2026-11-08

What to Wear Snowmobiling: The Complete Checklist

How to dress for snowmobiling and stay warm? Layers, boots, gloves, accessories: the complete checklist before your tour in the Outaouais.

Group of dressed-up snowmobilers in front of the inn

At 50 km/h and -15 °C, the wind chill can feel far colder than the thermometer says. The good news is that staying warm on a snowmobile doesn't require expensive gear: you just need to know a few principles. Here is the complete list.

The essentials
Wear three layers: technical underwear (merino wool or synthetic, never cotton), an insulating fleece layer and a waterproof snowmobile suit. At Biffrentals Aventure, the suit and helmet are provided; bring warm boots, insulated gloves, a neck warmer and a thin hat.

The three-layer principle

  1. The base layer (next to the skin). A technical undergarment in merino wool or synthetic fabric, top and bottom. Its job: wick away sweat. Ban cotton, which stays damp and chills the body.
  2. The insulating layer. A fleece jacket or a warm sweater. This is what holds the heat in.
  3. The outer layer. A waterproof, windproof snowmobile suit. At Biffrentals Aventure, it's provided.

The complete list

  • Technical undergarments (top and bottom)
  • Fleece insulating layer
  • Thick wool socks (one pair only, not two: too tight and your feet freeze)
  • Warm, waterproof winter boots
  • Insulated gloves or mittens, ideally with a spare pair
  • Neck warmer or thin balaclava
  • Thin hat or balaclava worn under the helmet
  • Sunglasses or ski goggles if your helmet has no visor
  • Lip balm and sunscreen (snow reflects the sun)
  • Hand and foot warmers for the coldest days

What we provide

For our guided tours, the snowmobile suit and helmet are included. The Ski-Doo Expedition 600 ACE is also equipped with a windshield and heated grips, which makes a big difference on long rides. So you only need to bring your base layers and accessories.

Mistakes to avoid

  • Dressing too warmly at the start. If you sweat while getting ready, you'll be cold once you're on the trail.
  • Forgetting your neck. A neck exposed to the wind chills the whole body very quickly.
  • Wearing jeans. Once wet, denim turns icy.
  • Neglecting your hands. Numb fingers make driving less precise. Choose truly insulated gloves.

And in a side-by-side?

The same rules apply. The cabin protects a bit more from the wind, but the base layer and good gloves are still essential. To see what the outing is like, read our article on the side-by-side in winter.

Got your list? If it's your first time, also read our beginner's guide, then pick your date. Book your snowmobile tour.

Frequently asked questions

What do I wear under the snowmobile suit?
Technical underwear (top and bottom) in merino wool or synthetic, then an insulating fleece layer.
Are the suit and helmet provided?
Yes, for our guided tours. Bring your base layers, boots, gloves and accessories.
Can I wear jeans snowmobiling?
It is not recommended: once wet, denim gets icy. Choose technical clothing instead.
What should I wear for a side-by-side ride?
The same rules apply. The cabin protects a little more from the wind, but a base layer and good gloves are still essential.

Updated October 2026

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