Abstract: The novel snowshoe (400) includes at least one tail extender (404) to provide variable flotation characteristics and traction bars (412) that provide improved side slip protection such as when traversing steep terrain. The snowshoe (400) is thereby especially advantageous for use in back country mountaineering. A three (or more) point attachment mechanism is disclosed for coupling the tail extender (404) to the flotation plate (416) of snowshoe (400) so as to reduce stress on the coupling elements and provide a more secure interface.

Abstract: The novel snowshoe (400) includes at least one tail extender (404) to provide variable flotation characteristics and traction bars (412) that provide improved side slip protection such as when traversing steep terrain. The snowshoe (400) is thereby especially advantageous for use in back country mountaineering. A three (or more) point attachment mechanism is disclosed for coupling the tail extender (404) to the flotation plate (416) of snowshoe (400) so as to reduce stress on the coupling elements and provide a more secure interface.

Abstract: A snowshoe binding (304) which provides improved foot stability is disclosed. The binding (304) includes a heel stabilizing extension (308) and a flexible footwrap assembly (310) which cooperate to stabilize the wearer's foot (316). A motion limiter for limiting the range of pivotal movement of the binding (304) with respect to the snowshoe flotation plate (318) is also disclosed. The motion limiter comprises a protrusion (300) which extends from at least one of the snowshoe traction bars (212) to contact a pivot arm (302) of crampon (214) when a limit angle (A) is reached.

Abstract: A variable length snowshoe (200) is provided to accommodate changing snow conditions or snowshoeing applications. The snowshoe (200) includes a flotation plate (202) and at least one detachable tail extender (204). The snowshoe (200) also includes detachable brakes (216) and toothed traction bars (212) to provide improved traction on ice and enhanced forward, rearward and side slipping protection. A de-icing crampon (214) and gripping tabs (210) which facilitate binding strap manipulation are also disclosed.