Start ‘em Young! Snowshoes for Kids Two-to-Teens

Now is the time! Acquaint your youngsters—in my case, grandkids—to the fun and wonderment of snowshoeing on beds of freshly fallen flakes. We’ve compared snowshoes for youth of all ages so you can equip your kids with the proper size and snowshoe style that’s best for them.

In this guide, we cover:

Tips For Choosing The Right Snowshoe For Kids
Pre-Teen & Teen Snowshoes (Age 10+)
Snowshoes For Older Children (6-10)
Snowshoes For Toddlers & Young Children (Under 6)

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Tips for Choosing The Right Snowshoe For Kids

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Just like adult snowshoes, there a variety of youth styles. Some snowshoe styles are more playful and intended for just recreational fun and games, while others are for heavy-duty backcountry trekking. Here are a few tips to keep in mind when choosing your snowshoe:

Review the Weight Recommendations For Each Snowshoe

The weight recommendations provided by the manufacturer will help you find the correct snowshoe size, which is measured by length. Weight includes your child’s weight AND the weight of any gear they may be carrying. If your child is on the higher end of the weight recommendation, consider choosing the next size up to improve floating in deep snow. Also, note that the same size snowshoe may have different weight recommendations across brands. These differences are due to the width and surface area of the snowshoe.

Test The Snowshoe Binding

Finding the right binding is essential. Bindings that are easy to use and provide a secure fit will ensure a fun outing. Many brands include toddler and youth snowshoe bindings, which are ratchet bindings (like ski boots) or a webbed binding.

Determine the Intended Use

The traction system underneath the snowshoe (crampons, side rails) provides grip when ascending and descending hills. For older youth interested in the backcountry, snowshoes with multiple aluminum or steel crampons, such as Tubbs Flex Hke, MSR Shift or Komperdell Explorer Junior, will be more suitable for steep mountainous terrain.

To Rotate Or Not

A fixed toe cord keeps the binding close to the snowshoe when walking, which provides increased stability and is especially helpful for young children. A rotating toe cord gives the binding more movement. This movement allows more ankle maneuverability and helps to shed snow as you’re walking, which is useful for deep snow or backcountry conditions.

Boots Vs. Athletic Shoes

Depending on your child’s foot size and outside temperature, a good set of athletic shoes can be used instead of boots on recreational treks. However, for backcountry treks or deep snow, a sturdy child’s hiking boot will provide more stability and support.

Read More:
Tips & Advice For Choosing Your Snowshoes & Your First Outing With Toddlers & Kids
10 Tips For Making Snowshoeing Fun With Kids

 

Note: There are many retail choices for buying the right snowshoes. This article covers many brands but doesn’t claim as all-inclusive. Instead, we choose a range of options that may suit what you want for a novice or highly experienced teen snowshoer.

Snowshoes in the guide are listed by snowshoe size (starting from largest to smallest). Weight recommendations for each snowshoe correspond to the appropriate age.

Pre-Teen & Teen Snowshoes (Age 10+)
Snowshoes For Older Children (6-10)
Snowshoes For Toddlers & Young Children (Under 6)

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Pre-Teen & Teen Snowshoes 

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Depending on size and weight, growing pre-teens and teens may fit into adult-sized snowshoes or youth snowshoes. Here, we list some snowshoes for those in-betweeners.

1. Redfeather Y-2 22″, Flat & Rolling Terrain and recommended weight up to 125 lbs (57 kg)

2. Redfeather Dasher Snowflake 22″, Flat & Rolling Terrain and recommended weight up to 125 lbs (57 kg)

3. Tubbs Flex Hke 22″, Steep Mountainous Terrain and recommended weight 80-150 lbs (36-68 kg)

4. Tubbs Glacier 21″, Flat & Rolling Terrain and recommended weight 80-150 lbs (36-68 kg)

5. Redfeather Vapor 21″, Racing and recommended weight up to 190 lbs (86 kg)

6. GV Performance & Fantaisie 21″, Flat & Rolling Terrain and recommended weight up to 90 lbs (40 kg)

7. Atlas Echo & Spark 20″, Flat & Rolling Terrain and recommended weight up to 120 lbs (54 kg)

8. Faber North Kid 20″ or 18″, Flat & Rolling Terrain and recommended weight up to 125 (57kg) and 90 lbs (40 kg)

9. MSR Shift 19″, Steep, Mountainous Terrain and recommended weight up to 125 lbs (57 kg)

10. TSL 302 Freeze 19″, Flat & Rolling Terrain and recommended weight up to 110 lbs (50 kg)

11. Komperdell Explorer Junior 19″, Steep, Mountainous Terrain and recommended weight up to 135 lbs (61 kg)

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1. Redfeather Y-2 22″: Flat & Rolling Terrain

The unique V-tail Redfeather Y-2 snowshoe is 22″ and best for weights up to 125 lbs (57 kg).

