Last Updated on January 22, 2022 by Heather Hart, ACSM EP, CSCS
Depending on where in the world you live, winter can be a tough time as a runner. The days are shorter, the temperatures are cooler. For many, your regular roads and trails may be covered in a layer of ice and/or snow. But the change in seasons brings an opportunity for unique types of cross training. Snowshoeing, for runners, can be an incredibly beneficial form of training that will help make you stronger during the winter months.
Let’s preface this snowshoeing for runners post with a confession I’m sure isn’t that much of a secret: I’m not very good at winter. This is surprising considering I grew up in Vermont, the winter wonderland of the East Coast. Vermonters seem to have a love for winter sports ingrained in their very beings, with a reputation of such that follows wherever they go.
I can’t even tell you how many times someone would find out I was from Vermont and immediately say “Oh, so you must ski, right?”. ย ย Every time I repliedย “No, I don’t ski” I would be met with a confused stare. It instantly leaving me with a feeling of guilt,ย as if I’d forsakenย everything Vermont stands for. ย I might as well denounceย maple syrup while I’m at it.
But I’ve learned over the years that adventure is absolutely what you make of it.ย Since returning to the Green Mountain Sate,ย I’ve not only learned to embrace the outdoors, but I’ve become passionate about the mountains and their trails.ย
Two years ago, I reluctantly bought a pair of snowshoes. I have since forced myself to get outside and put in miles on them.ย As it turns out, snowshoeing is not only fun, but it can be a killer cross-training option for runners trapped in the wintry tundra.ย ย I’ve noticed a lot of friends in the North East questioning how to get started in the world of snowshoeing. Hopefully this post of not only how to start, but why you should incorporate snowshoes into your winter training plan.
SNOWSHOEING FOR RUNNERS 101:
Why Snowshoes?
Let’s face it: even if the cold weather doesn’t phase you, there are still winter scenarios where running outside isn’t ideal. Icy roads or unplowed trails for example, may make running uncomfortable or even downright dangerous. Though there is a slight learning curve to compensate for the now increased size of your feet, running in sneakers and running on snowshoes are essentially the exact same movement. Therefore, snowshoes give you the ability to tackle trails (and roads, and fields, and anywhere with snow) that might otherwise be impassable in just running sneakers.
Running vs. Snowshoeing
That said, the effort put forth to run in snowshoes is significantly more difficult than running unencumbered on the trail or road.ย The added weight of the snowshoes (approximately 2+/- lbs)ย ย combined withย the added resistance of the snow not only increases difficulty, but could actually help improve your running.ย
According to a study conducted by the University of Vermont, runners who substituted snowshoeing for running during the winter months actually improved their overall fitness levels (specifically, VO2max or oxygen utilization) compared with those who chose running as their only source of winter training.ย ย Further, the studies shoe thatย snowshoers can burn 420-1000 calories per hour.ย Why?ย According to the studyย โSnowshoeing utilizes major muscle groups which, when combined with a higher metabolic rate in cold weather and the added resistance of moving through snow, results in a higher energy activity.โ
As if all of this wasn’t enough to convince you to cross train with snowshoes, you should know this:ย snowshoeing is actually a low-impact sport.ย While we all know that the over used threat that “running is bad for your knees” is simply a myth, adding low impact cross training into your workouts is a fantastic way to allow your body to recover, as well as challenge different muscle groups.
What Kind of Gear Do You Need?
Now that we’ve covered why snowshoeing can be an incredibly beneficial tool for runners, let’s talk about the gear you’re going to need:
Snowshoes:
The actual act of snowshoeing isn’t overly difficult to learn, so perhaps the first step is finding the right gear. Now, in the triathlon world, first time sprint racers are always advised to borrow a bike for their first race to see if this is a sport they really want to commit to, before investing a ton of money into a bike (and gear) of their own. While snowshoes only cost the fraction of a triathlon bike, the advice to “test first” still holds true. Visit a local outdoor goods or ski shop and see if they rent snowshoes. Or if you have a friend that owns snowshoes, borrow a pair. Put in your first snowshoe excursion on a pair of rentals to see if this is really a sport you might want to pursue.
