The answer is it depends. When snowshoeing, you often start off cool, and will want plenty of warmth around you. As your heart rate climbs, you’ll find you don’t need as much warmth and are likely looking for wind or sun protection. The basics for dressing for snowshoeing include the layering system. You’ll need a warmth layer close to your skin, plus a waterproof layer to protect you from the snow and/or wind.
Waterproof Layer
Depending on conditions, you’ll want both a waterproof pant and jacket. If there isn’t a cloud in the sky and you don’t mind getting a little damp, you may be able to wear water-resistant clothes instead, but this isn’t recommended. Ideally, you’ll have a waterproof, breathable jacket and pant such a Gore-Tex or other synthetic fabric to keep the water out and the warmth in. Many jackets today come with ‘pit zips’ (zippers in your armpits) or other zippers to keep you cool, but still protected. These are very useful and recommended.
Warmth Layer
You’ll want at least 1 layer (maybe 2) of a synthetic material on both your top and bottom. Materials such as silk, merino wool, and Capilene, make great base layers. These fabrics not only pull the moisture away from your body, but also breathe and keep you warm at the same time. I do not recommend 100% polyester base layers. Vests come in handy this time of year as many women find their “core” gets cold. You’ll also want a synthetic sock too to keep your feet warm. For the snow, at least a medium weight sock is suggested, depending on your boots.
Footwear
Your feet will be submerged in snow if the powder is fresh. You’ll want a waterproof shoe (with gaiters) or boot. You don’t have to have a special winter boot to snowshoe. Your regular hiking boots are fine. If your boots are light or mid-weight, wear a thicker sock to add warmth. If you are worried at all about your boots leaking, consider a Gore-Tex sock liner.
Head & Hands
Wear a warm fleece or wool hat plus bring a sun hat to snowshoe. You’ll also want waterproof gloves. Mittens work for snowshoeing, but can be hard to use when putting on and taking off snowshoes. A thick glove + a liner can help when you need to use your hands.
Eyes
Snow reflects the sun. You’ll need good sunglasses that can protect your eyes from not only the sun, but also the glare. If you are out in falling snow, you may prefer snow goggles to protect yourself from the snow and wind.
Suggested Manufacturers of Women’s Snowshoeing Equipment
Isis for Women www.isisforwomen.com
Their one and only goal in everything they do is to develop attractive performance clothing that fits women’s bodies and their lives
Patagonia www.patagonia.com
Their mission statement is to build the best product, cause no unnecessary harm, use business to inspire and implement solutions to the environmental crisis.
Marmot www.marmot.com
Supplying the highest quality performance product.