Features of the Y2:

• Live-Action Hinge (fixed toe cord) provides added speed and mobility as it lifts the tail of the snowshoe with each step
• Toe and heel aluminum powdered crampons to shed snow and ice and prevent iceballs
• SV2 webbed binding, which is secure and adjusts quickly with one pull
• Aluminum frame for durability and V-tail design for a shorter stride and added maneuverability
• Rip-Stop vinyl decking which is puncture resistant and stays soft in below-freezing temperatures
• Weighs 2.95 lbs (47 oz)

Shop The Redfeather Y-2

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2. Redfeather Dasher Snowflake 22″: Flat & Rolling Terrain

Similarly, the Dasher V-Tail Snowflake from Redfeather is also available in 22″, up to 125 pounds (57 kg).

Features of the Dasher:

• Live-Action Hinge (fixed toe cord) provides added speed and mobility as it lifts the tail of the snowshoe with each step
• Toe and heel aluminum powdered crampons to shed snow and ice and prevent iceballs
• Summit webbed binding for stand-up on and off
• Aluminum frame for durability and V-tail design for a shorter stride and added maneuverability
• Rip-Stop vinyl decking which is puncture resistant and stays soft in below-freezing temperatures

Shop The Redfeather Dasher 

For additional adult snowshoes and accessories offered by Redfeather, check out the Snowshoe Mag Redfeather Gear Guide.

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3. Tubbs Flex Hke 22″: Steep Mountainous Terrain

A step up for teens not quite ready for an adult ‘shoe, consider Tubbs Flex Hke. The Flex Hke is a “modern snowshoe tech for kids” and available in 22″ for 80-150 pounds (36-68 kg).

Features of the Flex Hke:

• Rotating toe cord for snow shedding (tail of snowshoe drops with each step)
• Steel toe-crampon and 3D curved traction side rails for traction in more challenging terrain, allowing flexibility to plow through untracked trails in steep and icy conditions
• Heel lift provides for additional support to the heel and calf when climbing steep terrain
• QuickLock2 easy to adjust ratchet binding, which push-locks over the top while snugging the boot with the standard belt-like pull
• Plastic frame and torsion decking, which provides traction and improved comfort on uneven terrain
• Weighs 2.6 pounds (41.6 oz)

Shop The Tubbs Flex Hke

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4. Tubbs Glacier  21″: Flat & Rolling Terrain

The Tubbs Glacier comes in 21″ model and works for weights 80-150 lbs (36-68 kg). The Glacier is close to adult snowshoes in both look and performance.

Features of The Glacier:

• Fixed toe cord pivot system, which works well in groomed or packed snow conditions and keeps the foot close to the snowshoe.
• A recreational toe and heel carbon steel crampon provides traction for traversing hills in packed conditions
• QuickLock2 easy to adjust ratchet binding, which push-locks over the top while snugging the boot with the standard belt-like pull
• An aluminum frame adds to the durability of the ‘shoe
• Fit-step frame to reduce the impact on joints when snowshoeing and accommodate a narrower gait and stance
• Lightweight; 1 lb (16oz)

Keep In Mind:

• For small foot sizes, the heel strap may tend to slip off. Make sure to check that your child’s foot fits properly in the binding

Shop The Tubbs Glacier

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5. Redfeather Vapor 21″: Racing

For older children interested in stepping up to racing, consider the Vapor, a neon green speedster. The Vapor accommodates up to 190 lbs (86 kg). The V-Tail may just put an athlete one step up on the competition.