When the time comes to invest in your own snowshoes, head to your local sporting goods shop and talk to an expert about your snowshoe needs.ย Snowshoes are sized in inches, and the size you need will be determined by your height and weight.ย Further, there are aย countless variations to snowshoes that you may or may not want, such as crampon size, ease of getting in and out of bindings, or tapering of the back of the snowshoe.ย
The point of snowshoes in generalย are to help you “float” on top of the snow instead of sinking down.ย However, when it comes to running on snowshoes, things change a little.ย You are going to want a smaller, lightweight, easier to maneuver snowshoe that won’t hinder your running. While running specific snowshoes do exist, they aren’t always necessarily the best option (or worth the investment), depending on how you plan to use your snowshoes.ย Let an expert help you pick out the right pair.
Boots or Sneakers?ย
This is based on personal preference,ย trail conditions,ย and how much “running” you plan to do.ย If I’m on a flat, hardpacked trail, then a pair of water resistant trail sneakers are perfect. For my first snowshoe 10K race, I wore the Merrell Women’s Proterra Vim Sport Hiking Shoe* (pictured below)ย and had a stellar experience. If I’m in deeper snow, I’ll opt for a lightweight hiking boot to help keep my feet warm and hopefully dryer.ย In both cases, waterproof gaiters come in really handy.ย
And while we are discussing feet:ย keep those toes warm!ย Warm, comfortable feet will make or break your snowshoeing experience.ย Wool socks are not only warm, but have natural waterproof and technical properties.ย My favorites?ย Darn Tough wool socks from Vermont, of course.
Clothing & Accessories:
Dress just as you would for winter running.ย ย Warm, sweat-wicking, tech/sport clothing, socks, and accessories.ย Avoid cotton at all costs, as it doesn’t dry nor help maintain heat when it becomes wet. ย Though you may feel cold at the start, once your heart rate begins to increase, you will likely warm up as your body temperature begins to increase.ย Never underestimate the weather, however, and when in doubt, always wear layers.ย ย If you are new to snowshoeing, I recommend a thicker glove or mitten.ย Chances are you mayย fall a few times, and you want to keep those hands warm.(Obviously, I speak from falling experience here). ย Lastly, don’t forget hydration!
HOW TO SNOWSHOE:
Start Slow.
Snowshoes are slightly awkward at first. While the movement is very similar to that of running, you will change your gait slightly due the now added width and length of the snowshoes on your feet. Your stance will likely be slightly wider than normal, and depending on the snow cover, you may have to raise your knees higher than you would when running on the street. Start slowly by walking. When you are comfortable walking, add a few slow running strides. Because the movements are so similar, the learning curve to running on snowshoes is quick; however, don’t be embarrassed if you slam your ankles or shins on the snowshoes the first few times. Or if you fall.
Start on groomed trails.
As mentioned above, the added resistance of deep, heavy snow makes snowshoeing harder on your muscular and cardiovascular system. Start on well packed, groomed trails. When you become more experienced and comfortable with the movement, work your way to ungroomed trails, or even head off trail.
Etiquette note: if you find yourself on a groomed, cross country ski trail, avoid snowshoeing over the top of the ski tracks. Further, if you encounter a skier on the trail, move to the side and give the skier the right of way.
Safety note: If you find yourself on a trail shared by snowmobiles, PAY ATTENTION. They often don’t expect to come around a corner and find themselves face to face with a snowshoer, so regardless of etiquette and who has the “right of way”, if you hear a snowmobile approaching, for your own safety move off of the trail.
Don’t compare distance/speed to your running distances and times.
A few years ago I signed up for a snowshoe half marathon, thinking it wouldn’t be that big of a deal. I’ve run so many half marathons over the years I’ve honestly lost track. The oversight here being, those races were all on the road. Thankfully this half marathon was on a 10K loop, because after the first brutal 10K, we called it quits…and we were far from the only ones. Point being, snowshoeing is significantly more taxing on your muscles and cardiovascular system. Chances are you will not reach the same speeds or distances with the same effort as you do with road or trail running. A better suggestion is to plan your workout on overall time, such as a 30 or 45 minute excursion, rather than specific distance or pace.
Sign up for a race.
Of course, signing up for a race is not required for snowshoe success. But, what better way to encourage “off season” training and prevent the winter blues than some healthy competition?ย The United States Snowshoe Association has a whole list of races categorized by region and state .ย Looking for something less competitive?ย Snowshoe company TUBBS holds a “Romp to Stomp” snowshoe series across the country, as a benefit event to help stomp out breast cancer.ย Personally, Geoff and I will be racing Endurance Society’s Frigus event here in Vermont.ย The question is…10K or 30K?ย (Kidding.ย 10K, Geoff.ย Don’t panic.)
