SEATTLE, Wash. [February 11, 2020] – Seattle-based Mountain Safety Research® (MSR®), the world’s leading snowshoe manufacturer, introduces a new snowshoe kit for 2020: the  Evo™ Ascent Kit. Featuring the Evo Ascent Snowshoes paired with the DynaLock™Explore Poles, this all-in-one kit is made for outdoor enthusiasts looking for a convenient snowshoe setup for more technical winter adventures.

“As more and more people are finding ways to get outdoors, snowshoeing is such a great entry point for people during the winter months,” said Sarah Courtney, MSR Category Manager. “While our original Kit offered a great combination of poles and snowshoes for that first-time snowshoe adventurer, this new kit really aims to take it up a notch, and offer people the ability to go further, in a bit more rugged terrain and with the confidence that the Evo Ascent snowshoes and Explore poles offer.” 

The new kit includes the Evo Ascent Snowshoes, DynaLock™ Explore Poles, and a convenient, full-featured carrying/storage pack. Following the launch of MSR’s first snowshoe kit in 2018, the Evo™ Snowshoe Kit, the new model is designed for a more aggressive winter hiker.

The Evo Ascents carry forward the rock-solid durability and traction made famous by the legendary MSR Denali snowshoe and offer quality and reliability for more difficult hikes and off-trail pursuits. The Evo Ascent Snowshoes are designed for both on-trail and off-trail adventures and variable backcountry terrain, making them a true all-around performance snowshoe. With built-in Televator heel lifts for steep ascents, the rugged UniBody™ decks provide workhorse durability and all-condition traction, while TriFit™ bindings enhance foot security on uneven slopes. This model also features all-condition adaptability with Modular Flotation tails, allowing the user to maneuver with a smaller snowshoe but have the option to add on 6-inch tails, ideal for powder and carrying heavier loads. 

The DynaLock™ Explore Poles feature 3-section packability and the reliable strength of full aluminum construction, ideal for snowshoers tackling ventures home and aboard. The pole’s dual DynaLock™ mechanisms offer a full range of length adjustment, as well as tool-free tensioning, allowing the clamping force to be adjusted on the fly. Additionally, the Explore poles feature an extended EVA foam grip for comfort while sidehilling on steep terrain. With both powder and trekking baskets, the DynaLock™ Explore poles are ideal for all-mountain winter exploration.

Finally, the carrying pack is built with rugged coated nylon panels to resist abrasion, and a wide-mouth roll-top for easy access to its contents. It also features a removable foam seat, internal zippered pocket, hydration compatibility and loops for pole attachments.

The new Evo Ascent Snowshoe Kit (MSRP $299.95 USD) will be available in September 2020. For more information on MSR’s snowshoes or other snow category products check out msrgear.com. 

About MSR® (Mountain Safety Research) 

Seattle-based MSR has been engineering standard-setting high-performance outdoor equipment since 1969. A commitment to quality manufacturing and innovation ensures customers are outfitted with the finest, most reliable gear available for outdoor adventures. MSR product lines include: stoves, fuel, cookware, water treatment and hydration systems, shelters, snowshoes, snow tools, and backcountry poles. The majority of MSR products are made in the company’s Seattle, U.S.A. and Cork, Ireland manufacturing facilities. For more information, visit www.msrgear.com.

 Photographer: Scott Rinckenberger