Brandon Shaw grew up on dirt bikes and ATVs, but it wasn’t until his teens that snowmobiling took hold—and eventually became the highlight of his winters. Today, after six years of backcountry riding and a steady rise within the sledding community, he has become a familiar face on the mountains around Sicamous and beyond. Shaw brings a thoughtful, safety-first approach to the sport, shaped by his own journey from a ditch-riding beginner to a confident backcountry rider who now supports guides, helps with avalanche training courses, and spends his seasons exploring deep-snow terrain with friends.
In our conversation, Shaw reflects on the evolution of his role as an ambassador, the challenges and opportunities facing the sledding world, and the moments that have shaped him as a rider. He also shares insights on gear, mentorship, safety habits, and the importance of encouraging newcomers. His perspective offers a grounded, community-minded look at what keeps the sport thriving.
How long have you been riding, and how did you first get into snowmobiling?
I have been riding in the backcountry for six years, I started riding at the age of 16. I grew up riding ATVs and dirt bikes but had only ridden a snowmobile a few times. My friends in school had snowmobiles and invited me out to ride, and they told me I should get my own—so I did. My first machine was a 1999 Ski-Doo MXZ 600 with a 121 track, and I just rode around my home in the ditches and fields. When I was 19, I bought my first mountain snowmobile to start riding in the backcountry.
At what point did you decide to become an ambassador, and what did that role mean to you?
At the beginning of the 2022 season, I decided that I wanted to start becoming an ambassador for the sport and some brands. The role has changed for me over the years. When I first started, I was just doing it to represent the gear I rode with and liked. Now, I want to be more of an ambassador of the sport—promoting safe riding practices and the importance of safety in the backcountry.
What are the key qualities a brand ambassador in the sledding world should bring?
I think every ambassador should bring a positive attitude and mindset. Be professional when speaking about the company you’re representing. Be kind, offer help when you can, and promote safe riding practices like having the proper gear and training, never riding alone, and keeping track of everyone in your group.
Describe your current sled setup: Make, model, modifications, and why you chose it.
Currently, I am running two sleds. The first is my 2023 Lynx Shredder RE Turbo 154. It is pretty stock other than a can, a clutch kit, a handlebar setup, and a front bumper. I chose this sled because it fits my riding style very well, and it’s a machine that takes abuse with its amazing rear skid.
The second sled is my 2024 Polaris 9R Khaos 155. This machine is bone stock at the moment as I am still getting used to it. I chose this sled because I like the handling of the Matryx chassis and how light and easy it is to ride. I chose the 9R over the other engine options because I like the snappy low-end power it offers. Another big deciding factor was the 7S display—more importantly, the buddy tracking feature. Having this when I help tail-gun guides or assist with avalanche training courses is a major asset.
In your view, what are the biggest challenges facing snowmobiling today?
I think there are multiple challenges, but the biggest one is cost. It’s a very expensive sport—sleds, gear, fuel, accommodations, everything. Access to riding areas is also getting harder to maintain as pressure from environmental groups grows, along with riders not following the rules or respecting the areas we’re lucky enough to use. Another big challenge is people not willing to teach newer riders or those below their skill level and just leaving them behind because they get stuck. That makes less experienced riders feel like they’re holding the group back, which hurts their confidence and is also a safety concern.
Conversely, what are the biggest opportunities or positive trends you see emerging?
The biggest positive trend I see is the promotion of avalanche training and safety in general—both for new and experienced riders. I also feel that social media has had a big influence in getting new riders out there and trying snowmobiling. I love seeing new riders enjoying the sport.
What’s one piece of gear you consider essential, and one you wish were better?
For me, it’s not one piece—it’s my avalanche beacon, shovel, probe, and airbag. These are essential. If I don’t have one of them, I don’t go out that day. As for gear I wish were better, nothing specific comes to mind, but I hope everything continues to improve.
What has been your most memorable ride of recent seasons?
This is tough—I’ve had so many great rides. If I had to choose one, it would be March 14, 2025. We were riding Owl’s Head in Sicamous, BC. It had been snowing for the past few days and we had a full reset. We started our morning off in the trees as it was socked in, and by lunchtime the sky opened up with blue skies and sunshine. The snow was amazing—about two feet of fresh from the previous days. I was riding with my friends Chris, Mike, and Wes. We rode all day, laughing at each other getting stuck. It was one of those days every sledder dreams about—an amazing time with your friends, shredding fresh snow and not thinking about anything else in the world.
How do you recover from heavy riding seasons, physically and mentally?
To recover, I try to slow down for the first few weeks and let my body heal. It’s difficult with my job, but I try. I stay active throughout the off season to stay in shape and be ready for next year. Mentally, I think back to the amazing days I had, the places I saw, and what I learned. I set goals for the next season and make plans to achieve them.
If you could design a “dream ride” or expedition, what would it look like?
A dream ride for me would be heading into an area that no one—or very few people—have ever ridden. Just pick a logging road and start heading up, making your own trail into an area to ride and explore.
What advice would you give someone who’s been riding for a few years and now wants to step into more challenging terrain or become an ambassador?
My advice is to take it slow and ease into it. Start small and get bigger as you get more comfortable. If possible, ride with someone who is already at or above the level you want to reach and is willing to teach you. Don’t get frustrated when you don’t get it—it takes time. Keep trying. Most importantly, be safe. Make sure avalanche conditions are safe for you and your crew, and make sure someone is watching you in case something goes wrong.
For becoming an ambassador, do it for a company you truly use and believe in. Treat the role with professionalism and respect.
What legacy do you hope to leave in the sledding world?
I hope people remember me for my positive attitude, my willingness to help and teach others, and for inspiring them to ride safely while having fun.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
I would like to thank SnoRiders for the opportunity to share some of my story and thoughts on the snowmobiling world. I hope everyone has an amazing season this year. Stay safe out there and have fun—go ride as much as you can, enjoy the snowy days with your friends, make memories, and enjoy our beautiful backcountry.
