Snowshoes?

[Oddmott]

Looks impressive TR, have you had a couple crusts up there or is that essentially all powder?

In the Ottawa valley this weekend, the 2'+ of snow was essentially from 3 good dumps of powder and the only crust was in the bottom 4" so our shoes weren't floating, so much as compressing 2ft to 8 inches

[TurkeyRookie]

That was taken last year coming out of the bush across a Hydro Line, that was all powder at that point. I've had them in most conditions (this is third season for them) and haven't (touch wood) had a problem yet. I mainly use them when snairing and they are 35" long for my weight and had no issues with hang ups going over branches, trees, etc, to get into some spots, no punctures in decking or rivot issues, etc.

They seem to be well built and im pleased.

[Trouty]

I have had a pair of GV's for years now and they are still in perfect shape. Very light and well built. I'd definitely buy another pair of them.

[bardern]

thanks guys. it seems that if anything overestimate the size you need.

[phitty]

Yeah. Go big as you can comfortably manage / walk in. If you don't need the float, you don't need the snowshoes...

[shanev]

I bought a pair of GV's as well. About 5 years ago. http://www.gvsnowshoes.com/eng/index.html

Mine are an older version of the Nyflex Expeditions.

They are very light weight, it's like they are made from recycled plastic. I was at first a little concerned that they would become brittle in the cold and possibly break or crack, but not the case. They have held up great. And have lots of cleats on them which is nice when you end up on icy surfaces.

[jaycee]

My Tubbs snow shoes have lasted me 5 years now , 36 inch lenght they are great. I previously [45 plus ]years used the old ash frame and rawhide laced type in both the standard shape and also the long Alaskan trail model, they served me well and just the regular maintainance of drying out completely and apply a coat of spar varnish they were no problem , i did prefer the long Alaskan trail shoes, but now the Tubbs are number one great floatation and the harness' are top notch , easy to get into,adjust and also to get out of, plus being very light weight.
If i had to buy another pair of snowshoes it would again be Tubbs.

[Hunter300]

I rely on snowshoes quite a bit to get around in the winter, and Ive never found anything better than the classic ojibway framed shoes with "mono" webbing like Moe's shoes. These are custom made by a nice old lady right here in the city with a heart of gold. I want another set, just because they are so great.

If anyone is ever travelling through Timmins, and needs a pair of snowshoes, these are the best money can buy IMO. I am in no way advertising for her, these are just great snowshoes!!

My ojibways are 12" wide (so you dont have to walk like you crapped your pants) and 60" long....Ya thats right, 60". These are the best snowshoe Ive ever used, and cant believe some of the snowshoes they sell these days. I guess Im old school, I hate the new fancy aluminum things they call snowshoes.

I really like the old style shoes with new style webbing. SUPER lightweight, and floatation is just awesome. Cant wait to get out on them again!!

[MikePal]

In case some have not seen a 'bear paw' snowshoe, this is what they look like. They are designed to carry me (6'2" 230lbs) in fairly deep snow. They are designed for walking in thick bush where a 'tail' is sometimes a bother.

So here's the question, when I look at these new metal ones they don't seem to have the width that these do to support a guy my size, they look too narrow.

How do some of you full figured guys find these new ones ?

[Oddmott]

How do some of you full figured guys find these new ones ?

As i've already stated, I've found the new narrow aluminum frames to provide zero flotation in light powder. As soon as there's been a couple crusts, they improve, but in powder all mine have been less than impressive.