The MSR Lightning Flash are designed for anyone seeking a snowshoe that is aggressive, low profile, comfortable, has ease of entry, designed for a narrow gait, and the lightest weight possible.
Last winter I used the Women’s 22 inch MSR Lightning Flash on varied terrain from deep powder to crusty spring snow. They worked great and the best part was how easily they maneuvered uphill with less effort than my old MSR Evos. The Flash Lightnings are very lightweight to carry on a pack and fit great in the side pockets or strapped on the back of a pack. So often winter hikes begin on dirt trail with the need to carry snowshoes for later use in snow at higher elevations. I also loved the new Speed-lock binding. I recommend fitting different shoes at home, so that the binding size can be changed quickly in the field.
Features:
*Men and women’s models
* Unrivaled Traction: Exclusive, 360° Traction frames and Pivot crampons deliver advanced, edge-to-edge grip, delivering unmatched traction and security on any terrain, in any conditions.
* SpeedLock Comfort: Set-it-and-forget-it, glove-friendly adjustment and comfort, plus an optional instep strap (sold separately) for maximum security on challenging terrain.
* All-Condition Adaptability: Modular Flotation tails allow you the maneuverability of a smaller shoe with the added, on-demand flotation of optional, 5-inch (13-cm) tails.
* Maximum Efficiency: Streamlined design is tailored for rolling terrain, delivering ultralight, energy-saving performance.
* Low-Profile: Narrow frames are idea for women, those with a narrow gait, or anyone seeking the lightest snowshoe possible.
Pros:
Very lightweight (3 lbs women’s 22 inch) = easy to walk uphill and downhill and fits nicely on a backpack
SpeedLock binding = easy, secure, and FAST fastening on and off, works well with snow boots to trail runners
360%Traction Frames and pivot crampon (tails optional) = secure walking on slopes with light ice and deep snow
MSR Lightning Flash Snowshoes = awesome Christmas gift
Cons:
SpeedLock binding = if not fitted on the right number feet can slip through making it impossible to walk (last year’s model does not work well with very tiny narrow feet), be sure to adjust at home for different boots or shoes that you might be wearing in the back country
Tip: Keep your adjustment numbers handy for different shoes. I keep this info stored in the Evernote app on my iPhone.
