Top 7 Best Snowmobile Jackets In 2024

Many people like to engage themselves in different types of winter sports. Snowmobiling has become one of the most popular winter sports in recent times. One of my favorite gear when it comes to winter sports is the jacket. 

They not only protect us from severely cold weather, but they also make us look good. Some of the jackets in the market are aesthetically pleasing to the eye. Jackets usually get everyone’s attention; however, the vast collection of jackets might overwhelm us occasionally.

Related: Best Ski Hats

These jackets protect us from the usual rain, snow, and wind. The important reason why we should wear a good quality jacket is that it protects us from the cold weather. It warms our body that allows us to concentrate and perform our activity. 

There are many factors that should be taken into account when choosing our next snowmobile jacket. The most important factors are the type, fit, waterproofing, ventilation, layers, price, insulation, powder skirt, etc. These factors should be rightly considered keeping in mind our individual preferences and comfort.  

7 Best Snowmobile Jackets In 2024

After considering all these factors and testing out some of these jackets, here is the list of the Top 7 Best Snowmobile jackets in 2024.

Snowmobile Jackets Preview Price
509 Forge Jacket Best Overall Snowmobile Jackets Check Price
FXR Men’s Octane Jacket Runner Up Snowmobile Jacket Check Price
RefrigiWear Extreme Softshell Jacket Premium Pick Snowmobile Jacket Check Price
Castle X Men’s Platform Jacket Budget Pick Snowmobile Jacket Check Price
Flylow Quantum Pro Jacket Flylow Quantum Pro Jacket Check Price
Klim Alpine Parka Women’s Snowmobile Jacket Klim Alpine Parka Womens Snowmobile Jacket Check Price
KLIM Powerxcross Snowmobile Jacket KLIM Powerxcross Snowmobile Jacket Check Price

1 . 509 Forge Jacket – Best Overall

Pros
  • Extremely LightweightnWaterproof and windproof with good ventilationnFlexible and provides a relaxed fit to the bodynValue-for-moneynTon on adjustability optionsn
Cons
  • The waterproofing does not come with an IP rating

The 509 Forge Jacket is the best overall snowmobiling jacket. This jacket comes from a trusted brand and has all the necessary features of a good snowmobile jacket. The one area we always expect the 509 to do good is the build quality, and they definitely don’t disappoint. 

The 509 Forge Jacket is made using the high-quality 150D polyester 5 TECH material. The most stand-out feature of this build is that it is very lightweight and provides excellent comfort to the rider.

The one feature that every snowmobile rider should look for in a jacket is the waterproofing and windproofing potential. This jacket is adequately equipped to combat rain or snow drizzles. 

Although the 509 Forge does not have a dedicated waterproof rating, I feel they have done a great job. Having personally used it, I can surely tell that the waterproofing and the windproofing are very well designed. The jacket is well-ventilated to keep the moisture away and give us a smooth ride. The jacket comes with water-resistant zips and is fully sealed. 

Related: Best Snowmobile Gloves

There are wrist gaiters and hem clutch to further the adjustability options on the jacket. There are provisions for zippered hand and chest pockets. There is a provision for side pockets, and they are reasonably warm. 

The features of this jacket make it very appealing. And considering the price at which they come, it is a value-for-money product. A snow skirt on the inside of the jacket is a  handy addition. 

It can protect us from unwanted snow as we take on difficult rides. The full-seamed tape, snow-blocking wrist gaiter, D-ring for tether, side straps, and pit zips make the jacket packed with some handy additions. The overall result of such an addition is that it increases riding comfort and helps us sufficiently even if we go into the backcountry.

The 509 Forge Jacket provides an overall relaxed fit and looks quite appealing on the outside. We should wear the jacket with a good base inner layer and a mid-layer to keep the body warm and fend off moisture.

Why Is The 509 Forge The Best Jacket For Snowmobiling In 2024?

I have used this jacket for my backcountry rides and tested all its features. There are many reasons why I feel that the 509 Forge is the best snowmobile jacket that we can get in 2024. The primary reason why I chose this jacket is that it comes at a great price. It is a value-for-money product. 

