Snowshoes are just such a simple name for devices for easy and fast walking in deep snow. This type of winter hiking or trekking is also famous as snowshoeing (accessories). Snowshoes appeared in ancient times and hunters used them for fast and silent walking in deep snow. The simplest and most ancient snowshoes are two light, compact and flat planks that are tied to the feet. They were used by many peoples for hunting or for economic purposes.
According to archaeologists, for the first time snowshoes began to be used more than 4000 years ago in Central Asia, after which they spread to the countries of North America, etc. The simplest type of snowshoe has many drawbacks, such as the fact that the plank, at the wrong angle of delivery, easily falls into the entire depth of the snow. Now snowshoes Canada is so popular and there are so many snowshoes on sale. So you can buy women’s snowshoes and those for men as well for sale and have fun.
Structure of Snowshoes
Each tribe and nation has always had its own “canons” in the manufacture of snowshoes. Some of them were oval, others elongated, others had two ends, etc., but still, the materials for the manufacture of structures were not much different – mainly a wooden or bone frame with rawhide or raw leather straps was used for this. , tendons or ropes.
Lifehack: Now people create snowshoes, made from lighter and more durable modern materials, bright colors they use in the design, plus they constantly invent new interesting shapes and combinations. But the principle always remains the same – due to a significant increase in the surface area of the foot, the load from the weight of the body on the snow is evenly distributed, which allows you to move without falling into the snow as deep as if they were not on their feet. The optimal ratio is 6.5 square centimeters per pound of weight.
The invention, which opened up new possibilities for man, eventually became quite popular in those places where they know what snow is. We can call these snowshoes as classic “all-terrain vehicles” – with them you can conquer the most difficult snowy peaks, walk through frozen swamps and lakes, and explore the mighty snow-covered forests. They are not afraid of dirt or water.
Types of snowshoes.
ATVs currently have two categories, and you need to choose them depending on the conditions in which you are going to use them:
First category: frame snowshoes. Frame snowshoes we use in areas where snow is almost always loose. Snowshoes with a frame construction are quite versatile, they are easy to repair even in field conditions. The springy tubular frame makes it easier to run and jump over obstacles. You can use them almost everywhere, and they are quite convenient in lowland forests and low-mountain terrain.
Second category: rigid all-plastic deck. These snowshoes we use in areas where there is loose snow, firn (hard-packed, granular and partially recrystallized, usually multi-year snow) or ice. A rigid all-plastic deck we usually use for snowshoes with a small area, and for high altitude conditions. Very often, additional firn spikes and heel support we add to the design, to facilitate climbing a steep slope, and for a safer descent.
In each of these categories, there are several types of snowshoes, depending on the shape, purpose and design features.
Snowshoe selection.
Choose snowshoes that match the type of walk you choose. There are several basic types of snowshoes, designed specifically for certain types of walking. Think about how you are going to use yours and choose the most suitable:
- Walking, for long distances and flat terrain – such snowshoes are suitable mainly for flat terrain with prepared trails. Of course, there are some fasteners in them, but not many at all.
- For hiking and rough terrain – snowshoes with increased wear resistance and improved bindings. Good for occasional hikes without prepared paths, but not long and on moderately steep slopes.
- For wilderness, hillclimbing, mountaineering – snowshoes suitable for camping, and long off-road trips. Make sure you have the necessary toe and heel bindings if you plan to climb a slope.
- Racing, running, aerobics – snowshoes that are suitable for running on flat, well-trodden trails, and are too light to be used off-road.
