Properly tightened bindings are essential. If your bindings arent securely fastened or strong enough, the toes of your boots can slide under the toe of the snowshoe and can cause a face-first spill. The best method of descending is to put pressure on the tail or heel of the snowshoe as you step down the hill.
If you dont have snowshoes with crampons and the snow is firm and the pitch of the hill is steep enough to allow you to slide, place one shoe slightly ahead of the other and slide down. This is the same technique you would use if you were on telemark skis and works best if your snowshoe has an upturned toe.
You should avoid jumping off a small hill or drop-off while in snowshoes. The snowshoes will usually land on their tails, which is where they are most prone to breakage. Jumping in snowshoes also puts undue stress on the frames.


