by Wayne Whicher

Created on: April 22, 2009

THREE WORDS: Boots, gloves and layers.

One of the biggest problems of determining how to dress for a snowmobiling trip is sweat and moisture. Often times snowmobilers will become cold simply because they sweat too much and then went zipping along, creating a windy situation that finds the moisture in your sweat and chills you to the bone.

Boots: Definitely waterproof. Make sure they are made with a material that is moisture proof. Just as important would be the socks that you wear with the boots. Two layers of socks are best. Some snowmobiles have heaters built in where you rest your feet and that will help keep your feet warm but moisture is still a concern. Most outdoor equipment stores will sell a very thin layered sock that "wicks" aways moisture from your skin. By wearing those thin socks and then another layer of wool winter socks on top, your feet will stay the warmest. The thin layer pulls the sweaty moisture away from your skin and keeps it from cooling and giving your feet a moist, cold feeling. The wool socks will keep your feet warm from the outside elements. By using both you will keep your feet dry AND warm. Sometimes, snowmobiling is combined with ice fishing or some other activity and if you have wet feet (if your boots aren't waterproof) will ruin your whole outing.

Gloves: Also should be waterproof. Don't wear simple wool type gloves. You'll experience the fact that going 80 mph on a snowmobile is a very windy situation and thin gloves won't protect you from the wind. Find a glove that is canvas like on its outer shell. Snowboarding gloves are often the best as snow boarders spend a lot of time on the snow and their gloves keep all moisture from penetrating. Like the socks, many outdoor sports stores sell thin moisture wicking under gloves that you can wear inside your gloves. Or, many of the same stores sell small hand warmers that you can bring to also put inside your gloves if you want.

Layers: Dress your whole body in layers. For your legs thermal underwear works well with regular pants on top, and then an outdoor layer of snow pants. Same thing for the top. A thin undershirt (moisture wicking if possible) and then a regular shirt or sweatshirt on top, and then a winter jacket. Moisture from sweat and the elements should be pulled away from the body whenever possible, but you still need enough layers on to keep you warm from the winter conditions outside.

Your helmet should have a visor that you can pull down when you are going at fast speeds. From personal experience, the wind in your eyes is not an enjoyable thing.

Remember that if you are staying at some type of cabin then you should probably bring a sleeping bag, and all necessary toiletries. This is not a four star hotel! Bring a change of clothes to change into when you come in from snowmobiling all day. Putting on warm clothes after a cold day outside is important to a warm, comfortable evening.

Enjoy the outing and stay warm and dry. Snowmobiling is fantastic. Try the Adirondack Mountains!

Learn more about this author, Wayne Whicher.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.