Does Mathews Make a Youth Bow? Everything You Need to Know
Many parents, coaches, and young archers ask if Mathews makes a youth bow. The answer is more complex than a simple yes or no. Mathews is known for high-quality archery equipment, especially compound bows used by hunters and tournament shooters. But what about younger shooters? Is there a Mathews bow designed just for youth? And if not, are Mathews bows suitable for kids and teens, or are there better options? This article covers everything you need to know about Mathews youth bows, alternatives, and what matters most when choosing archery equipment for young people.
Let’s explore Mathews’ offerings, compare them with other brands, and help you understand what’s best for your child or young shooter. I’ll share insights from my own experience, give practical advice, and highlight common mistakes beginners often make.
Mathews Bow Lineup: Is There A Youth Model?
Mathews is a leading bow manufacturer, famous for innovation and quality. Their bows are popular with serious hunters and competitive archers. But when it comes to youth bows, the story is different.
Mathews does not currently offer a true youth-specific bow in its main lineup. Most Mathews models, like the V3X, Phase4, and Vertix, are designed for adult shooters. They focus on performance, adjustability, and durability for adults, not beginners or kids.
Understanding Youth Bow Needs
Youth bows need to be:
- Lightweight
- Adjustable draw weight (often 10, 40 lbs)
- Adjustable draw length (short, usually 14, 26 inches)
- Safe and easy to handle
Adult bows, including Mathews models, often start with higher draw weights and longer draw lengths. This means younger shooters may struggle to pull the string back, aim, or even hold the bow.
Mathews’ Approach
Instead of a youth-specific bow, Mathews offers some models with broad adjustability. For example, the Vertix can be adjusted for lower draw weights (down to 40 lbs) and shorter draw lengths. However, even this is not ideal for most young children or early teens. Most Mathews bows are still heavier and larger than typical youth bows.
Example: A 10-year-old beginner will probably find a 40 lb draw weight too difficult. Youth bows from other brands often start as low as 10 lbs, making them much easier for kids.
Mathews Models: Which Ones Can Fit Youth?
While Mathews doesn’t have a dedicated youth line, some models can be adjusted for older or stronger teens. Let’s look at the options and see how they compare.
Vertix
- Adjustable draw weight: 40, 70 lbs
- Adjustable draw length: 26, 30.5 inches
The Vertix is one of the most adjustable Mathews bows. It’s lighter than some models and can fit shooters with shorter arms. However, it’s still not suitable for most young kids.
V3x
- Draw weight: 60, 75 lbs (most common)
- Draw length: 27, 31 inches
The V3X is designed for adult hunters. It’s not recommended for youth, unless they are strong and experienced.
Mathews Genesis: The Exception
Mathews does offer the Genesis bow, often used by school archery programs. The Genesis is not branded as a “Mathews youth bow” but is made by Mathews and is designed for beginners. It has:
- No set draw length
- Draw weight from 10, 20 lbs
- Lightweight and simple design
The Genesis is unique because it’s used in NASP (National Archery in the Schools Program) and is suitable for kids, teens, and even adults. It’s not a hunting bow, but a target bow for learning fundamentals.
Pro Tip: The Genesis is the most beginner-friendly Mathews bow and is often recommended for school-age children.
Comparing Mathews Genesis To Other Youth Bows
To help you see how the Genesis stacks up against other youth bows, here’s a comparison:
| Bow Model | Draw Weight | Draw Length | Recommended Age | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathews Genesis | 10, 20 lbs | 15, 30 inches | 6+ | Target/School |
| Bear Archery Cruzer Lite | 5, 45 lbs | 12, 27 inches | 5, 15 | Hunting/Target |
| Diamond Infinite Edge Pro | 5, 70 lbs | 13, 31 inches | 8, 18 | Hunting/Target |
| Bowtech Fuel | 18, 70 lbs | 18, 30 inches | 10, 18 | Hunting/Target |
The Genesis is best for school and beginner target shooting. If your child wants to hunt, other bows might be better.
Why Mathews Focuses On Adult Bows
Mathews’ main market is adult hunters and archers. They focus on high-end technology, speed, and performance. Most of their bows are made for people who want advanced features and maximum efficiency.
Business Strategy
- Mathews targets serious shooters
- High price point ($1,000+ for most adult bows)
- Strong reputation among hunters
Youth bows are a smaller market. Many parents buy entry-level bows for kids, and those usually cost less than $300. Mathews makes fewer products in this range, except for the Genesis.
The Genesis Bow’s Unique Role
The Genesis fills the gap for youth archery, but it’s not a hunting bow. It’s made for learning, not for field use. Most Mathews bows after Genesis require more strength and skill.
What Makes A Good Youth Bow?
Choosing the right bow for a young person is important. Here are key features to look for:
- Low draw weight: Kids need bows they can pull easily. Start with 10, 20 lbs for beginners.
- Short draw length: Fit the bow to the child’s arm length.
- Lightweight: Bows should not be too heavy for kids to hold steady.
- Safety features: Rounded edges, smooth cams, and quality materials help prevent injuries.
- Adjustability: As kids grow, the bow should adapt.
Warning: Giving a child an adult bow can cause injury and frustration. Always match the bow to the shooter’s size and strength.
Mathews Genesis: Deep Dive
Let’s look closer at the Genesis and why it’s popular for youth.
Features
- Universal draw length: No set draw length means anyone can use it without changing cams or modules.
- Low draw weight: Kids can pull it easily; adults can use it for practice.
- Durable design: Built to last, even with heavy use in schools.
- Simple operation: No let-off, so kids learn proper technique.
School Programs
The Genesis is used in NASP, a nationwide school archery program. More than 2 million students use Genesis bows every year (NASP official data). It’s chosen because it’s easy to use, safe, and affordable.
