Once again, Northern Michigan has become a winter wonderland. Last week, over three feet of light fluffy snow has accumulated and begs to be played in. Fortunately, MSR was kind enough to send out a couple of pairs of their Lightning Explore Snowshoes to help us enjoy the conditions. And that’s just what we’ve been doing. My wife and I both downhill ski but the hills in Michigan are underwhelming at best. Luckily, we have access to miles of trails and wooded areas to explore right out of our backyard.
Up until now, we’ve had limited experience snowshoeing. But after several outings, are wondering why we haven’t been doing this for years. Mountain Safety Research out of Seattle Washington has been perfecting the snowshoe for some time. They break down their line into three categories, Accent, Explore and Trail snowshoes. All focused on a different mission. The Accent Series models are best suited for attacking steep terrain and mountain operations. On the opposite side of the spectrum the Trail Series models are perfect for mainly flat non-technical hiking. The best of both worlds lies in between with the Explore Series.
MSR 25″ Lightning Explore Specs:
- Weight: 3 lbs 14 oz
- Width: 8″
- Length: 25″
- Binding type: Hyperlink
- Televator: Yes
- Gait: Unisex/average width
- Footwear size range: 7-13M
- Load: 120 – 220 lbs
- Load with tails: 120 – 280 lbs
- Country of Origin: Made in the USA of US and Imported Parts
- Please visit our Affiliate Page to purchase MSR Products: MSRP $299.95
The lightest of the two Explore models is the Lightning Explore. This shoe utilizes a unique aluminum 360 degree Traction Frame. Providing grip and rigidity that can’t be paralleled with conventional tubular frames. With a serrated vertical structure, the frame itself becomes the main source of traction. Along with two additional crossmembers for both structural support and grip. On the toe of the binding, steel crampon style teeth offer “bite” as you step forward and point your toes into the snow. We were able to put these to the test on the abandoned ski hills in our neighborhood. Always propelling us uphill with no slipping backwards on steep terrain. Descents felt controlled with the crossmembers acting like brakes and not allowing a forward slide.
The Hyperlink Binding makes entry and exit a snap. With large easy to manipulate cam style buckles, binding adjustment is easy even with heavy gloves on. I found that once I’ve adjusted the top and rear straps to my liking, I only use the top strap to get in and out of these snowshoes. Keeping the rear strap buckled, I can slide my heel snug to that strap and buckle the top strap…done. MSR added some strategically placed EVA padding on the cradle of the binding. A nice comfort feature to prevent pressure or hot spots during prolonged use.
Final Thoughts:
If you’re looking to add a new form of exercise to your winter routine, I highly recommend snow shoeing. It can be as relaxing and peaceful as you make it. Or a great cardiovascular workout. MSR produces some of the finest snowshoes with a wide range of prices and functionality. Unlike downhill skiing, snow shoeing is much less equipment intensive and doesn’t always require a destination. If you live up north or in the mountains, take a look at MSR and see what best fits your needs.
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My wife and I each got a pair of lighting asents for christmas this year. We live within an hours drive of Rocky Mountain National and go there frequently. Our first attempt was the Glacier Gorge trail, which looking back, was probably a poor choice as a first snowshoe as my wife was not exactly anxious to go out again.
The next week we spent the day around the Wild Basin trailhead and even went back to upper and lower Copeland falls and any doubts my wife had were gone! Both her and I are completely captivated by how the Rockies are a completely different world in the winter.
As for the snowshoes, I’ve used the older tube style before, and they were okay, but kind of awkward and didn’t provide much traction, especially going up hill. But my MSRs feel very stable even on very steep terrain. They provide an excellent balance between traction, flotation and mobility.