The struggle is real in terms of kids’ snowshoeing equipment. You need to find a snowshoe equipment provider who builds durable and easy-to-use kids’ snowshoes, and in addition to durability and kid-friendly features, you also need to consider:
- Comfort
- Performance
- Safety.
The right snowshoes should incorporate all these features. But since you’re purchasing kids snowshoes for the first time, where should you start? Let’s read on to discover tips and features you need to keep in mind in order to choose the right snowshoes for your kid.
Kids Snowshoe Sizing
The process of finding the right snowshoes for your kid starts with understanding the perfect size. The first important thing you need to know is your kid’s weight. If you understand the weight, you’ll easily determine the appropriate length and width.
That is why the weight of your child is a vital factor in this process. Let’s discover some recommended weight limits that you can depend on to determine the right size for your kid’s snowshoes.
- Between 20 and 22-inch snowshoes for children with more than 90 lbs
- Between 17 and 19-inch snowshoes for children from 50 to 90 lbs
- Between 15 and 16-inch snowshoes for kids with over 50 lbs
It’s recommended to consider snowshoes for women when it comes to children with more than 90 lbs. Women’s snowshoes tend to be shorter and narrower than their men’s and unisex counterparts. Also, since they utilise fewer materials, they are more lightweight than unisex or men’s.
In terms of kid’s snowshoe bindings, they’re generally one size fits all. That means they are adaptable to growth spurts with time.
Kids’ Snowshoes Based on Terrain
Another key feature you need to consider when picking the right snowshoes for kids is the terrain. You need to make sure your kid feels comfortable the first time they are trying their snowshoeing adventure. The type of terrain determines the snowshoes you’ll choose for your kid.
You need to pick the right snowshoes for a terrain that your kid can easily venture on. Snowshoeing enthusiasts have three major types of terrain that help them pick the right snowshoes, which include the following:
- Mountain terrain: Mountain terrain is perfect for those between intermediate and advanced groups. Based on the elevation your family is used to living in, entry-level kids can sometimes manage mountains during their first time. But they’ll require much of their parents’ or guardians’ efforts. For this type of terrain, you’ll need to choose backcountry kid’s snowshoes.
- Rolling terrain: Rolling terrain is ideal for beginners and intermediates. Also, it can be ideal for experienced snowshoers because it can include small mountains and hills. It all depends on the environment and elevation, whether entry-level snowshoeing or children can handle the terrain. Recreational snowshoes are ideal for rolling terrain.
- Trails: Trails are a perfect choice for snowshoers between the levels of beginner or intermediate. This terrain is usually easy to travel and navigate through as it features well-packed snow. Many snowshoe brands design and create snowshoes that can accommodate snowshoers of all types, especially families or first-timers who enjoy this winter activity pretty regularly. If you want to purchase the perfect snowshoe for your kid designed specifically for trails, go for running snowshoes.
Tips for Picking the Right Kid’s Snowshoes
A lot of excellent snowshoe brands are available out there, making it challenging to know where to start. All of them offer snowshoes for kids of different weights as well as for women. Some of the expert-proven tips that you can utilise include the following:
- Bindings matter: Find snowshoes with bindings that can tighten enough to remain on. Ensure they do not cut off your child’s feet circulation. Some snowshoe brands provide easy-pull binding, and it’s a wise investment for those who do not want to spend an extended period on their knees trying to tighten their kid’s snowshoes. Many snowshoes accommodate any regular shoe or boot but work perfectly with winter boots that are flexible and lightweight.
- The type of frame or material also matters: The right snowshoes for your child need to be easy to put on, adjust, and take off. Materials used determine these three features. The aluminium frame is lightweight and features easy-pull bindings. Moulded frames are also perfect for kids’ snowshoes. They offer a flexible, solid and durable frame. Moulded frames are usually lighter than their aluminium counterparts, meaning your children will find them easy to use on the trail.
Snowshoeing is a perfect winter activity that parents, guardians, and kids of all ages can enjoy. This winter activity can teach your kids about snow safety and also is perfect for preparing them for other sports they might be interested in as they grow. Just ensure you get them the right snowshoes.