Going out on a snowmobile in winter is a fun and exciting way to explore the outdoors. There’s nothing like the thrill of zooming through the secluded woods or an open field. However, having the right gear for your snowmobile adventure is critical to having a good and safe time.
Keeping warmth and safety in mind, here are some key pieces of gear that are absolutely necessary for your next snowmobile adventure.
Helmet
Having a good helmet is key to a good time. Not only are they critical in case of a dreaded accident, but they also can do quite a bit to keep you warm while zooming along. My helmet is one of my favorite pieces of FXR gear. When shopping for a new helmet make sure to look for the following features. Full Faced: Make sure your helmet covers your whole face and has a dual shield. This will keep you warm while also keeping the lens from fogging. If you want to splurge, look into a helmet with an electric shield to keep fogging to a minimum. A full faced helmet also means you can skip the expense of purchasing goggles.
Gloves
The right pair of snowmobile gloves will give you the combination of warmth and dexterity. While you could go out with your regular winter gloves you have to keep in mind that your hands will be in use the whole time you are riding and are subject to quite a bit of wind. With that in ming I suggest a pair of gloves that are made of leather, with some kind of waterproofing technology built in. This way you’ll get maximum grip and warmth from a glove that will still let you get lots of grip. If you can go for long sleeve gloves as they will definitely keep the snow off your arms.
Pants
The most important part of picking out a pair of pants for snowmobiling is that you make sure that you select a pair of bib pants. Because of the mechanics of your snowmobile and your riding posture you are more than likely going to be exposed to snow falling onto your back and you definitely don’t want that rolling or dripping into your pants. With bib pants you’ll also have the additional benefit of keeping your core warmer which means you can use less layers or a lighter jacket. After you select bid style pants use your budget to determine the rest of the features, but I recommend pants that are waterproofed and also ones that have an articulated knee.
Jacket
When choosing a jacket make sure to consider the fact that you will be in a sitting position while using it. That means you don’t want something that is excessively bulky or that bunches up. After that you definitely want something waterproof yet breathable. Also make sure that you are wearing the right kinds of layers under your jacket. You want to avoid anything cotton as it’s thicker than other materials and likely to retain moisture.
Hopefully this guide will help you pick out the right essential gear for your next snowmobile adventure.
Kenin, my husband and I have been planning a snowmobiling trip for the two of us next winter. It is something that we have always wanted to try and we can’t wait to go! It is important to be properly equipped. The tip about making sure to have a helmet is a good idea. We will have to remember to do that!
I grew up snowmobiling, but it’s been about a decade since I last went. My in-laws really want to have some kind of outdoor adventure this year when they come up for the holidays, though, so we might do it then. I agree that you need to find the right pair of gloves. It’s a lot more fun when you can feel your hands afterwards. Thanks for the post!
Great informative article. Thanks