MSR Revo Ascent Snowshoes

Pros: 

Snowshoes, traditionally speaking, provide more float than traction and are most effective when used in powder. But MSR knows that powder isn’t guaranteed, and so they outfitted the Revo Ascent with enough traction to take on icy trails and wind-buffed sidehills. The serrated external frame and steel crampon spikes dig into ice and snow with each and every step. When blasting up technical, slick terrain, we were pleasantly surprised by the steadfast, wolverine-like grip of the Revo Ascent. 

Traction isn’t the only impressive aspect of this snowshoe. The injection-molded plastic body of the snowshoe is durable—so much so that buried rocks are inconsequential. MSR crafted the Paragon Bindings from a flexible mesh that won’t freeze, and it’s simple to size the binding to your boot, strap it in place, and hit the trail. What’s more, the pivoting action of the binding allows for a fast-paced, natural gait. Last but not least, the Revo Ascent sports an "Ergo Televator" climbing bar—similar to those found on backcountry skis and splitboards—which enhances stability and efficiency in steeper terrain. 

The snowshoes are available in a 22” and 25” build. Both sizes are compatible with a Floatation Tail, sold separately, which improves buoyancy in bottomless powder. It’s not a bad idea to add the tail if you are on the heavier side or plan to carry a weighty pack.  

Cons: 

These snowshoes are called the Ascent for a reason—they crush climbs, and rarely did we slip on an uphill. Downhills can be a bit more treacherous, though, which is unsurprising since the front half of the snowshoe is home to the majority of the traction. 

Tester Comments: 

“I was shocked by the traction these provide on uneven, slick snow and ice. I’ve generally used snowshoes in deeper snow. The Revo Ascents, however, are truthfully a tool that can be helpful in certain winter hiking and even mellower mountaineering scenarios.”

Best For: 

Racking up vertical feet in variable snow.