Must Have Snowmobile Accessories Every Rider Needs This Season
Whether you're a weekend warrior hitting the groomed trails or a backcountry explorer carving fresh lines through deep powder, having the right gear can make the difference between a good ride and a great one. From keeping your hands warm on those below-zero mornings to ensuring your sled stays protected all season long, these accessories aren't just nice-to-haves - they're the essentials that'll keep you riding comfortably, safely, and confidently no matter what conditions you face.
Let's break down the gear that belongs on every sledder's checklist.
Gloves: Your First Line of Defense Against the Cold
Your hands take the brunt of winter's punishment while you're out on the trail. Wind chill, snow spray, and hours wrapped around cold handlebars can turn an epic ride into a miserable experience fast if you're not properly equipped.
Heated Gloves for Extreme Cold
When temperatures drop well below freezing, standard insulated gloves might not cut it. That's where heated snowmobile gloves become a game-changer.
The Katahdin heated gloves feature genuine leather construction with 100% waterproof Hipora liners and Thermolite insulation. What sets them apart is the integrated battery-powered heating system - each pair comes with two lithium-ion batteries and a dual-port charger. They're comfort-rated down to -40°F, which means you can ride through the coldest conditions without losing dexterity or feeling.
The extra-wide gauntlet cuffs with nylon wind skirts keep snow and cold air from sneaking up your sleeves, while adjustable wrist straps let you dial in the perfect fit. For riders who spend long days in the saddle or frequently encounter extreme weather, heated gloves eliminate that constant battle to keep your fingers functional.
Quality Leather Gloves for Durability
Not every ride requires battery-powered heat. For more moderate conditions or riders who prefer a traditional feel, premium leather gloves offer excellent protection without the extra tech.
Leather snowmobile gloves like the Katahdin Torque provide that perfect balance of warmth, waterproofing, and grip you need for confident sled control. Drum-dyed leather resists moisture and maintains flexibility in cold temperatures, while the reinforced palm areas hold up to constant contact with your grips and controls.
Look for gloves with features like adjustable closures to prevent snow infiltration, pre-curved fingers for better bar feel, and plenty of insulation without sacrificing mobility. Your gloves are your connection to your machine - they need to protect you without compromising control.
Sleigh Hitches: Hauling Gear the Smart Way
Snowmobiling often means carrying extra fuel, pulling a fishing shack to your favorite lake spot, or helping out a buddy whose sled broke down. A proper sleigh hitch transforms your snowmobile from a solo ride into a utility vehicle capable of handling real work.
Brand-Specific Hitches for Perfect Fit
The key to safe towing is using a hitch designed specifically for your sled's make and model. Generic universal hitches might work in a pinch, but brand-specific options provide the proper mounting points and load distribution your sled was engineered to handle.
For Arctic Cat riders, the Arctic Cat sleigh hitch mounts directly to your sled's factory mounting points, ensuring a secure connection that won't stress your tunnel or chassis. The pivot-style design allows your towed load to articulate independently, which means smoother handling on uneven terrain and less strain on your sled.
Polaris owners have multiple options depending on their needs. The standard Polaris sleigh hitch works great for occasional towing, while the heavy-duty version offers increased capacity for bigger loads. Both are engineered to integrate seamlessly with Polaris chassis designs.
Upgraded Options for Serious Hauling
If you're regularly towing heavier loads or use your sled for work purposes, consider a reinforced hitch like the Arctic Cat model 12-101-03. These beefier hitches feature thicker steel construction and more robust mounting hardware to handle the extra stress.
When shopping for a hitch, consider what you'll actually be towing. Light recreational use like pulling kids on a toboggan has different requirements than hauling a loaded ice fishing sleigh across the lake. Match your hitch to your real-world needs.
Track Studs: Grip When You Need It Most
Factory tracks do a decent job in fresh powder, but when conditions turn icy or trails get packed down hard, you need extra bite. Track studs transform your sled's performance on challenging surfaces, giving you confidence in corners, better stopping power, and improved acceleration.
Carbide Studs for Maximum Traction
Carbide track studs are the gold standard for snowmobile traction. The Chisel Tooth steel studs feature 5/16" carbide tips that dig into ice and hard-pack with authority. Carbide stays sharp season after season, unlike softer materials that wear down quickly.
