Outdoors & Fitness · Head-to-head
MSR Lightning Ascent vs Tubbs Flex TRK
Which should you buy? Our verdict on both, pulled from our full The Best Snowshoes: 4 Compared (and One to Skip) comparison.
The MSR Lightning Ascent is the most capable all-terrain snowshoe here and the one that grows with you as trails get steeper. If you stick to rolling day hikes, the Tubbs Flex TRK delivers most of the enjoyment for far less money.
MSR Lightning Ascent
Buy itThe do-everything mountaineering snowshoe that grips steep, icy terrain most others slide on.
- 360-degree steel traction frame bites hard on sidehills and ice, not just straight ahead
- Updated Paragon binding is secure and easy to work with gloves on
- Steep heel-lift bar takes real strain off your calves on long climbs
- Modular flotation tails let you add float for deep powder
- Flagship price is a big step up from trail-focused shoes
- The aggressive frame is overkill, and a little clanky, on flat groomed paths
Tubbs Flex TRK
Buy itA forgiving, easy-walking all-rounder that turns rolling winter trails into a relaxed day out.
- Flex Tail deck absorbs shock and encourages a natural heel-to-toe roll
- Quick-Fit binding is fast to cinch and stays put, even in gloves
- Carries a high load rating for its deck size without add-on tails
- Genuinely friendly price for the build quality
- Traction is ample for rolling terrain but underpowered on steep ice
- Fixed length with no modular tails, so float is capped in deep snow
Side by side
| MSR Lightning Ascent | Tubbs Flex TRK | |
|---|---|---|
| Our verdict | Buy | Buy |
| Best for | Backcountry travelers, winter peak-baggers, and anyone regularly on steep or icy off-trail terrain | Beginner-to-intermediate day hikers on packed or rolling trails who want a comfortable, low-fuss ride |
| Price tier | $$$$ · flagship | $$ · mid-range |
The bottom line
Our overall pick is the MSR Lightning Ascent - The do-everything mountaineering snowshoe that grips steep, icy terrain most others slide on. Choose the Tubbs Flex TRK instead if beginner-to-intermediate day hikers on packed or rolling trails who want a comfortable, low-fuss ride.
Want the full picture, including the other options we compared and the popular one we'd skip? Read the complete The Best Snowshoes: 4 Compared (and One to Skip).