Start ‘em Young! Snowshoes for Kids Two to Teens

Now is the time! Acquaint your youngsters with 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)

kids on snow with trees in background wearing Crescent Moon snowshoes

Snowshoeing is fun for all ages, including kids! Photo: Crescent Moon

Tips for Choosing The Right Snowshoe For Kids

Just like adult snowshoes, there are a variety of youth styles. Some snowshoe styles are more playful and intended for 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 Size Recommendations For Each Snowshoe

The weight and shoe size recommendations the manufacturer provides will help you find the correct snowshoe size, measured by length. Weight recommendations include 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. However, if you go up a size, ensure this doesn’t cause the child to change their walk significantly. If going up a size does impact the child’s ability to walk relatively normally, you may want to stick with the smaller size.

Also, note that the same size snowshoe may have different weight and/or shoe size recommendations across brands. These differences are due to the width and surface area of the snowshoe and different binding designs. A weight recommendation allows floatation (or the ability not to sink deeply) in the snow. The weight recommendation is much more flexible if snowshoeing in packed conditions.

Read More: Definitive Guide: How To Choose Snowshoes for Your Needs

Test The Snowshoe Binding

Finding the correct 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, ratchet bindings (like ski boots), or webbed bindings.

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 or MSR Shift, will be more suitable for steep mountainous terrain.

Read More: 10 Tips for Making Snowshoeing Fun With Kids

To Rotate Or Not

A fixed toe cord keeps the binding close to the snowshoe when walking, providing 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 helpful for deep snow or backcountry conditions.

Boots Vs. Athletic Shoes

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

Read More: Tips for Choosing Snowshoes for Toddlers and Kids

Note: There are many retail choices for buying the right snowshoes. This article covers many brands but doesn’t claim them 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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Four snowshoe considerations: [L-R] Tubbs Storm, MSR Tyker, Tubbs Snowglow, Tubbs Snowflake. Photo: Phillip Gary Smtih

Some of the links in this article may contain affiliate links. When you purchase using these links, part of the proceeds go to Snowshoe Mag. Additionally, as Amazon Associates, we earn from qualifying purchases. Please see our disclosure for more details.

Pre-Teen and Teen Snowshoes

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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1. Atlas Spark 20″: Flat & Rolling Terrain

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

product photo: Atlas Spark kids snowshoe purple/blue

Features of the 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

Read More: The Versatile Atlas Apex MTN Snowshoes: A Review

Shop the Spark at Backcountry


2. 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. In addition, 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)

Read More: MSR Gear Guide: Snowshoes and Snowshoe Accessories

Shop the Shift at REI

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

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

Redfeather Y2 snowshoes blue color

The updated design of the Y2 snowshoes. Photo: Redfeather

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 Y-2 at Redfeather


4. TSL Freeze 19″: Flat & Rolling Terrain

The TSL FREEZE offers excellent value for a youth snowshoe and can accommodate up to 110 lbs (50 kg). In addition, bindings can fit shoe sizes from 13 girls to 9 women.Features of the 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 the Freeze at Amazon

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5. Tubbs Flex Hke 22″: Steep Mountainous Terrain

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

Tubbs Flex Hke Teen Snowshoe

TUBBS FLEX HKE

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
  • A heel lift provides 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)

Read More: A Review of the Adaptable Flex RDG Snowshoe by Tubbs

Shop the Flex Hke at Amazon


6. Tubbs Glacier  21″: Flat & Rolling Terrain

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

Features of The Glacier:

  • The fixed toe cord pivot system works well in groomed or packed snow conditions and keeps the foot close to the snowshoe.
  • A recreational toe and heel carbon steel crampon provide 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 Glacier at Amazon

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7. 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 the North Kid at Faber


Snowshoes for Older Kids

A wide variety of snowshoes are designed for older children. As noted in the tips, brands may have different sizing recommendations between brands because of the differences in length, surface area, and binding design. The snowshoes for older children listed here are:

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

2. Crescent Moon Kids Foam Snowshoe, Flat and Rolling Terrain, Shoe sizes: 11Y, 13Y, 5SZ

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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1. Atlas Mini 17″: Flat Terrain

product photo: Atlas Mini Kids Snowshoe

The Atlas Mini is available in a 17″ model and is recommended for young children 30-80 pounds. The Mini is available in blue or coral. Uniquely, these snowshoes leave a snowflake print after each step, a nice touch.

Features of the Mini:

  • 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 Mini at Backcountry


2. Crescent Moon Kids Foam Snowshoe: Flat & Rolling Terrain

Crescent Moon’s kid’s foam snowshoes are made with the same unique materials as the Eva and Luna foam snowshoes. The kid’s version is lightweight, easy to use, and recyclable.  This snowshoe fits shoe sizes 11Y, 13Y, and 5sz and is a great first snowshoe for kids aged 5-7 or the next move up from a toddler’s snowshoe.

