Article by Jeff Valliere
Atlas Helium-MTN Unisex Snowshoes
Sizes: 23”(as tested)/26”/30”
709g /1 lb 9 oz per half pair
$229.95
Introduction:
Atlas has long been at the forefront of snowshoe technology and the Helium-MTN enhances that reputation, featuring BOA Fit System bindings, a lightweight yet durable build and superb traction, making it a very worthy top of the line choice for technical mountain adventures.
Features:
The Helium MTN features Atlas’s new Wrapp MTN binding integrating the BOA Fit system to provide fast, easy and comfortable precision fit, as well as a lightweight louvered Helium composite deck and aggressive crampons for maximum traction.
The Wrapp binding with BOA Fit System is amazingly handy, as it is very easy to get in and out of or make micro adjustments, which can be performed with a gloved hand or even while wearing mittens.
The Wrapp binding distributes the pressure over the toe of the shoe or boot in a uniform fashion with no discomfort or pressure points.
The heel secures with a rubber strap, pull tight and secure mechanism (not ratcheting). I found the supplied heel strap to be too short. Even with a US men’s size 10 trail running shoe it barely fits and oftentimes the strap would pull out from the locking mechanism. This is problematic when it happens in the field, as it is difficult to thread the strap back into the mechanism (even when it is warm in the comfort of your home), and it is very problematic in the cold and wind and snow.
I emailed Atlas and they sent me some longer straps that now have plenty of leeway, accommodating a larger boot and no risk of pulling out of the mechanism. With that figured out, the bindings are overall very secure, comfortable and easy to operate.
In the above photos, you can see the adjustable (up or down) heel lift. It is easy enough to operate, really simple to flip up into position, but requires a pinch to release it into the down position.
The composite deck is semi flexible and has just enough give to them to conform somewhat over undulations in the terrain, yet is stable and secure. The louvered design helps to shed snow, reduce weight and provide additional traction.
Traction:
The crampons underfoot are made of stainless steel and are quite aggressive, with aft spikes, creating 360 degree engagement around the foot with terrain for superior grip.
On either side are lightweight 6061 aluminum traction rails that run ⅔ of the length of the snowshoe, providing stability and control in all conditions, while still allowing for some tail flex and a natural stride (note that the aluminum rails are riveted, so not easily replaceable). The side rails being made of aluminum help to keep the weight down, which is VERY welcome. They will wear down fast if you are the type to be reluctant to remove your snowshoes for bare patches in the trail. Luckily the Heliums are quick and easy on/off.
Traction is very good on steep, snowy, icy trails and I feel confident going uphill, downhill and sidehilling, only sliding somewhat if the snow gets deep and loose, which would happen with any snowshoe.
Flotation:
Flotation is moderate, with the MTN being just 23” in length x 8.25” in width, the size small I tested is somewhat on the lower end of snowshoe size. I weigh 145 lbs, but then with winter clothing, boots and a full day pack, I might be in the 165-170lb range, which is just above the top end weight recommendation for size small and find myself wallowing a bit if the snow gets deep and unconsolidated. Most of the trails I travel are well packed, so I prioritize easy walking and light weight for most of my mountain adventures/climbs, as it is frequent to be carrying them for long periods of time above treeline. The smaller size also makes them much easier to walk in vs. a 30” snowshoe (what I used for many years for everything). If looking for greater flotation though, you may consider the Atlas Range, Treeline or Montane series.
Performance/Conclusions:
For all around mountain performance, the Helium MTN is one of the best out there. The BOA Fit System makes for a very user friendly experience, as they are very easy to operate and adjust, the binding comfort is very good with even pressure distribution and no pressure points.
Even with gloves or mittens, they are easy to put on and take off, which is critical in cold, windy conditions above treeline (provided you call Atlas and get a longer strap if you are wearing a larger snow boot and or are a size 10 or above). They are exceptionally lightweight, which is noticed on the feet when walking in them, but also that light weight is appreciated when you have to strap them to your pack and carry. Traction is top tier and at least in the size small that I tested, are a very good size for easy walking without them feeling clunky or negatively affecting your natural stride. My only complaint are the short heel straps, but I am grateful that Atlas was very responsive in sending me a longer set.
Jeff Valliere loves to run and explore the mountains of Colorado, the steeper and more technical the better. He has summited all of the 14ers in the state, many 13ers and other peaks in Colorado and beyond, plus, he has summited his local Green Mountain over 2,100 times in the past 20 years. He can be found on mountain trails daily, no matter the weather, season, conditions or whether there is daylight or not. On the side he loves to ski (all forms) bike and hike, often with his family, as he introduces his twin daughters to the outdoors. Jeff was born and raised in New Hampshire, but has called Colorado home for over 25 years. He is 5’9” and 145 lbs.
3 comments:
Following
Buyer beware! The light weight comes with a durability issue. I purchased a pair in 2023. After two month's use, the tail rivets attaching the aluminum side rails to the plastic deck material tore out. One of the side rails snapped in half. I weigh 130 pounds, soaking wet! Look at photos from customer reviews on Amazon. Atlas has not addressed the issues.
Thanks for the heads up, I will keep an eye out for that.
Post a Comment