Best Snowmobile Skis: Reviews, Buying Guide, and FAQs 2023

by Frank V. Persall

When you purchase a snowmobile, you will discover that it has a far larger number of components than you anticipated. It is more than just a power source. It also consists of other critical components that are required for them to function properly, one of which is the ski.

When riding a snowmobile, the skis give directional control, and they play an important function in keeping the snowmobile from plowing deeply into the snow when moving ahead in the snow.

When you purchase a snowmobile, it is normally delivered as a whole package. Experienced snowmobilers, on the other hand, prefer to purchase aftermarket skis in order to have a more customized experience and to fit their riding preferences.

There are a large number of snowmobile skis available on the market. Skis are also available in a variety of styles. Therefore, you will learn about the greatest snowmobile skis available on the market. By reading this article, you will learn about the characteristics to look for while purchasing a pair of skis. You're not getting anywhere on your snowmobile if it doesn't have skis. Whether you're looking to add aftermarket upgrades to your sled or you're in need of a new pair due to an unexpected barrier or accident, you'll want to invest in high-quality skis that will perform well with your sled.

Take a look at some of the greatest snowmobile skis available today.

Top Snowmobile Skis 2023 by Editors

Top 6 Best Pick for Snowmobile Skis

Top 6 Best Pick for Snowmobile Skis
Top 6 Best Pick for Snowmobile Skis

C&A 150-20112 Boondocking Xtreme Pro Skis Black - Link

C&A 150-20112 Boondocking Xtreme Pro Skis Black
C&A 150-20112 Boondocking Xtreme Pro Skis Black

It's called the C&A Pro BX Boondocking Xtreme or BX for short, and it's designed for today's difficult mountain riders. The bottom of the ski has a rocker, which makes it easier to navigate around tight trees, and a tapered rear area, which makes it easier to side-hill. The top of the grooves contains traction channels for your feet, which will come in handy while you're deep snow boarding.

If you're seeking for outstanding snowmobile skis for tricky mountain snowmobiling, you've come to the right place. In such scenario, the BX from C&A Pro will be a perfect fit for you. Among the many amazing characteristics of these snowmobile skis are a deep center keel, a rocker bottom, and a broad tapered profile on the outside.

Through the use of its rocker bottom, you can easily make your way through tight trees. If you want to side-hill, the broad profile gives buoyancy and simplicity of movement.

When riding in heavy snow, the top of the boot also incorporates grooves for your feet to provide a greater traction. These skis are also equipped with an adjustable grip that allows for a more flexible tip.

There are available carbides from Stud Boy and Woodys, among other sources. For aggressive riders and snocross racing, the Shaper Bar Carbide is the preferred option; the Round Bar Carbide is a fantastic alternative for riding on trail or mountain and it will also do well in racing.

Product Description

The C&A Pro BX Boondocking Xtreme snowmobile skis have a rocker bottom and tapered profile. The top of the boot also incorporates grooves for your feet to provide greater traction. These skis are also equipped with an adjustable grip that allows for a flexible tip.

Features

  • Wide profile
  • Excellent traction
  • Deep keel

C&A Pro Razor RZ Skis - Link

C&A Pro Razor RZ Skis - Black 77020320
C&A Pro Razor RZ Skis - Black 77020320

The C&A Pro Razor RZ snowmobile skis are the greatest all-around snowmobile skis available. They're some of my best aftermarket skis that I've ever ridden, and I would strongly suggest them to any rider seeking for top-tier performance.

Since they are composed of ultra-strong and durable UHMW polymer, they will provide long-lasting and tough performance in any environment. You won't miss a beat even if you're plowing through crusty snow. These are intended to last for many years.

In addition, the Pro Razor RZ features V-shaped outside keels. This design feature provides you with more mobility, allowing you to react quickly and effectively whether you are racing down the road or darting between obstacles.

You may also change the performance by adjusting the tip to your preferences. This tip is adaptable, which provides you with a bit more versatility.

