Review – Crescent Moon Gold 9 Snowshoes

A couple of years ago, I spent the better part of two weeks road tripping around Iceland. And it was magical. The only problem was that my timing wasn’t exactly the best. I arrived in early November, which is early-to-mid winter for Icelanders, and so every couple of days, I was burdened by great amounts of snow. It made the driving damn near impossible in some areas, but in the end, I made it around safely, through a few horrible days spent moving at ten miles per hour through blizzards, of which I probably should have perished. Yet, I arrived home from a nine month stint abroad, with some of the most glorious photographs.

While winter in Iceland may not provide tourists with the best experience possible, as a photographer, it was a gold mine for me, per say. Because the light was soft and golden all day. It was as if the golden hours of the morning began and ended just as the sun began to set. Every mountain and lava field had a glow about it, unlike anything normal daylight hours can provide. My one regret? Not having snowshoes.​

Why, you might ask… Well, there were at least three or four good days spent cooped up in my rental car, or in some accommodation. I would have rather been out in it, hiking a glacier or some mountain, so I could get to better vantage points for even better photographs. You wouldn’t believe the sort of snow Icelanders must put up with, and to be honest, at the time, I’m not sure even I knew what to expect. I sort of winged this part of the trip, planning to stop here mere days prior.

A good pair of snowshoes can mean life or death, of course, but it can also change the entire feel of a wilderness trip during the winter months. Recently, I had the pleasure of teaming up with Crescent Moon, who specialize in quality, yet affordable snowshoes. They sent me a pair of their Gold 9s, which are durable and lightweight, and built to last. The frame is in a teardrop shape at about 9”x27” and is recommended for users up to 195 lbs. These shoes provide the necessary traction and balance needed to trek over snow covered trails up to deeper snow terrain.
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What I liked most about Crescent Moon’s take on the snowshoe is their modern design and flare, but even more important is the lightweight build providing a lesser burden on me as I trek through deep snow. I am not dragged down, nor am I easily put off balance. The bindings may be the most special bit about these shoes, as they fit all types of shoes and boots, while providing the user with optimum comfort, control and ease of use. The Gold 9s are for ranging trails, described as the best all-around snow shoe, perfect for beginners up to expert snowshoers. So, next time I venture into the snowy wilderness, hopefully in Iceland once again, then I will be ready for what the natural world has planned for me.

I tried finding any sort of criticism for these snowshoes, but I failed. That’s not to say they are absolutely perfect, but I think I would need another ten-plus hours of usage to really nail down on any sort of negative critique. They are high quality, and I’m a fan. My words, no one else's.

If you’re interested in learning more about Crescent Moon Snowshoes, click here.


(Product shot © Crescent Moon)

Article written & Iceland photos by © Brandon Scott / Eye & Pen

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