[pct-l] Crampon/Microspike use

[ned at mountaineducation.org]

Seriously, folks, this is no joke. Ever tried walking across an ice arena in trail runners?

The main thing, here, is that you find out what "works" for you and your style of snow-hiking. First, you have to realize that on snow you no longer can "push" off your toes when walking forward. You'll slip. To a degree, you walk flat-footed to ensure that you do not slip. Thus, the better word for walking on snow isn't "pushing," rather "placing." Keep in mind that on a trail like the Pacific Crest in the sierra, the trail is rarely flat and almost always on an incline, up, down, or sideways such that making good, level foot placements is crucial to maintaining your balance. Just go out this winter on a ski hill and try it out for yourself (using the footwear you plan on snow-hiking in on your thru).



"Just remember, Be Careful out there!"

Ned Tibbits, Director
Mountain Education
South Lake Tahoe, Ca. 96150
    P: 888-996-8333
    F: 530-541-1456
    C: 530-721-1551
    http://www.mountaineducation.org
  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: Scott Williams 
  To: ned at mountaineducation.org 
  Cc: Sir Mixalot ; patrick white ; pct-l at backcountry.net 
  Sent: Wednesday, November 16, 2011 2:27 PM
  Subject: Re: [pct-l] Crampon/Microspike use


  I agree Ned.  The Katoola KTS's I used over the Sierra snow in 2010 got my vote for favorite piece of gear for the whole trip.  Wonderful equipment.  The other person who used them in our group also loved them.  Even with tennis shoes, they don't roll and provide a great platform over the snow we had.


  Shroomer