Why Snowshoes Belong in Every Backcountry Kit: Safety, Preparedness & Moving Smart in Avalanche Terrain
When winter transforms the mountains into a quiet, sparkling backcountry playground, it also brings unique challenges. Snowpack becomes variable, terrain grows more complex, and even familiar routes take on new character. Whether you’re ski touring, splitboarding, or simply winter hiking, one tool consistently proves its worth: a pair of reliable snowshoes.
At Tubbs, we know that snowshoes are more than an alternative to skis—they’re a backcountry safety asset that can make the difference between a smooth day out and a difficult situation. Here’s why:
Snowshoes Excel When the Snowpack Doesn’t Cooperate
Anyone who travels in the backcountry knows conditions can change fast. Crusty surfaces, wind-scoured ridges, breakable crust, deep powder, or thin snow over brush can turn skis or boots into a liability.
Snowshoes offer
- Consistent flotation in variable snow
- Easy maneuverability in tight or technical terrain
- Stable footing when sidehilling or crossing tricky features.
Carrying a lightweight pair—such as the Tubbs Flex Series or Panoramic—ensures you’re never at the mercy of unpredictable snow.
A Smart Backup in Avalanche Terrain
Avalanche safety is all about preparation, terrain awareness, and the correct gear. While snowshoes are not substitutes for beacons, shovels, or probes, they do support safer decision-making:
They provide a reliable mode of travel if plans change.
If conditions deteriorate, a storm rolls in, or a partner’s gear fails, snowshoes offer a dependable way to move efficiently without relying on skis or skins.
They help you stay on lower-angle terrain—the safest place to be.
Snowshoes make it easier to:
- Stick to safe, low-angle routes
- Avoid committing avalanche-prone slopes
- Move through dense forest and brush without punching through
They’re essential if you ever need to transition to foot travel.
Break a binding? Lose a ski? Blow a skin? Snowshoes prevent the exhausting (and dangerous) postholing that increases exposure and slows down the group.
Think of them as mobility insurance—small, lightweight, and potentially game-changing.
Ideal for Winter Hikers Venturing Beyond the Trail
Not everyone skis. Many backcountry travelers prefer boots and bindings—but deep snow makes foot travel slow, exhausting, and risky.
Snowshoes allow hikers to:
- Stay on top of soft snow
- Preserve energy for longer days
- Move quietly and efficiently through winter terrain
- Reduce the risk of ankle injury or slips on hidden obstacles
For winter hikers, snowshoes aren’t optional—they’re essential survival tools.
Lightweight, Packable, and Built for Adventure
Tubbs snowshoes are designed to attach easily to packs when not in use. With ergonomic bindings and modern composite materials, they’re lighter, stronger, and easier to carry than ever.
More flexibility. More preparedness. More confidence to explore.
Other Essential Aspects of Safe Backcountry Travel
Snowshoes give you mobility—but mobility is just one part of a much larger safety strategy. Responsible backcountry travel means preparation, awareness, and the right gear. Before heading out, make sure you cover these critical steps:
Make a Plan
- Know your route (and alternatives)
- Check avalanche forecasts (e.g., Avalanche.org)
- Identify safe zones, terrain traps, and exit strategies
- Share your plan with someone at home
Good planning reduces decisions you have to make in the moment—when judgment is most vulnerable.
Download Offline Maps & Use a Reliable GPS
Whether you’re using Gaia GPS, CalTopo, or another trusted app, always:
- Download maps offline
- Carry a battery backup
- Pre-load routes, basemaps, and slope angle shading
- Know how to navigate without cell service
A map doesn’t just show where you are—it shows where the risks are.
Travel with the Proper Avalanche Equipment
Every member of your group should carry—and know how to use:
- Beacon
- Shovel
- Probe
- Backpack designed for winter travel
- And of course, a buddy—solo travel is never recommended
These tools are essential for both avoiding and responding to avalanche incidents.
Get Avalanche Education
You can’t avoid what you don’t understand. A foundational course like AIARE 1 teaches:
- Avalanche terrain recognition
- Snow science basics
- Safe travel techniques
- How to make informed decisions
- Companion rescue skills
Learn more or sign up at:
https://avtraining.org/
(AIARE Level 1 official training site)