Snowmobile suits are an essential part of snowmobile riders’ gear as they protect you from wind, water, and cold weather. They are one-piece clothing items that cover the riders from head to toe. Some snowmobile riders prefer wearing a mono suit over a separate jacket and pants because the gap between a jacket and snow pants can allow moisture, snow, and wind to penetrate. It reduces the heat-retention capability of the gear and makes the rider uncomfortable. Snowmobile suits provide more protection compared to two-piece suits and are preferred by most serious riders. If you are in a hurry here are a few of our favorite best snowmobile suits:
| Image | Title | Why We Like | Rating | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Polaris Men’s TECH54 Full-Zip Pro One-Piece Snowsuit | Best Overall Suit |  | Check Price on Amazon |
 | 509 Altitude Snowmobile Mono Suit | Best Women's Suit | | Check Price on Amazon |
 | Firstgear Thermo One-Piece Suit | Best Value |  | Check Price on Amazon |
 | Tobe Macer Mono Suit | Best Luxury Suit | | Check Price on Amazon |
 | Tobe Novo Mono Suit V3 | Best Luxury Women's Suit | | Check Price on Amazon |
How to Select the Best Snowmobile Suit?
The best snowmobile suit will be different from one rider to another. It will depend on the weather conditions that you ride in, the amount of insulation you require, and the money you are willing to spend. You may consider the following factors in order to select the best snowmobile suit for your sled adventures.
Weather Conditions
Riders must pay attention to the weather conditions in their area when shopping for a snowmobile suit. If the weather in your region is moderately cold, a suit with a modest amount of insulation will be adequate. You may also opt for a suit without insulation if you wear layers of insulated clothing underneath. However, for freezing weather, you will need a snowmobile suit that has insulation as well as fleece. They will provide more heat retention and keep you warm as compared to suits with less insulation. You may also want to pair the suit with warm inner layers for frigid weather.
Quality
Buyers should base their decision on the quality of snowmobile suits. The fabric used must be of top quality and ideal for cold weather. It should offer optimum breathability and come with a moisture-wicking liner to keep you dry. Additional vents must be provided for further improving breathability. The snowmobile suit must come with adequate padding throughout for facilitating a comfortable ride. Features such as hand and boot gaiters, knee pads, storage pockets, and removable suspenders are a bonus.
Weatherproofing
An important feature to look for in snowmobile suits is their weatherproofing. You will be facing frosty winds and snow in the wild. The snow will melt and turn into water, which can cause hypothermia if absorbed by the clothes. Therefore, the snowmobile suit must be windproof and waterproof. It should shield you against icy winds while stopping moisture from penetrating the clothes underneath. Some suits come with a laminated exterior while others are made of materials like polyester to keep wind and water out. Always choose a weatherproof snowmobile suit for your adventures.
Price
The best snowmobile suit for you will depend on the amount of money that you are willing to spend. They can cost anywhere from a couple of hundred to thousands of dollars. When deciding a budget for the suit, consider how often do you ride your snowmobile. If you rarely take your sled out of your garage, then consider an affordable snowmobile suit. Riders who tour across the country or frequently go snowmobiling can invest in a high-quality snowmobile suit.
Style
Riders must consider the style of the snowmobile suit. Some suits have a unisex design and can be worn by either gender. Others may have separate articles for men and women. A unisex snowmobile suit will be comfortable to wear and can be adjusted using a suspender system or other mechanism. However, it won’t fit as well as a suit that is designed according to the body shape of each gender. Unisex suits can be used by multiple members of a family and can be considered by occasional riders. Gender-specific suits will only fit a single person and are better for avid snowmobilers.
One-piece vs. Two-piece Snowmobile suits
Snowsuits come in one-piece and two-piece styles. It is really a matter of personal preference whether to go in one piece or two.
A one-piece snowmobile suit minimizes snow exposure. While it requires more time to put on, it covers most of the body. It is an excellent insulator because heat does not escape from the gaps because there are fewer openings for wind or temperature to exit through. One-piece snowmobile suits also keep snow from getting into the pants, which keeps you dry. This renders them beneficial to those who are prone to cold weather, but they may not be as valuable for those who are susceptible to rapid body temperature rise.
