Backpacker Magazine – Fall Gear Guide 2009

Gear Review: Tubbs Couloirs Snowshoes

These wide-decked Tubbs snowshoes are perfect for long hauls and large loads.

by: Kelly Bastone, Chris Bloomquist, Donna Meshke, Dan Nelson, Ben Russell, James Werner

Tags:
• Snowshoeing
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• Gear
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• Winter camping
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Load Haulers
Whether climbing packed trails in Colorado's North Routt area or hiking off-trail in deep powder around Columbine, our testers in the Rockies praised the Couloirs for managing big loads. Even 200 pounders carrying 50-pound packs stayed afloat in light, deep powder, thanks to a deck shape that maximizes surface area–wide throughout with minimal tail taper. The Couloirs bit deeply into crust and provided a stable platform on slopes, thanks to a secure binding system and aggressive crampons and cleats.

And our testers loved the smooth hinge design of the binding attachment: It lets the snowshoe swing freely under the ball of your foot with each stride. "The tail drops away from my heel, which prevents snow buildup and getting sprayed with each step," reports one tester. A single binding strap weaves over the forefoot and tightens with a single pull, making the Couloirs quick to put on yet still very secure. Said another tester, "For multiday trips with a heavy pack, these are perfect." $250; 4 lbs. 12 oz.; 25-, 30-, and 36-inch; tubbssnowshoes.com

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