This focus allows the feet and ankles to adapt to variations in the snow, which reduces the fatigue associated with trying to hold a position on the snow. Poles add stability and distribute power between the arms and legs. Because snowshoes can go anywhere, it is easy to get into very aggressive terrain quickly. As in climbing, snowshoeing efficiently downhill requires the use of the crampons. Engage the rear crampons by leaning back and bending the knees slightly, which allows an easy, safe descent.
Poles can add balance and control on the downhills.
If the snowshoer is looking for a challenge, they can run downhill, trying to maintain a posture nearly perpendicular to the slope of the hill. Traversing technique Two techniques can be used for traversing a slope. If the snow is soft, the uphill edge of the snowshoe can be edged in the hill to create a flat platform. To make sure the snowshoe is edged properly, swing the heel into the uphill side so that the snowshoe points slightly downward and the crampons are engaged properly. On hard-packed snow, the snowshoe will not edge into the snow, therefore it is best to angle the snowshoe upward or downward about 60 degrees and use a cross step to traverse.