MSR Lightning Ascents

After renting, borrowing, using and abusing many different snowshoes we finally settled on this MSR model after seeing them in action on one of our avalanche safety course instructors. They offer the perfect mix of floatation and traction needed for the mix of deep and dense snow the Pacific Northwest is known for. The Lightning's aggressive steel frame and crampon like teeth on the bottom of the forefoot give you confidence on steep and icy snow (within reason, carry an ice axe and know how to self-arrest but please try to avoid uncontrolled slides in snowshoes). We use these shoes for casual weekend snowshoeing with friends and for multi-day expeditions deep into the Cascades carrying heavy packs. And perhaps my favorite feature is the binding. The Paragon binding wraps around your boot and is tightened on the sides, eliminating any pressure point on your feet, they fit like a literal glove.

They come in three sizes and tail extensions can be purchased separately for additional float on those deep pow days or when your gear load gets really heavy. The 22in shoes come in at a remarkably light 2lbs 2oz per shoe, a great weight considering the rigid and durable construction.

I'm aware that the Lightning Ascents are a premium model so I'll also link to another MSR snowshoe we've used that will come in at a slightly lower price point while still maintaining a high quality build that will last many, many seasons.

MSR Evo Explore Womens-

A great midrange snowshoe, now offering the same Paragon binding as the Lightning Ascents.

MSR Evo Explore Mens-

A great midrange snowshoe, now offering the same Paragon binding as the Lightning Ascents.

(MSR Lightning Ascents seen on Bug's crossing a frozen lake in the Mt. Baker Wilderness, demonstrating the grip of these shoes on ice)

(seen on Moose near Paradise, Mt. Rainier, Washington State on an overnight winter trip)