I have an issue with many affordable jackets because they compromise the material build. I was pleasantly surprised to find that was not the case with the 509 Forge. It comes with excellent build quality. 

The material used felt really great and comfy. The jacket has adequate waterproofing and windproofing protection, which are the essential features I look for in a jacket. The Jacket did not disappoint, even in callous and testing conditions.

The other thing that has impressed me is the adjustability features that it comes with to make our ride smooth and comfortable. This is the one area where no other Jacket can come close. It has good practical features. 

Also read: Best Kids Waterproof Snow Pants

It comes with dual side pockets, with additional pockets on the inside. There are dedicated wrist gaiter and straps for better adjustability and protection from wind and snow. The jacket is fully seamed and has great-quality insulation. 

Insulation is also one of our top features when choosing a jacket. And I am happy to suggest that, although it is extremely lightweight, it provides a good amount of warmth.

I would, however, recommend wearing inner base layers for better protection.

Overall, this is a jacket that we cannot go wrong with. It comes with all the important features at a reasonable price. This 509 Forge Jacket is a must-have for any snowmobiler.

2 . FXR Men’s Octane Jacket – Runner Up

Pros
  • HydrX materialnThe FAST insulation works well and provides excellent warmthnThe Dryvent system is implemented wellnA ton of adjustability features nComfortable to wearn
Cons
  • Expensive

The runner-up in this list goes to FXR Men’s Octane Jacket. This comes from a very tested brand in sports clothing. This snowmobiling jacket is not underpowered in any department front of the earlier jacket. It comes pre-equipped with all the premium features. This jacket provides all the important up-market features. 

The FXR Men’s Octane Jacket comes with a very premium material build. It is made using HydrX technology. The shell of the jacket is made using a durable nylon shell with HydrX laminate. 

The lining of the jacket is with high-quality mesh/fleece. It provides the jacket weight a good amount of warmth. The FXR Octane comes with a warmth rating of 7. FXR provides their FAST 3.0 technology for thermal insulation combined with their FAST/FXR Thermal Flex insulation. This adds to the overall comfort of the jacket. There is the presence of these perforated vents for improved breathability. 

The one feature that I have always been a fan of is FXR’s DryVent technology. This jacket, too, comes equipped with this system. It provides the wider with snowproof technology while at the same time providing a moisture-resistant chest with side body vents. The YKK heavy-duty zippers at the front are flawless and highly smooth. There should not be any kind of problem with the zippers. 

There are additional adjustability features like the adjustable wind skirt similar to the 509 Forge. The is an adjustable collar and hem. The cold stop front placket has magnetic closure support. 

The presence of magnetic closure makes it extremely handy when we are in the high mountains. It marks sure that we don’t require to take out gloves while adjusting. The cuffs on this jacket are also adjustable and come with lycra inner extensions.

The FXR Men’s Octane Jacket is a highly competent jacket that deserves every credit that it gets. It is well-built and comes with tons of adjustability features. The jacket’s stitching is phenomenal and makes for an enjoyable ride.

3 . RefrigiWear Extreme Softshell Jacket – Premium Pick

Pros
  • Softshell jacketnGreat warmth nDual-zipper system with twill liningn600 grams of insulationnRain and wind resistantn
Cons
  • Expensive

There are times when we all want to experience the best that the market can deliver. Picking a top-of-the-line jacket with the best features can also be challenging. Well, not anymore! I bring the best premium snowmobile jacket that we can buy in 2024. The RefrigiWear Extreme Softshell Jacket comes equipped with all the necessary features that we need and much more. 

The RefrigiWear Jacket is made using high-quality material that is highly durable. The jacket can be used in conditions up to -51° C. It is perfect for outdoor activity as it comes with all the cutting-edge technologies. 

It provides great rain and wind resistance. This is probably the best jacket when it comes to rain resistance. The softshell material provides great stretch and makes it lightweight. The softshell material provides great moisture control to ensure we don’t overheat ourselves. 

