To Schuss or to Stomp?

AMC Outdoors, December 2002

By Michael Lanza

So, you want to dive feet first into winter, but can't decide whether to strap on snowshoes or skis? Each has advantages and disadvantages.

Snowshoes are preferred by many winter novices because they can step into them and go, whereas skiing requires some practice. Snowshoes are more "agile" than skis, easier to negotiate on narrow trails and going up steep slopes. They hold better on hard, icy snow than skis, and in difficult snow conditions — such as a breakable crust-snowshoes generally are more forgiving than skis.

Skis are significantly faster than snowshoes and less strenuous because you're shuffling your feet along rather than lifting them with each stride, so you can cover much more ground than on snowshoes and not tire as quickly. They generally "float" better in deep, light snow than snowshoes, which is beneficial when carrying a heavy pack. And boards are more fun than snowshoes when going downhill.

Still can't decide? Then get both, and pick your mode of travel on a particular day based on the terrain and snow conditions where you're going, with whom and how far you plan to go — and your mood.

—Michael Lanza is the author of The Ultimate Guide to Backcountry Travel, from AMC Books.