This pair of skis is light and robust, and they will not only keep you moving at a fast pace, but they will also offer you the assurance that they will remain firm under a lot of pressure regardless of how you ride.

Additionally, you'll need to purchase the necessary installation tools and mounting kit, although it will add additional expenditure to your budget. Moreover, if you have an older sled, you may be out of luck, since they only operate with snowmobiles manufactured in 2011 and earlier.

Product Description

The C&A Pro Razor RZ snowmobile skis are made of ultra-strong and durable UHMW polymer. You'll need to purchase the installation tools and mounting kit that are necessary, which will add additional expenditure to your budget. It goes without saying as if they're some of my best aftermarket skis that I've ever ridden, and I would strongly suggest them to any rider seeking for top-tier performance.

Features

  • Highly durable
  • Versatile use
  • Unique design

C&A PRO XPT Ski Performance Trail Riding Snowmobile Ski - Link

C & A PRO XPT Ski Performance Trail Riding Snowmobile Ski Set Blue
C & A PRO XPT Ski Performance Trail Riding Snowmobile Ski Set Blue

The Xtreme Performance Trail, often known as the XPT, is the ideal performance ski for modern snowmobiles that put a lot of pressure on the skis. Mid-center keels aid to prevent darting, enhance tracking, and carbide lift on sharp bends. As an added bonus, the skis include a high tail on the backside that makes reversing much simpler. This is the appropriate ski for today's current snowmobiles when you want better control without having to put in a lot of work.

Trail riders that like a high level of performance in their trail riding will enjoy the XPT skis. They generate a tremendous amount of ski pressure, which is exactly what high-performance trail skis should deliver. The keels in the middle of the skis decrease the propensity for the skis to dart and reduce carbide lift.

The tail of the rear skis' back end has been raised in order to provide a more responsive reverse. These skis are well-suited to current motors that are stronger, quicker, and lighter than previous models. These skis give more control and a smoother turning experience.

These skis also feature movable handles, which enable you to have a flexible tip that can be adjusted depending on the depth of the snow.

Product Description

Xtreme Performance Trail, often known as the XPT, is the ideal performance ski for modern sleds. Mid-center keels aid to prevent darting, enhance tracking, and carbide lift on sharp bends. Skis also have movable handles, which enable you to have a flexible tip.

Features

  • Flexible tip
  • Excellent traction
  • Durable construction

Raider Black All-Terrain Replacement Skis - Link

Raider Black All-Terrain replacement Skis (1 Pair)
Raider Black All-Terrain replacement Skis (1 Pair)

For deep snow riding, this snowmobile ski is the best one for you. As a result of its broad, one-piece shape, they provide a tremendous amount of floatation while you are smashing through deep fluff. This also provides you with more control and balance, which will help you stabilize your sled as the snow builds up.

The Raider All-Terrains' one-piece blow-molded design ensures that they are both durable and trustworthy. You will obtain long-lasting performance with no loose parts or things breaking apart in the process.

This is an excellent choice if you're looking to improve or replace your outdated steel-based skis with something that won't let you down. Also, despite the fact that they are floaty and designed for thicker snow, they will still provide you with enough performance in a wide range of off-trail circumstances.

Since you will need to purchase your mounting kits separately, they are a little more reasonable than the other high-end solutions. However, this reduces their worth somewhat.

I would be cautious when making rapid turns while moving fast in harder-packed snow since they don't have the greatest performance in such situations. You will still be in control, however, they may not be as sensitive as you might be familiar with.

It's difficult to find a better alternative if you like blasting through powder.

Product Description

The Raider All-Terrains' one-piece blow-molded design ensures that they are both durable and trustworthy. They provide a tremendous amount of floatation while you are smashing through deep fluff. This also provides you with more control and balance, which will help you stabilize your sled.

