Paul:

Thanks for that info. I recently moved to CO and want to get into snowshoeing this winter to extend the hiking season. In looking at old threads there seems to be universal agreement that MSR makes one of the best, affordable shoes (under $150 being affordable?)

How do those MSR Denali snowshoes compare to that "other" brand at Campmor, Redfeather? Is the $40 or $50 worth the difference?

Seems like most people were really ecstatic about the MSR Ascents -- worth it for them over their Denalis?