[pct-l] Snowshoes and the JMT

[Sean Nordeen]

Chris,

Other then MSR, you might look into Northern Lites snoeshows (prolite sells them).  Their 175-250lb backcountry snoeshoes weight only 43oz/pair.  If you google them, you will see that people say they do hold up surprisingly well despite their lightweight.  Don't people say, a pound on the feet is like 5 on the back or something similar.  The only complaint I've seen with them is some wish for a more aggressive rear crampon for better transversing.  However, I can see using them on the JMT in May/June, but not late July.  I bought a pair but have only had a chance to use them on relatively flat ground so far.  But I'm haappy with them.

-Sean

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So, having had a 'close encounter of the cold kind' I'm seriously 
considering the need for snowshoes.  I like winter hiking and am still 
planing a JMT in late July.  Doc says the frostbite should be all better 
by then.  What are your thoughts for carrying 4 lbs of snowshoes for the 
JMT in late July-early August?  Also, I walked out 2 weeks ago on black 
MSR shoes, this being my only experience with any snowshoes, I guess 
they worked pretty well.  I don't know what kind they were other than 
MSR.  I'm around 250 lbs with gear.  I looked at about a zillion kinds 
the other day at REI and am more confused now than ever.  What are you 
thoughts about brands, styles, price etc?  Thanks
It's not the Mountain that we conquer,
but Ourselves.  Anon.

Chris ~ S/V Drifter
Anacortes, WA. ~~~_/) ~~~