Snowshoeing: Tips, equipment and gadgets for beginners

Unsurprisingly, the name describes pretty well what you can expect from snowshoeing: You hike through the snow on snowshoes. But what might be new to you is that you can discover places that would remain undiscovered with other conventional winter sports such as skiing or snowboarding, because with snowshoeing you walk far away from the slopes and winter tourism, in the middle of nature. Sounds easy, but what about equipment, knowledge about avalanches or choosing the right place to sleep? We answer all these questions for you and show you the most beautiful camping sites in the middle of nature so that you can start your snowshoe adventure right away.

What do you need for snowshoeing? That's right, snowshoes! To try out the sport first, you can look out for snowshoes at ski or snowboard rental shops, where there are often offers to hire and use them for a small fee. If you do decide to buy your own snowshoes, here are some tips on choosing between the two most common materials: plastic and aluminum. Snowshoes with plastic frames are characterized by their lightness and flexibility. This gives you a comfortable freedom of movement and good adaptation to different terrain. They are also generally cheaper, which is of course particularly good for beginners to try out the sport first. For example, these here from Outdoorshop123.

On the other hand, aluminum snowshoes offer you a robust and durable option. They are well suited for demanding tours and more extreme conditions and offer you reliable support thanks to their stability, especially on steep terrain. However, they are also the more expensive and heavier option. How about these from Outdoorshop123?

The decision between plastic and aluminum snowshoes therefore depends on the planned area of use and the budget you have planned for the tour. In addition to local rental stations, you can also rent snowshoes online, for example from the Garmisch Alpine School. The equipment will be sent to you for a fee of €10 and after use you can simply send the shoes back with a free return label.

In addition to snowshoes, there are a few other important things you should take with you before you set off on your hike in the glistening white countryside. 

• Sleeping place as a starting point for the hike 

If you are still looking for inspiration, you can use the "Winter sports" filter to find campsites, tiny houses and cabins in the middle of nature, far away from the crowds, which you can use as the perfect starting point for your snowshoe hike . 

• Footwear and warm clothing 

When hiking through the snow, you should definitely think about choosing the right footwear. Waterproof, insulated boots with a high shaft, non-slip tread and a good fit are best. If necessary, you can also wear snow gaiters for additional protection from the snow. Waterproof and warm clothing are of course also on the dress code. 

• Sun protection 

As the surface of the snow reflects the sunlight, you are exposed to increased UV radiation when snowshoeing. You should therefore remember to apply enough sun cream with a high sun protection factor before the hike. 

• First aid kit

Of course, we hope that nothing happens to you and that you don't need it, but when it comes to your health, it's better to be safe than sorry. So be sure to pack a first aid kit in your backpack, because it's worth its weight in gold to be able to help yourself before external help arrives, especially when you're out in the middle of nature. 

• Map & compass or waterproof GPS device 

Depending on which trails you choose, you may not be able to rely on your cell phone for orientation on a snow hike in the middle of the mountains. We therefore recommend having a map of the terrain and a compass or waterproof GPS device with you as a backup.

Being off-road and experiencing untouched nature is wonderful, but unfortunately also involves some dangers, such as avalanches or changes in the weather, which are particularly dangerous when you move away from civilization. Find out about the expected weather and avalanche conditions before you set off on your hike. Think about how long you need for the hike to get back before the sun goes down and build in a little buffer to marvel and admire. :) 
 

For detailed avalanche reports and forecasts, we recommend the official app of the avalanche warning services of Bavaria and Austria: Snowsafe.

You can view the different regions in a list or on the map and get important information on the current and expected conditions. It is free and available in the App Store and Google Play Store.

Just like on our campsites, the same applies to hiking: respect nature and the animals that live there. Winter sports that take you off-piste have become increasingly popular in recent years, including snowshoeing. The problem arises when you venture into areas where endangered animal species live, which is particularly the case in forests. So stick to designated routes when you are out and about in the forest and (it goes without saying) don't leave any garbage behind, be quiet and considerate when encountering wildlife and appreciate that you are allowed to be a visitor in their home.

Slippery roads, wet feet and cold hands. Winter camping can be a real challenge, but not with the right know-how. Click here for our winter camping guide with tips & cool camping gadgets for your next winter camping vacation.

By the way: If you want to expand your winter wardrobe or upgrade old items, you can find cool hoodies and patches in Hinterland style in our merch store!