SNOWSHOEING- AN AFFORDABLE WINTER SPORT THE ENTIRE FAMILY CAN ENJOY

August 06, 2022

    With the cost of inflation at its highest in decades and many families financially stretched, it is getting much more difficult to find a winter activity that the entire family can afford that doesn’t break the bank. This just adds another motivation to get out snowshoeing and bring the whole family along for the adventure! Snowshoeing is an affordable winter activity. You can equip your entire family with Powder Paws Snowshoes for a fraction of the cost compared to other winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding. It is even more affordable when you take advantage of our Canada wide snowshoes on sale on our kids and snowshoes for men and women.

For families to rent or buy ski/snowboard gear and purchase day passes for a full day on the slopes can be just simply out of reach financially for many Canadian households. When compared to snowshoeing the costs are very reasonable as there are a variety of great trails that are free to use or charge a very minimal fee.

   GREAT FOR ALL AGES

   Snowshoeing is our family’s favorite winter activity (Obviously)! It is a great way to enjoy a “screen free” day, eliminate the extra energy children may experience from being indoors more often, all while being in the crisp outdoors. It’s an activity that everyone can pick up with no previous experience and a sport which can accommodate all ages. From kids as early as five to the elderly, snowshoeing is a fun, easy to learn activity that is a great way to get outdoors and enjoy the beauty of the winter months. Our Powder Paws kids snowshoes are very easy to apply and will provide hours of enjoyment for your little ones. We have incorporated aluminum crampons for durability and added traction for mild sloped trails. Instead of having strictly men's snowshoes or women's snowshoes we make all our adult and kids snowshoes designed in Canada fun unisex colors everyone can enjoy!

TIPS FOR SNOWSHOEING WITH KIDS

The number one rule for snowshoeing with kids is to keep them as comfortable as possible! Keeping them dry and warm is a must! You can succeed at this guideline by dressing them in the appropriate layers (as we discussed in our clothing blog), this is the best way to ensure your child has a great time and leaves them eager for their next adventure.

Our second rule is to bring a variety of snacks and water for your trip. Most kids have a naturally high metabolism, combined with large amounts of physical activity they will require extra food to fuel their bodies with energy. This will help prevent the “hangry” feeling we sometimes get and will allow kids to enjoy their outdoor experience!

Last rule is do not overdue it! It’s human nature to look at a map and want to make it too that beautiful viewpoint but don’t forget to take into consideration difficulties such as elevation gain which can make the hike much more strenuous. I recommend getting a detailed topography map of the trails you plan to snowshoe. A map that displays contour lines so you can determine the slope you will be climbing. Plan on stopping frequently to rehydrate and rest their legs. If you burn your kids out on a hike they will be very hesitant to do it again.

SNOWSHOEING WITH YOUR DOG

Bringing your furry friend along is a great way to keep them moving and fit throughout the winter. Ensure the trails are pet friendly and bring a leash as a lot of trails may require your pet to be on a leash. Make sure to bring extra water along for the dog as they can also be exerting themselves in the deep snow. Another guideline to consider when it comes to our fur friends is that their fur is in fact long enough to keep them warm if you are snowshoeing in the extreme cold. If it is not you can purchase insulated jackets for dogs to ensure they will stay warm. Know their ability and watch for signs of hypothermia and exhaustion. Signs of hypothermia are strong shivering, dilated pupils and slowed breathing. If you see any of these symptoms its crucial to bundle them, give them water and get them to a vet as soon as possible.

If you follow these tips it will guarantee the whole family will have a positive experience and create some lasting memories in the great outdoors!