MSR Denali Ascent Snowshoes

MSR Denali Ascent Snowshoes—lightweight platform snowshoes that provide supreme flotation and excellent traction

If you are looking for a super lightweight, reliable snowshoe that’ll allow you to trek deep into the backcountry, you can’t do much better than the MSR Denali’s. These lightweight, technical snowshoes offer incredible performance on ice and snow-covered landscapes.

The Denali Ascent snowshoes are built to give you maximum traction, even in icy or variable conditions. The snowshoes have traction bars that feature piercing Saber Teeth and 4 raised spikes that provide more grip than the Classic on hard-packed snow or freezing terrain.

In addition, the Ascents come with Televators that flip up to support your heel during steep ascents thereby reducing calf fatigue. A stand-up binding makes for easy exit/entry, which means you won’t be delayed a moment too long before enjoying the descent.

The enlarged boot hole also allows for use of snowboard and/or ski boots, which in addition to the lightweight of the snowshoes make them ideal for taking them on backcountry ski trips.

>>Learn more about how to pick the right snowshoes and about other models of snowshoes

The Quick & Dirty:
Where you can get them:
MSR Denali Evo Ascent Snowshoes

Why they Rock:

• Strong, molded decks will last season after season, resisting icy build-up
• Mitten-friendly strap bindings with heel stabilizers stay pliable and easy to use in cold temperatures
• Steel crampons offer positive traction for climbing, while multi-toothed steel side rails offer grip for traversing side slopes and icy terrain
• Molded braking bars in decking create a snowplow effect, providing grip for uphill and downhill travel
• Attachable Flotation Tails™ (sold separately) add buoyancy when walking in deep powder snow or carrying heavy loads
• Please note: without tails, recommended load is 90 – 125 lbs., with 4 in. tails, recommended load is 125 – 175 lbs. and with 8 in. tails, recommended load is 175 – 225 lbs.+
• Recommended load specification includes weight of hiker with gear in soft snow conditions; flotation will vary with snow conditions

Seat-of-the-pants rating: 9 out 10

The MSR Denali Ascent’s improved on the already solid design of the original Denali snowshoes—adding more great features that make these some of the best backcountry snowshoes out on the market. Not only do the Denali Ascents have great flotation and traction, but they are also super lightweight and durable. Large bootholes that can accommodate a wide range of footwear (even ski and snowboard boots) and a heel lifter is raised when terrain gets steep, reducing exertion on your legs seal the deal on these snowshoes.

Looking to buy? Here’s where you can get ‘em:
MSR Denali Evo Ascent Snowshoes