On the contrary, two-piece snowmobile suits allow flexibility and convenience. The most popular kind of two-piece snowmobile suit includes a jacket and pants. It is practical as it allows you to put on either piece as required. You can easily manage the top half if you get warm. They are distinct pieces, so if one is worn out, you can still use the other. Snow can get caught between the jacket and pants, which can soak the clothing underneath. However, since you don’t have to maneuver one bulky item of clothing onto your body, this snowsuit is the simplest to put on.
Insulation
A snowmobile suit’s ability to restrict airflow and retain all of your body heat over a regular winter jacket and pair of pants is one of its key advantages. This enhances its insulating properties through design and makes it a warmer option.
All snowsuits, except those specifically designed for spring skiing, provide some type of insulation. The insulation in the majority of snowmobile suits is made up of polyester and nylon blends.
Higher weights will keep you warmer because insulation is measured in grams. You might want to be under 50 prams if you have a tendency to perspire frequently or engage in strenuous activities. These are also ideal for use in the spring.
However, you should aim for 100 to 200 grams if you are susceptible to becoming cold easily or are exposed to really cold temperatures. Moreover, a highly insulated snowmobile suit is a smart choice if your activity doesn’t always keep you warm, such as when hunting.
Besides, when considering the insulation of snowmobile suits, you may want to evaluate its types and then decide which one would fit your riding style and snowmobiling needs. Insulation can be synthetic and down.
Synthetic insulation keeps you warm and is human-made. These fibers can be found in a wide range of brands, with subtle variations across products. In either case, synthetic insulation must keep you comfortably warm. It performs exceedingly well when wet, so it keeps you dry in case you get soaked. Additionally, this kind of insulation is frequently less expensive than down.
Down insulation, on the other hand, is made from goose and duck fibers. These tiny under-feathers are incredibly lightweight, compress amazingly, and offer insulation value that few synthetics are comparable with. The disadvantages of down insulation include its high cost and poor performance when wet.
Waterproofing
Staying dry when riding is essential for maintaining warmth and comfort. You are required to ensure that the snowmobile suit you select is completely waterproof and will stay so even in the worst weather conditions.
You can find out how much water a snowsuit can withstand by looking at its waterproof rating, which is expressed in millimeters. For instance, 5,000 millimeters is not extremely waterproof, however, anything over 10,000 millimeters stops a great deal of water. Yet, it also depends on factors like the power of any precipitation, so check the measurements beforehand.
Some manufacturers refer to snowsuits as being waterproof or water-resistant, while others use associated ratings. In short, higher numbers denote a fabric that is more waterproof.
Ventilation
Snowmobile suits are warmer garments that work well in chilly climates. However, wearing one of them on a milder winter day can cause you to become overheated quickly. That is why it is recommended to choose an option with sufficient ventilation.
Ventilation points are helpful for cooling the body down and removing extra moisture from within the snowsuit, particularly while riding. They come in the form of zips, vents, and flaps. The monosuit typically has vents in a few strategic locations, such as along the thighs, under the armpits, and the sides of the body.
Your body will stay cooler if your pits and legs have zippers that let heat out. The advantage of zippered vents is that they allow you to control the amount of airflow for individualized comfort. And it is a plus if brands can manage the back, leg, and underarm vents.
Additional Features
Additional features on snowmobile suits can make them quite special and provide interesting buying advantages. Some essential features like internal suspenders, hand and boot gaiters, and adjustable straps around the waist are available to make your snowy travel as efficient as possible.
A nice snowmobile suit will almost always have lots of pockets. You might want to bring along more than just the standard “wallet, phone, and keys” when you’re out in the wilderness. A typical pocket arrangement for a snowmobile suit includes a few large exterior pockets and one or two smaller interior pockets on the chest. Another useful component is a hood for your head, whether removable or otherwise. Since each model is a little different, you must select your preferred features in accordance with your needs.