The jacket is extremely easy on the body. It is lightweight and easy to wear and remove, thanks to a waterproof zipper.  Another addition to the jacket is the HiVis gloves clippers on the jacket. It helps us to keep track of our gloves. The reflective trims with HiVis coating make us more secure in extreme conditions. 

The RefrigiWear comes with a dual-zipper system, and I quite like it. The front zippers can let in more air, while the inner zipper can be kept close to keep us adequately warm. 

A silver twill lining ensures the heat is adequately trapped under challenging conditions.  Moreover, with more than 600 grams of insulating material, the jacket can provide great warmth in the coldest conditions.  

For better adjustability and fit, the jacket comes with adjustable cuffs, thumbholes, and a waist seal.

This is one of the best jackets we can get currently in the market with all the features. If we want a jacket that provides all the top features and excellent protection, and budget is not an issue, this is the way to go.

4 . Castle X Men’s Platform Jacket – Budget Pick 

Pros
  • AffordablenGood quality materialnProvides good warmthnGood adjustability featuresn
Cons
  • They could have provided more pockets

The next jacket that I want to bring is the best affordable snowmobile jacket that we can buy in 2024. I also want to ensure that the best affordable jackets, besides being affordable (duh), come with all the important features that any snowmobile rider would need. This Snowmobile jacket from Castle X ticks all the right boxes and comes up as one of the most popular affordable jackets.

The Castle X Platform jacket comes with a polyester/nylon shell that is tough and comfortable. The jacket is layered with a water-resistant PU coating along the shell material. It provides a decent amount of water resistance. The DWR coating and the double-stitched seam provide the required durability to the product. 

The Castle X platform jacket is one of the most popular. It is because, apart from being affordable, it does not let go of the basics. The jacket provides adequate warmth thanks to the Fixed Castle ColdShield quilter insulation (200g body/150gm sleeve). 

There are these velcro-adjustable fleece-lined cuffs for better fit and protection from the snow. The zippered internal chest pocket, along with the tether D-ring, backs the jacket’s practicality. 

The jacket supports with additional vents on the side and underarm to let go of the excess moisture that might be generated. Another important addition to the security and protection is the presence of 3m Scotchlite Reflective materials. These can come in extremely handy during difficult hazy conditions while riding. 

The Castle X platform jacket can be perfect gear that not only comes in at a good bargain but also does not give up on the necessities. It has a great design and packs in critical functionalities like waterproofing, insulation, and reflective material. All these features make the jacket one of the best in this price range.

5. Flylow Quantum Pro Jacket

Pros
  • Quantum Pro technology encapsulates all the essential requirementsnProvides great warmthnPerfect for backcountry ridingn
Cons
  • Highly expensive

The Flylow Quantum Pro Jacket can be another good choice when it comes to snowmobiling. It is manufactured using good quality 100% polyester fabric that meets the highest safety and environmental standards. The fabric is Oeko-Tex certified and made without using any PFCs. 

When it comes to the jacket, it comes with a 20k/20k waterproof material.  The waterproofing makes it highly useful in difficult backcountry trips. The jacket hood is designed to be highly compatible with any snowmobile helmet. The outer layer is coated with high-performance DWR coating. The jacket comes with eight pockets. The jacket has full seam taped and possesses a pocket in the chest. There are additional pass pockets on the lower sleeve. 

The 3-layer hardshell insulation provides great warmth. The jacket is perfect for backcountry rides, although an inner base layer would be recommended. The presence of a removable inner powder shirt comes in highly handy for added protection from snow. 

The Flylow Quantum Pro is a complete jacket with all the important features. The only issue I have with the jacket is its price. It is very expensive, which can deter many buyers from going that way. Overall, the Quantum Pro technology is a great addition and provides excellent performance in the harshest conditions.

6 . Klim Alpine Parka Women’s Snowmobile Jacket

Pros
  • Great FittingnGood materialnExcellent practicality optionsnProvides good mobilityn
Cons
  • ExpensivenThe waterproofing details are challenging to findn

To make a comprehensive list, we need to have a jacket that is specially made for women. This Klim Alpine Parka Women’s Snowmobile jacket is perfect for women’s snowmobilers. This jacket features all the essential features and is made using comfortable material. The jacket is manufactured keeping in mind women-specific aggressive patterning. 

