I bought my Blizzard II 1036 snowshoes in January 2016 even though we didn't have any snow on the ground. We eventually got enough that I was able to use them, and all I can say is these are some GREAT snowshoes.
The bindings are super comfortable, super secure, and super easy to get into and out of. They fit all sizes of boots, from my Keen Koven Polar boots I use for treks in milder weather to my huge Sorel Conquests for subzero temps and deep snow. The control is excellent, with the snowshoes tracking well and not feeling loose on the feet. I'm very impressed with the BOA closure for its speed, adjustability, and compatibility with gloves.
Traction is excellent on loose and compacted powder, and the crampons punch through icy crust as well. On ascents, descents, and traverses, footing is very secure and extra care doesn't have to be given to foot placement. Flotation is about what I'd expect given that my weight is near the upper limit for the size - I sink, but not excessively so, thanks to the large surface area.
I found the snowshoes to be very rugged; thanks to a very light snowfall this year there were a lot of fallen branches, rocks, and roots to step on and trip over, yet the decking is intact and the frame is straight and remarkably scratch-free. The black, grey, and lime green colors are very attractive without being gaudy. I like the striped, graphic-free deck.
I like these Blizzard II snowshoes better than the Tubbs Mountaineer 36s I've used for the previous 3 or 4 winters, and have absolutely nothing bad to say about them. Louis Garneau has a very impressive product here, and I recommend the Blizzard II snowshoes with absolutely no reservations.
This review was written in the old system and had content requirements that are different than reviews written today.