Khumbu Climber

 

Page Type Gear Review
Object Title Khumbu Climber
Manufacturer Sherpa
Page By mconnell
Page Type Apr 15, 2002 / Apr 15, 2002
Object ID 214
Hits 4087
Vote
A great backcountry shoe for those whoe prefer a free rotation binding or or a fixed rotating binding. The new Lotus Comfort Binding is incredibly stable and comfortable, but also the easiest binding to use on the market. Step in, pull two straps, and you're ready to go. Great for anything from day hikes to backcountry mountain treks, from gentle to steep terrain.)

Recomended weight range: 160 to 220 pounds (depending on snow conditions)

Details:


The new Lotus Comfort binding is easy to enter, exit and use. Tightens and adjusts via two colorful straps. The rubberized body adds support without stiffness, and is padded for extra comfort. Fits women's size 4 to men's size 15.
The exclusive, patented APS (Adjustable Pivot System) combines the benefits of fixed and free rotation systems, letting the shoe shed snow in deep powder but keeping the tail from dragging in lighter snow. APS lets the user literally dial the binding's tension into the day's snow type or terrain with one simple adjustment.
The strong, 6063 T832 aluminum frame has an anodized finish that repels snow and lasts longer than painted finishes.
The 1050 denier nylon decking material won't crack or tear, and helps protect the frame. It is polyurethane coated on the bottom and PVC coated on the top to resist abrasion and extend the life of the snowshoe
The three-section, compartmentaiized, detailed lace construction on the rear of the shoe and rivet construction on the front of the shoe won't break or snap, even after continuous heavy use.
The shoe's fang-style claw is made of solution tempered, heat treated 7075 T6 aluminum. The most durable claw available, it features 1 1/4-inch teeth for superior traction and grip.

Reviews


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mconnell - Apr 15, 2002 8:43 am - Voted 4/5

Untitled Review
This shoes have good flotation and the climb well. Crampon configuration works well both ascending and descending. The bindings are really nice and simple to get in and out of while wearing large gloves. The swivel makes it much more comfortable and stable while traversing slopes.

On the down side, the lace is somewhat fragile. I broke it the first time I used them on a real trip by crossing some rocks. Fortunately, due to the way it is strung, it didn't affect the floatation much. In fact, I didn't notice it until I got home. Easily repairable with some butt splice connectors and a pair of pliers.

SherpaKroto - Oct 6, 2002 4:00 pm - Voted 5/5

Untitled Review
Excellent warranty. I had the same issue as mconnell. Lacing broke after 2+ years of heavy use. I got through year 3 with some creative field repair (zip ties), called Sherpa, and sent them in. I am waiting to get them back, but they are in the mail, reconditioned for no charge.



As far as performance - most shoes have good floatation. I love these because they hold on anything ( I use them primarily for winte rclimbs on the 4Ks in the Whites of NH). They are extremely comfortable for miles at a time (I've had them on for 10+ at a go with little discomfort). You need to remember to cinch the straps up every so often. Other than that - 5 stars

CharlesD - Dec 21, 2004 9:27 am - Voted 4/5

Untitled Review
I'll second (or third?) the comments here and make a suggestion: Great shoes, loads of floatation and the free pivot is very nice. My main complaint about these snowshoes is that the binding loosens over time. I have to stop every half hour and tighten things. That, in and of itself, is no big deal. It's easy enough to get in and out that I don't mind.



The real problem is that my toes tend to ride up over the aluminum toe bar thingy in the front when going down hill, especially through steep powder. This may be a factor of my boots, but it is insanely annoying and can become dangerous when it trips me up. My solution (the Sherpa people were no help, by the way), is a metal strap from the toe bar to the center of the webbing across my instep. I used a peice of a long hose clamp, cut and bent appropriately attached to a split ring (like a key ring). The result is a fairly stiff metal strap like you see on some strap-on crampons which keeps your toes in the bindings. Not a perfect solution, but it works for me so far.

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