[pct-l] Gear Recommendation (Traction Devices vs Snow Shoes)

[Dan C. aka Thumper]

Thought I'd share Ned's response.  Thumper

> > From: <ned at mountaineducation.org>
> > To: "Dan C. aka Thumper" <dofdear at cox.net>
> > Subject: Re: Gear Recommendation (Traction Devices vs Snow Shoes)
> > Date: Sat, 25 Apr 2015 17:41:13 -0700
> > 
> > Hi, Dan!
> > 
> > Harts and north appears to have received a "normal" winter's worth of snow, 
> > but south of there the story is completely different. I would not attempt 
> > the trails up there until almost all snow is off traversing trails because 
> > the snow will assume the slope of the hillside, filling in the flat 
> > (side-to-side) trail where the crossing of them will be steep and slippery 
> > and with dangerous run-outs downhill (think trees, rocks, creeks, lakes, and 
> > cliffs to hit, go into, or go over). July 4th or later is the 
> > local-suggested start date for most summer hiking in the North Cascades 
> > after a "normal" winter.
> > 
> > You do not need snowshoes and, besides, it is too steep in the northern half 
> > of WA for them to be safe, anyway.
> > 
> > I love my Kahtoola Hiking Crampons because they stay on my boots no matter 
> > how violent a panic-step. Kahtoola's Microspikes simply roll off under 
> > similar conditions (we tested them on high sierra traverses in May 5 years 
> > ago and the design hasn't changed). They are good, however, if you are 
> > walking in a trough formed my hikers ahead of you.
> > 
> > For snow hiking on steep slopes where you don't have level (side to side) 
> > trail to switchback up or down, you need a shoe with sharp, 90-degree sides 
> > (where the sole and sides intersect) and traditional built-up heels for 
> > edging into hillsides and braking on descents. If you like security of 
> > balance and firm traction, I'd stay away from molded soles and lightweight 
> > footwear (unless you are in the trough). More info under "Resources" at 
> > www.mountaineducation.org
> > 
> > Bring tall, waterproof gaiters and not the "dirtygirl" type.
> > 
> > The Whippet is the best tool for snow hiking because it is always in your 
> > hand when you slip and fall while the ice axe is still tied to the back of 
> > your pack! We always take a whippet and a regular pole with us if we think 
> > there might be snow encountered.
> > 
> > Does that help?
> > 
> > 
> > 
> > Ned Tibbits, Director
> > Mountain Education, Inc.
> > www.mountaineducation.org
> > ned at mountaineducation.org
> > 
> > 
> > Mission:
> > "To minimize wilderness accidents, injury, and illness in order to maximize 
> > wilderness enjoyment, safety, and personal growth, all through experiential 
> > education and risk awareness training."