When my husband, Conny, came home one night last week with a Tubbs Xplore 21 Snowshoe Walking Kit, I had no idea he had purchased it for me, since I have never had any experience in snowshoeing.

When I realized he was serious about us doing it together, I couldn’t stop laughing.  Then I started to read about the product.  How easy it is to “strap on and go” and that you can use a variety of different boots and still getting a perfect fit. But, how can this be? Let me tell you. This is accomplished by the Control Wing Quick Fit secure binding system, which also makes the snowshoe easy to get out of with a release lever while having mittens on your hands.

Conny sometimes uses snowshoes in his job but he has never suggested we do it together. The morning after practising the art of snowshoe walking in our snowy back yard, we set out to a place called Seymour Mountain, where there are trails for all types of snowshoers ranging from easy to difficult.

After arriving at the trailhead, we put on the snowshoes in the parking lot and we were, again, pleasantly surprised how easy they were to put on. The poles have nylon web straps with the added benefit of being adjustable by up to 25cm (10 inches). I did not fully appreciate the carbon steel crampon until I started walking. They were so light and responsive. There was virtually no difference than walking with hiking boots on a snowy road.  I truly appreciated the Carbon Steel front and back teeth, especially when we hiked uphill, because I could climb with ease what seemed like a non-negotiable slope. I would have fallen flat on my face had I tried it with my trusty winter hiking boots. These strong teeth in conjunction with the poles, made me feel that I could conquer any 2000-foot peak in the Coastal Mountain Range, however, I had to remind myself that I still was a newbie with the Explore Series snowshoes, for now.  I think, one day, I’ll be snowshoeing like a pro with these.  It was very fun. If you want to have a look, click here. Happy snow hiking!