Meet Andy Messner, aka Shredder Dad, a rider who’s spent a lifetime sending big lines and exploring even bigger terrain, earning his place as a respected voice and presence in the backcountry world.
1. For those who don’t already know you — tell us a bit about your riding background.
I started sledding when I was two years old, so I’ve been riding longer than most people reading this article have been alive. I grew up in 100 Mile House, back when winters were deep and dependable. Every day after homeschooling, I’d hop on my sled and ride until I ran out of fuel. That was my routine, and I loved every second of it.
My passion for sledding comes from my dad, Peter. Like many young riders, it’s that family connection—the shared love for the sport—that sparks the fire. My dad was all in. During the week, he’d fly his personal airplane over the local mountains, scouting new terrain and plotting routes for weekend rides. His group were true pioneers, exploring and carving out what’s now known as the Mica Mountain zone, long before mountain sleds were even a thing. There’s still a peak up there that’s unofficially named after him. That legacy, that spirit of adventure—it’s what drives me every time I ride.
2. You’ve built a reputation for going big. What’s going through your head before you send a big jump or line?
I’m old school—I try not to overthink things before sending it big. I ride best when I feel the jump and just go for it. I trust my instincts to guide me, making speed adjustments without even thinking. Some might call it entering the “flow state,” where everything just clicks and I let it roll.
Don’t get me wrong—this approach doesn’t always work out perfectly. I rarely come up short on a jump, but I’ve definitely gone way too big more than a few times. Still, that’s part of the thrill. I’d rather send it and learn than hesitate and miss the moment.
3. What’s your favourite setup or sled mod that helps you ride the way you do?
If you’d asked me these questions a few years ago, my answer would’ve been a lot shorter. But after spending more time dialling in my sleds, I think I’ve finally found the perfect setup for my riding style.
First thing I always add is a set of CFR Bars and a Knuck Riser. That’s my starting point—an essential step in any sled build. The feel, control, and durability they offer are unmatched, and they set the tone for everything else.
Next up: Raptor Shocks. For a guy my size and the way I ride, stock suspension just doesn’t cut it. I need something that can handle big hits and still give me precision and control. Stiff, adjustable suspension makes a massive difference—not just for absorbing impact, but for overall performance and confidence on the mountain.
The latest game-changer for me has been a set of Backwoods spindles. They’re taller than stock, and that extra length transforms the sled’s handling. It becomes way more playful, pops off whoops and jumps with ease, and just makes the whole ride more fun. It’s one of those upgrades you don’t realize you need until you try it—and then you can’t imagine riding without it.
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4. What’s the most memorable or sketchiest moment you’ve had mid-air — the one that still makes you smile or shake your head?
Oh man, this one’s tough—mostly because I seem to find myself in sketchy situations more often than I should. But one moment that stands out, and still makes me laugh, was early last season when Derek Carson, Curtis Gage, and I built the Dakine Gap. It was early in the season, and the sun was so low that the jump and landing were completely shaded. But of course, we decided to hit it anyway.
True to form, I went with my usual “don’t overthink it” approach and came in way too hot. Mid-flight, I hit peak altitude and suddenly lost sight of the landing—could only see the glowing valley floor below. For a split second, I genuinely thought I was about to land in Grizzly Lake. I reacted fast, pulled the chute, and took a slam from about 40 feet up going Mach 2. It was a full-on yard sale.
But I got up, sprinted back to my sled, and sent it again for redemption. That day’s etched in my memory—not just for the send, but for the laughs we had watching the footage afterward. It was classic: me going full throttle, launching to the moon, and ending in a textbook yard sale.
5. What piece of gear or upgrade would you recommend from REV— something you actually use and trust?
I’ve been relying on REV for my preseason sled service for years—it’s a non-negotiable part of my routine. When they’ve gone through my sled, I know I’m starting the season with confidence, everything dialed in and ready to perform. I also make it a point to stock up on oil and belts from REV every year. They carry KIMPEX products, which I’m a huge fan of for their reliability and performance.
Lately, I’ve been running Dayco and KIMPEX belts, and honestly, they’ve outperformed the OEM belts in both durability and consistency, which says a lot. REV’s team knows their stuff, and their product lineup reflects that. It’s not just about selling gear; it’s about making sure riders are equipped with parts they can trust when it really counts.
When we’re pushing deep into the backcountry through unpredictable and often dangerous terrain, having a reliable sled with dependable parts isn’t just important—it’s everything. There’s no room for second-guessing your setup out there. That’s why I trust REV to help keep my machine running strong and ready for whatever the mountains throw at us.
6. When you stop by REV, what keeps you coming back — the people, the vibe, or the help finding the right parts and gear?
Every time I walk through the doors at REV, I’m met with a genuine, family-like vibe that instantly makes me feel at home. Felix and Marie aren’t just running a shop—they live and breathe motorsports. It’s a family-run business, not some giant corporation focused solely on profits, and that’s what I love most about it. They’re good people, and it shows in everything they do.
They’ve been supporting local Sea to Sky riders for years, and their impact on the sport goes beyond what words can really capture. Whether it’s helping riders dial in their setups, sponsoring events, or just being a reliable hub for gear and advice, REV has become a cornerstone of the community. There’s always a friendly face, great conversation, and a shared passion that makes every visit something to look forward to.
That authentic connection and mutual love for the sport is what sets REV apart—and it’s exactly why I keep coming back.