Technical Specifications
Since 1992 Northern Lites Snowshoes have delivered an unmatched on-snow performance. 75% lighter than competing brands, Northern Lites are the most advanced snowshoes on the market. We have a highly sophisticated design technology using the strongest, lightest materials in the world.
The result is a significantly lighter, more maneuverable, and highly durable snowshoe, with traction capabilities for all terrains.
Having the lightest snowshoes in the world will save you 2000 lbs. of carry weight over every mile you walk, allowing you to travel further and forget about what is on your feet.
With the trail ahead, leave the weight behind. Enjoy the Journey on your Northern Lites Snowshoes!
Comparisons between Northern Lites and ordinary metal-frame snowshoes abound:
- Titanium mountain bike to an old 3-speed.
- Kevlar racer to a standard aluminum canoe.
- All wheel drive Porsche to a sport utility vehicle.
Standard models of most sporting goods are durable, dependable, and acceptable to most people...but there are many enthusiasts who demand superior equipment.
Since Northern Lites are priced competitively with ordinary snowshoes, everyone can now enjoy the very best!
Light Weight
The first feature everyone notices about Northern Lites is their weight - they’re only about one-half the weight of ordinary snowshoes. This key attribute means that the Northern Lites user will lift about 2,000 pounds less weight over every mile!
This lightweight attribute is what makes Northern Lites truly unique. Lighter weight will open up the magic of snowshoeing to the majority of people put off by the traditionally cumbersome and heavy image of snowshoes.
- Lighter weight is important to beginners. The novices’ greatest fear is the "work" involved in snowshoeing. Northern Lites cut the "work" in half which doubles the fun. Their second greatest concern is falling behind the group, and lighter weight obviously eliminates this as well.
- Lighter weight is important to experienced hikers. Northern Lites are far less fatiguing, so the experienced hiker can enjoy more of the snowshoe adventure.
- Lighter weight is important to cross-trainers. Most runners refuse to train in ankle weights due to the risk of injury, so many have never considered training in snowshoes. Northern Lites can open up the sport to these people because they weigh only slightly more than a pair of athletic shoes.
Durability
Following Northern Lites’ dramatic weight advantage, almost everyone questions our products’ durability. The easy answer is simply "Advanced Technology", with the following explanation:
- Framing is an advanced aluminum alloy 40% stronger than the 6061 T6 framing on ordinary metal-frame snowshoes.
- Decking is genuine Coolthane® with 250% greater abrasion resistance than the hypalon used on other brands.
- Pivot strap is 1 1/2" Biothane which can be twisted without tearing.
- Deck clips/perimeter cleats are toughened nylon, beefed up beyond all mountaineering requirements.
- Bindings are cut from a thicker Coolthane which is humanly impossible to tear with 500 PSI tensile strength.
Flotation
Northern Lites with conventional-shaped frames and solid decking are available in 20", 25", 30" and 32" long models providing adequate flotation for every application.