Snowshoes
“No leather uppers, and not even a sole. You really can’t call them shoes, but I’ve seen the Nivese use them to run on top of the snow.”
-Master shoemaker Halfried Donnerbacher, 1032 FB
Firnelves ridicule Nivese and Norbard tribes for using snowshoes, but humans who dwell in the ice-covered north can use them to glide over the snow quite easily. Almost everyone else must trudge through snowdrifts as best they can.
Snowshoes are ubiquitous in the Lands of the Nivese, where human settlers must use them daily. Skis also are sometimes worn, but users face a higher risk of injury and thus skis are not yet common in many parts of Aventuria.
Snowshoe frames are made of braided wicker and wood and are worn over fur— or feltlined boots that protect well in the cold. The wide tread is made of wickerwork affixed to the shoe, granting secure footing and speedy travel, even in snowstorms and deep, powdery snow. By using a modification called a snow-driver that attaches to the front of the shoe, the wearer can shuffle through the snow and clear a path for companions or mounts.
“I’ve tried snowshoes. They take some getting used to, but they make walking in the snow much easier.”
— Rowena of the Transweal, Bornish cat witch
“My kin in the north all use snowshoes in winter. Elves have an easier time walking in snow compared to other races, but we do sink into the snow on occasion. Don’t assume that you can put on a pair of snowshoes and run through a field like a barefoot child in summer. You will definitely be slower.”
— Layariel Treetopglint, elven wyldrunner
“When it is snowing, you shouldn’t be walking around outside. You should be gathered around the hearth fire in your home”
— Arbosh son of Angrax, forge dwarf master smith
“I agree with Rowena. At first, it isn’t easy walking in such broad shoes, but once you get the hang of it, you’ll cover much more ground. Always pack snowshoes, especially when heading north.”
— Geron Bladebreaker, mercenary
“When seeking to buy snowshoes, consider getting them only from the Nivese or Norbards. You’ll pay a lower price.”
— Rowena of the Transweal, Bornish cat witch
“The Norbards are good hagglers. Before you know it, you’ll have bought snowshoes and thirteen other things that you don’t need.”
— Carolan Calavanti, Vinsaltan vagabond