The kid’s foam snowshoe is recommended for flat and rolling terrain in packed snow conditions and is available in ocean blue, volt green, and candy pink.

products photos: green, pink, blue Crescent Moon Kids Foam Snowshoes

Features of the Kids Foam Snowshoe:

  • Rocker platform that bends and rolls with the foot
  • Durable rubber lugs underneath the ‘shoe and option ice cleats for hardpack and icy conditions
  • Secure hook and loop binding with one 12-inch wide strap and a replaceable back strap
  • Quiet and lightweight design
  • Decking includes extra cushion and insulation for comfort and warmth
  • Recyclable through athletic shoe recycling programs
  • Dimensions: 17.5″ x 7″

Shop the Kid Foam Snowshoe at REI

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3. MSR Tyker 17″: Flat Terrain

The durable MSR Tyker™ snowshoes resemble their adult cousin, MSR Evo Trail snowshoes. They are best for weights up to 90 pounds (40.8 kg) and shoe sizes of 7.5 to 13.5 kids and 1 to 4.5 adults.

The Tyker is available in either green or purple models.

product photo: MSR Tyker kid snowshoes green REI

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. However, 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.

Read More: 7 Beginner Snowshoes for Varied Terrain

Shop the Tyker at REI


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

product photo: LL Bean Kids Winter Walkers blue pine hidden bears

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 five different color designs.

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 Kids' Winter Walkers at L.L Bean

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5. 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 the Neokid III at Moosejaw


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, weighing 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.

Redfeather Snowshoes Elf youth snowshoes

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 Elf at Redfeather

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7. Tubbs Flex Jr 17″: Flat Terrain

product photo: Tubbs Flex Jr Snowshoes cyan

For the smaller 40-90 pound (18-40 kg) weight class, look for the 17″ Tubbs 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 (ex: 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 Flex Jr at REI


8. 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 and replicates the look of snowshoes parents wear… except built for a smaller stance.

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 Storm at Amazon

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9. 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. So 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
  • The front toe crampon and three steel crampon points offer traction
  • Rubber toe piece and heel strap for security and easy slip-on and off
  • Composite decking with an hourglass shape for a natural stride
  • Weighs 1.34 lbs (0.06 kg)

Shop the Kidoo at REI


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

Yukon Charlie’s has their fun-looking Sno-Bash snowshoe kit, which includes a pair of kids’ snowshoes, adjustable trekking poles, and a travel bag. The snowshoes are available in 16″ and are recommended for loads up to 100 lbs (45 kg)  with a boot size between kids 11- adults 6.

product photo Yukon Charlies Sno-Bash snowshoe, poles, travel bagFeatures 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 provides 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), ensure the binding fits securely and does not slip off the foot when walking.

Read More: Yukon Charlie’s Pro Series (930) Snowshoe Kit for the Backcountry

Shop the Sno-Bash Kit at REI

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11. Yukon Charlie’s Penguin 16″: Flat Terrain

The Penguin is part of Yukon Charlie’s Molded Snowshoe Series. Also available in a snowshoe kit, this 16″ model is best for 25 to 100 lbs (11 to 45 kg) with a boot size between kids 11- adults 6.

product photo: Yukon Charlie's penguin snowshoes,, poles, travel bag

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. Therefore, a larger size snowshoe may be preferred for better weight distribution.

Shop the Penguin Kit at Amazon


12. GV Snowshoes Nyflex Kid 16″: Flat Terrain

The Nyflex Kid 16″ model by GV is recommended for 40-70 lbs (18-32 kg), with a mix of colors available.

product photo GV Nyflex Kid

Features of the Nyflex Kid:

  • Energy saver rigid pivot bar, 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 the Nyflex Kid at GV

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Snowshoes For Younger Children/Toddlers

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


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.

Greg Fleming at REI displayed the TUBBS Snowglow glowing! Photo: Phillip Gary Smith

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 provide 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 in below-freezing temperatures

Shop the Snowglow at Amazon


2. Tubbs Snowflake 14″: Flat Terrain

A starter for the youngest 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 is 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.”

Photo: Phillip Gary Smith

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. Therefore, a larger snowshoe, like the Snowglow, may be preferred for better weight distribution.

Shop the Tubbs Snowflake at REI

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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. It is recommended for youth aged 3-7.

Cute Redfeather SNOWPAW

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 short gaits may step on the snowshoe paw when walking. In this case, you may consider an alternative beginner snowshoe.
  • 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 the Snowpaw at Amazon


4. Redfeather FlashTrax: Flat Terrain

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

Features of the FlashTrax:

  • 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 in below-freezing temperatures

Shop the FlashTrax at Amazon

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Go Out and Snowshoe!

While snowshoeing in the middle of the night last weekend as the accumulation began to edge into the high single digits, the realization came 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.

That a whole new generation enters this healthy, hearty sport, one can thank the complex 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 while exploring kids’ snowshoes on this journey? For the foreseeable future, I want to buy new kids’ 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 appears irresistible.

What is your favorite pair of snowshoes for kids? Have you used any of the snowshoes above? Please let us know in the comments below.

This article was first published on Dec 16, 2016. It was re-published with new information added by Susan Wowk on November 26, 2019, and then most recently updated on September 8, 2022

Read Next:  How To Plan a Snowshoe or Hiking Outing With Kids

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1 Comment

  • Great article! I recently bought 2 pairs of Louis Garneau Neokid snowshoes for a friend’s 2 grandkids, ages 6 & 7. They’re molded plastic with a fixed toe cord and steel toe crampons, and colors & graphics kids like. The kids had a blast playing in the yard and on a 1.5 mile hike at the NH Audubon Society, and the rest of us had a great time, too. And that’s what it’s all about!

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