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Introduction
Snowshoe construction
Decking Bindings
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Racchette da neveSnowshoes Snowshoe construction

No snowshoe is capable of performing brilliantly in all conditions. When choosing a snowshoe, a compromise must be reached between its effectiveness (i.e. how well it stops the wearer from sinking in) and its size & weight. A large snowshoe clearly has a greater flotation capacity than a small snowshoe, but is heavier and less manoeuvrable. Total body weight (including winter gear) influences the size of the snowshoe, as does its use (recreation or mountaineering). Select the snowshoe which best suits the terrain and activity and if you don't have the opportunity to try out a pair, then bear in mind the following points.


Frames
Snowshoes come in three basic shapes: traditional, Canadian, and modern.



Traditional

This is the most popular snowshoe design, with a wooden or aluminium frame and a cord deck.

Traditional snowshoes

For
cheap
simple, non-bulky design
easy to use
Against
small surface area
fixed binding
iddly strapping system

Plastic cnowshoes
Canadian

These snowshoes with "tails" can be almost one meter long and are excellent for walking in fresh powder.

For
excellent flotation
advanced binding systems
many different models in wood, aluminium or plastic
Against
bulky
in general, not suitable for steep hikes and hard snow
cost

Tubbs Modern

Modern snowshoes are based on both the traditional and the Canadian design. Most are either aluminium or plastic and have technical bindings and crampons for difficult terrain. Some ergonomic models have been designed for competitions.

For
advanced binding systems
crampons for hard snow
less bulky than other designs
suitable for steep hikes and hard snow
many models designed for specific functions (children, competitions, etc)
Against
less flotation than Canadian design
cost

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