If you buy shoes with hypalon decks, which is the most used material for modern snowshoes, your studs might rip them. It's not as tough as leather; and though you have a moveable foot bed your boot actually straps into that is metal and a leather heel patch (Atlas and Tubbs), stepping on the tails is common. They also make some all plastic shoes I've seen guys use on the river which can withstand use of studs, but maybe not full on cleats like the usual Korkers. 30x9 shoes work for me. I weigh 200 and generally carry a 35-40 lb. pack in winter (not on the river), so not much difference in our weight. I didn't mean to deter you from going, I've had a few good days, but also some thorough zeros. I've also just enjoyed the time on the river, but I do things outside that don't require a rod or gun. I use roomy wading boots and oversize breathables, but if you read threads here on this subject, you'll find I'm in the vast minority, like the only one stupid enough to do so. The past few winters I've dropped off of here, having little to add, except I generally keep fishing the river. In a couple of weeks,I'm going for 4 days. I hope you post a report. In general, hope for some sun. Dark bottoms will absorb some rays and heat up a bit , moving fish into some shallower lies. I use to like Schoolhouse from the south because of the frog water that'd heat in the sun. Actually got a few decent fish with shallow indicator and nymph set up when it was pretty cold and deep snow with shelf ice. Afternoons tend to be better, especially with sun. Best of luck. Oh yeah, I used Sorel as a generic term, seems most of us who wear pac boots as daily wear, do. Wear 'em or don't as you see fit.