I'm looking to snow shoe for the first time this winter in Socal Mountains. Most likely San Jacinto via the tram. It seems there are different types of shoes for different snow conditions. Could anyone with experience in Socal mountains in winter make some suggestions of snow shoes I should look at? Also, any online resources with good snow shoe info? I'll be going with some more experienced people, but could use some help picking out some snow shoes.

A good place to look is on the mtsanjacinto.info BB. Look back through the threads and there was plenty of info last winter on snowshoes. Seem to remember MSR Denalis were popular. Personal, I use a pair of old Tubbs snowshoes I bought over 15 years ago. As long as the shoes can be attached to your boots, and give you some floatation, you should be good.

I've gone up San jacinto a few times on snowshoes. I think the msr denalis are a bit heavy. I use a pair of red feather snowshoes that are light weight and more than adequate for this climb. Most of the time though, I use a pair of kahtoola microspikes for the winter hike up San jacinto. Depending on how fresh the snow is, it usually hardens up pretty good making it perfect for crampons.

Thanks for the advice. I searched the San J board, but couldn't find any specifics on snowshoes - more just trip report info. I'll keep searching though.

1000pks - I've done my own searching. Just wanted to ask others if they know of other good resources. Since you took the time to post, maybe a more helpful/constructive post would be better next time.

MSR Denali Ascents. The only snowshoes you'll ever need. Ever.

drpw wrote:MSR Denali Ascents. The only snowshoes you'll ever need. Ever.

+1

Anyone know a place that has the Denali Ascents still in stock? Also, do you think I'll need the tails? I'm pretty light at around 150 lbs.

96avs01 wrote:

drpw wrote:MSR Denali Ascents. The only snowshoes you'll ever need. Ever.

+1

+2

And no you don't need the tails. I've never bothered with tails even with a pack on.

mrchad9 wrote:

96avs01 wrote:

drpw wrote:MSR Denali Ascents. The only snowshoes you'll ever need. Ever.

+1

+2

Agreed but I'm partial to the MSR Lightning Ascents

I haven't ever done San Jacinto, but have spent a good deal of time int he SoCal mountains in the winter, and snowshoes are hardly ever needed. My two cents is don't buy any until you find a day that you really need them. I have all but stopped carrying mine and never find myself wishing I had. It is rare to both get enough snow and be one of the first people out breaking trail. Even when you are, it tends to work out better to break trail in your boots than snowshoe. I'd say save your money and wait to see if you find yourself really needing them much.

catalyst81 wrote:Also, do you think I'll need the tails? I'm pretty light at around 150 lbs.

I have the MSR Denali ascents and weigh 215 pounds. I've never felt like I needed tails, especially in SoCal.