Installation is straightforward with the right tools - most riders can stud a track in an afternoon. The key is proper placement: too few studs and you won't get enough traction; too many and you add unnecessary rotating weight that kills top-end speed. Most trail sleds run well with 96-144 studs depending on horsepower and riding style.
Studs aren't just for ice, either. They dramatically improve traction on hard-packed trails, road crossings, and those sketchy sections where spring thaw has left behind exposed gravel. The peace of mind knowing your sled will hook up when you hit the brakes is worth every penny.
Installation Tips
When installing studs, use proper backing plates to protect your tunnel from stud damage. Stagger your stud pattern to avoid wearing ruts in the track, and always check manufacturer recommendations for how many studs your specific track can safely handle. Over-studding can damage the track itself and create handling issues.
Sled Covers: Protection When You're Not Riding
Your snowmobile represents a significant investment, and proper storage protection extends its life and maintains resale value. A quality cover shields your sled from UV damage, moisture, dust, and curious critters looking for a warm place to nest.
Universal Covers for Versatile Protection
Even if your sled isn't the latest model, quality universal covers provide excellent protection. The Katahdin universal cover demonstrates how a well-designed cover can fit multiple sled configurations while still offering snug protection.
Look for covers with elastic hems that hold the cover in place during windy conditions, reinforced grommets for tie-down straps, and breathable fabric that prevents condensation buildup. A good cover should be easy to put on and take off - if it's a hassle, you won't use it consistently.
Model-Specific Covers for Custom Fit
When available, model-specific covers offer the best fit and protection. The Commercial Sew cover for Ski-Doo Legend Touring is tailored to that specific sled's dimensions and features, which means no loose fabric flapping in the wind and complete coverage of vulnerable areas.
Custom-fit covers also typically include features like integrated windshield pockets, mirror covers, and cutouts for tie-down points that make securing the cover much simpler. If you're storing your sled outdoors or in an unheated garage, the investment in a proper cover pays off in protected paint, clean seats, and a sled that's ready to ride when you are.
Snowmobile Dollies: Maneuver Your Sled Anywhere
Unless you have an enormous heated garage, you'll eventually need to move your sled around in tight spaces. Whether you're repositioning for maintenance, making room for another sled, or just organizing your garage, dollies make the job effortless.
Heavy-Duty Dolly Systems
The 3-piece swivel dolly system transforms your heavy sled into something one person can easily maneuver in any direction. Heavy-duty construction handles even the biggest touring sleds, while swivel casters let you pivot and position your machine with minimal effort.
These dollies work by lifting your sled's skis and track off the ground, allowing you to roll it around on smooth caster wheels. This is especially valuable when working on your sled - instead of struggling to get the track elevated for maintenance, you simply roll it up onto the dollies.
Storage is another huge benefit. With dollies, you can pack sleds much tighter in your garage or shop since you can easily move them sideways. This means more room for your other toys or simply reclaiming floor space during the off-season.
Building Your Accessory Arsenal
Not every rider needs every accessory immediately. Start with the basics that match your riding style and conditions, then expand your collection as needs arise. A few guidelines:
Trail riders should prioritize gloves, track studs for icy conditions, and a good cover for storage. You'll spend more time on groomed trails where traction and comfort matter most.
Backcountry explorers need heated gloves for all-day rides in remote areas, reliable hitches for hauling emergency supplies or gear, and protective covers since your sled might sit at the trailhead for extended periods.
Weekend warriors can start with quality leather gloves and a universal cover, then add specific upgrades as you discover what type of riding you enjoy most.
Full-timers living the RV life will want the complete package - heated gloves for extended cold exposure, heavy-duty hitches for frequent towing, proper storage covers, and dollies for managing sleds in tight RV park spaces.
Get Your Sled Season-Ready
The difference between a frustrating ride and an epic day often comes down to having the right accessories. Quality gloves keep you comfortable in extreme cold. Proper hitches let you haul what you need safely. Track studs give you confidence on sketchy surfaces. Good covers protect your investment. And dollies make maintenance and storage infinitely easier.
Browse the complete snowmobile accessories collection at RV Trader Accessories to outfit your sled with everything you need. From essential safety gear to convenience upgrades, we've got the quality accessories that'll have you riding with confidence all season long.
Whether you're prepping for opening day or replacing worn gear mid-season, don't compromise on the accessories that keep you safe, comfortable, and in control. Your next ride is waiting - make sure you're properly equipped for it.
