LOCALadk Magazine

MSR Evo Ascent "My two favorite features about them are the ascending heel riser in the back and the changeable straps. With the straps be- ing able to be moved around and replaced so easily, it gives the user a much safer option in case something breaks while they are in the remote back country. " Jonathan "The Evo Ascent is the perfect northeastern mountaineering snowshoe, with maximum maneuverability and grip on Ad- irondack slopes. In my opinion, the combination of the heel bar, aggressive crampons, and hard-plastic decking make this model ideal for any aspiring Winter 46er. As a guide for the Adirondack Mountain Club and an ardent winter bushwhacker, there's no other snowshoe that I trust more in the undulating backcountry." Tyler "Uphill traction is outstanding on any type of surface includ- ing ice Durability--breakage is very rare and useful life is long. Nothing else compares for downhill glissade in deep snow. Most people want to tiptoe down. I want to slide, telemark style. Size is right for fast and efficient walking on packed trails (very lit- tle drag), as well as for bushwhacking where larger decks are awkward. They sink down in deep snow with the small 22-inch deck, but that is OK considering the other attributes. Binding comfort is sometimes a problem. The boot slips forward when descending and can hurt the top of the foot." Joe Highlights of the Evo Ascent are steel traction and brake bars, 3-strap bindings accommodate a wide range of foot- wear, heel lifts which give your calves a break on the steeps and a strong plastic deck that can handle hard conditions. Atlas Serrate and Endeavor (older model) "I use Atlas now religiously and at this time the Serrate se- ries. The Atlas gives the best flotation while bushwhacking with aggressive crampons in tough terrain. The main reason I went solely to Atlas is their customer service and how well they stand behind their product. Atlas also seems to be a bit more rugged, with fewer issues with rough and tough use. I do al- most all bushwhack snowshoeing." Spencer "I'm currently using a pair of Atlas Endeavor snowshoes with a 28" length. The extra length is great for snowshoeing through deep powder conditions. I was able to break trail over waist- deep snow in the Seward range with these for several miles. The Atlas Endeavors have aggressive traction on the underside and well as the toe. They are also equipped with a heel lift to make steep climbs easier on the calf muscles." Danielle Highlights of the Atlas Serrate are an elliptical-shaped aluminum frame that increases strength and provides for a stiff and responsive reaction. The patented Spring – Loaded Suspension allows for easy maneuvering and lets your foot articulate naturally. It absorbs impact and increases traction control, especially on steep or angled terrain. *Other snowshoe companies include Tubbs, RedFeather and Chinook to name a few. This issue's GE AR REVIEW is aimed at helping you enjoy being outside and exploring the winter season. Fresh fallen snow covering the woods creates a clean canvas on which to make your mark. Creating fresh tracks down a winter y path may be better than any therapy session you can imagine. Its usually quiet except for maybe some wildlife, wind, your breathing and the swoosh of your snowshoes as they leave a virgin imprint. Okay so maybe it's not always like this, but there are plenty of days in an Adirondack winter when these ideal conditions exist. There are also plenty of other days that offer the potential for winter hiking adventures. Snowshoeing adventures can be the perfect way to enjoy the conditions. We are strong advocates for using snowshoes when hiking anywhere there is snow on and off the trail. We asked several Adirondack locals what their go-to snowshoe is and what they like about it. Several choose the MSR Evo Ascent while other raved about different Atlas models. Tubbs also got a few mentions. There are many brands to choose from and here are a few quotes from locals who put miles and miles on their snowshoes. Gear Review

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