First off, you're probably wondering what's the difference between these and every other Atlas shoe? I tell you. The aluminum frame is tapered so it is dramatically stronger than the regular aluminum frames (which we all know are worthless once they get dinged and lose structural integrity) on some older models. I also prefer the tapered aluminum over the "crampon-style" frame of the MSR lightning ascents because there are no teeth to get caught or damage the shoes if you step on your own feet. Second difference, the 1200s have the heel bar for shockingly-easier steep ascents (this prevents the heel from having to go all the way down so the foot stays flat on hills and fatigue is a figment of the imagination). The springy silicon band (also on other Atlas models)reduces calf burn even more so by constantly pushing the foot back up during one's natural stride. The 1200s' bindings also have metal parts (instead of plastic on other Atlas models) and are way simple to use even with bulky gloves on (one silicon strap that easily tightens and loosens. MSR models have what seems like a plethora of belt loop straps which are a huge pain when it's 12 degrees and you want to hit the slopes). The shoe's straps also stay tight so I don't have to adjust them every 200 yards. All-in-all the shoes handle excellent on steep, powdery terrain and offer great flotation (I'm 6' 4" and use the 1230s). I was concerned about how long the canvas decking would last so I checked in with a local outdoor store which rents both Atlas 1200s and MSR Denalis. The deckings lose the sweet paint jobs pretty quick to wear but had significantly less wear than the battered plastic MSRs which were dented and misshapened with use. Lastly, the owner told me of a guy who sent in his 12-year-old Atlas shoes (which he used every day, every winter, to mark trees for a lumber company) back to the Atlas company. The decking was almost worn completely through and the bindings were coming loose a the screws but Atlas replaced both the decking and bindings free of charge. I'm hoping that service holds true in the future. Pretty good for a company based in snowless Seattle. Bottom line: if you're going to use the $#&@ out of your shoes, then spend the extra money and grab a pair of Atlas 1200s.

I have the Atlas 1230s, and have put them through a couple of decent seasons now with no complaints or problems. They give me plenty of flotation even with a heavy winter pack on (total weight: ~210 lbs), and the bindings are perfect. Easy to put on and adjust, totally secure, and they don't twist around at all, which keeps the snowshoe tracking straight without excessive effort. Plus, the coated nylon straps don't freeze and are pretty easy to manage even when covered with the ice and snow of a long day's walk. These shoes are larger and heavier in the pack than the newer style mono-frame shoes (MSR Ascent), but in my opinion provide much better performance with less fatigue during use (probably due in large part to the "springy" binding system) and much better flotation in deep powder. In other words, if you want to strap some snowshoes to your pack that you might use for a few minutes during a trip, the MSR (or comparable) is probably a better choice, but if you know you're going to be on your snowshoes all day and through all terrain, you can't go wrong with the Atlas 12. It's the Cadillac of snowshoes.

Wow! The bindings make these snowshoes outstanding...Quick & easy...I purchased the 1235 which travel well and have fantastic floatation...Love these snow shoes