# One-Day Hike Gear

Part of the Snow Sports Merit Badge Digital Resource Guide: [Introduction & Overview](https://merit-badge.university/merit-badges/snow-sports/guide/index.md)

*7. Option D — Snowshoeing*

> **7d5.** List the items you would take on a one-day snowshoe hike.

Snowshoeing takes you into winter terrain where the right gear can keep you comfortable and safe — and the wrong gear (or missing gear) can ruin your day or worse.

## Essential Gear for a One-Day Snowshoe Hike

### Equipment
- **Snowshoes** (properly sized for your total weight — see Req 7d2)
- **Trekking poles** — not required but highly recommended; they improve balance on uneven terrain, help on climbs and descents, and reduce fatigue
- **Gaiters** — keep snow out of boot tops, especially on off-trail travel in deep snow
- **Boots** — waterproof hiking boots or pac boots with room for warm socks

### Clothing (Layering System)
- **Base layer:** Moisture-wicking synthetic or wool — no cotton
- **Mid-layer:** Fleece or insulating jacket for warmth
- **Outer shell:** Waterproof/windproof jacket and pants
- **Hat that covers ears**
- **Neck gaiter or balaclava**
- **Warm, waterproof gloves or mittens**
- **Extra gloves** — a wet pair of gloves in cold weather is a real hazard
- **Spare socks**

### Navigation
- **Trail map or topographic map** of your area
- **Compass**
- **Fully charged phone** (kept in an inside pocket — cold drains batteries fast)

### Safety
- **First aid kit** — blister care, bandages, pain reliever, emergency mylar blanket
- **Whistle**
- **Fire starter** — waterproof matches or lighter in a waterproof case
- **Headlamp with fresh batteries** — trails get dark early in winter

### Food and Water
- **Water** — minimum 1–1.5 liters; use an insulated bottle (not a hydration bladder, which freezes)
- **High-energy snacks:** trail mix, energy bars, chocolate, or nuts
- **Extra food for emergency use**
- **Warm beverage in a thermos** — optional but highly motivating on cold days

### Sun Protection
- **Sunscreen (SPF 30+)** and **lip balm with SPF** — snow reflects UV strongly
- **Goggles or sunglasses**

**One-Day Snowshoe Hike Checklist** — Check before every outing

- [ ] Snowshoes sized correctly for your pack weight.
- [ ] Trekking poles and gaiters.
- [ ] Three-layer clothing system plus extra hat, gloves, and socks.
- [ ] Map and compass; charged phone in inside pocket.
- [ ] First aid kit, whistle, fire starter, headlamp.
- [ ] Water (1.5 L minimum), snacks, emergency food.
- [ ] Sunscreen, lip balm, goggles or sunglasses.
- [ ] Tell someone your route and expected return time.

## Official Resources

Video: [What to Bring Snowshoeing (video)](https://youtu.be/_gA5VlgKnOI?si=80SyezhTHEGfun_S)

Video: [What to Wear Snowshoeing (video)](https://youtu.be/p-7UMYNP6s0)

---

---

- Previous: [Care & Maintenance](https://merit-badge.university/merit-badges/snow-sports/guide/req7d4/index.md)
- Next: [Best Areas & Backcountry](https://merit-badge.university/merit-badges/snow-sports/guide/req7d6/index.md)