Snowshoe Day Tour Checklist
Our equipment list for snowshoers is comprehensive so you don't forget anything important. This list is a recommendation on what to take with you on one of our guided tours. On our snowshoe tours we will supply: snow shoes; poles; winter gaiters and all safety equipment.
Clothing
Snowshoeing is an active activity, as you hike you will inevitably warm up . Therefore it is best to dress in layers so you can add and take away clothing as desired to regulate your temperature. Synthetic clothing and wool are most suited for winter activities. (Examples of synthetic fabrics include polyester, ozone, acrylic, nylon, rayon, acetate, spandex, latex, orlon and Kevlar) It is also very important to keep your extremities, (head and hands) covered throughout the day.
- Base layer: Synthetics and wool retain warmth even when wet. Wear long underwear that wicks away moisture, insulates well and dries quickly.
- Insulating layer: Polyester fleece makes a good insulating mid-layer since it retains heat when wet and breathes as you exercise.
- Outer layer: A waterproof, breathable shell jacket and pants keep you dry and fend off wind.
- Wicking base layer (wool or synthetic)
- Insulating mid layer: fleece jacket or vest
- Waterproof/breathable jacket (or soft shell)
- Hiking trousers/synthetic activewear
- Long Johns or fleece pants (for cold days)
- Hiking or leather boots, insulated waterproof boots, sneakers or trail running shoes.
- Insulating wool hat or beanie
- Scarf/neck warmer
- Socks (synthetic or wool) plus spares if desired
- Gloves/mittens
** Gore-Tex, eVent, Omni-Dry, Hyvent, NeoShell and OutDry are excellent products available which offer great waterproof, windproof, and breathable fabrics for winter outdoor activities.**
Avoid cotton clothing at all costs - when cotton gets wet, it ceases to insulate you because all of the air pockets in the fabric fill up with water. When you hike, you perspire, and any cotton clothing touching your skin will absorb your sweat like a sponge.
Personal Items
- Back Pack
- Camera/cellphone
- Sun protection - Sunscreen, lip balm and sunglasses/goggles
- Quick-dry towel/small travel towel (optional)
- Post activity change of clothing (optional)
- Personal snacks (optional)
- Water bottle
- Spare cash