Features of the Vapor:

• Biothane Hinge (fixed) lifts the tail of the snowshoe with each step for added mobility and speed
• Toe and heel powder-coated aluminum crampons to shed ice and snow with additional heel strike for added stability
• Cross country vinyl binding made to fit running shoes and has four straps that lock the foot into place when running without pinching
• Aluminum frame for durability with v-tail for maneuverability
• Hypalon vinyl lightweight decking which is puncture resistant and stays soft in below-freezing temperatures
• Weighs 2.53 lbs (1.15 kg)

Keep In Mind:

• The cross country binding can be removed to use the Thunderbolt shoe mount, which will make the snowshoe lighter

Shop for the Redfeather Vapor

For additional adult snowshoes and accessories offered by Redfeather, check out the Snowshoe Mag Redfeather Gear Guide.

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6. GV Performance & Fantaisie 21″: Flat & Rolling Terrain

The GV Performance and GV Fantaisie models are modern in either blue, white, or pink for weights up to 90 lbs (41 kg). These models are recommended for packed trails and shallow off-trail snow.

Features of GV Performance & Fantaisie:

• Hi-Flex ultralight pivot bar (fixed toe cord) which keeps binding close to the snowshoe and keeps the snowshoe from digging into the snow
• Front and rear aluminum crampons for traction on flat and slightly inclined terrain
• Luxor ratchet bindings that are simple and easy to adjust
• Lightweight aluminum frame for durability
• Entech durable decking that can withstand temperatures down to -50 C (-58 F) and has less friction with the snow
• Weighs 2.31 lbs (1.05 kg)

Shop For The GV Performance & GV Fantaisie

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7. Atlas Echo & Spark 20″: Flat & Rolling Terrain

Recommended for youth ages 8-12, the Atlas Echo and Spark snowshoes offer adult snowshoe traction with an easy binding. Plus, the designs, along with a V-Frame, make the ‘shoes look the part.  Weight suggestions are up to 120 lbs (54 kg).

Features of the Echo & Spark:

• Fixed toe cord to keep the foot close to the snowshoe
• Tempered steel toe crampon and heel cleat to help with traction and stability when ascending, descending, traversing
• Grom easy-pull binding with a foam tongue and soft molded base for foot warmth, protection, and comfort
• Aluminum frame for durability with V-shape for a natural gait and straight tracking in deep snow
• Weighs 2 lbs 3 oz (36 oz)

Keep In Mind:

• Remember to pull up the tongue on the binding to avoid any scraping against the decking

Shop The Atlas Echo or Spark

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8. Faber North Kid 20″ or 18″: Flat & Rolling Terrain

Designed with the same quality as Faber adult ‘shoes, the North Kid 20″ snowshoe is designed for weights to 125 lbs (57 kg) and 18″ for up to 90 lbs (41 kg) on packed snow conditions.

Features of the North Kid:

• Live Pivot System (rotating toe cord) which allows for full ankle rotation and maneuverability
• Aluminum crampons with 4 or 10 teeth for traction on icy surfaces
• Trio LR 3 piece toe box with a ratchet strap for foot security
• Aluminum frame for durability with U shape to help reduce drag in the snow
• Copolymer WTD lightweight and durable decking
• Weighs 2.10 lbs (0.95 kg)

Shop for the Faber North Kid

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9. MSR Shift 19″: Steep, Mountainous Terrain

For adventurous preteens up to 125 lbs (57 kg), MSR SHIFT models reflect performance and feature engineering similar to the MSR adult snowshoes. Bindings are catered to fit between 1-7 men’s shoe sizes (32-41 EU).

Features of the MSR Shift:

• Rotating toe cord which helps to shed snow when walking
• Toe and steel side traction rails for excellent grip when ascending and descending
• Webbed binding (toe, in-step, and heel strap) for secure footing and easy adjustment
• Injection-molded decking for durability in a variety of conditions
• Weighs 2.5 lbs per pair (1.1 kg)

Shop For The MSR Shift

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10. TSL 302 Freeze 19″: Flat & Rolling Terrain

The TSL 302 FREEZE offers excellent value for a youth snowshoe and can accommodate up to 110 lbs (50 kg). Bindings can fit shoe sizes from 13 girls to 9 women.

