For those of us who love to run, sometimes winter can get in the way. Slick roads, sketchy footing, and snow covered foot bombs on the trails can make your run more like a survival test. But you can't just sit around and wait for spring, and besides, that snow is so inviting. So, why not take advantage of it? If you haven't tried snowshoeing to invoke the endorphin gods, 'tis the season. The saying goes, if you can walk, you can snowshoe. And if you like to run, and if the snowshoe fits...

With the right equipment, you can make your snowshoeing an incredible aerobic experience and you may find parts of your legs that wake up for the new challenge. (They'll let you know afterwards). The snowshoeing part itself is easy - with the right gear. One foot in the front of the other and pretty soon you're rediscovering your favorite trail under a cover of white. If you're new to the sport, here are some of the things you should look for in a good snowshoe.

Like skis or running shoes, the right snowshoe can really make a difference in your outing. Perhaps the single most important consideration for running on snowshoes is the binding. Look for a design that fits your foot and has components that are waterproof so they won't stretch or freeze after they've become wet. Bindings that use nylon webbing have a tendency to loosen if they get soaked from either sweat or melting snow. Also, look for bindings that cinch for a tight fit, but without pressure points from straps or buckles.

The size and shape of a snowshoe can also make it more or less enjoyable to run in. If you're running for exercise, the more ergonomic the snowshoe is designed, the better. Snowshoes were originally intended to keep you from sinking up to your waist, but if you're running on packed trails, floatation will not be your primary consideration. Rather, you'll focus on maneuverability and stride ease. Also, look for shoes that are symmetrically shaped (if you cut the shoe lengthwise in half, both halves would be the same), because symmetry is equated with balance. If you have a tendency to pronate or supinate, an asymmetrically shaped shoe can exacerbate the proclivity. Check for a comfortable fit while you're in the store, walk around and test your feet in them, because when you get on the trail, any discomfort or pressure points you may sense in the store will be magnified outdoors.

Weight of the shoes is also a consideration. The lighter the shoe is the less you'll have to haul around. On the other hand, durability and quality of construction can impact your experience as well. It's great to have a feather light shoe, but if it falls apart after your first mile, well.....you get the idea. So choose a shoe that has quality components and is still relatively lightweight, and ideally, a balanced snowshoe that allows you a natural stride.

Finally, traction. If you're running on hard snow, or ice, or even frozen mud, you're going to appreciate the traction a good snowshoe can give you. Running in snowshoes is harder than running on pavement (without snowshoes). You don't really want, or need, big crampons when you're running - just enough to keep you from slipping and sliding. Besides, larger claws add weight. Most high quality running snowshoes feature either aluminum or titanium claws. Both are lightweight and very durable. The aluminum claws are much less expensive, but weigh slightly more than titanium. Most "running and fitness" models are between 20 and 25 inches long, and 7 to 8 inches wide, and weight between 2 and 2.5 pound per pair. Prices range from $150 to $400 per pair.

After a few snowshoe runs, you may develop a strong affinity for the sport, so where do you go with it? Fortunately, in the state of Colorado, you can find a number of competitive events almost every weekend throughout the winter. There are even national and just recently, international competitions held in a number of locations around the world. There a number of web sites and regional sports publications that post the events and if you go, there are often snowshoes you can "demo" for free provided by many of the manufacturers. Try a variety of them and pick the one that's right for you and the way you run. There are also a number of events held at night where the trails are marked by glow sticks. It can be a wonderful experience, and usually afterwards, there are prizes, parties and of course, awards for the winners. But just participating has its own reward.

Jake Thamm is the owner of Boulder-based Crescent Moon Snowshoes. If you'd like to find out more about snowshoes or events, email him at jake@crescentmoonsnowshoes.com.