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 traction frame with steel crampons, for grip on sidehills and ice, not just straight ahead
- Paragon mesh-strap binding that MSR says is freeze-resistant
- Ergo Televator heel lifts engage with a pole grip to reduce fatigue on steep climbs
- Optional 5-inch modular flotation tails 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 with easy-pull straps and a roller buckle heel strap
- ActiveLift heel lift reduces calf fatigue on climbs
- Genuinely friendly price for the build quality
- Traction is ample for rolling terrain but underpowered on steep ice
- The page does not list modular tails, so float may be capped in deep snow
Side by side
The 7 criteria below are the ones our full comparison judged every product on, narrowed to these two.
| MSR Lightning Ascent Our pick | 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 |
| Best terrain | Steep, icy, off-trail | Rolling trails and packed snow |
| Traction on ice and sidehills | 360° steel crampon frame | Good for rolling terrain |
| Flotation in deep snow | Very good, expandable with tails | Good, fixed |
| Binding | Paragon strap, secure | Quick-Fit strap, fast |
| Heel-lift bar for climbs | Yes | Yes (16°) |
| Weight underfoot | 4 lb 2 oz to 4 lb 14 oz | Not published |
| Build | Aluminum frame | Composite deck |
Which one is right for you?
Pick the MSR Lightning Ascent if
backcountry travelers, winter peak-baggers, and anyone regularly on steep or icy off-trail terrain.
Know before buying: flagship price is a big step up from trail-focused shoes.
Pick the Tubbs Flex TRK if
beginner-to-intermediate day hikers on packed or rolling trails who want a comfortable, low-fuss ride.
Know before buying: traction is ample for rolling terrain but underpowered on steep ice.
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).