Stop Snow From Sticking To Snowshoes

Don't let snow clump on your snowshoes, and you'll have a better hike.

Snowshoes allow hikers and adventurers to explore areas with deep snowfall without falling through the snow. One issue that you most likely will encounter, whether the snow is well packed or freshly fallen powder, is snow sticking to your snowshoes. Apply wax or petroleum jelly to the snowshoes to prevent the snow from sticking.

Instructions

1. Purchase a wax or petroleum-based substance. Find wax at most sporting goods stores, or buy petroleum jelly at your grocery store.

2. Ask for assistance at your sporting goods store. Inform the store employee that you are looking for a wax that is user friendly and will not create much mess. Look at glide wax, which thickens the layer of water between the snowshoes and the snow, preventing the shoes from sinking into the snow; and grip wax, which works for either very hard snow or soft snow that is slightly melting on the surface.

3. If your wax comes in liquid form, use an old cloth to apply three or four thin layers of it to the bottom of your snowshoes. The wax will harden after the application.

4. For harder waxes, rub either a household iron or a waxing iron on the bottom of the snowshoes to heat up the metal. Rub the hard wax over the bottom of the snowshoes. Rub the iron over the bottom of the snowshoes again to create an even layer.

5. If you use petroleum jelly, use an old cloth to smear a thin layer to the base of your snowshoes and boots. Take liquid wax or petroleum jelly and cloth with you on your trip because you likely will need to reapply a coat or two to keep the snow from sticking. Do not take hard wax with you unless you will have access to something you can use to melt the wax.

Tags: petroleum jelly, your snowshoes, bottom snowshoes, from sticking, jelly cloth, likely will