This Alpine jacket is one of Klem’s best offerings and has become quite popular recently. It has been refined with a removable hood and increased mobility to make the experience really comfortable. 

The outer shell is constructed using a Gore-Tex performance shell, making the whole jacket tough and durable. The drying technology employed also works well, ensuring that non of that rain gets into our skin. The jacket feels lightweight because of the absence of overlays. There is a presence of tether D-Ring. The double-headed front zippers complete the whole design element of the jacket. 

There is the support of additional pit vents for ventilation. It makes sure that any moisture build-up inside is quickly removed. This women’s jacket takes care of the practicality. It comes with two hand pockets and one internal pocket with a headphone port. The jacket also comes with an additional goggle chamois in the pocket in the tether for easy storage and accessibility.

These jackets are for everyone. From beginners to advanced riders, this jacket will complement everyone with its build and comfort.

7 . KLIM Powerxcross Snowmobile Jacket

Pros
  • Waterproof and windproofnMobile and flexiblenThe powder skirt is removablenA ton of adjustability optionsn
Cons
  • ExpensivenThe fit could have been bettern

The last jacket on this list is also a jacket from Klim. It is the Klim Powercross snowmobile jacket. This is the best in terms of mobility and comes extremely lightweight. This jacket is based on the PowerXross technology, which makes for an agile product. 

The material build of the product is robust. It is made to last long thanks to its Gore-Tex performance shell. The drying potential of this jacket is simply one of the best. It has a 100% windproof and waterproof outer shell. 

There are no overlays to make it lightweight. Other features like tether D-ring and double-headed YKK front zippers are of high quality. 

One important addition is the 3M Scotchlite C790 carbon black reflective material, which enhances the overall protection of the jacket. 

The Klim PowerXross comes with full-pit vents for better ventilation. And I have to say, the overall breathability of the jacket is good. The jacket provides a relaxed fit with moisture-wicking liners and adjustable hems. There are provisions for adjustable cuffs with a thumb hole gaiter. The top collar is adjustable, and the jacket supports a removable powder skirt. 

The Klem PowerXross can be a good option as it has all the necessary features and provides comfort and flexibility.

How To Choose The Best Jacket For Snowmobiling In 2024?

Now that we have discussed the top 7 snowmobiling jackets, we also need to discuss the factors we should look for in a jacket. These are essential to remember as they work to make our journey impactful.

Waterproofing/Windproofing

When it comes to snowmobiling jackets, this is one of the most important things we should look for. Having a jacket that is not properly waterproof can result in quite a lot of issues. 

The incessant cold weather and the cold wind and snow will result in a horrible snowmobiling experience. While choosing our next jacket, we can look for materials such as Gore-Tex or jackets with proper DWR treatments. 

Normally the waterproofing rating is numbered 10k, 20k, etc. We should typically look for jackets above 10k.

Insulation

The next factor we need to look for is the amount of insulation provided in the jacket. The more insulation, the more warmth the jacket provides. At the same time, heavier insulation is the way to go if we want better warmth. 

The only trade-off with choosing a jacket with more insulation is the extra weight that it adds up. That extra weight can sometimes restrict our movement, thereby restricting our mobility. 

Layers

Generally, two types of layers are found in the market. The two-layer jackets are much more affordable. They consist of a face fabric connected to an inner liner that provides warmth. 

The material is breathable and adds significant comfort to the rider. There are some still that come with an insulation layer. 

The 3-layer jacket is usually made using tough material like Gore-Tex and sits between the face layer and the inner liner. These are highly waterproof and provide better protection from the outside cold and wind than the 2-layer jackets. Both of them come with waterproofing capability.

Breathability And Ventilation

Ventilation is also an essential factor that we should consider when buying a new snowmobile jacket. Most of the recent models come with side underarm zippers that allow the extra air to pass in order to regulate temperature. 

There are jackets that come with front-facing zippers or dual-zippers technology. Ventilation becomes important if we ride in relatively warm conditions or for those powder days. 