Layering Clothes for Snowmobiling
Although the chilly winter air contributes to the thrill of snowmobiling, too much of it will drain you of your body’s heat. The best approach to combat the cold, which can make snowmobiling less enjoyable, is to dress in layers.
Layering, which you wear beneath your snowmobile suit, is as essential as the suit itself. The snowsuit will protect you from the wind, snow, and outside water, but how well your base and mid-layers function with it will determine how easily you maintain a steady body temperature.
Wearing layers of high quality (like Merino) will keep you cozy and wick away perspiration to prevent uncomfortable saturation within the suit. Additionally, it will aid in reducing that hard work funk you developed from a long day out and about.
This can be done by adhering to the “rule of three”. This rule exhibits three layers of clothing worn on top of one another. Each layer works closely with the others and has an indisputable role in the overall performance. Therefore, all three layers are necessary, regardless of the context of use, desired level of warmth, or weather conditions. This is the fundamental guideline.
Inner Layer of Clothing
The inner layer of clothing is the first layer, which is referred to as the base layer. It is frequently the one whose value is underestimated. However, its role is vital as this layer is the closest to your body. Their main purpose is to move the moisture out and provide comfort.
Your own body’s moisture is your most sneaky foe during the winter. If that humidity isn’t expelled, the moment your degree of physical activity is reduced, you’ll lose your comfort and start to feel cold.
The inner layering draws the sweat from your skin and directs it to the outer layer. The process is called wicking, and it results in comfort as it evaporates sweat faster.
Undergarments should be lengthy, light, quick drying, and fitted in order to serve their purpose. That is the reason most of the basic garments available are composed of stretch knits. The fibers can perform their task more effectively by transferring perspiration outside and toward the middle layer since they are molded to the structure of your body.
Best Fabric Option for Base Layer
It’s time to put aside your jeans, tee, and sweatshirt. They are made of cotton fibers that absorb moisture, and once the fibers are wet, they lose all of their thermal characteristics. Regardless of how many layers you put on, if you’re perspiring, it won’t matter as you will feel cold! As a result, you must absolutely avoid wearing cotton as your inner layer.
Consider fabrics with a high content of nylon, polyamide, polyester, or polypropylene when engaging in severe physical activity. These synthetic fibers are quick to dry, have good stretch, and are simple to clean. They also barely absorb any moisture. Antimicrobial and anti-odor treatments are crucial for them since they retain odors.
If you need more comfort and warmth, merino wool is a fantastic option because it is naturally antibacterial and gentle to the touch. To keep the fabric, dry to the touch, it has phenomenal water-repelling characteristics as well. So, it works both as an insulator and a water-repellant. The fibers capture over 33 percent of their weight in moisture during absorption. However, it takes a greater amount of time to dry once really wet. Additionally, merino wool-rich clothing is more expensive than clothing made with synthetic fibers.
The majority of base layer clothing on the market is made from mixed fibers. The different qualities of each fiber are thus tuned to create high-performance fabrics, which wick away moisture and control your body’s temperature.
Always keep in mind that a good inner layer will easily transmit your perspiration to the mid-layer. If not, that is more of a cozy mid-layer piece of clothing than an actual inner layer. There should never be any gaps in the inner layer, and it should always be tight.
Mid Layer Clothing
The mid-layer offers heat retention by enclosing warm air as insulation. It should also take moisture from the inner layer of clothing and continue transferring it to the outer layer. It should be chosen on your preferred level of warmth. This clothing layer shouldn’t be too loose or too fitted compared to the inner one in order to permit some mobility.
This is necessary so that air can move between them and assist in directing the sweat away from you. However, the effectiveness of the capillary action will decrease with increasing distance. For those who are unaware, the capillary action is the one that transports the perspiration to the upper layers and away from your skin.
The mid-layer clothing is crucial in wintertime since it enables you to adapt to temperature variations. You can put it in your backpack if you get too hot, and can be worn as a second layer if you get cold.
Best Fabric Choice for Mid-Layer
Once again, the cotton fabric should be avoided, though it is not entirely forbidden. However, other options might end up performing better as insulators. It is better to use it as summer clothing instead of winter sports.
