Snowshoeing
A whole history...This is probably the oldest winter sport ever invented. Snowshoeing has been around for several thousand years. Although snowshoes were once used more for getting around than for pleasure, the first traces of these accessories have been found dating back to prehistoric times, in the form of boards to be placed under the feet. Northern Amerindians later created the snowshoe as we know it, at least in its form; for the materials used were wood for the frame and leather straps for the frame to create lift.
At the end of the 18ᵉ century, alpine troops used snowshoes to get around in snowy environments. It wasn't until 100 years later, in the 80s, that these " babiches " (in Quebecois) were democratized in our mountains and became a real leisure activity accessible to the greatest number.
How do you choose the size of your "babiches"?
A milestone
To answer this question, we asked equipment manufacturer Garmont. "When we talk about snowshoe size, we're not referring to the size of the user's foot; in fact, boot bindings are universal and can be adjusted to different lengths. Snowshoe size is generally indicated in inches, and is a measure of length. What you need to know is that each size corresponds to a weight range for the user! And don't forget that when hiking, you're often carrying a backpack... which can be quite heavy! You'll also need to take this into account when assessing your " GVW ", the weight in walking order of the hiker, in order to choose the right snowshoe size.
22 inches (56 cm) / up to 70 kg ; 25 inches (63 cm) / from 70 kg to 100 kg ; 30 inches (76 cm) / over 100 kg.
A pro's opinion
"From valley bottoms to alpine pastures, via forests, the palette for snowshoe trekking is wide. Flowers are absent, and this is the ideal time to get to know trees and shrubs, especially conifers. Many animal species face winter, and it's possible to get in touch with them through tracks left on the snow or visually, as they move away from high-altitude areas and closer to villages. We need to be aware that this is a period of survival for all these animals, and prefer to observe them from a distance (binoculars, spotting scopes), while staying close to the trails to preserve their quiet zones".
A few tips
For Jean-Yves, it's important to "avoid routes that are too long at first, as you have to get used to walking in the snow with an extra 1 kg under each foot, and avoid steep slopes and big overhangs, which are limits to the practice". This winter: Particularly attentive to wildlife, Jean-Yves Ployer is offering "Loup, y es-tu?" outings on the theme of the great canid.
A snowshoe for every purpose
Snowshoe walks and hikes
Here, we're talking about family outings for fun, lasting from a few hours to a day. Equipment should be easy to put on and effective in all snow conditions. Poles are optional for outings, but can be very useful to facilitate your progress during a day hike. Especially if the snow is fresh or very wet, and you're going deeper into the snow: "less weight", as they say.
Winter Trek
These are itinerant hikesmost often on Nordic profiles, and generally over several days. You'll need solid equipment that performs well in all snow conditions, but above all is lightweight. Telescopic poles are a must.
The approach walk
Snowshoeing is used as a tool for getting around the mountains, reaching places that are fairly inaccessible for extreme activities such as free-ride skiing or snowboarding, icefalls and so on. The equipment must be solid and technical. Your poles will help you climb the steepest slopes.
The competition
Developed mainly in North America, snowshoe racing is a hybrid of orienteering and endurance. You need products that are state-of-the-art, lightweight and durable. You can't imagine using poles in this format! You run and need your arms to balance.
Several types of snowshoes
For all of them, the binding leaves the heel free, ensuring the most natural and efficient walking possible.
The U.S. snowshoe
The closest thing to a traditional snowshoe. Made of strong, lightweight aluminum alloys with high load-bearing capacity, they are ideal for flat, open and hilly terrain with lots of snow and little elevation gain. Light and easy to handle, American snowshoes offer little grip.
Alpine snowshoeing
It adapts to alpine terrain: slopes, snow that's sometimes frozen or crusty, and steep ascents and descents. The "wasp-waisted" sieve is more tapered, and it has claws and "diamonds" that give you a much better grip. And then there's... its heel pad! I pull it up on steep slopes to raise my heel. It takes the weight off my calves and my stride is more efficient.
The Evvo® snowshoe
An "intuitive" snowshoe, light and compact, that fits snowshoers' feet.
Preparing my snowshoe outing
The shoes
Waterproofing - ankle support - comfort are the ideal combo for a successful outing. If I'm going out for more than half a day, spare socks will be a great ally!
Gaiters
They'll keep moisture out of your shoes and your feet cold. A real comfort tool!
Clothing
Snowshoeing is hot! Cover up, uncover: the 4-layer rule
- Breathable first layer (base layer) in technical fabric
- Fleece or other type in 2ᵉ layer
- Waterproof and windproof protection
- Waterproof, breathable pants
- Waterproof gloves
- Hat and neck warmer
- Synthetic trekking socks
Safety
- Head cover - sun cream - moisturizer
It's possible to get sunstroke in winter: when the weather's fine, I remember to protect my head and face. I regularly drink a few sips of water or a sugary drink.
- I don't go off alone into unsafe snow.
- I equip myself with an avalanche transceiver. It's often possible to rent one with your snowshoes; check with sports stores.
- I avoid the cold with my survival blanket
- A small first-aid kit and a few refreshments
- A screwdriver or a multitool to prevent damage to your snowshoes. And above all... I estimate the duration of my outing and leave early enough to avoid getting caught in the dark. Don't forget that in winter, in some shady areas, you can't see much after 4.30pm!
Where and how can you enjoy snowshoeing at Haute Maurienne Vanoise ?
While it is preferable to be accompanied by a mountain leaderor ski instructor for beautiful wilderness hikes, there are safe, signposted itineraries in the six resorts of Haute Maurienne Vanoise : Valfréjus, la Norma, Aussois, Val Cenis, Bessans and Bonneval-Sur-Arc.
When it comes to equipment, most sports stores in the valley offer equipment for hire. And don't forget that snowshoeing is an activity that evolves in an environment that can present many hazards (snow cover, weather...), so don't hesitate to consult a professional who knows the mountains, their riches and their risks. He or she will be able to advise you and accompany you on your adventures.
Article originally published on Terra Modana, the regional newspaper of the Haute Maurienne Vanoise
This article is not intended to meet all the needs and abilities of the individual in the practice described. It is therefore the individual's responsibility to ensure that the route he or she has chosen is within his or her exact and accessible reach.
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