Much of the material used in the jacket can also sometimes affect the ventilation. The thinner jacket tent is better equipped in terms of ventilation. However, better-designed jackets provide great balance, better heat regulation, and warmth.

Warmth

Perhaps the most important factor that makes our ride smooth and enjoyable is the warming potential of our gear. We should look for jackets that provide better warmth. The insulation, the strapping, and the adjustments combine to provide better warmth. 

Alternatively, there are also provisions of heated jackets that are becoming quite popular recently. They work with a battery and can last long if used in moderate settings.

Collar and hood

The jacket collar and hood can be a great addition to provide us with better protection against rain, snow, hail, or sun. The hood can easily help us to retain the heat in chilly conditions. 

We can always go for slim hoods and helmet compatible. It brings extra protection and provides us with better warmth during our adventure. 

Fit

Sure, the price of the jacket matters a lot regarding the kind of features we will get. However, the final fit of the jacket matters when it comes to satisfaction. The fit and overall comfort are paramount if we want to make the most out of our jacket. 

Different types of jacket fits are available, and we should choose according to our size and requirements. If we want to carry a backpack with us, a much more slim-fitting jacket should suffice.

Weight

This can be a big factor for some snowmobilers. Even I look for equipment that is less in weight, whether it be jackets, helmets, goggles, or boots. A jacket’s weight can be considered if we are looking for backcountry riding. 

The lighter the jacket, the higher the possibility that we would need to sacrifice some warmth. Additionally, Lighter jackets can immensely help those who like to hike to the mountains often.

Powder Skirts

Another important feature that goes un-notices most often is the Powder skirt. They can be an important addition to our jackets and prevent occasional snow from getting under our inner gear.

The sleeve cuffs are also an extra addition that provides additional protection. Many Sleeve cuffs come with a wrist gaiter that restricts the snow from touching our skin.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should You Not Wear While Snowmobiling?

It is generally recommended that we do not wear cotton material while snowmobiling. Cotton socks absorb moisture very well, so they could freeze later. The best material to wear is one that wicks moisture away from the body, such as fleece, wool, or polyester.

What Do Snowmobilers Wear Under Snow Pants?

In addition to the outer layer, the inner layers should also be considered when snowmobiling. Their purpose is to keep our bodies warm by providing additional protection. It is important that the inner is thin and made of moisture-wicking material. A base layer bottom should be worn under pants.

Is It Normal To Be Sore After Snowmobiling?

Yes, typically, body soreness can occur. Also possible is delayed soreness, lasting for 1-3 days. In the event that there are persistent pains and soreness, it is highly recommended to seek medical attention.

How Do You Stay Warm On A Snowmobile?

On a snowmobile, we can stay warm in many different ways. A nice pair of gloves and a jacket would be the traditional preparation method. Nevertheless, we shouldn’t limit ourselves to that. A good pair of pants, boots, goggles, and even a helmet are all essential for keeping us warm.

Conclusion

In the above article, we have discussed the best snowmobile jackets in 2024. The 509 Forge Jacket was the best overall jacket that we could buy. It is extremely lightweight and flexible. It comes with proper waterproofing and adjustability options. Overall. The 509 Forge is a value for money. 

The FXR jacket is the runner-up in the list. It does not lack in any specific department. It comes with all the premium features. It is made using the HydrX material. It employs DryVent technology for easy moisture control. 

The RefrigiWear Jacket is the best premium jacket on the list. It provides a great experience with great features. The material is highly durable and can easily sustain temperatures of -51° C. The HiVi coating and the HiVi glove clipper provide great practicality. 600 grams of insulation provides adequate warmth. The dual zipper on the jacket ensures that there are ways to get rid of excess moisture when needed without letting the cold wind get through.  

The jackets above were picked after considering many important factors, and we encourage our readers to check them out. Jackets can largely determine the kind of experience we will have on our snowmobile trail. 

The primary reason why we need a jacket is to keep our body warm and safe during our ride in those testing conditions. Without a good jacket that fits our body correctly and suits our riding style, our experience can be jeopardized.  

So get the best jacket, and have the time of your life! 

Mitchelle Lynn