Snowshoe Review: Atlas Women’s Access (Elektra Access)

When I first received the Atlas Women’s Access (formerly Elektra Access) snowshoes for review, the first thought that went through my head was, “what a color.” The turquoise mixed with the black and the yellow bindings made these snowshoes stand out, especially compared to all the black and blue pairs I own. Though the colors have toned down over the years, the turquoise still stands out!

I couldn’t wait to try these snowshoes out, so I headed to the trails, again and again, and again. I actually cannot get enough of these snowshoes. That’s how awesome they are in comparison to others.

woman on snowshoes with bird in hand and trees in background

I cannot get enough of the Elektra (Women’s) Access snowshoes by Atlas! Photo: Lindsay MacNevin

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The Binding

The Wrapp Trail bindings immediately stuck out to me, and I was overjoyed to see that they were going to be super easy to get in and out of with my boots. One of my biggest pet peeves is snowshoe bindings that are hard to manage, especially if you have to take your mitts off to fasten or unfasten them.

In fact, my boots fit perfectly into the bindings, never getting stuck and never coming loose. I can undo and do them up in a matter of seconds, and not once have my knees or feet been sore from them.

Read More: Definitive Guide: How to Choose the Perfect Snowshoes for Your Needs

The Shape

The second thing I was really happy to see was the shape of these snowshoes. Designed specifically for women, they offer a narrower nose and tapered v-tail. These features allow for a natural gait rather than the wide gait one often uses on other snowshoe models, especially men’s.

Regarding the shape, one of my favourite things about these snowshoes is that they don’t kick up a lot of snow. I usually have to wear my snow pants out. Even if I know I am using a trail that isn’t deep, I need my snow pants because my snowshoes kick up so much snow on the back of my pants.

But, not these snowshoes! I can wear these snowshoes and use them without snow pants, which rocks when it’s warm out!

Atlas Access snowshoes review: person laying down in the snow with snowshoes in foreground

Look at the traction on these snowshoes while my fellow tester is relaxing in the snow. Photo: Lindsay MacNevin

The Traction

The heel lift is useful for steep ascents, the crampons are nice and sturdy, allowing me to stay upright in icy situations, and they are light enough to clip on my backpack when I don’t need them.

Every person needs a pair of the Atlas Women’s (Elektra ) Access snowshoes: stylish, light, and comfortable. It’s hard to imagine wearing anything but these now!

For additional insights on this snowshoe, check out the video below from another of our writers at Snowshoe Magazine, who shares her favorite features.

Do you agree with our review of Atlas’ Women’s Access snowshoes? Have you used or would you use these snowshoes? Please share your thoughts with us in the comments below.

This article was first published on March 31, 2016, and was most recently updated on March 6, 2021. 

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