That's serious exercise. And getting started is pretty easy, he says. The best thing to do is get information. Today's snowshoes are smaller, lighter, and less cumbersome then they used to be. When choosing a snowshoe, consider size and binding.
Size is measured by width and length.
In general, if the total weight of the person and the pack is more than 170 pounds, consider a larger snowshoe, Porcari and colleagues suggest. And bindings do more than hold the foot in place, according to Porcari. They should be easy to operate wearing gloves and mittens, have a secure point of attachment, provide adequate traction, and keep the foot in place. Some snowshoers also may choose to use poles. When doing any exercise in the cold, it's important to dress warmly and stay hydrated, says Ira Jacobs, PhD, chief scientist at the Defense and Civil Institute of Environmental Medicine in Toronto.