Bushwalk Australia

I am planning to buy a couple of pairs of MSR Lightning showshoes for this winter. I know! - there won't be any snow if I do. The question I have is what are the strengths and weaknesses of the three bindings but I expect it is out of the Ascent or Explore models rather than the Trail? We will be using lightish mid height waterproof runners (Salomon mids of some persuasion for me) and mainly be doing day walks in the short term but, I at least, will look to do a few overnighters in knp.

The other question is how do they come packaged as I don't want to end up paying postage on volume rather than weight?

PM coming in Mark

Hi Mark, I find the stud on the heel strap can be difficult to secure with cold hands. Its like a double headed rivet. Looks like on one of the models you're looking at has a cam closure which might be better. Once the toe straps are adjusted for a shoe i dont touch them again. Also I prefer the womens version as it has better heel area clearance.

One tip from my own experience; if you hava a cam buckle make sure the end of the webbing has a well welded taper, as these too are a PITA with cold hands

Bill P wrote:Hi Mark, I find the stud on the heel strap can be difficult to secure with cold hands.

Oh goodie, it's not just me.

Thanks all for your comments. Just ordered 2 pairs of womens MSR Lightning Explore snowshoes now the ski gear discounts seem to have started in the US.