Snowshoes

[Rob]

Another vote for MSR.  The tubular models are fine for flat country, but if you are climbing or side Hilling the MSRS are better.  Tubular will work, but slip more.

I am sure everyone knows this, but the weight limits are not related to the ability of the Snowshoe to handle your weight, but rather how much floatation they provide.  That will actually vary by snow type more than anything.  I have moved to very small shoes as they are easier to plunge step downhill with.  They sink a tiny bit more, but the trade off was worth it to me.

[Duckslayer89]

So you guys think the Evo 22" would be enough for a 200 pound guy plus a day pack for out hiking around in Washington snow? I kind of like the one piece hard plastic design? Also lightning ascent 25"vs 30"? To many choices

[Rob]

I weigh 195 and when carrying a 20-25 pound pack, the MSR lightening Ascents in 22 inch have not let me down. 

[Rob]

Also, if the snow is very powdery, then I move to the 25 inch MSR's

Conditions change so much that it is hard to say what the best is...

If I could only have one pair, I would go with the 25 inchers.  decent for the deep post holing stuff, but maybe a bit more than needed for the harder stuff.

[couesbitten]

Girlfriend and I both use MSR snowshoes, they're bombproof!