Tubbs Flex VRT Review

Flex VRT Updates

Since our testing period with these snowshoes, Tubbs updated the Dynamic Fit binding system, simplifying the Boa system with less cord. Compare the two snowshoes below; the new version is pictured first.

Take note that since we haven't tested the latest version yet, the following review continues to reflect the previous model tested.

Performance Comparison

In some ways, the Flex VRT is an amalgamation of many different snowshoes in our review. In other ways, it takes the best of the best from the other products. However, the end result is nothing remarkable. It is solidly built, functions well, and hits a versatile design combination.

For all-around snowshoeing, the traction and comfortable binding of the Tubbs is great. For more technical use, the traction is more than adequate but the binding isn't as secure as we'd like.

Credit: Jediah Porter

Flotation

The fully rigid decking of the Flex VRT is supportive and works well on firm-to-moderately soft snow. In normal "trail" and dense snow conditions, the Flex will have all the float you need. The rigid, molded, and stiffened deck makes all of the surface area effective in floating on softer snow.

Traction

In head-to-head testing, the generous crampons combined with hardened steel longitudinal rails provide excellent traction for the slipperiest of packed snow and ice. Whether the snow is slippery from wind packing action or from melt-freeze metamorphosis, the sharp steel spikes of the Flex will bite in.

The crampon and traction rails of the Tubbs combine to provide traction that rivals the best in our review.

Credit: Jediah Porter

Stride Ergonomics

The Flex VRT is moderately sized, with a hinged binding/deck junction and a rigid platform. This configuration, combined with the excellent traction noted before, makes the Flex one of the best snowshoes in our test for the steepest and most technical terrain. The integrated heel lift allows the user to snowshoe straight uphill, with the crampons and flotation fully engaged, but the user's foot more level. For all these reasons, we recommend the Flex for rugged, firm-snow travel. In all other conditions, there is likely a better choice.

Ease of Use

Every tester loved the Boa system for wearing. The primary disadvantage of these bindings, in terms of ease of use, is that they are bulkier to pack. Beyond this, we found the operation of this binding to be straightforward.

Bindings

In our experience, including rugged terrain in Colorado's Rocky Mountain National Park, the bindings of the Flex hold on tenaciously enough. Some other online reviews indicate that the Boa system can ice up. Our test team has experience with the Boa system on snowshoes, ski boots, and snowboard boots and has had no problems in the wettest and coldest of conditions. In short, we trust the bindings of the Flex but understand hesitations around this mechanical device.

The hybrid "Boa" and heel strap configuration of the Flex is well suited to spread the force of the binding pressure over the softest of winter footwear. That being said, these snowshoes are designed for use in rough terrain where stiffer footwear will likely be worn. In that case, even the tightest cinching bindings do not cause undue pressure. If you use stiff mountaineering boots for snowshoeing, stretchy rubber straps are secure without compromising comfort.

The most salient characteristic of the BOA style binding of the Tubbs Flex is its comfort. Whether on stiff mountaineering boots, or soft winter trail runners, the binding spreads the force evenly.

Credit: Jediah Porter

Value

At the suggested price, the high-performance attributes of the Flex are worth it. If you primarily tromp in mellower terrain, you can spend a lot less for a snowshoe that will do the job.

Conclusion

We're not entirely sure that Tubbs intended it, but this snowshoe has a rare set of features that makes them mountaineering specialists. Other products are slightly better in that technical terrain, but they cost more. If you like to get high and wild, the Tubbs Flex VRT is more than worth a look.

The Flex VRT is suitable for normal trail use with occasional off trail and technical use.

Credit: Jediah Porter