I tested the 25-inch variation, which has proven to be an ideal companion for most conditions. tails for the Lightning Ascent for an additional $60). For this reason, we still like the BOA system best, which is a dial that evenly cinches the entire binding into place (found on models like the Tubbs Flex VRT and Wayfinder), but Paragon nevertheless is MSR’s best system yet and a solid improvement over past generations.Īs I touched on above, the MSR Lighting Ascent is offered in three lengths: 22, 25, and 30 inches (you also can buy 5-in. To remedy the issue, she had to pull off the trail and spend a good chunk of time cleaning off the bindings completely and starting from scratch to ensure all straps were tightened snugly.
On one outing in particular, one of our testers was walking her dog after a big snowfall in Boulder’s Chautauqua Park when her heel started repeatedly popping out of the binding, leaving the snowshoes loose and flopping around. Mainly, if you’re not careful to buckle down all the straps securely in place, they can come loose and require readjustment/refastening on the trail, which can be a real hassle with snow and ice caked up underneath. That said, we’ve still experienced some of the same issues we had with the original model. And perhaps most importantly, you get a real evenness around the foot, which makes the Lightning Ascent easier to wear and comfortable on longer excursions and when tackling more challenging terrain. You may need to tighten the two smaller straps to maximize hold, but it’s still a much better and easier-to-use system than the old variation. There still are three straps, but instead of having to redo all three every time you step in and out of the shoe, the Paragon allows you to set the top two and leave them in place, meaning only the heel strap needs to be cinched each time you head out. Upgraded last year, the “Paragon” binding (also found on MSR’s Revo Ascent) replaced the old three-strap system with webbing around the top half of the foot for better hold. High-end snowshoes tend to have superior bindings, and the MSR Lightning Ascent is no exception. None of those snowshoes can match the diversity or volume of traction found on the Lightning Ascent.
MSR REVO ASCENT ADIRONDACKS PLUS
For comparison, premium alternatives like the Tubbs Mountaineer and Crescent Moon’s Gold 9 essentially have two claw-style crampons but no added traction down the side rails, and TSL’s Symbioz Elite has one claw plus a row of burly steel spikes. All in all, for steep climbs, traversing, and icy terrain, you simply won’t find better grip.
MSR REVO ASCENT ADIRONDACKS FULL
In terms of quality, the steel is grippy and thick, and you get nearly full coverage across the base of the snowshoe. The design features a claw-style crampon under the ball of the foot, two steel bars running horizontally (MSR’s cheaper snowshoes have one), and additional traction down both side rails. Simply put, the Lightning Ascent offers best-in-class traction. And for decking on the Lightning Ascent, MSR chose a TPU-coated nylon that is both tough and much quieter on the snow than the plastic decking used on their more affordable Revo and Evo lines. This makes the total price tag even higher than the already-spendy $320 MSRP, but it does add a nice dose of versatility: you can get the appropriately sized shoes for the conditions you experience most and have the tails on standby for fresh powder or bigger adventures. In addition, MSR sells separate tails for $60 that add 5 more inches of length. The 22-inch length is ideal for light to moderate snowfall, the 25-inch variation (tested here) provides even more float in powdery conditions, and the 30-inch model is ideal for those heading out into truly deep snow. To see how it stacks up to the competition, see our article on the best snowshoes.Īvailable in three lengths ranging from 22 to 30 inches, the MSR Lightning Ascent offers excellent flotation over a wide variety of terrain. Below we break down our experience with the Lightning Ascent. It’s true that the Lightning Ascent is expensive at $320 and overkill for casual outings and flat terrain, but it’s the best all-around performer we've tested.
This premium design puts it all together, including class-leading traction, excellent flotation, and great overall hiking comfort. MSR’s snowshoe collection runs the gamut from the entry-level and affordable Evo Trail to the top-end Lightning Ascent featured here.
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