Features of the 302 Freeze:

• Fixed toe cord which provides stability as it keeps the snowshoe close to the foot
• Six blunt steel point crampons, toe crampon, and side rails for grip on hills
• Velcro self-gripping straps with heel cup and adjustable toe box for a perfect fit
• Composite frame and decking with hourglass shape for a natural stride and 3D design for traction in icy, soft, or hard-packed snow
• Weighs 1.8 lbs (0.8 kg)

Shop For The TSL 302 Freeze

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11. Komperdell Explorer Junior 19″: Steep, Mountainous Terrain

The Explorer Junior by Komperdell is great for backcountry adventurers with weight recommendations up to 135 lbs (61 kg).

Features of the Komperdell Explorer Junior:

• Stainless steel toe and heel crampons for grip on uneven terrain
• A heel lift for stability when ascending steep terrain
• Pull binding with toe and heel strap
• Aluminum frame and durable and snow-repellent Hypalon decking
• U-shaped tailed for floatation in deep snow
• Weighs 2 lbs, 13.9 oz (1.3 kg)

Shop for the Komperdell Explorer Junior

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Snowshoes For Older Kids

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There are a wide variety of weight recommendations for snowshoes designed for older children. As noted in the tips, brands may have different recommendations of weights for the same size ‘shoe because of the length and surface area differences in design. The snowshoes for older children listed here are:

1. Tubbs Storm 19″, Flat & Rolling Terrain, 40-90 pounds (18-40 kg)

2. L.L Bean Kids Winter Walkers 19″, Flat & Rolling Terrain, Up To 110 lbs (50 kg)

3. Northern Lites Youth 19″, Flat & Rolling Terrain, Up to 80 Lbs (36 kg)

4. TSL 302 Rookie 19″, Flat Terrain, Up to 110 lbs (50 kg)

5. GV Kid Trail 18″, Flat & Rolling Terrain, Up to 70 lbs (32 kg)

6. Redfeather Elf 17″, Flat & Rolling Terrain, Up To 80 lbs (36 kg)

7. Louis Garneau Kids Felix II 717 17″, Flat & Rolling Terrain, Up to 80 lbs (36 kg)

8. Tubbs Flex Jr 17″, Flat Terrain, Up to 90 lbs (40 kg)

9. GV Youth 17″, Flat Terrain, Up to 65 lbs (29 kg)

10. Atlas Mini and Sprout 17″, Flat Terrain, Up to 80 lbs (36 kg)

11. MSR Tyker 17″, Flat Terrain, Up to 90 lbs (40 kg)

12. TSL Kiddo 17″, Flat Terrain, Up to 65 lbs (29 kg)

13. Yukon Charlie’s Sno-Bash 16″, Flat Terrain, Up to 100 lbs (45 kg)

14. Yukon Charlies Penguin 16″, Flat Terrain, Up to 100 lbs (45 kg)

15. GV Snowshoes Nyflex 16″, Flat Terrain, Up to 70 lbs (32 kg)

16. Louis Garneau Neokid III 16″, Flat Terrain, Up to 80 lbs (36 kg)

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1. Tubbs Storm 19″: Flat & Rolling Terrain

The Tubbs Storm model comes in a 19″ snowshoe, built to accommodate children 40-90 pounds (18-40 kg). The Storm model is very similar to the 21″ Glacier (above) and replicates the look of snowshoes parents wear… except built for a smaller stance and the graphics. The decking graphics strikes one as far more playful and endearing. Maybe that is a trend that will work its way into the adult sizes in snowshoe land.

Features Of Tubbs Storm:

• Fixed toe cord to keep the snowshoe close to the foot in packed conditions
• A recreational toe and heel crampon provide traction for traversing hills in packed conditions
• QuickLock™ system, which push-locks over the top while snugging the boot with the standard belt-like pull.
• An aluminum, tapered frame adds to the durability of the ‘shoe while accommodating a smaller stance
• Composite decking
• Weighs 2 lbs (0.9 kg)

Keep In Mind:

• Children on the low end of the weight recommendations with smaller feet may have trouble with a secure fit in the binding. If the binding is too big, consider trying a size smaller snowshoe (17″).

Shop The Tubbs Storm

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2. L.L Bean Kids Winter Walkers 19″ or 16″: Flat & Rolling Terrain

The L.L Bean Kids’ Winter Walkers are available in a 16″ or 19″ snowshoe, accommodating 25-60 lbs and 50-110 pounds, respectively. Both offerings come in four separate color designs: Polar Camo, Berry Fireworks, Mountain Snowfall, and Wavy Blue Horizon.