The ideal mid-layer is a polar fleece jacket. Polar fleece is available in a variety of thicknesses that offer varied levels of thermal insulation. It is lightweight, soft, breathable, affordable, and comfortable. Furthermore, it manages moisture exceedingly well and allows a great deal of breathability. The additional plus is it is quick to dry, which saves you from getting frozen to death in the middle of nowhere.
Wool is a real wonder material. We have mentioned its features above. It has good heat and cold insulation. It is odor and moisture-resistant and overall the best choice, but it is quite pricey.
Outer Layer Clothing
Your outer layer, also known as a shell amongst riders, traps internal heat and blocks cold from the outside. It should be windproof (safeguarding against wind chill), breathable (releasing moisture), and waterproof (not just water resistant) to complement the work of other layers. It must be worn on top of other layers and allow mobility, but it must not be excessively loose-fitted to prevent heat loss.
Anything that efficiently prevents water and wind from penetrating and has strong mechanical components is what you should choose. But don’t be deceived; it must also be constructed from breathable material to allow moisture to escape. Having a jacket with several vents is also a fantastic idea for flexible internal climate control. Make sure that it is big enough to cover your other layers without being restrictive.
However, the existing market does not offer the ideal materials for this work, though only to a certain extent. This implies that you will need to balance breathability and wind/water resistance.
There are two different kinds of shells: soft and hard.
Soft shells are clothing layers that have a breathable top layer. This will permit better air and moisture circulation, but you’ll be more exposed to wind or water. Go for soft shells if you anticipate heavy perspiration.
Hard shells are the exact opposite of soft shells. Despite their lack of breathability, they make up for it with their resistance to wind and water. And you will require a lot of wind protection at 60 mph. It is best suited for snowmobiling, where the engine does the bulk of the work and keeps you from overheating.
10 Best Snowmobile Suits – 2023
Snowmobile suits are available from different brands and are designed for different weather conditions. Here are the ten best snowmobile suits available in the market today.
10. FXR Men’s Excursion Monosuit
Snowmobile riders who are looking for an affordable and reliable snowmobile suit will find the FXR Men’s Recruit Lite Monosuit to their liking. Its design is based on FXR’s proprietary weatherproof technology for maximum protection against winds and water. The laminated shell of the suit has a brushed mesh lining and is built to last. It comes with an adjustable hood giving the riders the freedom to put it up or down depending on the weather. The suit ensures optimum breathability and has underarm zippers for enhancing ventilation.
9. Castle X Freedom Mono Suit
The Freedom mono suit from Castle X is a great choice for riders searching for the best snowmobile suits. It has a durable polyester-nylon shell with 80g Thinsulate Water Resistant Insulation for keeping the body warm and dry. The shell features Ven-Tex 2.0 materials for protection from wind and water and a moisture-wicking lining for ensuring optimum breathability. It has a removable hood, internal hand and boot gaiters, and adjustable cuffs, suspenders, and waist. Its two-way main zipper is waterproof, and the fleece-lined collar can be adjusted as required. Storage space is ample with a key pocket on the left sleeve and two storage pockets and a cap pocket on the inside.
8. Klim Vailslide Women’s One-Piece Snowmobile Suit
The Klim One-Piece Snowmobile is an excellent choice for new riders as well as those looking for an economical offering. It has a 3-layer nylon construction with a 20,000 mm Sympatex membrane and is lightweight. The suit is completely waterproof and windproof and ensures excellent air circulation via two vent zips on the chest. It features reinforcement on knees, inner calf, and leg cuffs for protecting the rider. Integrated wrist and leg gaiters keep snow away from hands and ankles. There are five pockets provided allowing the rider to store his or her belongings. Klim manufactures its Railslide Mono Suit for men and women.
7. Firstgear Thermo One-Piece Suit
The Firstgear Thermo One-Piece Suit is a great option for snowmobile riders who ride in extreme weather conditions. Its outer shell is made of 210 denier Hypertex and is 100% waterproof along with 120-gram polyester insulation polyester insulation for ensuring excellent body heat retention. It comes with full storm flap closures on zippers, pockets and cuffs, and Cargo storage pockets on the legs. The suit also includes elasticized ankle closures and an adjustable waist. Users of the suit were very impressed with how warm and waterproof the suit is, and have used it many times with success in bad weather situations. It is also marketed as a motorcycle suit but is definitely comparable to other (more expensive) high performance suits out there.
