What Arctic Snowmobile Bibs and Gear the Operator Lends You

What the Operator Provides for Warmth

The tour includes thermal overalls engineered for Arctic conditions, along with a helmet and full safety equipment. These items form your protective outer layer against extreme cold and wind. The thermal overalls are designed to trap heat while allowing movement on the snowmobile, and they'll be fitted to you before departure. New helmets are provided for each rider, ensuring both safety and comfort without compromising visibility or hearing.

You'll also receive new gloves and appropriate footwear designed for snowmobile operation in freezing temperatures. All equipment is replaced regularly to maintain insulation quality and hygiene standards. Arrive early at the Arctic GM office meeting point so the guides can ensure everything fits properly before you head out to the trails.

Building Layers Underneath the Thermal Overalls

Your base layer is critical in Arctic conditions. Choose merino wool or synthetic materials that wick moisture away from your skin; cotton traps sweat and loses insulating properties when wet. Thermal leggings and a long-sleeve thermal top should fit snugly without restricting movement. Over these, add a fleece or wool mid-layer for additional insulation. The thermal overalls will go on top of everything, so avoid bulky clothing that creates excessive layers and reduces dexterity.

A key principle in Arctic dressing is trapping air pockets between layers. Wool and synthetic fabrics are superior to cotton because they retain heat even when damp. Dress warmly but not so heavily that you feel restricted; snowmobile riding requires flexibility in your arms and legs. The guides can advise on layering thickness based on current conditions when you arrive.

Protecting Your Hands and Feet from Wind Chill

Hands and feet lose heat fastest in extreme cold and wind. The provided gloves are insulated for snowmobile use, but consider wearing thin liner gloves underneath for added warmth without bulk. If your hands run particularly cold, chemical hand warmers can be placed in glove pockets. Keep your fingers active during the ride to maintain circulation; avoid staying in one position too long.

Feet require equal attention. Wear thick wool or thermal socks, but avoid packing boots so tightly that circulation is cut off. Tight boots are colder boots. The provided footwear is designed with Arctic conditions in mind, and multiple layers of socks work better than one very thick pair. Wiggle your toes periodically during the ride to keep blood flowing and maintain feeling in your extremities.

Face Protection Against Arctic Wind

A balaclava or neck gaiter provides essential protection for your face and ears while remaining compatible with your helmet. Many riders prefer a balaclava because it covers the entire head and neck, creating a sealed system under the helmet. A neck gaiter can be pulled up as needed to protect your lower face and neck. Both are lightweight enough to wear comfortably under your helmet without causing pressure points. Your nose, cheeks, and forehead are vulnerable to frostbite in these conditions, so full face coverage is recommended.

The helmet itself shields your face from wind, but exposed skin around the eyes, nose, and chin still faces wind chill. Consider a thin, close-fitting mask designed for cold sports if you find balaclavas uncomfortable. The key is blocking wind while maintaining visibility and hearing; test your setup before the tour begins to ensure the helmet sits properly over your face protection.

Managing Glasses, Contacts, and Snow Glare

Glasses can fog in the transition between cold outdoor air and the warmth inside the helmet, and regular lenses may become brittle in extreme cold. Anti-fog coating or thermal lenses help, but many riders switch to contact lenses for snowmobile activities. If you wear contacts, bring extra pairs and solution; cold air can make them uncomfortable, and wind exposure may dry them out. Sunglasses are highly recommended because snow glare is intense in bright conditions, and the reflection can cause eye strain and fatigue.

Polarized or amber-tinted lenses reduce glare more effectively than clear ones. Your sunglasses should fit comfortably under or inside your helmet without creating pressure points. If you wear regular eyeglasses, secure them with a sports strap to prevent loss during the ride. Discuss your vision needs with the guide when you arrive; they're familiar with solutions that work in Arctic snowmobile conditions.

Protecting Your Phone and Managing Battery Drain

Phone batteries drain rapidly in Arctic cold, sometimes losing 30% to 50% of their charge in just an hour. Keep your phone inside a pocket close to your body where it stays warmer, and consider a thermal phone case for extra insulation. Turn off location services and reduce screen brightness to extend battery life. If you want to capture photos or video, do so in short bursts rather than continuous operation.

Your coat and bag remain secure at the Arctic GM office during the ride, so don't rely on your phone for emergencies while snowmobiling; you'll be with a certified guide trained in first aid. Bringing a portable power bank may seem helpful, but it performs poorly in extreme cold anyway. Focus on the experience rather than documentation, and let the professional guide handle navigation and safety communications.

Before you book