Atlas Helium – TRAIL Unisex Snowshoes

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The Atlas Helium-TRAIL snowshoes are ultralight and offer good traction and comfort without sacrificing performance. They are perfect for day hikers and snowshoers who prioritise lightweight gear.

Atlas says: 

Take to the trails with Atlas’s Helium-TRAIL, an ultra-light composite snowshoe that’s certain to become your go-to for less extreme winter hikes. Also a great snowshoe for beginners, the Helium-TRAIL features an easy-climb 12 degree Heel Lift and Wrapp™ Stretch binding which provides a comfortable and secure fit with a simple and intuitive two-buckle closure allowing for an easy entry and exit. Not lacking in traction, the TRAIL crampon’s forefoot-aligned tempered steel tangs coupled with the steel traction rails provide the grip needed when trails become packed down or uneven. With a sleek design aesthetic and a reasonable price tag the Helium-TRAIL has become a favorite of winter trailblazers worldwide!

Our Verdict

If you’re looking for a pair of snowshoes that won’t weigh you down on winter trail adventures, the Atlas Helium-TRAIL should be at the top of your list. These composite snowshoes live up to their “Helium” name by delivering ultralight performance without sacrificing traction or comfort.

Helium-TRAIL is a pleasure to shoulder compared to bulkier traditional models. The unique deck design incorporates louvres that shed snow to keep weight low while providing decent floating ability. Despite their stripped-down minimalism, the steel crampon and traction rails bite into packed trails and uneven terrain with authority.

The Wrapp Stretch binding securely hugs your boot with a simple two-buckle system that’s easy to get in and out of. The 12-degree heel lift takes the strain off your calves on steeper pitches, and the pivoting design allows a natural, unrestricted stride.

While not intended for extreme mountain use, the Atlas Helium-TRAIL is an excellent option for day hikers and snowshoers who value lightweight trail performance. If crossing deep powder isn’t your focus, these nimble snowshoes could be the perfect winter hiking companion without being a literal drag.

– Reviewed by Ultralight Outdoor Gear

Features

• Wrapp™ Stretch Binding: The diamond pattern optimizes stretch direction making this binding conforms to your boot, resulting in great fit and control. With tool-less heel strap and roller buckle this is quick fitting binding that is easy to use. 
• Helium Deck: The deck of the all-new Helium series provides the foundation to make these the lightest composite snowshoes available. The unique louver design sheds snow to keep them lightweight, while also creating traction. 
• Pivot Limiter: Pivot Limiter allows a more comfortable steadily stride. 
• TRAIL Crampon: Very effective crampon that drives the user forward with each step. 
• Traction Rails: Traction Rails run 2/3 length of snowshoe providing stability and control in all conditions, while still allowing tail to flex for natural gate. 
• 12° Heel Lift: Provides relief when climbing those long steep hills, and easily stores for flats and descents.
• Rockered Footbed 
• Binding: Wrapp™ Trail

Specifications

23″ (unisex)

• Weight per pair: 1442g
• Load*: 80-160 lbs / 36-73 kg

26″ (unisex)

• Weight per pair: 1565g
• Load*: 150-220 lbs / 68-100 kg

30″ (unisex)

• Weight per pair: 1690g
• Load*: 200-270+ lbs / 91-122 kg

*Load = User’s bodyweight + gear