Snowshoeing can be a great way to exercise and get some fresh air but it can also be dangerous. In order to be prepared for the danger you have to dress appropriately for the occasion. Remember that anytime you are dealing with the outside cold elements there will be a chance of hypothermia and other cold related dangers. When dressing for snowshoeing you need to go for comfort and warmth while you maintain your dryness. By doing so you will cut down on all the cold related dangers that can occur.

Here is the proper way to dress when you want to enjoy a day of snowshoeing:

•    Feet: Starting with the feet first you will want to wear a breathable pair of socks as a first layer to help wick away any moisture you get when sweating. You can then put on wool socks over those and that will give you maximum warmth. Your boots should be weatherproof so that the snow doesn’t penetrate to your feet as that could cause frost bite.
•    Legs: Fleece pants do the trick here every time. They are a great garment to keep you warm and will also help you ward off moisture. At the bottom of your pants you will wear what is known as gaiters which will cover your pants at the bottom and also cover the top of your boots. These gaiters are water proof and keep any snow from creeping in the top of your boots or up your pants.
•    Upper body: Begin with a breathable cotton shirt and then top that off with a fleece or wool pull over sweater. Then you will want to wear a weather proof jacket that will keep you as warm as can be and as dry as can be too. Because snowshoeing is an aerobic sport you will sweat a lot and at times you may want to remove the jacket. Just be sure that you stay as dry as possible when you do so.
•    Hands: A good thick pair of weatherproof mittens is in tall order for snowshoeing. Your hands will be exposed to cold and wetness from snow so it is vital that you keep them dry and warm so that you avoid frost bite.
•    Head: A nice wool cap will keep the heat trapped on top of our head and thus help to keep your entire body warm.
•    Fanny pack: These sure are funny looking but they can hold a good deal of food which can come in handy when you find yourself tired and in need of a quick pick me up.
•    Water bottle: Even though it is cold out you will still be sweating a good deal and it will be important for you to stay hydrated. Carrying a water bottle with you will allow you to take frequent drinks and will ensure that you stay hydrated which will help prevent you from getting cramps.

While any activity in the cold comes with risk, if dressed for properly, you will enjoy the activity and stay safe as well. By dressing to stay both warm and dry you will ensure that your day of snowshoeing will go off without a hitch.