Q: What type of clothing do I need to have?
A: Snowmobile clothing, helmets and accessories should be purchased from reputable snowmobile dealers.  The following snow-friendly clothing is recommended: bibs (pants that extend up your chest and back), jackets, gloves, boots and helmets.  Snowmobile clothing comes in all shapes and sizes.  Snowmobile dealers offer a full line of clothing that is specifically designed and made to keep you warm and withstand winter.

More useful information: Dealers | Agri Sports | Recreation Supply

Q: Do I need to register my snowmobile with SGI to ride the trails legally?
A: Yes.  You must register your snowmobile with SGI.  When you do, this entitles you to ride all Saskatchewan designated snowmobile trails.

Q: What does the Saskatchewan law state about snowmobile safety courses?
A: All snowmobile operators who were born on or after January 1, 1989 are required to complete a “snowmobile safety training course” before operating a snowmobile on public land.  You must be at least 12 years old to enroll in a snowmobile course.  Phone Saskatchewan Safety Council @ 306-757-3197

Driving a snowmobile is quite easy.  It is always recommended that first-time riders attend a safety class.

More useful information: Safety

Q: How do I know if there is enough snow to go snowmobiling?
A: Watch CTV News or Global News each Thursday at 6pm throughout the snowmobile season for trail and snow conditions.

Check the Thursday edition of the Leader Post or Star Phoenix (Weather Page) throughout the snowmobile season for snow sand trail conditions for all of Saskatchewan.
Phone 1-800-499-SLED (7533) to listen to the trail and snow conditions for all of Saskatchewan.

More useful information: Snow Conditions | Weather

Q: Who can I snowmobile with?
A: There are 70 snowmobile clubs in Saskatchewan, all of which welcome new members.  The SSA hosts an Annual Provincial Snowmobile Festival.  This Festival is held in a new area of the province each year.  Clubs bid to partner with the SSA to host this event.  If you attend this Festival it will provide you with an opportunity to meet new snowmobile friends.

More useful information: Provincial Snowmobile Festival | Club Events | Clubs

Q: How much does it cost to buy a snowmobile and clothing?
A: Snowmobile prices start at $2,000 for a used snowmobile to $10,000+ for a new snowmobile.  Snowmobile clothing costs approximately $100 for a jacket and $80 for bibs (pants that extend up your chest and back), $50 for boots, $20 for gloves, and approximately $100 for a helmet.  If you need to trailer your snowmobile, snowmobile trailers start at $500 and go up to $3,000 for an enclosed trailer. 

More useful information: Dealers

Q: What are the 5 types of snowmobiles?
A: 1. Entry-Level Snowmobile:  Entry-level snowmobiles are also often called trail models.  These snowmobiles come equipped with engines ranging from 60-70 horsepower.  These sleds are easy to ride and relatively inexpensive.  They can be equipped with electric start and reverse for easy starting and maneuvering.  These snowmobiles are very light and easy to handle and serve as an inexpensive way to begin snowmobiling. View entry-level models

2. Performance Snowmobile:  Performance snowmobiles, like performance automobiles feature slightly higher horsepower engines.  The engines generate 85 horsepower and up.  These snowmobiles are slightly heavier than the entry-level snowmobiles due to engine size differentiation and additional weight related to suspension systems, shock absorbers and more.  These snowmobiles are often equipped with reverse gear and electric start.  These snowmobiles are responsive and performance oriented. View performance models

3. Touring Snowmobiles:  Touring snowmobiles feature a seat configuration that is designed for up to two individuals.  The seat configuration features a backrest.  Touring models usually include side-mounted mirrors, larger windshields, reverse gear and electric start.  These snowmobiles are larger and heavier than either performance or entry-level snowmobiles and are designed for riding longer distances in comfort.  The track length of a touring snowmobile is greater.  The longer track length cushions the ride, adds stability for two people and provides more comfort and weight. View touring models

4. Mountain Snowmobiles:  Snowmobiles made specifically for mountain riding are longer and narrower.  The snowmobile configuration allows for side hilling in mountainous terrain and riding through heavy powder.  These snowmobiles also have specially designed long lug tracks, which allow them to maneuver through heavy, deep powder conditions.  These snowmobiles generally have high horsepower engines, since horsepower is lost at elevation.  The riding characteristics of a mountain snowmobile generally lend it to better handling abilities in mountain riding than on trail riding. View mountain models

5. Utility Snowmobiles:  Utility snowmobiles are common when any work or utilitarian needs are realized.  These snowmobiles are longer, slightly wider and heavier than other snowmobiles.  They function exceptionally well on trails and heavy snow and come equipped with electric start and reverse.  They are often used to tow work sleds or toboggans. View utility models

More useful information: Snowmobile manufacturers

Q: Where do I purchase a snowmobile and how do I know which one is right for me?
A: Snowmobiles can be purchased new or used from a licensed snowmobile dealer.  Snowmobile dealers are conveniently located throughout Saskatchewan.

More useful information: Dealers | Sleds 2 Buy

Existing owners of snowmobiles also sell their sleds in classified sections of local newspapers.  One should follow the same guidelines in buying a used snowmobile as when buying a used car or boat.  Have the snowmobile inspected by a knowledgeable mechanic.  A visual inspection will help determine if the snowmobile has been properly cared for.  Always ask for service records.

When starting to snowmobile for the first time, there are many considerations.  If you will be taking a rider with you often, then you might consider a two-person snowmobile so that you can travel comfortably with a rider companion.  If you plan to snowmobile on your own, a standard snowmobile with mid-range power should provide the best quality ride.  Individuals that ride in the mountainous regions of North America should purchase a sled specifically designed for mountain riding.

As a tip – you may want to test ride a friend’s snowmobile and find out why they purchased the snowmobile that they did.  What to look for: snowmobile type (one or 2-riders), engine size and options.Discuss your preferences with the dealer to make sure you get the snowmobile that’s right for your needs.

More useful information: Snowmobile manufacturers

Q: Where is the best place to look at snowmobiles?
A: The best place to begin your search for a snowmobile is to attend the Saskatchewan Snowmobile Association’s ANNUAL SNOWMOBILE TRADE SHOW. Saskatchewan Snowmobile Trade Show

Also, visits to local dealerships are helpful and the snowmobile manufacturers web sites offer a lot of useful information, and you can even build your own snowmobile based on your preferences.

Q: How do I maintain a snowmobile?
A: Maintenance on snowmobiles is basic and similar to motor vehicle maintenance and operation.  A licensed mechanic through a dealership is usually the best way to ensure the vehicle will be ready for use.  Always check the oil, belts and moving mechanisms of the snowmobile and refer to the owner’s manual that comes with each machine.

Q: What are the implications of modifying my snowmobile exhaust system?
A: The snowmobile manufacturers certify all new snowmobiles meet two rigid sound testing procedures.  The certification procedure is designed by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) and recognized worldwide.  The manufacturers work diligently to ensure snowmobiles are as quiet as possible and pass the strict SAE sound standards.  Exhaust systems are tuned to work efficiently with the engine.If a snowmobile is modified, there is a good chance the snowmobile will no longer pass the rigid SAE sound test.  Saskatchewan prohibits the operation of excessively loud snowmobiles.