Atlas 10 Series Snowshoes Review

Features:

Atlas 10 Series Snowshoes are built on a 6000 series aluminum frame with Nytex decking. The new Wrapp™ Comfort binding allows effortless entry and removal of the snowshoes. Traction is achieved with steel front All-Trac™ toe crampon and Traverse Trac™ rails. Atlas 10 Series Snowshoes also feature Spring-Loaded™ Suspension for greater comfort and maneuverability. Available in three sizes: 25, 30, and 35 inch.

Specifications:

Size: 8" x 25" (120 to 200 lbs)
Type: Varying Terrain
Material (frame): 6061 Aluminum Alloy
Material (decking): Nytex
Binding: Wrapp™ Comfort Binding
Crampons: Tempered Steel
Weight: 3.91 lbs (per pair)

In The Field:

I had been looking for snowshoes that were strong enough for steeper, more technical terrain while being affordable at the same time. I am pleased to say my Atlas 1025 snowshoes fit the bill. The first thing I noticed was how durable and well put together they felt while still being relatively lightweight.

One of the main attractions for me are the bindings on the Atlas 10 Series snowshoes. They are easy to get in and out of and securely wrap around my winter boots. The toe stop on the front of the bindings takes the guess work out of how far forward to place each foot. I really like the consistency this feature provides. The EVA padding on the binding that wraps over the top of your foot really helps spread the pressure of the binding over the entire foot versus just where the straps are. It also helps make the binding system more rigid, which in turn adds stability on uneven terrain. Pulling the Uniloop strap tightens the entire binding. However, I find that I have to help it a little by pulling the heel part of the strap tight first. This is only a minor annoyance and might be different with other boots.

The second feature I often rely on are the crampons. They are much stronger than other snowshoes I have used because they are constructed of steel instead of aluminum. They really bite in on steep sloops and allow me to climb efficiently. The rails that are parallel to the frame near the heel cleat afford more stability, especially when sidehilling. I have not had any problems with any of the crampon components. I have been very satisfied with how well they have held up after use in basic mountaineering.

The 8" x 25" size works as well as any other comparably sized snowshoe as far as flotation is concerned. The depth and dryness of powder snow is what ultimately determines how far one will sink while on snowshoes. The Atlas 1025's make trudging through deep powder much less exhausting and safer then with boots alone. I find the flotation and traction they afford helpful in all snow conditions from powder to packed snow and ice.

There is one gripe I have with these snowshoes. They tend to throw snow up my calves and back. This is due to the Spring-Loaded™ Suspension common on Atlas snowshoes. On my very first trip with them, they threw snow all the way to my head at times (conditions were 4-6" of fresh powder over packed snow). Luckily this phenomenon is becoming less of an issue as I use the snowshoes more. Now only my calves get hit with snow. Another thing to note is the binding on my 1025's rubs the decking in one spot on each snowshoe. It hasn't caused any problems, and I have seen this same condition on other snowshoes.

See Trillium Lake, Mud Creek Ridge, Ghost Ridge, and Mount Hood adventures where the Atlas 10 Series Snowshoes were used.

Final Thoughts:

I have used four different pairs of snowshoes this season and the Atlas 10 Series are my favorite. They provide the traction and durability needed for more technical treks. I highly recommend them. Available at amazon.com and other outdoor retailers.