What Type of Snowshoe Is Best for Cross-Training?

Question: Is there a preferred type of snowshoe for winter cross-training? I’ve seen very small snowshoes and long, wide ones. What do you use? – Blair W.

Coach Fred Matheny Replies: I have two pairs of snowshoes. One is a Redfeather model that’s narrow and only about 18 inches long. It’s designed for running on packed trails. But I’ve used these ‘shoes for more than 10 years of trekking through deep snow in the mountains, and they work great.

I also have an Atlas model designed for high-mountain hikes on crust and steep slopes. It’s wider and longer than the Redfeather. I like it, too. The Atlas ‘shoes are heavier but have better flotation. They work great on the steep slopes of Red Mountain Pass near my home.

For most cross-trainers, I recommend light and narrow snowshoes, like the Redfeathers, designed for faster walking or running. You don’t need mountain ‘shoes unless you’re going to spend a lot of time in vertical terrain.