Intense Traditional Wooden Snowshoes Study Conducted by Canadian Students

Recently Thunder Bay, Ontario students conducted an intensive weeklong class researching the different types of wood snowshoes and their specific uses. The result of their efforts was a slide show they created for educating people about snowshoeing.

The first assignment was taught on how to make snowshoes. The discussion began with which trees to use and how to find the right tree. The birch and black ash were the woods of choice for traditional wood snowshoes that were made in eastern Canada. Moose or caribou rawhide were used for the lacing which make up the intricately woven mesh pattern of the traditional wooden snowshoes.

Students were then presented several methods of tying the harnesses or bindings. Afterwards students learned several tips and guidelines before moving to the outdoors and using the snowshoes. Firstly, they learned to always make sure to have the proper snowshoe for the conditions, the proper shape and size for each user's weight and the task that the user intends to accomplish. Also it is important to make sure to have a comfortable and sturdy binding or harness system for the feet.

Finally, students learned that wood snow shoes are a First Nation technology that the west's first European settlers of the Americas relied on for winter survival.