Features of Kids’ Winter Walkers:

• Rachet binding with wing support to keep the foot secure
• Aluminum toe and heel crampons for traversing hills
• An aluminum frame adds to the durability of the ‘shoe

Keep In Mind:

• Plastic on the binding can become stiff in below-freezing temperatures

Shop The Kid’s Winter Walkers

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3. Northern Lites Youth 19″: Flat & Rolling Terrain

Northern Lites, boasting the lightest snowshoes, offer their Youth Blazin’ Blue, Gorilla Green, or Rocket Red models for kids up to 80 lbs (36 kg).

Features of the Northern Lites Youth:

• Biothane pivot strap (rotating) to shed snow and ice as you walk with no tearing as you run, walk, skip, or jump your way through the snow
• Carbon steel toe and heel crampon for traction on ascending and descending
• Thick Coolthane bindings which provide stability and are humanly impossible to tear
• Aluminum frame for durability with v-tail for deep snow trekking
• Military-grade polyurethane coated nylon mesh decking for optimal abrasion resistance
•  2 lbs per pair (0.9 kg)

Shop For Northern Lites Youth

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4. TSL 302 Rookie 19″: Flat Terrain

The TSL 302 Rookie is similar to the 302 Freeze, but for snowshoe enthusiasts, a smaller shoe size of 10.5 girls to 6.5 women. The 302 Rookie can, however, accommodate up to 110 lbs (50 kg).

Features of the 302 Rookie:

• Fixed toe cord which provides stability as it keeps the snowshoe close to the foot
• Six blunt steel point crampons, toe crampon for traction
• Velcro memory ratchet step for a secure fit
• Composite frame and decking with hourglass shape for a natural stride and 3D design for traction in icy, soft, or hard-packed snow
• Weighs 1.54 lbs (0.7 kg)

Shop For The TSL Rookie

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5. GV Kid Trail 18″: Flat & Rolling Terrain

Similar to the Performance and Fantaisie models (above), the KID TRAIL models come decked with either a blue or orange decking with suggested weight up to 70 lbs (32 kg). Colorful, happy snow bears embellish the decking.

Features of GV Kid Trail:

• Hi-Flex ultralight pivot bar (fixed toe cord) which keeps binding close to the snowshoe and keeps the snowshoe from digging into the snow for easy learning
• Front and rear aluminum crampons for traction on flat and slightly inclined terrain
• Luxor ratchet bindings that are simple and easy to adjust
• Lightweight aluminum frame for durability
• Entech durable decking that can withstand temperatures down to -50 C (-58 F) and has less friction with the snow
• Weighs 2.25 lbs (1.02 kg)

Shop For The GV Kid Trail

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6. Redfeather Elf 17″: Flat & Rolling Terrain

Similar in performance to the Redfeather Y2, their smaller Elf model is an option for a starter snowshoe. It’s recommended for ages 5-9, with a weight of up to 80 lbs (36 kg). The Elf also has a “western round tail,” which perhaps gives it the same ability as a Grouse to get out of the brush.

Features of the Elf:

• Live-Action Hinge (fixed toe cord) provides added speed and mobility as it lifts the tail of the snowshoe with each step
• Toe and heel aluminum powder coated crampons for traction and stability that shed ice and snow
• Polyurethane rubber binding on the toe, in-step, and heel for quick adjustments and support
• Aluminum frame for durability
• Rip-Stop vinyl decking which is puncture resistant and stays soft in below-freezing temperatures
• Weighs 2.05 lbs (0.93 kg)

Shop The Redfeather Elf

For additional adult snowshoes and accessories offered by Redfeather, check out the Snowshoe Mag Redfeather Gear Guide.

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7. Louis Garneau Kids Felix II 717 17″: Flat & Rolling Terrain

Louis Garneau describes the Felix II 717 as “fun, colorful, and reliable.” This 17″ snowshoe is a useful option for day hiking with weights of 30-80 lbs (14-36 kg).

