Snowshoes

A snowshoe is a special kind of shoe that is designed to make it safe to walk on snow or icy surfaces. The main objective of this kind of shoe is the retention of mobility in a very inclement and potentially dangerous environment where walking can be hazardous.

The snowshoes used by mountaineers and hikers are designed for extreme conditions and for those who choose to be in this kind of environment, however there is another kind of snowshoe that can be used for getting around the garden, town or local area.

Snowshoes for normal activity

All too often heavy snow or ice can make going outdoors a potentially dangerous proposition. This risk is multiplied for anyone who feels unstable or unsteady on their feet. However, if they do not have a carer or family member on hand it may be necessary for them to venture outdoors at certain times.

When this is the case, having a pair of non activity based snow shoes can be a life saver. Snow shoes can make it safe and relatively simple to get into the garden, to go to the refuse bin, to get to the garage, or even to walk to a local shop.

Snow shoes of this type vary in design, but the best ones will have the following important features.

• The snowshoe should extend to, and ideally past, the ankle.
• The snow shoe should be well insulated with plenty of cushioning and a warming padding or lining. It is essential that feet do not get cold when walking in snowy or icy conditions.
• The shoes should fasten with Velcro (hook and loop or hook and mesh) fastenings. This type of closure makes is easy to open and close the shoe, even when wearing gloves, and the tightness can be adjusted very easily.
• Finally the outer sole of the shoe needs a surface that can contend with snow and ice without slipping. There are a number of solutions to this challenge and they range from heavily ridged soles to very soft rubber soles. However, when very slippery conditions are anticipated the only way to guarantee a good grip is if there is some form of ice gripper fitted to the sole.

  One way of doing this is to have a double depth thick sole, another way is to have some variation on spikes or studs and another novel solution is to have a fold out metal claw that can cut into the ice when walking.

Naturally anyone whose movement is severely restricted would be best advised to stay indoors during times of extreme weather. However, when this is not an option snowshoes can be the next best alternative.