In case you haven’t looked outside this week, we’re currently in SoCal Monsoon Season, which means flooded streets and parking garages for us here in the city, but tons of fresh snowpack up in the mountains. Once the weather clears up a bit, it might be the perfect time to try your foot at snowshoeing.

You’ll probably want to rent a pair if it’s your first time, but if you’re looking to buy, Tom Mangan has written an excellent round-up of his favorite snowshoes at Outdoor Retailer for Trailspace. Overall, the news is good – the technology in the shoes is making them more and more comfortable, while the prices don’t seem to be going up that much.

If you’re in the mood to give it a go this weekend (or later), Big Bear is a great place to try. There are tons of places to rent shoes (I had a good experience at Goldsmith’s Boardhouse last time I was there) … and let’s face it, most people don’t go to Big Bear to snowshoe, so you don’t really need to worry too much about places running out of gear. Just call ahead, bring your best waterproof boots and trekking poles!

Tags: snowshoeing, snowshoes, winter sports