Curious about snowshoeing? Start small.

Summer has a way of keeping us moving outdoors. We paddle, hike, bike and find reasons to stay outside a little longer. With winter knocking at the door, it’s tempting to put that part of life on hold until spring. But a little snow doesn’t have to mean the end of outdoor adventure.

If you’ve been curious about snowshoeing, this winter is a good time to give it a try. And your first outing can be as simple as a walk around your backyard.

That’s one of the best things about snowshoeing: you don’t need a groomed trail or a big destination. Your own property, a frozen lake, or a nearby park that welcomes snowshoeing can offer plenty of room to explore. Start somewhere familiar, choose a short route and give yourself a chance to get comfortable.

If you can walk, you already have the basic motion down. There’s a little getting used to having snowshoes on your feet, but you don’t need to master a complicated technique to enjoy yourself. Deeper snow takes more effort—and delivers a good workout—but you can set your own pace. There’s no requirement to go far or fast.

The equipment is pretty straightforward, too. Snowshoes come in several lengths, commonly around 22, 25, 30 and 36 inches. The right size depends largely on the weight they’ll be supporting, including your clothing and anything you carry. Getting help with sizing is an easy way to start with a pair that suits you.

For footwear, I recommend waterproof boots that are warm without being unnecessarily heavy. A boot that comes above the ankle and laces securely is a good choice. You’ll be lifting your feet with every step, so keeping your footwear reasonably lightweight makes a difference.

Trekking poles are optional, but I like using them. They help with balance and provide extra stability when climbing or heading downhill. They also get your arms involved, adding to the whole-body workout.

When it comes to clothing, think in layers. Snowshoeing generates more warmth than you might expect, and you’ll want to adjust as you get moving. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer rather than cotton, which holds moisture against your skin. Add warmth via additional layers as conditions require and an outer shell to help protect you from the weather.

I often start out feeling a little cool because I know I’ll warm up once I’m moving. The goal is to stay comfortable without getting overheated and sweaty.

You don’t have to wait for a huge snowfall, either—just enough snow to cover the ground and keep your snowshoes off rocks and bare spots. Shallower snow can make those first outings easier. As the snow gets deeper, the effort increases, but so does the fun, in my opinion.

When snow finally arrives in the Waupaca area, pick a familiar spot and head out for a short walk. See how it feels. Stop and enjoy the quiet. Your first snowshoe adventure doesn’t need to be anything more than that.

And if you have questions about equipment or getting started, stop in at Adventure Outfitters. Our staff is happy to help you take that first step.