Introduction to Snowshoe Racing by Bob Dion

What’s it like?

Like trail racing, snowshoe racing takes your running to a new level. In the same way that trail conditions, (mud, rocks, hills, etc.) can affect your pace and effort in a trail race, snow conditions can greatly affect your snowshoeing difficulty. For instance, on groomed, packed snow the pace will be similar to a trail. In deep powder, that pace may be significantly slower.

 

One very unusual difference between trail racing and snowshoe racing happens quite often, depending on snow conditions, and it’s a huge advantage to slower racers. In a road or trail race, the faster runners lead the slower runners and gradually pull away, putting more and more distance between runners. In a snowshoe race, the faster runners are breaking trail (packing the snow) using a great deal of energy. A 5-minute miler may slow to a 10-minute mile. In some cases, the leaders need to take turns at the front (which is also good sportsmanship vs. letting someone do all the work only to be passed at the end). The slower racers that run 12-minute miles on trails will slow slightly or even keep that pace because the course is packed from the racers ahead.

 

What do I need?

Pretty much the same things are needed for trail racing plus a pair of running or racing snowshoes. These are designed for performance as opposed to hiking or back-country. They are smaller, lighter and usually narrower. They need to be at least 7” x 21” (legal minimum size for most races). Unlike snowshoes for hiking, etc. flotation isn’t very important. Traction is most important. Also, the snowshoes should not have excess movement that can cause banged up ankles or falling.

 

What do I wear?

Keep in mind that it will usually feel warmer in the woods (no wind, etc.) so dress for that. Most people overdress for snowshoe racing. If you’re comfortable before the race starts, you’re overdressed. It helps to look at past race photos and videos to see what people wore at the start vs. the finish.

 

When you finish you should change into warm, dry clothes as soon as possible. You will likely finish with hat and gloves off feeling nice and warm but will quickly feel very cold!

The shoes you wear with your snowshoes can be waterproof or regular running shoes (trail or road). Avoid shoes with lugs or mesh that will collect snow. Many of the things that running shoes are designed for (cushioning, ventilation, etc.) are not needed. Shoes should be about ½ size larger than normal because you will be wearing heavier socks.

 

Good socks are key to being warm and comfortable! Avoid wool or cotton socks. Merino wool (Darn Tough, Smartwool) is best. Merino wool is a high-quality type of wool that's softer, more breathable, and more comfortable than regular wool. I wear a thin sock liner with a regular thickness sock or just a slightly thicker than normal single layer. Some people wear gaiters (mostly for training). Biker booties work well.

Wear tights that are a bit thicker than normal. Snow will kick up on your thighs and even higher if you are running in powder.