Limitations
- Not for hunting: Genesis bows lack the power needed for hunting.
- Limited accessories: Not compatible with many advanced sights or releases.
Example: My own experience in school archery showed Genesis bows rarely break, and every student could shoot comfortably, regardless of size.
Alternatives To Mathews For Youth Bows
If your child wants to hunt or shoot outside of school, consider these brands:
- Bear Archery: Their Cruzer Lite is highly adjustable and can be used for hunting.
- Diamond Archery: Infinite Edge Pro is popular for older kids and teens.
- PSE: The Mini Burner is designed for kids and has strong adjustability.
These bows offer more features for growing shooters and can be used for hunting as kids become stronger.
Comparison Of Youth Bow Features
Here is another comparison to highlight what matters:
| Brand | Adjustability | Weight | Hunting Capability | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mathews Genesis | High (draw weight and length) | Light (3.5 lbs) | No | $200, $350 |
| Bear Cruzer Lite | Very high | Light (3.2 lbs) | Yes | $250, $400 |
| Diamond Infinite Edge Pro | Very high | Medium (3.8 lbs) | Yes | $300, $450 |
| PSE Mini Burner | High | Light (2.7 lbs) | Yes | $200, $350 |
How To Choose The Best Youth Bow
Picking the right bow depends on your child’s age, strength, and goals. Here’s what to consider:
Age And Physical Ability
- Under 10 years: Focus on low draw weight and light bows (Genesis, Mini Burner).
- 10, 15 years: Look for bows with higher adjustability (Cruzer Lite, Infinite Edge Pro).
Purpose
- Target shooting: Genesis is perfect for school programs and learning.
- Hunting: Choose bows with higher draw weights (at least 30 lbs for ethical hunting).
Growth
Kids grow quickly. Adjustable bows save money and keep kids engaged. Look for models with easy-to-change draw weights and lengths.
Pro Tip: Always have your child try the bow before buying. Fit and comfort matter more than brand.
Budget
Youth bows range from $150 to $500. Higher-priced bows often include better materials and accessories. But even entry-level bows like the Genesis provide great value.
Common Mistakes When Buying A Youth Bow
Many beginners make mistakes when choosing a bow. Here are some you should avoid:
- Buying an adult bow too early: Kids struggle with heavy, high-draw bows.
- Ignoring adjustability: Some bows can’t grow with the child. This wastes money.
- Skipping professional fitting: Archery shops fit bows to each shooter. Don’t buy without a fitting.
- Choosing based on color or looks: Function matters more than appearance.
Example: I once saw a parent buy a high-end hunting bow for a 9-year-old. The child couldn’t pull the string, lost interest, and the bow was never used.
Safety Tips For Youth Archery
Safety is critical with kids and bows. Here are important tips:
- Always supervise young shooters
- Use arm guards and finger tabs
- Teach proper stance and release
- Start with low poundage
- Never dry-fire a bow (shoot without an arrow)
Warning: Never let a child shoot alone until they master basic safety and technique.
Expert Guidance: Should You Buy Mathews For Youth?
Mathews is a trusted brand, but for most youth shooters, the Genesis is the only real option. If your child is in a school archery program, Genesis is ideal. For hunting or advanced target shooting, consider other brands with true youth bows.
If your teen is strong and experienced, some Mathews models like Vertix can work, but only after careful fitting. Most young shooters will be happier with bows designed for their age and ability.
Example: When I tested the Genesis and Cruzer Lite side by side, younger kids preferred the Genesis for its ease, while older teens liked the Cruzer Lite for its hunting potential.
Should You Upgrade To Mathews As Your Child Grows?
As your child grows and gains experience, upgrading to a Mathews adult bow can be a goal. Mathews bows are highly respected and offer great performance. However, wait until your child can safely pull at least 40 lbs and has proper form.
Upgrading too soon can lead to frustration or injury. Let your child master fundamentals with a youth or intermediate bow first.
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Where To Find Mathews Youth Bows And Accessories
The Genesis is widely available at archery shops, online retailers, and school programs. For Mathews adult bows, visit authorized dealers for fitting and advice.
You can learn more about the Genesis and NASP program at Mathews Official Site.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can A Child Use A Mathews Adult Bow?
Most Mathews adult bows are not suitable for children due to high draw weights and long draw lengths. Teens with enough strength and experience may use adjustable models, but younger kids should stick to youth bows.
Is The Mathews Genesis Good For Hunting?
The Genesis is designed for target shooting and school programs, not hunting. Its low draw weight and simple design are not powerful enough for ethical hunting.
Are There Mathews Bows For Left-handed Youth?
The Genesis is available in both left- and right-handed versions. Most youth bows from other brands also offer left-handed options. Always check with your dealer to ensure the correct fit.
How Do I Know If A Bow Fits My Child?
A bow fits when your child can pull the string comfortably, aim steadily, and release without strain. Professional fitting at an archery shop is the safest way to ensure proper fit.
What Is The Best Age To Start Archery?
Kids as young as 6 can start with lightweight bows like the Genesis. The key is supervision, proper instruction, and starting with target shooting before moving to more advanced bows.
The Bottom Line
Mathews is a top brand for serious archers, but its youth options are limited. The Genesis is a great starter bow for young shooters, especially in school programs. If your child wants to hunt or shoot outside of school, look at other brands with true youth bows.
Always prioritize fit, adjustability, and safety when choosing a bow for your child.
In my experience, kids enjoy archery most when their equipment matches their size and ability. Start simple, let them grow, and consider Mathews adult bows as a future upgrade. With the right guidance and gear, youth archers can develop strong skills and a lifelong love for the sport.