6. KLIM Railslide One-Piece Winter Snowmobile Suit
The Railslide One-Piece Winter Snowmobile Suit from Klim is the ideal choice for the riders who want a snowmobile suit designed for mobility. It has a Gore-Tex Performance shell with the mid-body and seat area having three layers of Gore-Tex. It ensures excellent ventilation and keeps the wearer dry. The legs of the suit feature full-length zippers on the side for enhancing breathability further. A Gore-Tex hood shields the head of the wearer and can be removed if required. Comfort and fit-enhancing features on the Railslide Mono Suit include wrist and boot gaiters, adjustable wrist and waist straps, microfleece collars, and knee pads. It also has two hand pockets, one chest pocket, and an internal pocket for storage.
5. Polaris Men’s TECH54 Full-Zip Pro One-Piece Snowsuit
Polaris also sells apparel and gear in addition to snowmobiles. Its mono suit is a great option for riders who are looking for the best snowmobile suit. The outer shell of the suit is made of durable 600d polyester for shielding the rider from winds. It has a superior DWR coating for repelling water and keeping the rider dry. There are six vents provided that enable the rider to control the ventilation. The Polaris Tech54 Snowmobile Suit comes with integrated suspenders, wrist and leg gaiters. It also has adjustable cuffs and waist as well as multiple pockets for storing utility items.
4. Joe Rocket Men’s Snow Suit
Joe Rocket is another brand that provides gear and apparel for motorcycles along with snowmobiles. Its Joe Rocket Titan 2.0 OPS Men’s Snow Suit is a premium offering when it comes to the best snowmobile suits. The shell of the suit is coated with Reissa and is 100% waterproof and windproof. It is highly breathable, and there are four vents provided for ample air circulation. Its knee, seat, and bottom leg areas feature Cordura fabric for added durability and protection. The collar, waist, and wrists of the Joe Rocket suit are all adjustable. The suit has reflective details for high visibility and comes with a hood that can be removed if required.
3. 509 Allied Insulated Mono Suit
The Allied Insulated mono suit from 509 is one of the best snowmobile suits for riders who venture into the unknown. It is crafted with 5TECH fabric and Cordura 300d polyester. It has 100g of Thinsulate for excellent heat retention, and its shell is coated with water repellent DWR C8 material. The suit has a relaxed fitting which is suitable for long and fast-paced rides. Its internal suspenders keep the suit in place during fast and bumpy rides. It comes with underarm, inseam, and outseam vents for improved ventilation. Instep and lower legs of the suit are reinforced with 600d material for added protection. There are multiple pockets provided for storing belongings. Its hood is compatible with helmets and can be removed.
2. Tobe Novo Mono Suit V4
Tobe’s Novo Mono Suit V4 is one of the best snowmobile suits available in the market today for enthusiast riders. It has a two-layer Sympatex Condura shell designed for functionality and durability. Its 45,000mm Sympatex membrane provides 100% protection from water and wind to the rider while ensuring optimal breathability. The knees, inner calf, and leg cuff of the suit are reinforced with Armortex Kevlar for enhanced protection. The Novo V4 suit has an adjustable waist, a removable hood, wrist and leg gaiters, and an expandable collar. There are multiple pockets provided for storage. It is available in male and female variants.
1. Klim Ripsa One-Piece Snowmobile Suit
The Klim Ripsa One-Piece Snowmobile Suit is one of the best snowmobile suits characterized by its tough build quality. It is crafted from Gore-Tex Pro shell making it highly durable. The suit keeps the rider dry while ensuring optimum breathability. There are eight vents provided for improving air circulation. Its adjustable hood is also made from Gore-Tex and can be removed. The Ripsa Suit also features a unique beacon pocket with a beacon tether in addition to four other storage pockets. It comes with a boot retention loop, hand gaiters and zippered boot gaiters, adjustable waist straps and wrist closures, knee pads, and removable suspenders.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
Who makes the best snowmobile suit?