Features of the Louis Garneau:

• Reflex pivot for shock absorption, foot rotation, and efficient stride
• Toe and heel carbon steel crampons for excellent grip and floatation
• Ratchet binding system for simple and quick adjustments
• Light and sturdy aluminum anodized frame
• Lightec plastic frame and decking for speed, durability, and flexibility down to -40C/F
• Weighs 2.1 lbs (0.95 kg)

Shop The Louis Garneau Felix II 717

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8. Tubbs Flex Jr 17″: Flat Terrain

For the smaller 40-90 pound (18-40 kg) weight class, look for the 17″ Flex Jr snowshoes. Reviews for youngsters five to eight-year-olds had positive experiences with these.

Features of the Flex Jr:

• Rotating toe cord for snow shedding (tail of snowshoe drops with each step)
• Steel toe crampon and molded snow brakes for weighted traction
• 3D curved Traction Rails (side rails) for side-hill grip in hard or icy conditions.
• QuickLock™ system, which push-locks over the top while snugging the boot with the standard belt-like pull
• Molded nylon frame
• Torsion decking provides a large float area for traction maneuverability on uneven terrain and changing snow types .e. powder changing to packed snow)
• Weighs 2 lbs 6 oz (1.1 kg)

Keep In Mind:

• Test the binding to ensure it stays secure on your child’s foot. The binding may loosen with smaller shoe sizes (10-11).
• Make sure to wipe dry after each use to avoid rusting.

Shop The Tubbs Flex Jr.

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9. GV Youth 17″: Flat Terrain

GV YOUTH models hit a sweet spot for the young enthusiast. It’s an adult-like snowshoe yet small at 7 X 17 inches. Recommended weights are up to 65 lbs (29 kg). Choose with either a red theme and rails showing a white bear or blue rails displaying a modern mix of green, blue, and red ratchets against a white deck.

Features of the GV Youth:

• Hi-Flex ultralight pivot bar (fixed toe cord) which keeps binding close to the snowshoe and keeps the snowshoe from digging into the snow for easy learning
• Kids harness ratchet binding for firm footing and adjustment to two possible lengths
• Lightweight aluminum frame for durability
• Weighs 2.3 lbs (1.04 kg)

Shop For GV Youth

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10. Atlas Mini and Sprout 17″: Flat Terrain

The Atlas Mini for girls and Sprout for boys are available in a 17″ model and are recommended for young children 30-80 pounds. The Sprout comes in soft kelly green with a light-orange logo, and the Mini comes in a bright blue. Uniquely, these snowshoes leave a snowflake print after each step, a nice touch.

Features of the Mini/Sprout:

• Rotating toe cord for easy snow shedding and maneuverability
• Steel toe crampons and molded snowflake heel traction for drip without excess metal
• Grom easy-pull binding with a foam tongue and soft molded base for foot warmth, protection, and comfort
• Molded plastic decking and frame with v shape for stability during deep snow play
• Weighs 1 lb (0.45 kg)

Shop The Atlas Mini OR  Altas Sprout

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11. MSR Tyker 17″: Flat Terrain

The durable MSR TYKER™ snowshoes come in a kid-sized “version of our strong, reliable Denali™.” Voted as Amazon’s choice, they are best for weights up to 90 pounds and shoe sizes of 7.5 to 13.5 kids and 1 to 4.5 adult. The Tyker is available in either green or purple models. One reviewer used these successfully for her two-and-a-half-year daughter (below).

Features of the MSR Tyker:

• Powder-coated steel instep crampons and molded plastic traction rails for grip in all conditions
• Kid-friendly 3 strap webbed bindings designed for easy adjustment with small hands and gloves or mittens
• Durable injection-molded polypropylene deck for excellent flotation in deep snow
• Weighs 2.06 lbs (0.93 kg)

Keep In Mind:

• The bindings on these snowshoes are designed to accommodate smaller shoes. For children on the higher end of the recommended shoe size of adult 4.5, you may consider choosing a larger snowshoe size, such as the MSR Shift.

Shop For The MSR Tyker

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12. TSL Kiddo 17″: Flat Terrain

The TSL KIDOO is for younger children between 30 and 65 lbs (14-29 kg). Recommended shoe sizes are 10.5 girls to 4 boys. Bring your kiddo out with you on your next winter walk!

