The stiff straps are a little difficult to maneuver to get them started if you're bending over. I suggest getting them started and the ratchets going a notch or two before putting them over your boots. Speaking of boots, these adapt to fit almost any boots. The back strap is also really stiff.

They are nice and lightweight. The actual carry case is cheaper looking than the one pictured.

Essentially, this is a great starter pair. I know avid snowshoers are looking for something much more high-tech. But for me, this is just what I need for going a few times per year.

I've been wanting to try snowshoeing, but haven't wanted to invest a few hundred dollars in a set if I didn't enjoy it. These Explore Plus snow shoes are an excellent value the quality is good at a responsible price. They were easy to figure out how to get into even for a beginner. I'm looking forward to next winter, so I can use these more than the one time I got to enjoy them this year. Overall, if you're looking for a good set of snow shoes give these a try.

We waited to review this until after we used them for the season. Yes, both my husband and I used these as the weight went up to 200 pounds. The best thing about these shoes are the light-weight frame. VERY sturdy yet easy to carry and store. Getting them on is ok, we usually sit in the back of our hatch to do so. We used these on local trails that were mostly flat. The shoe felt secure but could have used a strap in the front. I think these would be great for kids just starting out (in the child size of course).

I am an avid hiker/backpacker who used to also snowboard a lot before I got married and started a family. For years, I had been wanting to own snowshoes because renting them added up cost over time. First, I got myself a MSR -- no question about it, it is one of THE top brands -- and wow, what a difference it made while walking around in deep and shallow snow! However, at over $300, it was a steep price my wife did not want to spend. We eventually bought a cheaper one for her (Yukon brand, in particular) that had been working very well for recreational snowshoeing.

Next, we were on the lookout for kid-sized ones. This particular set from Cascade Mountain looks very well-made. Our 6-year-old son's boots strap in easily and hold securely. This snowshoe is rated for up to 100 lbs.

I unfortunately cannot comment on how well these feel since I'm obviously too big to fit, but he was able to keep up with us on 20-30% snow covered inclines, declines, and off-camber traverses. Not one time did I see his boot sliding forward or backward in the binding, and most importantly, he said that they felt comfortable.

No poles or snow basket were included. Just the snow shoes.

For sizing, take into consideration the child's weight + winter clothing + food and water + other weight. The stated, total weight limit is 100 lbs, and if you significantly overpack, the shoes could sink more in snow than you would like.

Overall, we are quite happy with these snow shoes.

I got this for my daughter-in-law, and the following is her review:

I have used these several times, and for the most part, I like them. I am not crazy about the ratchet bindings. My husband has the next step up from these with the pull strap bindings, which are much easier to put on and take off, and I am jealous of that feature, but these work fine. It is a little tricky to get the bindings adjusted just right- if they are too tight, it hurts my foot, and if they are too loose, they fall off- it is a fine line. Maybe I need different boots, but once I get them adjusted to where they are comfortable, they work great. I wish I had gotten a smaller size since we usually snowshoe on trails that are slightly packed down. I was right on the border for the weight limit, so I went with the bigger ones just in case, but they are quite large, and I think the smaller size would have worked just fine. If you are on the edge for the weight and plan on mostly using trails that are somewhat packed down, then I would suggest going with the smaller size. I have the 25" and wear size 9 1/2 ladies, and these fit my boots just fine. These keep me up in deep snow, and the claws are excellent for going up and down inclines. I love that they come with a carrying bag which seems well made and is well sized. Overall they work great, and we have had a lot of fun being able to go on winter hikes.