Snowmobiling is a great way to get outdoors and enjoy the winter weather. To ride a snowmobile, states typically require a valid driver’s license for those 16 and older, and that children ride with an adult (check state and local restrictions before you head out). Keep reading for tips to help you be comfortable and safe as you snowmobile.
Utilize snowmobile gear
Start your adventures on the right foot by wearing the right gear. As you choose, you’ll want to evaluate the climate you’ll be riding in: The things you’ll need for dry, cold weather are different from those you’ll need for warmer, wet weather. Here are some options to consider.
- A wool base layer
- Waterproof, insulated outerwear plus an extra waterproof shell as a backup
- Gloves that allow your fingers and hands freedom of movement for the throttle and brake
- Warm, waterproof, supportive boots
- A full-face helmet and goggles
- Safety gear such as kneepads and chest protectors
Safety tips for snowmobile riding
Help keep your snowmobiling time safe and fun with these tips.
Don’t drink and drive
Avoiding alcohol is as important when snowmobiling as it is when driving a car. Alcohol affects balance and reaction time and is a factor in a significant number of snowmobiling accidents.
Lean on the snowmobile toward your desired direction
Use your center of balance to help direct the snowmobile. For turns, you can avoid oversteering by leaning your weight in the direction of the turn. When you’re going uphill, kneel and shift your weight forward.
Drive the snowmobile carefully based on snow density
Gauging the density of the snow and adjusting your driving is an important part of snowmobiling. In deep snow, you’ll need more distance to speed up when you go uphill, and acceleration might even be needed on downhills. If possible, keep track of your path and stay on that as you return. On hard snow, the ride will be rougher, so you’ll want to stay on flat areas and slow down.
Control your speed when riding a snowmobile
Just like driving in a car in winter, riding a snowmobile requires speed management and plenty of room for steering and stopping. As you come to a turn, slow down, then gently accelerate when you’ve made the turn. When going downhill, shift your weight back and release the brake slowly to control your speed. When you need to stop, allow plenty of room, and steer to the right into a clear area as you let the snowmobile slow down.
Know how much snow you need to snowmobile
A general guideline is that a minimum of 4 to 6 inches of packed snow is needed for snowmobiling.
Blog courtesy of our partner Nationwide.