How to Store Snowshoes

It's vital to store your snowshoes properly, whether in-season or off-season. Ensure long and productive use of your snowshoes on the trail by doing regular and preventive maintenance of your equipment. Protect your investment by following these helpful suggestions.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Clean off all the snow from the snowshoes after each use, especially before putting them away for the season. If the snow is thick, you can gently hit the snowshoes against each other to break it up.
2. Check snowshoes for damage. After each use, look for abrasions or cracks in the frames or tears in the webbing. Reinforce minor cracks by wrapping the damaged area with cloth tape. If the damage is extensive, contact the manufacturer.
3. Store snowshoes in a cool, dry location with adequate ventilation. Hang the snowshoes off the ground where rodents can't reach them, if possible.
4. Use a case for ideal protection, especially one that has a divider to keep the claws on each snowshoe separated. Opt to forgo the case if storage space is an issue.

Tips & Warnings

• Wash the snowshoes after being in a region near salt water. Allow equipment to air dry in room temperature.
• Apply a coat of clear varnish on wooden frames and rawhide webbing to prevent deterioration.
• Excessive heat and dampness may cause mildew and mold to grow on the webbing or warp snowshoes with a wooden frame.
• Wear gloves while doing this because most snowshoes have metal cleats that act like crampons and may cause injury.