Winter outdoor footwear - something new

One of the few things I dislike about the transition from autumn to winter is trading my favorite comfy trail shoes (check out the "Chase" model at www.kamik.com ) or lightweight hiking boots (Outback Pro from Aku: www.aku.it  ) for heavier, stiffer, winter mountaineering boots.

This season, I'm testing a new product concept called the Flight System from Kahtoola ( www.kahtoola.com ).

This is a two-part deal: First there's a pair of insulating neoprene booties with a flexible plastic sole and traction cleats that fit over your running shoes, trail shoes or lightweight hikers. That's all you need if the snow isn't deep.

But once the snow builds up, you can add the "Flight Deck" snowshoes which feature a click-in binding that mates with the cleats on the booties.

The advantages appear to be more comfort, lighter weight and simpler operation than conventional boot, creeper or crampon, and snowshoe combinations. Not having a bulky binding the snowshoes fit more easily in or on a pack.

I want to make it clear that I'm intrigued by a concept here, not endorsing a product I haven't tried. But it's certainly worth checking out. I'll report back after snow flies.