Snowshoe Smart

If you are snowshoeing with other people (which should always be the case; this is much safer), take turns leading. Breaking the trail can be very tiring.
If the more energetic people in your group want to stay in front and set pace, let them stay out in front for as long as it's practical and safe. When leading however, consider the pace of the slowest member of the group, and make your steps short enough so everyone in the group can follow in them.
When following, try to stay in the leader's footsteps whenever possible. This conserves your energy and keeps the trail better defined for those who follow you.
Take breaks as necessary to adjust your gear and clothing. Try to stay dry and avoid chills.
Take frequent water and snack breaks.
Snowshoeing can be strenuous and burns a lot of calories, so rehydration is essential. REMEMBER: In the winter, because you feel colder, you may not realize how much you are perspiring. You are nonetheless, and those fluids must be replaced.
If you must travel in areas frequented by snowmobilers, stay out of their way!

Are your snow poles telescoping properly? Maybe a shot of lubricant would be a good idea before setting off...
Are there any suspicious cracks in your snowshoe bindings?
Do you have all of your survival gear?
Are you familiar with the area and terrain you'll be traveling? Do you have your map?
Do you have everything on your checklist?
Does someone at home know where you'll be going should an emergency arise?

If you are snowshoeing with other people (which should always be the case; this is much safer), take turns leading. Breaking the trail can be very tiring.
If the more energetic people in your group want to stay in front and set pace, let them stay out in front for as long as it's practical and safe. When leading however, consider the pace of the slowest member of the group, and make your steps short enough so everyone in the group can follow in them.
When following, try to stay in the leader's footsteps whenever possible. This conserves your energy and keeps the trail better defined for those who follow you.
Take breaks as necessary to adjust your gear and clothing. Try to stay dry and avoid chills.
Take frequent water and snack breaks.
Snowshoeing can be strenuous and burns a lot of calories, so rehydration is essential. REMEMBER: In the winter, because you feel colder, you may not realize how much you are perspiring. You are nonetheless, and those fluids must be replaced.
If you must travel in areas frequented by snowmobilers, stay out of their way!

Are your snow poles telescoping properly? Maybe a shot of lubricant would be a good idea before setting off...
Are there any suspicious cracks in your snowshoe bindings?
Do you have all of your survival gear?
Are you familiar with the area and terrain you'll be traveling? Do you have your map?
Do you have everything on your checklist?
Does someone at home know where you'll be going should an emergency arise?

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