stability when venturing down steep inclines.
Poles usually come with either a snow style of basket that can be removed for different types of baskets depending on the conditions you may encounter.
Basket Types: Trekking baskets Are smaller discs that fit on to the end of the poles preventing them from sinking into mud, grass, great for three season hiking.
Snow baskets are medium in size, snowflake in shape for packed snow and alpine skiing.
Powder baskets are larger in size for deep powdery snow.

Telescoping would probably be better for packing them away when not needed.
Gaiters:
These are a must for keeping the snow out of your boots, keeping your sox dry. Gaiters will also protect your lower legs from sharp crusty snow or other objects that tend to slap at you.
Sunglasses / Goggles:
The sun can be very bright reflecting off the snow so put the sunglasses on to protect the eyes. Also goggles can be good when its windy to keep the eyes from watering, or the occasional bush or limb that manages to slap the face.
Sunscreen:
Well again the sun can be very bright so unless you want to look like a lobster, be generous putting it on.
Water:
Being winter you may not think you need as much, however you should pay close attention. Bring PLENTY of water. The body can release up to 1/4 cup resting, up to a quart an hour if your really pushing yourself. I figure 8oz. per 20 minutes. If you feel thirsty its already too late.
Planning a big trip? Hydrate yourself a couple of days in advance water to build your system up. Pound some before leaving camp. I can`t stress this enough. Water is everything.
Safety
Perhaps a few things to carry in your daypack:

• a basic first-aid kit
• a map & compass or GPS
• water & snacks
• flashlight / headlamp
• matches (in a waterproof container)
• a whistle
• a pocket knife
• some food or snacks
• extra clothing
• a camera (not for safety but great for remembering your adventure)

SOURCES
Eastern Mountain Sports
The Backpackers Field Manual by Rick Curtis
Trailside`s Trail Food By The Editors of Backpacker Magazine
My own thoughts & experiences