MSR Lightning Explore Snowshoes for Women

2019-04-01T20:00:00

I like these snowshoes a lot. I lead trips for a volunteer organization as well as doing some professional guiding in the mountains of California. Snow here is heavy and often gets a tough, icy crust. I was a little worried that the single ratcheting buckle around the toe wouldn't work well in off trail conditions and the icy snow we have here. The strap is wide along the bottom sides, so it holds well and the ratcheting buckle makes these snowshoes easy to put on and take off. Quick and simple is a must for me when I am guiding a trip so I can make sure that my focus is on participants, not on getting my own gear together. My one disappointment is that these snowshoes somehow feel a little big compared to a previous pair of Atlas snowshoes (very old, but also with a ratcheting buckle system). I am not quite sure why. Otherwise, I'd give these a five-star rating.

Jodi

Originally posted at

2019-03-15T20:00:00

These are excellent snowshoes! Lightweight but rugged with plenty of traction. Easy to adjust the bindings and they stay put. I have borrowed friends snowshoes and also rented - so glad that the first pair I purchased were these. Highly recommend.

Donna

Originally posted at

2019-01-08T19:00:00

So far I've really enjoyed using these snowshoes. The binding system is such a breeze to use. It takes me about 30 seconds to put on my snowshoes while my friends struggle to tighten 3-4 straps on their own snowshoes. They're so light weight I feel like I can go for days. The climbing bars are super simple to engage and disengage with my trekking poles. My only complaint is that the sizing chart claimed it would fit my size 11 boots. I believe a shoe size 9-10 might not have the same problem. However it was a stretch and my toes brushed the tops of the Snowshoes and I had to purchase the medium straps separately. I think the footwear size range should be updated to reflect the actual shoe size compatible with the straps included, or larger straps should be included with the snowshoes.

Jaelle

Originally posted at

2018-02-11T10:39:44

MSR makes great snowshoes and stands by their quality and customer service! I bought the Explore - love the traction the provide on a variety of snow surfaces, heel lifts are a plus! I upgraded my bindings to the Ascent for a more secure fit - cost less than the Ascent Snowshoes and scored the color I wanted. I’d recommend the Lightning Series over the Revo for overall comfort, ease of use, and peaceful experience.

RACHEL O.