Snowshoe update
A review of this year’s models
bRIAn hIggIns
>>
Snowshoe design and technology have come a long way since the days of the wooden tra- Atlas Run
ditional style, with its cowhide or beaver skin holding it together, even though a lot of people Weight: 1¼ kilograms
still like that old-timey look and feel. Contemporary snowshoes are made from light-weight aluminum Binding: one-pull system (one
or steel; they have bindings made from canvas, rubber or high-tech materials, and have been built for pull on one strap tightens all the binding
ease when you put them on or take them off. And they’re made with the wearer’s comfort in mind. around your foot)
If you have been thinking about snowshoeing but don’t know where to start, here’s some gear Frame: aluminum
available in the Ottawa area. Terrain suitability: packed snow only
Price: $193
If you enjoy trail running and don’t want to
quit during winter, Atlas Run is made for
you. The one-pull binding system gives
you the support you need so you can
MSR Denali Ascent focus on fitness and not worry about
Weight: just under 1½ kilograms equipment. Go register for Chelsea’s
Binding: straps Mad Trapper Snowshoe Series
Frame: steel (www.themadtrapper.ca) and race
Terrain suitability: rolling all winter long.
Price: $196 Pros: winter dream
The Denali Ascent has lightweight design and the Cons: only good on packed snow.
capacity to fit larger footwear such as snowboarding or Available at Bushtukah; info on this
ski boots. This all makes it a great choice for the general model or the Atlas 10 Series at
snow sport enthusiast. It’s designed with a heel lift to
www.atlassnowshoe.com.
make climbing steep terrain easier on your calves. It’s
best for walking on packed snow, so if you are planning a trek across
powder snow you may want to buy floatation tails for an extra $30.
They’re available in 10- and 20-centimetre lengths.
Pros: easy to carry, good price Tubbs Sojourn
Cons: floatation tails needed in powder snow Starter Kit
Available at Mountain Equipment Co-op; info at
www.msrcorp.com. Weight: 2 kilos
Binding: one-pull system
Frame: aluminum
Terrain suitability: gently
rolling
Price: $200
Atlas 10 Series If you’re looking to get
Weight: 1.7 to 2 kilograms into the hobby but don’t
Binding: coated nylon know where to start, the
Frame: aluminum Tubbs Sojourn Starter Kit
Terrain suitability: any may be for you. Each kit has snowshoes,
Price: $209 - $289 adjustable poles, gaiters and a CD with
Any snowshoe in the Atlas 10 series promotes tips and techniques. Putting on the
comfort and total manoeuvrability on any type of trail. The patented spring-loaded suspension Sojourn snowshoe is so easy it can be
combined with superior traction gives you a natural feel and allows you to climb any slope. It’s done with one hand. The only downside
a great snowshoe for beginners. is a frame design which may create more
Pros: natural feel when walking, superior traction drag than other models. It’s ideal for the
Cons: a little costly beginner who plans occasional trail hiking.
Available at Bushtukah –
www.atlassnowshoe.com. Pros: kit includes everything
Cons: possible early fatigue due to design
Available at Trailhead; info at
www.tubbssnowshoes.com.
22 OTTAWA >> WINTER 2007/2008
www.OttawaOutdoors.ca
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