Your Guide to Snowmobiling Apparel
The snowmobiling industry generates over 100,000 full-time jobs in North America. However, not all of these jobs consist of Polaris dealers and snowmobile repair workers. You can bet that a significant portion of those jobs are created in the field of manufacturing and selling snowmobile gear. For every snowmobiling fanatic, there's a whole body's worth of cold, wind and ice-protective clothing.
Keep those people in business and protect yourself from hypothermia and frostbite by keeping stocked with the best winter gear, including:
- Face Masks
One of the most common (and painful) places snowmobile riders get frostbite and windburn is on their nose and cheeks. Avoid the painful purple blemish on very cold days by investing in a high-quality face mask that will fit under a helmet. Balaclava styles will also help keep your head and neck warm, too. - Eye and Head Protection
Eye protection can come in the form of goggles, or in the form of a visor on a full-faced helmet. This shielding can protect your eyes from tree limbs, rocks, snow, and ice kicked up on the trail. Goggles also make your ride more comfortable at high speeds by preventing watering. Additionally, helmets are also essential tree-branch protection and can save your life in a crash. Ask your local Polaris dealers about high-quality eye protection and helmets. - Gloves
Gloves are one of the most important pieces of cold protection since extremities like fingers are the first to be impacted by frostbite. Look for water and wind-resistant styles that still provide good dexterity so you can manage the snowmobile's controls. Look for gauntlet-style wrists for extra wind and snow protection, and look for glove liners for extra warmth. Ask your snowmobile dealer that offers apparel what different styles they recommend for your area and riding style. It's also a good idea to bring an extra pair of gloves in your pocket on long trips, in case one gets lost in the snow. - Base Layer
Your base layer consists of close-fitting pants and a long-sleeve shirt that wicks away moisture and regulates body temperature. It acts like a second layer of skin so that if you get too hot, you can remove an outer layer and still be protected by the base layer. Choose synthetic materials that fit well but still allow room for movement. - Outer Layer
Over the base layer, most riders wear an outer layer that traps warmth and protects inner layers from snow, water, ice, and wind. Look for matching snowmobile equipment and apparel with bright colors so others riders can see you while out on the trails. - Socks and Boots
Finally, protecting your feet from the cold will make for a more enjoyable ride. Look for boots specifically for snowmobiling, with moisture-wicking liners optimized for warmth and sturdy soles with good traction. For socks, avoid cotton and other natural materials that do not wick moisture. Remember, wet feet are cold feet. Instead, choose wool, thin nylon, fleece or synthetic blends. It is also a good idea to bring extra socks on long trips so you can change them as soon as your feet feel cold.
Use these tips to buy the best gear and stay warm while snowmobiling. If you're looking for Polaris dealers in Michigan with great winter apparel online, contact Nelsons Speed Shop today.