So there you have it, the basics of snowshoeing for runners, and how to get started. I’ve got nothing against the treadmill, but you can’t beat the great outdoors…so get out there!
Have any snowshoe tips to add? Any questions to ask? Please comment below!
*affiliate links used in this post.
Heather Hart is an ACSM certified Exercise Physiologist, NSCA Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS), UESCA certified Ultrarunning Coach, RRCA certified Running Coach, co-founder of Hart Strength and Endurance Coaching, and creator of this site, Relentless Forward Commotion. ย She is a mom of two teen boys, and has been running and racing distances of 5K to 100+ miles for over a decade.ย Heather has been writing and encouraging others to find a love for fitness and movement since 2009.
Amanda - RunToTheFinish
OMG I looooove snowshoeing so much!! I am not really a skier, but I could do this all day long and I love that it would make me a better runner too.
Kerri (@KerriOlkjer)
Amazing post! Crazy, but I’ve lived in Colorado my entire life and never been snowshoeing.
Heather
I get it! It took me 30 years living in Vermont (well, back and forth) before I put on a pair of snowshoes!
Larisa Dixon (@0to26point2)
Omg I wish we could snowshoe here. It looks like an amazing workout. Living on the Gulf Coast, snowshoeing is not an option. LOL! Can I come visit you and snowshoe?
Heather
um OF COURSE you can come visit! But as an alternative, I bet beach sand snowshoeing might work, haha! You’d get some crazy stares ๐
Katie (@momslrb)
I’m pinning this! We don’t get a lot of opportunities to go snow shoeing but we are going to Colorado in February and while they are skiing, maybe I’ll see if I can do this! Looks like a great workout
Heather
Yes, totally try it! The great thing is you don’t need any lessons, like you would snowboarding or skiing. It’s really easy to learn!
Heather @ FITaspire
This is awesome!! I have snowshoes on my christmas wish list this year, so I’ll be referencing this post!!
Erica G
I think you have officially erased any dream I have had of the splendors of running in snow. Thank you for making me more grateful for my tropical climate!
Heather
HAHA! It can be splendid…occasionally…
Elle
When I lived in a climate where there was real Winter, we snowshoed and cross country skiied several times a week. Always loved it.
Heather
My goal is at least once a week this winter!
Deborah Brooks @ Confessions of a Mother Runner
I got a pair of snow shoes at Costco and I am so doing this this year. If we get enough snow I am out there. We usually just get enough to be annoying but you never know. I am excited to give them a go
Heather
oooh I hope you do get a good bit of snow this year so you can use them! ๐
organicsandra
I absolutely love snowshoeing and my kids even have their own little ones which makes snow play/hiking with them extra fun. I am hoping to pick up a new pair of lighter racing snowshoes this winter. Are you planning to do any of the snowshoe races? I may try a couple this winter just to mix things up!
Heather
yes! You should check out Frigus by the Endurance Society: http://www.endurancesociety.org/frigus/ The race directors are AMAZING people, and the athletes going are the best!
MCM Mama (@mcmmama)
I would love to have some, but I’m pretty sure it wouldn’t be worth the one time every third year that I’d actually get to use them… Some day I’m moving north again. Thanks for all the info.
Heather
Yes, it is an entirely different world up here in VT! We have nothing BUT snow for about 4-5 months of the year, ugggh. ๐
Rachel
Very cool post! I have never tried snow shoeing… it looks like a workout in itself! ๐
Heather
It really is!
Femme Fitale Fit Club
Ok I have never heard of snowshoes but ummm I think I will pass. If I do anything in the snow I will have on skis. LOL.
Janice- The Fitness Cheerleader
The snowshoe race looks so much fun!! I love skiiing (we live next to a hill) but I haven’t tried snowshoeing. These are great tips and I just added snowshoes to my Christmas wish list ๐
Heather
Yes, you need to try! I know you get PLENTY of snow up North where you live ๐
Jason Saltmarsh
Great article! I appreciated the research into how many calories are burned etc. It’s clear that snowshoe racing isn’t for wimps. And, of course, it will boost your running performance when you get back on the roads.