The MSR Shift Youth snowshoes are great for kids between the ages 5 to 12 that want to explore snowy trails.
If I had to pick a winter activity that is unique, fun, and great for entire family, it would be snowshoeing. Snowshoeing has been underrated by families for a long time, but it is becoming more popular. This rising popularity might have something to do with the fact that snowshoeing is a simple and affordable winter activity, along with the blessed reality that snowshoes have come a long was since the traditional wooden snowshoes of the past. As a child I admired my father’s beautiful wooden Huron snowshoes, but they weren’t easy to use. After a few steps I typically found myself flying into a snow bank. While you can still get traditional wooden snowshoes, and some people prefer them, modern snowshoes are much more easy to use and much more kid friendly.
I purchased a pair of MSR Shift Youth snowshoes from MEC for my eldest son about a decade ago and they’re still in great shape. He recently graduated to a pair of Atlas Helium Trail Snowshoes and handed down his MSR Shift Youth snowshoes to his younger brother. Since I like MSR Shift Youth snowshoes “snow” much I opted to get another pair for my daughter this winter, since she had long ago outgrown her MSR Tyker Snowshoes (also available from Amazon.com).
Disclaimer: This post is sponsored by Mountain Equipment Company (MEC); however, all thoughts and opinion about this product are my own. This post also contains affiliate links for MEC and Amazon, as an associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
MSR Shift Youth Snowshoes Specifications, Pros and Cons
The MSR Shift Youth snowshoes are scaled down versions of the adult MSR snowshoes which means they are made to last. The polypropylene decks keep snow and ice from sticking to the surface and the tapered tips and tails help with easy walking. The metal crampons and traction bars on the bottom of the snowshoe ensure that there’s great traction on the snow while the fully adjustable three-point bindings are easy to put on even in cold weather. Below I’ll share MSR Shift Youth snowshoes specs, along with some pros and cons.
Specifications
- Weight (per pair): 2 lb 8 oz (1.15 Kg)
- Width: 7 in (18 cm)
- Length: 19 in (50 cm)
- Foot size: 1-7 Men’s (32-41 EU)
- Load: Up to 125 lb (57 Kg)
- Country of origin: Made in USA
- Colours: Tron Blue and Electro Pop Pink
- Price: $159.50 CAD from MEC (January 2024)
When comes to pros and cons, MSR Shift Youth snowshoes have a lot of good things going for them. They’re light weight, have good traction and are great for mixed terrain. The straps, while adjustable to various boot sizes and flexible even in cold weather, can be tricky to use especially for younger children. Even my eleven year old finds them finicky at times. It should also be noted that these snowshoes aren’t designed for deep powdery snow.
Pros:
- Light weight
- Good traction
- Easy to walk and run in
- Durable and rugged
- Three-strap bindings works even in cold weather
- Great for mixed terrain
- Good value
Cons:
- Younger kids will need help with the straps
- Not great in deep powdery snow
MSR Shift Youth Snowshoes Summary
The MSR Shift Youth snowshoes are durable and rugged snowshoes that are great for tackling mixed snowy terrain. These snowshoes are ideal for youth, ages 5 to 12, and can even fit smaller teens. Their light weight and ease of use make them a great all-rounder for beginner to more advanced youth snowshoers. Because these snowshoes are so durable and rugged they can easily be passed on to younger children or resold once your child grows out of them. Overall, these are my go-to recommendations for youth snowshoes.
