Tubbs Eclipse Snowshoes Review

What Makes Tubbs Eclipse Snowshoes Stand Out?

The Tubbs Eclipse Snowshoes are designed for winter adventurers seeking a blend of comfort, traction, and ease of use. Built by Tubbs, a well-respected name in snowshoeing, the Eclipse features a Torsion Deck for enhanced stability and an intuitive Quickstrap binding. This combination promises a natural gait and secure fit, making it an appealing option for various winter activities.

I was looking for a reliable pair of snowshoes that wouldn’t break the bank, yet still offer excellent performance on varied terrain. My old pair felt clunky and lacked the necessary grip for steeper inclines. The advertised traction and comfortable binding of the Tubbs Eclipse Snowshoes seemed like a solution to my problem.

Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the robust construction of the decking. The materials felt durable and ready to withstand harsh winter conditions. The Quickstrap binding system also seemed well-designed, promising a secure and easily adjustable fit.

I considered the MSR Evo Trail and the Atlas Treeline snowshoes before settling on the Tubbs Eclipse Snowshoes. While the MSR offered excellent durability, they seemed overkill for my typical day hikes. The Atlas Treeline was appealing, but the Tubbs Eclipse Snowshoes’ Quickstrap binding seemed more user-friendly than the Atlas’s alternative system.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was eager to get the Tubbs Eclipse Snowshoes out on the trail and see if they lived up to their promises of comfort and performance.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Tubbs Eclipse Snowshoes to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Tubbs Eclipse Snowshoes on a moderate backcountry trail in the Wasatch Mountains of Utah, after a fresh snowfall. The trail presented a mix of packed snow, deep powder, and some icy patches. I wanted to see how they handled varying conditions.

The snowshoes performed admirably in the powder, providing good flotation and preventing me from sinking too deep. The injected traction rails also proved effective on the icy sections, offering reliable grip and preventing slips.

The Quickstrap binding system was incredibly easy to use. I was able to quickly adjust the straps, even with gloves on, to achieve a snug and secure fit. No time was wasted fiddling with overly complicated mechanisms.

Initially, I noticed a slight squeaking sound from the bindings. It wasn’t a major issue, but it was a bit distracting. After a few adjustments to the straps, the noise seemed to diminish, and I was able to focus on enjoying the hike.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use, the Tubbs Eclipse Snowshoes have proven to be remarkably durable. I’ve taken them on multiple day hikes, including some in fairly rocky terrain. There are no signs of significant wear and tear on the decking or the bindings.

The injected traction rails are holding up well. Even after several hikes on icy surfaces, they show minimal signs of dulling or damage. The frames themselves are scratch-resistant and have maintained their integrity.

Maintenance is straightforward. After each use, I simply brush off any accumulated snow or debris and store them in a dry place. The materials are also easy to clean, requiring only a damp cloth to wipe away any dirt or grime.

In comparison to my previous snowshoes, the Tubbs Eclipse Snowshoes offer a significantly more comfortable and efficient experience. The Torsion Deck truly does allow for a more natural gait, reducing fatigue and making longer hikes more enjoyable. The superior traction provides a level of confidence that my old snowshoes simply couldn’t match.

Breaking Down the Features of Tubbs Eclipse Snowshoes

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Tubbs is a well-established brand known for producing quality snowshoes for various levels of experience. Their reputation gives confidence in the design and build.
• Gender: Unisex – Suitable for both men and women, making them a versatile choice for anyone interested in snowshoeing. This simplifies purchasing decisions.
• Age Group: Adults – Designed specifically for adults, ensuring the size and features are appropriate. They may not be suitable for children.
• Boot Style: Snow Shoe – Specifically designed for use as snowshoes, providing optimal performance in snowy conditions. Not for general footwear purposes.
• Activity: Winter/Snow – Intended for winter activities and snow sports, ensuring suitability for the environment. Not suitable for other activities such as hiking on dry trails.
• Activity/Occasion: Snow Sports – Designed for various snow sports, enhancing winter experiences. Not specialized for one type of snow sport.

The specifications emphasize the snowshoes’ versatile design, making them a good option for a variety of winter conditions. The fact that they are unisex and intended for adults means they cater to a broad audience, which is a plus for families or groups.

Performance & Functionality

The Tubbs Eclipse Snowshoes perform exceptionally well in a variety of snow conditions. The Torsion Deck and Flex Tail work together to provide a comfortable and natural stride, while the injected traction rails and injected toe crampon offer excellent grip on icy and steep terrain.

The strengths of the Tubbs Eclipse Snowshoes lie in their ease of use, comfortable fit, and reliable traction. The Quickstrap binding system makes it quick and easy to get in and out of the snowshoes, even with gloves on. The main weakness is the potential for squeaking from the bindings, although this can usually be mitigated with minor adjustments.

The Tubbs Eclipse Snowshoes exceed expectations. They deliver on their promises of comfort, traction, and ease of use, making them a great value for the price.

Design & Ergonomics

The Tubbs Eclipse Snowshoes are constructed with durable materials that can withstand harsh winter conditions. The decking is made of lightweight and impact-resistant plastic, while the frame is crafted from strong and flexible aluminum. The weight is well-distributed, making them comfortable to wear for extended periods.

The Tubbs Eclipse Snowshoes are user-friendly and require minimal learning curve. The Quickstrap binding system is intuitive to use, and the fixed toe cord articulation system allows for a natural and efficient stride.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care and maintenance, the Tubbs Eclipse Snowshoes should last for many seasons of winter adventures. The materials are resistant to wear and tear, and the overall construction is robust.

Maintenance is simple. Clean with a damp cloth after use, and store in a dry place. The injected traction rails may require occasional sharpening, but this is a simple process that can be done with a file.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Tubbs Eclipse Snowshoes come with the Quickstrap binding system and the EZ-Stack design for easy storage. The EZ-Stack design allows you to clip multiple pairs of snowshoes together.

There are no readily available aftermarket accessories designed specifically for the Tubbs Eclipse Snowshoes. However, the bindings are compatible with most types of winter boots, allowing you to customize your footwear to your personal preferences.

Pros and Cons of Tubbs Eclipse Snowshoes