User Review: MSR Denali Evo Ascent

MSR Denali Evo Ascent
Above: The current Denali Evo Ascent, which may differ slightly from the version reviewed.

Reviewed April 19, 2006 by MartyLane

Rating:
Price Paid: $120

These are my first ever snowshoes -- I'm using them for backcountry snowboarding. They feel very light and compact on my feet, and I hardly even notice I'm wearing them. I get the feeling I can run and scramble in these shoes without them getting in the way.

The straps are secure, and allow me to put on and take off the snowshoes without removing my gloves. There is plenty of room to accommodate my snowboard boots. The grip is secure on icey surfaces, even while traversing. Though I don't have the floatation tails, I was surprised to find how well the shoes worked in powder, even though I probably weigh over 170 lbs. when loaded. The heel elevation lever is a nice feature to have when ascending steep slopes. It is easy to flip up and down, yet stays in its intended place.

The shoes are compact enough to fit in my 1500 cu. in. daypack (Gregory Halo). So, when I reach the top of a hill, the shoes are off my feet and stashed in no time, and I'm ready to shred.