The largest and lightest of all "big" shoes, the Crescent Moon Gold 17 snowshoes are built for great flotation in deep tundra. The snowshoes feature a new binding that's easier to put on and take off than ever, an important consideration when you're wearing a big pack. The aggressive claw system, meanwhile, offers additional side claws that deliver added traction and stability on long traverses. In fact, the Gold 17s are sturdy enough to support more than 300 pounds of weight in deep snow conditions. Other details include a TIG-welded, powder-coated aluminum frame that's strong and durable; a teardrop-shaped design that delivers a natural stride and optimal flotation on the trail; and clear Surlyn T front decks. The Gold 17 snowshoes, which measure 37 by 10 inches and weigh 5 pounds per pair, are backed by a lifetime warranty. Key Features of Crescent Moon Snowshoes:
Binding
The most important part of a snowshoe is the binding. It should be easy and intuitive to use, provide support, be comfortable under all conditions, and efficiently transfer your energy to the traction system with each step you take. That's why Crescent Moon invented the SPL (single-pull-loop) adjustable binding. You'll get the response and control you need and get a great sense of confidence to go up or down any trail with a pair of Crescent Moon snowshoes.
The SPL binding is the easiest in/out binding on the market: simply place your foot in the stirrup and pull up (and getting out is just as simple). The binding holds your entire foot with equal tension throughout, resulting in better support and comfort toe to heel with side to side stability for significantly better performance than "open-toed" binding designs. This simple design is the result of extensive testing and years of use by Crescent Moon customers from around the world.
Platform (Frame and Decking)
To ensure optimal flotation, Crescent Moon Snowshoes are balanced to distribute your body weight across the entire shoe. The design also makes them easier to pull out of the snow, so you don't have to work as hard to walk, hike, or climb. The unique teardrop-shape platform is based on the shape of your foot: wide at the ball and narrow at the heel. Instead of forcing you to waddle, the ergonomic design helps your feet clear away from each other with every step, ensuring a smooth, natural stride while allowing you to concentrate on your adventure.
The frame is made from lightweight aircraft-grade aluminum tubing, which is shaped by hand and Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG), which is welded for incredible strength, durability, and reliability. The decking is made from an ultra durable, lightweight material called TGS (the good stuff) which simply won't tear or fail. It is extremely resistant to abrasion and textured for additional traction and performance. A new decking material is made using the most environmentally-friendly processes and ingredients as possible and does not use PVC.
Traction
Crescent Moon has the only three-claw crampon traction system on the market, so you can really get a grip. Inherently better than standard two-crampon systems, it features the only genuine toe claw found on a snowshoe. As you walk, you use your whole foot, shifting your weight for balance and traction with each step. Crescent Moon's stainless steel teeth and claws dig in not only at the heel and ball, but also at the toe, to give you complete control. All of Crescent Moon's crampons come with protective, snow-shedding shields to prevent buildup of snow and ice.
