MSR Lightning Ascent

MSR’s new backcountry snowshoe, the Lightning Ascent, boasts many useful features for the back-country traveler including modular flotation tails, PosiLock AT bindings, cross members for rigidity, pivot crampons and heel lifters. We put the MSR Lightning Ascents through it's paces in Colorado and Vermont and tested it's versatility using subjects that differ in weight by 100 pounds on the 25" model. One tester, new to snowshoeing wasn't entirely sure what all the features meant but at the end of her ascent of Mt. Mansfield she was very happy to have the aggressive serration along the entirety of the snowshoes. This proved key in the sub-zero 50+ MPH 'slog'. Both testers raved about the heel lifter on both Mt. Mansfield and on the backside of Mt. Lincoln, CO, after our other  heavier tester was asked to break trail in a couple feet of fresh, deep powder on a cold approach for some ice climbing. Our budding snowshoer found the device after her hiking partner pointed out the feature and was immediately a fan of heel lifters in general. A hiking pole is sufficient to raise the bar when in the raised position out testers found climbing steep slopes was a breeze.
Our heavier tester, breaking trail in Colorado made good use of the flotation tails. They are easy to install with just a couple of hooks and a rubber strap they can easily be attached with gloves and provide extra flotation in deep, soft snow or for heavier hikers. Weighing 3lbs. 14oz. (25" model) the MSR Lightning Ascents can handle a load between 120 and 220lbs and up to 280lbs with the flotation tales installed. Of course those number vary by user experience and snow conditions. Of course, as with most items from MSR, the Lightning Ascents are made in Seattle, WA. Both testers agreed the bindings were tough to get in and out of but acknowledged the binging is more secure than other snowshoes and proper sizing in a nice warm place is key. $269.95-$299.95 www.msrcorp.com