New for 2006, the MSR Lightning snowshoes represent some serious innovation in snowshoe design. Instead of using aluminum alloy tubing, MSR used bar stock aluminum to create a “blade” frame, and the frame itself has teeth on the bottom side for peripheral traction. The toothy frame in combination with a steel toe crampon and toothy steel cross members add up to unbelievable total traction. The design also cuts weight about a half pound per pair compared to conventional aluminum tubing snowshoes. Are the new MSR Lightning snowshoes the perfect balance of lightweight, traction, and durability? Or is it possible they have too much traction for their intended purpose?
ARTICLE OUTLINE
- Introduction
- What's Good
- What's Not So Good
- Specifications: Manufacturer, Year, Model, Dimensions, Surface Area, Frame, Deck, Binding, Crampons, Weight, Load Rating, MSRP
- Performance
- What's Unique
- Recommendations For Improvement
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