Gear Review
Louis Garneau Freeshape FX Apex II Snowshoe
Light with good floatation and comfort in uneven footing
By apr4294500 January 27, 2011
I've used these snowshoes a few times now and have been able to compare them to my MSR Denali Ascent Evo's.
Compared to my denalis, these obviously have less aggressive grip to them, but they flex a bit more which makes sidehilling much more comfortable. Taking on uneven or lumpy consolidated snow is a joy in these because they will give a bit as compared to the denali's which will lock onto some piece of snow with a death grip and tweak my legs and knees at an awkward angle. I much prefer these for simply walking along in the snow.
Also, the heel risers are much shorter than on the MSRs, that's good and bad, depending on how steep a slope you are ascending. Under 30 degrees - these shoes win. 31+ degrees and I'd rather have the MSRs. Possibly the biggest difference I noticed is the braking while going down is much more aggressive in the MSRs, but that's always the case with Denali's compared to other Sshoes.
Bottom line is I really enjoy the comfort and walking-friendly design on these shoes. If the elevation gain/loss is not severe and it's going to be walk in the woods these are fantastic. If things get serious and steep ups and downs are in the forecast I opt for the denalis.
View Details: Louis Garneau Freeshape FX Apex II Snowshoe
Nailed It? 0 Yes
Tech Specs:
- Frame Material:
- 7075 T-6 Aluminum
- Binding Material:
- Plastic
- Crampon Material:
- Aluminum
- Deck Material:
- Ultra-Lightec
- Binding System:
- Twin Clip-Light buckle system
- Snowboard Boot Compatible:
- No
- Recommended User Weight:
- [25in] 80-160lb (36-72kg); [30in] 100-200lb (45-91kg)
- Recommended Use:
- Backcountry access
- Manufacturer Warranty:
- 1 Year
Change me.