The Ultimate Guide to Snowmobiling: The Gear You Need for Every Ride

Snowmobiling is an exhilarating winter sport. And with more than 1200 miles of trails, the Brainerd Lakes Area in north central Minnesota was named by Fodor’s Travel as one of the best places in the country to ride.

This article kicks off the Travel Star's  three-part Snowmobile Series, where we’ll cover everything you need to gear up and ride properly. Whether you call it a snowmobile, snowmachine, motor sled, or just sled, having the right snowmobiling gear is essential for both safety and comfort.

So in this first installment, let’s explore the essential snowmobile clothing and accessories that every rider needs before hitting the trail.

What is Snowmobile Gear and Why is it Important?

Snowmobile gear is designed to keep riders warm, dry, and protected while navigating snowy, and sometimes icy, trails. Investing in clothing and gear that are designed to keep you comfortable in cold weather can make the difference between an enjoyable ride and a miserable one. The right combination of jackets, helmets, gloves, boots, and pants ensures safety and performance. 

If you’re renting a snowmobile, most outfitters allow you to rent this kind of gear, as well, but call ahead to be sure. 

Jackets: Snowmobile Jackets for Cold Weather

A snowmobile jacket is one of the most critical pieces of riding gear. It should be windproof, insulated, and breathable, with room for layering. Leading brands like Klim, Castle X, and FXR offer high-quality options for various riding styles. Look for features like zip ventilation, mobility, and grip-enhancing cuffs for added comfort.

Helmets: Snowmobile Helmets for Safety and Comfort

A helmet protects against harsh weather and accidents, and is required for riding. There are modular, full-face, and open-face designs, each catering to different preferences and sizes. CKX, Castle X, and FXR offer premium models with anti-fog shields and hand warmers built-in.

Gloves: Keeping Your Hands Warm and Protected

A good pair of riding gloves is a must-have. Options include heated gloves for extra warmth or insulated leather gloves for durability. Hand warmers and fleece-lined gloves are perfect for cold winter adventures.

Boots and Socks: Ultimate Protection from the Cold

The right snowmobile boots provide warmth, grip, and mobility on icy terrain. Paired with wool socks or heated socks, these will keep you comfortable on long rides. Waterproofing and insulation levels vary by brand, so we recommend reviewing your options for each.

Layering for Snowmobiling: Base Layers, Mid-Layers, and Outerwear

As with all winter sports, layering-up is critical to having an enjoyable ride. Having a base layer helps wick away moisture, while fleece and mid-layers add warmth. Your riding jacket and snowmobile bibs should be windproof and breathable for ultimate the best protection.

Essential Snowmobile Accessories: Goggles, Balaclavas, and More

Goggles enhance visibility and comfort in snowy conditions, while a balaclava provides additional face protection. Hand warmers, stylish hoodies, and casual apparel make your ride more enjoyable.

Heated Electric Gear: The Future of Snowmobile Apparel

Heated gear, such as battery-powered vests, pants, gloves and socks, keeps you warm in extreme temperatures. Electric gear is a game-changer for serious riders with many snowmobiling brands like SkiDoo, Polaris and Fly Racing offering various product options.

Types of Riding: Trail Riding, Backcountry Riding & Racing

There are three types of snowmobile riding to consider when thinking about the kind of gear you need:  Trail riding, back country riding and racing. 

For trail riding, which covers most novice snowmobilers and those renting sleds from outfitters for casual rides, prioritize comfort and versatility. Choose a trail jacket and pants with a combination of insulation and venting. Opt for a modular helmet with a heated shield for convenience. Select gloves and boots that offer warmth and dexterity without being too bulky.

For more experienced snowmobilers, backcountry riding requires gear that offers greater mobility and breathability. Choose a mountain jacket and pants with lightweight insulation and waterproof membranes. Opt for a full-face helmet with a wide field of vision. Select gloves and boots that provide excellent grip and support for navigating challenging terrain.

For expert riders, racing requires gear that prioritizes aerodynamics and protection. Choose a snocross jacket and pants with a streamlined fit and reinforced padding. Opt for a full-face helmet with a secure closure system. Select gloves and boots that offer maximum dexterity and control.

Key Takeaways

Choosing the right snowmobile gear is essential for a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable winter adventure.  Whether you’re an expert racer or renting your first sled, there are a few key takeaways to keep in mind when investing in gear:

• Prioritize safety by investing in a high-quality helmet that fits properly and offers essential features like a heated shield.

• Choose jackets and pants that provide adequate insulation, weather protection, and mobility for your riding style.

• Select gloves and boots that offer warmth, dexterity, and support for optimal comfort and control.

• Don't overlook essential accessories like goggles, base layers, and balaclavas for added protection and comfort.

• Consider your riding style when selecting gear to ensure you have the right equipment for your specific needs.

And if you want a great place to snowmobile, visit us at True North to hit the top-rated trails around Nisswa and Brainerd Lakes Area of north central Minnesota. Or checkout that full Fodor’s Travel article for the 11 best places to hit the trails all across the United States.

Also, don’t miss the next installment of our Snowmobile Series, where we take an in-depth look at snowmobile helmets, covering everything from safety ratings to the best models for different riding styles. Then, wrap up the series with our final article—a detailed comparison of Lynx snowmobiles and their top competitors, helping you choose the perfect ride for your next adventure.