Choosing Your Snowmobile Apparel

Snowmobiling is among the most rewarding and exciting rides you can ever engage in. However, this pastime will be enjoyable if everything works according to plan. An important part of this plan involves keeping warm, comfortable and protected.

Good snowmobile apparel can make a difference during your cold winter ride. If you lack the right gear for this situation, chances are you may start shaking uncontrollably or fight your gear to gain mobility. Therefore, for your own safety, it is important to invest in proper gear which includes jackets, helmets, pants and bibs.

Jackets

This is an essential part of your apparel you need. As a rider, you will definitely like to keep your torso comfortable and warm.  The jacket does not only keep you dry and warm but it protects your body from any outside elements as well.

 The jacket you select can either make your ride interesting or strenuous.  Buying the right jacket for you can be an uphill task because of the overwhelming choices available. Here are some guidelines to help you make a wise buying decision.

The type rider you are and the weather type to ride in

For starters, you need to know which rider type you are and what kind of weather you would like to ride in. For a casual rider who only rides on nice days, a simple, lower priced jacket can do the trick.

However, for a more aggressive rider who can go out in spite of the weather condition, a more advanced jacket with many features will be suitable.  It is worth noting that jackets with more advanced features usually cost a bit more than those with a few features.  The upside of jackets with more features is that they have greater breath ability.

Size

You need to know whether the jacket will fit you. This can be tricky to guess. Ideally, this would mean trying it on before the purchase. However, when buying online, it may not be possible to try the outfit on. In that case, you will need to look into the following:

Is the size chart available? If so, know that a large percentage of sizing charts are usually averages. Therefore, they work about 80 percent of the time.

Be keen when taking the measurements. If you have more flesh on you or have a huge bust, take it into account.

Most jackets can fit a wide array of body types though they may not work for everyone.

Jacket wearer

There are several types of jackets to choose from depending on the wearer. There are jackets of kids and others for adults. It is important to know the jacket’s wearer so you search and select exactly what will suit the wearer’s needs. The features and pricing may differ depending on whether the jacket is for a child, woman or man.

Snowmobile helmets

Another part of the snowmobile gear is the helmet. You need it to protect your face and head from any injury. There are numerous helmets out there and choosing what you want can be a bit challenging if you don’t know where to start from.

Types of snowmobile helmets

The helmets are available in two major styles: full-face and open-face (also referred to as snowcross). The open-face type lacks a face shield and requires its users to buy a pair of goggles that will protect their sight and enhance their vision while they ride.

On the other hand, full-face helmets are popularly used. They have a breath box and a dual lens shield. The breath box helps to direct your breath outside the helmet and thus reducing the possibility of shield fogging. Some may come with a sun visor fitted on the helmet’s outside or inside.

Like any other item, you need to consider certain factors before selecting a snowmobile helmet.

Type of riding

Typically, to select the right helmet for your needs, you should start by asking yourself the type of riding that you will do.

 High speed snowmobiling, riding in extremely cold weather, cross country riding and open air snow driving will require a full-face helmet to keep the cold and wind away from your body, head and neck.

On the other hand, you will require an open-face helmet if you are to engage in extreme snowmobile riding, off trail riding, snowcross competition, back country navigation and boondocking. The open-face helmet enhances the visibility required by these types of riding.

Size

The size of the helmet ranges from extra small (XS) to extra large (XL). Usually, helmet size is based on your skull’s circumference, measured an inch above your eyebrow line. You can measure the size starting from your eyebrow towards the widest section of the head. You can also get a friend to do it for you. The other alternative is to use a string or shoelace then transfer the resulting length to a ruler. You will need to check out whether your measurements match those of the helmet you wish to buy.

Pants and Bibs

The lower part of your body does more work during snowmobiling hence you need to always keep it dry, warm and comfortable. You will need a great pair of snowmobile bibs or pants to achieve this.

There’s a difference between pants and bibs; and your riding style will determine what you will choose. Snowmobile pants usually end at your waist. On the contrary, bibs have extra material that covers your back or front. Both pants and bibs may have suspenders for holding them in place.

Before buying snowmobile pants or bibs, ensue that they have features such as reflectivity, mobility and waterproof.