MSR Snowshoes: “Wilderness Choice” by Nutnfancy04:33

These are my favorite snowshoes. If the menu for the day’s adventure includes some deep snow, maybe icy conditions, and steep terrain, I think you will be pleased with your choice of a MSR Denali or Evo snowshoe. In six years of use I have found nothing to complain about with my Denali Ascent showshoes, having experienced many adventures in them (shown). Rated at 275 lbs I have found they can take a lot more weight too; usually they carry about 300 or so pounds in my multi-day expeditions in the snowy wild. Over snow and ice chunks, falls into snow holes, and brush-induced tangle ups, I have found the MSR plastic decking remarkably durable. No cracks or failures noted. The design for my preferred terrain and conditions is superior: this rigid but flexible plastic decking sheds snow well and allows the attachment of securely-attached STEEL traction teeth around its circumfrence. Where tubular aluminum shoes will go on a “sleigh ride” on icy slopes and have to rely soley upon their center toe cleats for traction, everything about the MSR Denali/Evo series is designed to give grip. Molded in traction bars prevent sliding and MSR Denali/Evo users will be mind-freaked at the traction they can obtain with the design. The 4-strap binding straps are resilent, easy to attach, give good stablilty, and are easily serviced when necessary. The boot opening is large to accommodate fat toes of snow boots. Deep powder characteristics are refined and the shoes require less effort than any other design I’ve tried. Weight and size are outstanding and the shoes travel flatly, thanks in part to the fold-flat bindings. Flotation is also excellent and can be aided by the easy addition of 8 inch or 4 inch (6 inch in Evo models) tails. These also are relatively lightweight and nest together for easier packing. Value is high for long term quality delivered although I am dismayed to see substantial price increases in the Evo line. Other MSR models are discussed and excellent points but these are my favorites as of 2010 and I have not felt a need to look any further; the Denali/Evo shoes are my #1 wilderness choice in serious snowy terrain. /////////////////////Nutnfancy Likability Scale: 10 out of 10 /////////////////// Music licensed to TNP by “Soda”