Features of the TSL Kidoo:

• Fixed toe cord to keep the snowshoe close to the foot when walking
• Front toe crampon and three steel crampon points offer for traction
• Rubber toe piece and heel strap for security and easy slip-on and off
• Composite decking with hourglass shape for a natural stride
• Weighs 1.34 lbs (0.06 kg)

Shop The TSL Kidoo

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13. Yukon Charlie’s Sno-Bash 16″: Flat Terrain 

Yukon Charlies designed a cool looking Youth Aluminum Series is available in 16″ and recommended for weights up to 100 lbs (45 kg)  with a boot size between kids 11- adult 6.

Features of Youth Aluminum Series:

• Energy flex axle (rotating) for comfort and support
• Coated steel toe crampons for grip and safety on packed snow
• Ripcord pull strap mesh binding will provide for an easy on and off, even with gloves on
• Aluminum frame for durability
• High-density polyethylene decking for durability and abrasion-resistance
• Weighs 2.2 pounds (35 oz)

Keep In Mind:

• For children with shoe sizes near the low end of the recommendations (11 kids), make sure the binding fits securely and does not slip off the foot when walking.

Shop The Youth Aluminum Series

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14. Yukon Charlies Penguin 16″: Flat Terrain

The Penguin is part Yukon Charlie’s Molded Snowshoe Series. This 16″ model is best for 25 to 100 lbs (11 to 45 kg) with a boot size between kids 11- adult 6.

Features of the Penguin:

• Energy flex axle (rotating) for comfort and support
• Coated steel toe crampons for grip and safety on packed snow
• Molded-in vertical traction rails (side rails) for additional grip and safety
• Ripcord easy pull strap mesh binding provides for an easy on and off, even with gloves on
• Lightweight polypropylene frame and decking
• Weighs 3.52 oz (0.10 kg)

Keep In Mind:

• Due to the lightweight and narrow construction, children reaching the higher end of weight recommendations (100 lbs, 45 kg) may sink in deep snow. A larger size snowshoe may be preferred for better weight distribution.

Shop Yukon Charlie’s Penguin

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15. GV Snowshoes Nyflex 16″: Flat Terrain

The NYFLEX youth 16″ model by GV is recommended for 40-70 lbs (18-32 kg). Colors available are red, blue, or a pink sweater or strict gray decking.

Features Of Nyflex:

• Energy saver rigid pivot bar (fixed) which eliminates any twisting of the foot and provides lateral rigidity
• Kids harness ratchet binding for firm footing and adjustment to two possible lengths
• Plastic frame
• Weighs 2 lbs (0.9 kg)

Shop For The GV Nyflex

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16. Louis Garneau Neokid III 16″: Flat Terrain

The Neokid III is recommended for weights 30-80 lbs (14-36 kg) and is a go-to snowshoe for trail walking with the family.

Features of the Neokid III:

• Reflex pivot for shock absorption, foot rotation, and efficient stride
• Toe steel crampons for excellent grip and floatation
• Ratchet binding system for simple and quick adjustments
• Light and resistant polymer decking and frame resistant down to -40 C/F
• Weighs 1.7 lbs (0.75 kg)

Shop For The Neokid III

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Snowshoes For Younger Children/Toddlers

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The snowshoes listed in this category are specifically for children under 50 lbs (23 kg). However, many of the snowshoes in the older children’s category above can accommodate toddlers. Just keep in mind, if your child is on the low end of the weight recommendations for any of the older children snowshoes, check the fit of your child’s foot in the binding of the ‘shoe to ensure a snug, secure fit.

1. Tubbs Snowglow 16″, Rolling & Flat Terrain and recommended weight under 50 lbs (23 kg)

2. Tubbs Snowflake 14″, Flat Terrain and recommended weight under 50 lbs (23 kg)

3. Redfeather Snowpaw, Flat Terrain

4. Redfeather Flashtrax, Flat Terrain

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1. Tubbs Snowglow 16″: Rolling & Flat Terrain

Tubbs hit the mark with their Snowglow, a snowshoe with LED lights circling the frame. The multi-colored lights blink, making for a great show at night. The Snowglow model is available in 16″, recommended for children 4-8 under 50 lbs (23 kg). The white molded deck with blue footholds set off this playful, colorful offering.

