How to Buy Snowmobile Jackets

Racing vests to casual parkas, classic leather to space-age fabric, there are snowmobile jackets made just for you, no matter how you prefer to ride. Jackets designed to meet the differing body contours of both sexes are also available through better retailers. Read on to learn more.

Instructions

  1. Get the Right Jacket to Wear on Your Snowmobile

    • 1

      Keep in mind that what you wear directly underneath your jacket is nearly as important as the jacket itself. Choose a fleece and supplement it with breathable inner layers and a proper undershirt for maximum protection from winter's harshest elements.

    • 2

      Buy a jacket that's made to fit your body. Stores that specialize in snowmobile clothing and accessories will have a better selection of both men's and women's snowmobile jackets.

    • 3

      Gauge your true needs. Don't be drawn in by sales staff suggesting you buy the most expensive jacket. The genuine needs of a casual rider differ from those of a racing enthusiast.

    • 4

      Wear clothing that approximates, to the best of your ability, what you think you'll be wearing when you ride when you go to buy a jacket. That way, you'll get the best possible fit. You're looking for a jacket that doesn't restrict your mobility in any way, despite the layers of clothing you'll be wearing underneath it.

    • 5

      Choose an outer shell made of Gore-Tex or a similar synthetic breathable fabric. They're very light, yet still promise to keep you completely dry.

    • 6

      Make sure any snowmobile jacket you buy is waterproof, wind resistant, breathable and able to absorb moisture. Better jackets also feature elbow and arm padding, strategic ventilation passageways and arm design that is specially contoured to facilitate a proper riding posture.

    • 7

      Add a back support to wear underneath your jacket if your snowmobile keeps you low to the ground or at an angle. Anyone with a history of back trouble is strongly encouraged to supplement your jacket with a specialty back support garment.

    • 8

      Get a special protective vest or torso gear designed specially to suit the needs of snowmobile racers if you partake in riding for sport. Products that both absorb impact and offer added protection from wind and cold at high speeds are available in fine stores.