The bullet-proof sastrugi, that often slowed, and halted my ski touring in late January is still the snow surface over much of the Sierra right now. I reckon that while it stalls your skiing, it will speed your snowshoeing. It is a somewhat rare occurence both to enjoy such settled clear weather pattern, and to experience miles of fascinating sastrugi. When I was above the trees it looked and felt like the arctic!... better yet the Antarctic--we'll have to ask ironmike of Mt Vinson fame.
Here is an excerpt from the illustrious snowshoe fanatic, and racer Tom Sobal:
I am reading through snowshoeing sites to answer the question about the best boots for snowshoeing. I found many mountaineering boots for good prices on the Mercari web exchange site, but though these are usually warm and durable, I was apparently right in my assumption that they would be inefficient for long snowshoe treks. They shine when cramponing up the steepest sections of passes, and of course when climbing, but uncomfortable for the many, many miles in between.Snowshoeing on crusty snow can be one of the best snowshoe experiences. Crust can transform deep snow into a virtually limitless sidewalk for snowshoers, allowing easy movement and freedom to go where you please.
Ideal crusty conditions do not last, but they are worth seeking out.
My old Sorel boots, which saw me through Alaskan winter cold, are very comfortable to walk in, but they weigh about 2.5 lbs each (@size 12). I am hoping for something lighter, yet still warm-- TahoeJeff-- what do you use? I think for my next trip, I'll just use the Sorels. Anyone have a favorite winter boot to recommend? Thanks, Ian.