Features of the Snowglow:

• Rotating toe cord for snow shedding (tail of snowshoe drops with each step)
• Includes metal toe crampon and molded plastic traction side rails for traction in icy conditions
• QuickLock™ system, which push-locks over the top while snugging the boot with the standard belt-like pull.
• Composite frame and plastic decking provides for a lighter snowshoe
• Weighs 1 lb 9.8 oz (0.89 kg)

Keep In Mind:

• Age recommendations are 4-8, but children 3-6 may fair better with this snowshoe because of the smaller binding
• Light up frame makes for a fun outing, and batteries may need to be changed more frequently below-freezing temperatures

Shop Tubbs Snowglow

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2. Tubbs Snowflake 14″: Flat Terrain

A starter for the youngest of snowshoers (ages 3-6) the Tubbs Snowflake makes a new offering that doesn’t break the bank, yet can fit those small boots. The Snowflake model is available in 14″ and suitable for boys and girls under 50 lbs (23 kg).

The Snowflake also comes with decals, allowing one to stylize and personalize its look. My favorite on the decal card? “I (Heart) snow.”

Features of the Snowflake:

• Fixed toe cord to keep the snowshoe close to the foot in packed conditions
• Molded plastic toe claws and heel grip for stability, safety and great for play
• A webbed binding that is easy to use and  secured in 2 steps
• Plastic decking and frame for a lighter snowshoe
• Weighs 1lb, 5 oz (0.59 kg)

Keep In Mind:

• You may want to add a touch of glue to keep the stickers from falling off the decking.
• Children reaching the higher end of weight recommendations (50 lbs, 23 kg) may sink in deep snow. A larger size snowshoe, like the Snowglow, may be preferred for better weight distribution.

Shop The Tubbs Snowflake

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3. Redfeather Snowpaw: Flat Terrain

A favorite from Redfeather happens to fit the youngest snowshoer well: the Snowpaw. Every step of this dark blue and green, or light blue and pink, bear paw leaves a Yeti-type print in the snow, evidence of that elusive snowman’s existence. Recommended for youth age 3-7.

Features of the Snowpaw:

• No hinges or crampons for pure playing in the snow
• Polyurethane rubber binding on the toe, in-step, and heel for quick adjustments and support
• Molded polypropylene frame and decking

Keep In Mind:

• Very young children with a short gait may step on the snowshoe paw when walking. An alternative beginner snowshoe could be considered.
• For small foot sizes, the heel strap may tend to slip off. Make sure to check that your child’s foot fits appropriately in the binding

Shop For The Snowpaw

For additional adult snowshoes and accessories offered by Redfeather, check out the Snowshoe Mag Redfeather Gear Guide.

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4. Redfeather Flash Trax: Flat Terrain

Similar to the Snowpaw in design, the Redfeather Flash Trax offers colorful LED lights blinking with every step, a real kid (and adult) pleaser. The Flash Trax is recommended for children ages 3-7.

Features of the Flash Trax:

• No hinges or crampons for pure playing in the snow
• Polyurethane rubber binding on the toe, in-step, and heel for quick adjustments and support
• Molded polypropylene frame and decking

Keep In Mind:

• Light up frame makes for a fun outing, and batteries may need to be changed more frequently below-freezing temperatures

Shop For The Redfeather Flashtrax

For additional adult snowshoes and accessories offered by Redfeather, check out the Snowshoe Mag Redfeather Gear Guide.

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Go Out & Shoe!

While out snowshoeing in the middle of the night last weekend as the accumulation began to edge into the high single digits, the realization came once again. That realization is the good fortune to have the health and endurance to float along on snow with nature’s endorphins offering new views and insights along the way. That a whole new generation enters this healthy, hearty sport, one can thank the hard research and entrepreneurial effort to make snowshoeing fun, effortless as compared to my first experiences decades ago, and affordable. If buying snowshoes for the two-to-teen set, and realizing you don’t have a pair for yourself, well, you want to go along with your children or grandkids, don’t you?

Final note: What else did I learn on this journey exploring kids’ snowshoes? That, for the foreseeable future, I’m going to want to buy new kid’s snowshoes annually. The variety of features, the substantial improvements that seem to come regularly, plus the fun of hanging up the previous snowshoes to mark yet another year… that seems irresistible.

The snowshoe Tubbs’ Snowglow was purchased by us for $39.93 plus tax (the Scrooge of Christmas) on 12.04.16.
phillip@ultrasuperior.com

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Updated November 2019

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