[RunsTheBitterroot]

Hi Kicksters! Anyone using a racing type snowshoe or have any experience with this? I am going to purchase some possibly today at Bob Wards. The trails are not passable by foot now as experienced on yestarday's run. Xcountry ski's would work but they don't help with running other than cardio, and they would be awkward for me to carry, where the snow shoes and short poles would fit nicely on my back.<br><br>
Good Runs All, Larry

 

[old guy]

I use the old wood and leather type snow shoe. Mine are 48 X 12. I can run in them, but not for any distance. I always use the adjustable poles, just to help balance. They have saved me from spills in the past. But I have also fallen down using them and then they come in handy! It's pretty awkard getting up with the bigger snow shoes on.

 

[Sans Souci]

I tried the small "racing" shoes last year, but it was on snow that was like cement. No poles.<br><br>
Remember that you'll be hoofing around a fair bit more weight on your feet, so your legs and hips will be working harder.<br><br>
Sounds like fun! Enjoy!

 

[Roadie Gal]

I have a pair of Northern Lites Elites: <a href="http://www.northernlites.com/elite.php#elite" target="_blank">http://www.northernlites.com/elite.php#elite</a>. They also make a smaller style specifically for racing.<br><br>
They are unbelievably light and the binding works very well. Your foot doesn't slip around in it at all. I use them to run on the groomed cross country trails, but I also use them as my regular snowshoes when I go out for a hike.

 

[RunsTheBitterroot]

Thanks old guy, sans and roadie for the replies. I went down to Bob Wards, our local sports store where they had all thier snowshoes on sale. I got a pair of Atlas 1025's for 90 bucks. They are 25x8 with stainless steel crampons, rails and cleats. They aren't the super light racing type but I think these will better suit my needs for the back country. They weight in at 3.91 pounds total. I gave them a try today and there seems to be no learning curve, just a bit more work than regular running. Will build into gradually. Definately a good way to continue running outside and in the backcountry without having to resort to lower miles and indoor stuff, or worse, a busy highway.<br><br>
Larry