By Shoe-foot Shelly
from Showdown, Montana on 11/03/2009
Pros:
Attach Securely, Compact Design, Easy Entry & Exit, Good Traction, Lightweight, Stable
Best Uses:
Deep Snow, Off Trail, Rolling Terrain
Describe Yourself:
Advanced
Sizing:
Feels true to size
Width:
Feels true to width
Bottom Line:
Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
I work at a ski area in the winter, and I go snow-shoeing every morning before the lifts open for about half an hour; once a week for an hour or two; and for longer day hikes two or three times a month. After buying these TSL shoes, I now use them more than my skis. Most of my hiking takes place around the edges of the ski area, 2-3 miles with 800 to 1000 feet elevation gain.
These shoes aren't super great on steep side-hill conditions and steep down-hill, but they do fine on moderate ones, and perform very well up steep and moderate up-hill pitches. They are definitely the most fun on gentle rolling terrain. Their length can be a slight hindrance in tight quarters (think thick trees and brush) and they do require a little care when going over obstacles. Every time I've tried to run in them, I've ended up flat on my face. However, for covering ground in all types of snow, these shoes are tough to beat. The bindings provide excellent lateral stability; i.e., your heel doesn't slip far off the center of the heel plate, even in adverse side-hill conditions. My boyfriend has a different brand of shoes with a softer binding, and his heels are literally slipping off the side of the shoe when we cross any kind of slope. Consequently, he detests snow-shoeing. If he had TSLs, I think he would have a whole different outlook.
My three favorite things about this shoe: 1) The width and shape allows for a very natural stride without sacrificing float. I'm 5'5, 140 lbs, and in general, I sink into the snow only 1/4 to 1/3 as far as I would without shoes (Yes, I've tested it). 2) Many snowshoe brands say that you can operate their bindings with one hand while wearing mittens...with TSL, it's really true. The heel and toe cup can be adjusted to your feet (don't do it for the first time in the field, though--do it on your couch with your shoe in your lap), and once you have it, you never have to touch it again unless you switch boots. The ratchet top strap holds you securely, and yet provides for quick release. 3) If you email the factory in Vermont, they are more than pleased to answer your questions directly, and small enough that they'll remember you. I had a great customer-service experience with them.
I have recommended this shoe to everyone I know.
