Redfeather Race Snowshoes - 25"

I am a photographer and often venture into the mountains during the winter. This is the first pair of snowshoes I've owned. They are limited to weight, and they are lightweight. They fit my winter boots well and provide a gliding motion over the snow with fast action and traction. They are built to last and perform very well. Overall I am pleased with these snowshoes as a gift this winter!

I used these shoes in an orienteering race and came in second! Not for powder, although I was off trail a couple of times...best for broken or groomed trails.

The boot strap bindings are a very soft and flexible rubber, which I am holding my breath to see how they stand up to use in -35 below zero temps and then warm indoor storage. My other pairs of snowshoes all have a more rigid, thick plastic binding that secure the boot to the snowshoe. The rest of the snowshoe is really well-made and has handled beautifully on packed trails with minimial snow. The design is definitely for trail use and going off trail renders them useless even for a user that is well under 175 pounds in full winter gear.

This is my second pair of Redfeather running snowshoes. The first pair lasted 10 years, with one replacement of the binding. I leave them attached to a pair of running shoes all winter and run with them every time conditions allow. It's a very vigorous workout.

The Race R700 is a great snowshoe! It's the minimum frame/deck size of 8"x25" for men's USSSA (United States Snowshoe Association) racing events. For the women, minimum size is 7"x21". In regards to Ely's review on 02/16/2011: that weight limit for the race version is incorrect - it is not 175lbs. I am not sure where you got this information. Redfeather.com clearly indicates 190lbs for the weight limit on the current model/year: http://www.redfeather.com/scripts/prodView.asp?idProduct=2 However, I am 6'2", weigh about 194lb, so I contacted Redfeather support on 02/25/2011 & gave them my height/weight details. They confirmed it's not an issue - see below: "For the race snowshoe I don't think you are pushing the weight limit. Then again it all depends on the type of snow you are running on. Packed/icy snow is going to take more abuse than just a packed snow or powder. The materials we use can handle quite a bit of stress. I would say you would be fine in a race shoe. Maybe a bit much for the vapor." Hope this helps, Rose Jones Customer Service 800-525-0081 Redfeather If you ever have a question on weight limit, give Redfeather a call!