Amongst the 10 best snowmobile suits discussed in this blog post, we believe that 509 makes the best snowmobile suit. The brand has a big inventory of snowsuits and is a trusted brand in the industry. Their snowsuits are warm, rugged, and durable and will offer you a reliable performance season after season on the snow trail.
The company’s products combine some unusual materials and technology to deliver exceptional cold-weather performance. The majority of their snowsuits are made of 5TECH materials, which provide exceptional weatherproofing in a variety of circumstances. We particularly like the Allied Insulated mono suit from 509.
509 offers a variety of snowmobile suits that are versatile and functional and are designed with snowmobilers’ needs in mind. Moreover, you get the choice of various price points that match your budget as well.
What is the best winter outfit for a snowmobile rider to wear?
The best winter outfit for snowmobile riders is a snowmobile suit. It is particularly designed for comfort and warmth while riding on trails. They generally consist of one-piece snowsuits. Alternatively, you can use a two-piece snowsuit (jacket worn over a pair of pants or insulated bibs) with shoulder and chest protectors, knee pads, and a riding belt for back support.
A snowmobile suit will not only keep you warm but will also keep you floating if you fall into icy water. It functions as a flotation device because it retains air. Some suits also include float material sewed into the lining, while others feature unique air pockets that you can blow into a tube.
How do I choose a snowmobile suit?
Wondering how to choose the perfect snowmobile suit for your next adventure? These steps will help you make the best choice:
Step 1: Determine your particular activity.
For instance, will you be trail riding in an East Coast or Western state? In that case, you will require a lightly insulated snowmobile suit for warmth, as your overall activity level will not be as high as in areas with harsher climates.
Besides, consider if you’ll be riding strictly in the backcountry, boondocking in deep powdered snow, or in the trees. If so, you’ll need to don a more technical shell without insulation, as your overall activity will be a lot greater.
Step 2: Do your evaluation of snowmobile suit brands.
Learn the terms. The ideal place for this is retail websites that sell not one but multiple brands. Besides, you can also look for hangtags on clothing as the more hangtags are there on a garment, the more branded or quality materials went into making that piece.
Step 3: Choose appropriate comfort features.
A waterproof and breathable snowmobile suit is what you should always consider. Good waterproof material comes at a premium price, but it is worth every penny if you are an avid snowmobiler and experience a wide variety of weather conditions.
Step 4: Choose practicality over fashion.
Choosing a snowmobile suit shouldn’t be following a fashion statement. There are undoubtedly numerous bright hues and options to match your snow vehicle or significant other. Or you may simply want to look stylish and slick. All these won’t matter if you consistently freeze off a portion of your anatomy while on snowmobile tours because you prioritized style above functionality.
It is recommended to choose a bright and colorful snowmobile suit to enhance visibility at road crossings, after dark, and in snow dust.
How many layers should you wear snowmobiling?
Experienced snowmobile riders know that wearing layers is necessary while riding. Your clothing should have a minimum of three layers if you want to ensure optimal comfort, especially in cold weather situations. The layering technique follows the ‘rule of three’. It starts with a thin inner layer that is closest to the skin and wicks away sweat. Next is the thicker mid-layer that creates an air pocket, which keeps you warm. Lastly, an outer layer adds more insulation and blocks the wind.
This three-layer method has been shown to keep you warm and dry and also gives you the freedom to customize your comfort across a variety of riding circumstances. It is the only way to stay warm for snowmobiling.
What are the best layers to wear during snowmobiling?
Your base layer has to be synthetic or polyester, however, if your pocket allows, a nice merino wool inner layer can be even better. Choose a thin or midweight layer in this regard for most riding. A heavyweight base layer can be a smart option if the weather is extremely chilly. Put on a good mid-layer of insulation after your base layer. This mid-layer should be something like a polar fleece jacket, vest, or a puffy jacket made of synthetic material or down. The outer layer is usually a one-piece snowsuit, jacket, or pants that are generally made from a technical fabric with a windproof membrane.
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