# 🏔️ How do the MSR Lightning Ascent snowshoes perform on steep terrain?

*Published: 2024-04-19 | Updated: 2024-09-25 | Source: https://shopsavvy.com/answers/how-do-the-msr-lightning-ascent-snowshoes-perform-on-steep-terrain*

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## Product: MSR Lightning Ascent
**Brand:** ‎MSR

The MSR Lightning Ascent snowshoes do a solid job on steep terrain. From what we've found, they're made to boost traction and make moving around easier, even when conditions get tough. The 360-degree Traction frame is a key feature here, giving you a good grip and stability so you can handle icy or rugged slopes with confidence.

These snowshoes also have an ergonomic design with a Televator heel lift, which really helps when you're climbing steep slopes. This feature takes some of the strain off your calves and gives you better footing. They're pretty lightweight, too, at about 4.3 pounds per pair and measuring 25 inches long by 8 inches wide, so you won't feel like you're lugging around extra weight.

In terms of durability, they're put together with alloy steel for the frame and sturdy plastic for the body, so they're built to last through some harsh winter conditions. They should hold up well season after season, which is great if you're planning to use them a lot.

While they don't come with a [carrying bag](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dcarrying%2Bbag%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), our research suggests that's not a huge deal for most people. They're light enough to carry easily anyway, but if you want the convenience of carrying them hands-free, you might want to look into getting a separate bag. 

Plenty of outdoor gear stores have options with backpack-style straps.

All in all, the MSR Lightning Ascent snowshoes are a good mix of smart design and practicality, performing well on steep, tricky terrain. They're comfy and reliable, perfect if you're into tackling climbs. If you think you'll need a carrying bag, adding one to your gear might make things even easier for you.

## Current Prices

| Retailer | Price | Availability |
|----------|-------|-------------|
| Amazon | $298.01  | Check |
| Al's Sporting Goods | $389.95  | Check |
| Backcountry.com | $389.95  | Check |
| CampSaver.com | $389.95  | Check |
| Cripple Creek Backcountry | $389.95  | Check |
| Fin & Feather | $389.95  | Check |
| Great Outdoor Shop | $389.95  | Check |
| L.L.Bean | $389.95  | Check |
| Mountainman Outdoor Supply Company | $389.95  | Check |
| OpticsPlanet.com | $389.95  | Check |
| REI | $389.95  | Check |
| SRE Outdoors | $389.95  | Check |

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*Where this comes from: This answer is based on ShopSavvy's product database, real-time pricing from thousands of retailers, and analysis of user reviews to give you a well-rounded picture.*