User Review: MSR Men's Lightning Ascent

Summary

These are tough, high quality, lightweight snowshoes with excellent floatation.

My first pair of MSRs were the high impact plastic Denalis. The Lightning Ascents seriously feel like they weigh less than half what the Denalis did. The heel lifter is a huge benefit when headed up a steep incline and the serrated edges provide more than adequate traction in any conditions.

I've used the Ascents for two seasons now, and my only beef is related to the binding. The strap lock on the Denalis uses a hook that the strap is pulled over and held in place with tension. Unfortunately, MSR must have decided they could improve on perfection and created the strap lock on the Ascents using a pin that you have to push through the hole in the strap. Cold temperatures and cold fingers make locking the strap in place more of a workout than your entire day snowshoeing.

Finally, the Lightning Ascents are just about the most expensive commercial shoe out there, so price might be an issue for some folks.