MSR Lightning Ascent Snowshoe.
The MSR Lightning Ascent Snowshoe is the ideal product for you when you're treading through layers of snow. This product has 360 degree traction frames that deliver unrivaled edge to edge grip. The split teeth of the Torsion2 crampons better distribute the force, meaning that weight is spread fairly evenly. A two-piece, independently conformed PosiLock AT creates a secure, freeze resistant attachment regardless of footwear. The modular flotation tails give you the mobility of a smaller shoe, while providing you with the option of an extra 5 in. flotation so you can move through any level of snow whether deep or not. The Ergo televators increase traction and reduce fatigue on steep slopes with an improved ergonomic design, which can be activated with a single flip of a pole grip. Thanks to the MSR Lightning Ascent Snowshoe, you can tread through any snowy terrain with confidence.
This product can only be shipped to U.S. addresses.
The high-performance MSR Lightning Ascent snowshoe is built for varied terrains and sustained climbs. The revolutionary 360 Degree Traction Frame lends structure, modularity and a full perimeter of traction. An innovative Torsion 2 crampon offers versatility and security.
Capacity: | up to 280 lbs depending on snow conditions |
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Item Weight: | 22 inch: 3 lb 13 oz/pair 25 inch: 3 lb 15 oz/pair 30 inch: 4 lb 7 oz/pair |
Recommended Use: | Steep and Challenging Snowshoeing and Winter Hiking |
Secure Attachment: | Two-piece, independently conforming PosiLock AT bindings create our most secure, freeze-resistant attachment, regardless of footwear |
Type: | Snowshoes (Pair) |
Uphill Efficiency: | Ergo Televators reduce fatigue and increase traction on the steeps with an ergonomic design that engages with a simply flick of a pole grip |
Warranty: | Lifetime |
Or has someone already used that quote on a review? Even so, those words fit this snowshoe better than any other product on Backcountry.com. First, I am 6'0" and 180 lbs. Iwent with the 25s and they work great. I can attach the floatation tails in deeper powder or if I am carring an exped weight pack but other wise I am always floating high in the shoes. The crampon style grip on that bottom and ascender bar enable you to goanywhere no matter how steep. I can understand getting a set of evos for flatter terrain, but the truth is the weight gain in the lightning is negligible. It always amazes me that a snowshoes this beefy can be so light. And that beefiness makes me confident that I won't need to buy another pair of snowshoes for years.
I've owned a pair of Lightning Ascent snowshoes for several years now and have been on many, many adventures with them. I think where they really shine is on steeper terrain, especially when it's icy and you need a good grip on the snow. The teeth all around the frame and toe crampon, combined with the heel riser bar make climbing an enjoyable experience. I highly recommend these for anyone who likes to explore and will be in variable conditions. I like these snowshoes so much that I purchased another 5 pairs for the rest of my family. These snowshoes I think will last 10 years plus, even under heavy use conditions. Simply a great piece of gear to own.
What can I say, excellent traction, light, decent float, perfect binding system, televators rock. Best snow shoes on the market.
Note: I have found that some people are unable to use these snowshoes because their boot is too thick for the opening and the binding will catch on the decking of the snow shoe. Something to be aware of before you buy them. Luckily mine fit perfectly with Kamik Northfield boots, which are a bulky boot.
Video attached, could have probably benefitted from the tails to add float. (210lbs total weight on that trip) Purchase during the summer on amazon, they were $80 brand new
These snowshoes are awesome, I've only worn them one time since i have got them. I hiked Mt. Mansfield (VT) the other day and there was hardly any snow on it, i mainly needed it for the traction. I walked to the top on ice and rocks and they didn't even flinch. Everything i was expecting.
Light, agile, with great float and superior traction.
The binding on this shoe is superior to all others: easy to secure, easy to adjust, and if something breaks (which it won't) all the straps are interchangeable so you have a built in backup.
I just bought my ascents and am disappointed with them. The flotation in deep snow was very poor, the tails seemed to make it worst cuz the shoe would dive toe first into snow , the weight transfer was too far forward. We couldnt get to our destination, flotation wasnt enough, you cant even get to a mountain in these, let alone get up it. We were sinking over 2 feet; I'm 170lbs, using the 25's with tails, no pack. Second trip the frame bent behind the right foot, no idea how it happend, but flotation was totally gone after that, can only be fixed with a big set of pliers, and disconnecting web, which I dont how to do. Going to bring them back. I have been ski mountaineering for 10 years. Not impressed by the price of these pieces of work.