Snowshoeing: From Novice to Master, 5th Edition (By Gene Prater, The Mountaineers Books, 208 pages, paperback, $16.95) Snowshoes don’t have to be the giant wood and leather affairs you see in the movies. In recent years they’ve become smaller, lighter, less cumbersome and easier to use and maintain. In fact, snowshoeing seems to be the ideal fitness exercise and low-impact sport, especially for older baby boomers. You won’t find a more complete guide than this; it covers not only the latest techniques but also new materials and designs fueling the growth of the sport.

It is illustrated with more than 30 diagrams and 60 photos. Topics include how to select equipment, how to walk, run, turn, climb and descend; maintenance and field repairs; winter camping and safety; conditioning and cross training, navigation and route finding; snowshoe events, races and demonstrations across the country.