Features

  • Easy installation
  • Suitable for all terrain
  • Highly durable

Curve 150-01014 XS Leader Ski - Link

Curve 150-01014 Xs Leader Ski Kit W/4
Curve 150-01014 Xs Leader Ski Kit W/4

When it comes to trail riding, the Curve XS Skis are an outstanding choice. They are designed to withstand the rigors of trail riding, including quick turns, critical conditions, and everything else that may arise. These skis are popular among snocross riders and racers because of their outstanding performance.

The XS will immediately improve the cornering ability of your sled. Every snowmobiler can notice the change on their first turn at speed. They feature a broad footprint that provides more floatation when the snow is thick, without being too wide to cause you to decelerate when you want to speed up.

These skis have a one-of-a-kind design that requires minimum steering effort. This implies you'll have more aggressive handling and turning skills, which will aid you in maintaining control. In addition, variable geometry provides high performance even on the road. They are also long-lasting and well-constructed while having a standard weight.

There aren't many negative aspects to these skis, but be sure to get the kit in order to save money, otherwise. you'll have to purchase all of the installation gear seperately.

Product Description

The Curve XS Skis have a one-of-a-kind design that requires minimum steering effort. Variable geometry provides predictable performance even on the road. They are long-lasting and well-constructed while having a standard weight. These skis are popular among snocross riders and racers.

Features

  • Parabolic design
  • Wide footprint
  • Reduced tracking

Camoplast 711290001 Universal Touring Ski - Link

Camoplast 711290001 Universal Touring Ski
Camoplast 711290001 Universal Touring Ski

The Camoplast Universal Touring Ski is an excellent choice for lengthy days on the trail when you need to explore the wilderness to its full extent.

Backcountry skiing is one of my favorite pastimes, and having a snowmobile expands your options enormously. Snowmobile ski touring is one of the most enjoyable activities, and these skis will give you one of the greatest settings.

They are durable and light, enabling you to go to far-flung paths and explore uncharted territory without feeling weighed down. Because of the sturdy structure, you can expect dependable performance that can withstand battering.

When it comes to manufacturing, the Camoplast Touring Ski is composed of a one-piece blow-molded design that has a significant improvement over the movable components and breakable bits that you may have encountered with your standard skis.

I wouldn't recommend using them on a racing or snocross configuration since they aren't really designed for cornering and speed performance. Despite the fact that they won't slow you down, their design and performance are geared at the wilderness rather on the trail.

Additionally, although the plastic has a durable construction, it is susceptible to chipping and scratching if it comes into contact with a stump or rock. This will have no effect on performance, but it may have an adverse effect on long-term durability.

Product Description

Camoplast Universal Touring Ski is an excellent choice for lengthy days on the trail. Because of the sturdy structure, you can expect dependable performance. Although the plastic has a durable construction, it is susceptible to chipping and scratching if it comes into contact with a stump or rock.

Features

  • One-piece construction
  • Durable design

Snowmobile Ski Buying Guide

In this write-up, we'll provide you with some pointers on how to select the most appropriate snowmobile for your requirements. This will assist you in getting the best out of your purchase while preventing some of the potential pitfalls that people encounter when purchasing a motor sled or snowmobile.

Snowmobiles Are Classified Into Several Categories.

First, let's take a look at the different types of snowmobiles that are currently available for purchase. Each has a distinct function, which will, definitely, be a major consideration in your decision to purchase them.

Trail Snowmobiles

These snowmobiles are among the most adaptable types of snowmobiles. It is because they are easier to control, lighter, and less aggressive that they are considered to be among the best snowmobiles for beginners available. The disadvantage of trail sleds is that regular riders tend to outgrow them quickly, especially if they are looking for a sporty experience in riding.

Sport Trail Snowmobiles

When riders progress from trail snowmobiles to sport snowmobiles, they are frequently referred to as "graduates." These represent a step forward in terms of becoming more aggressive and sporty, thanks to improved suspension and acceleration. Horsepower will still be limited to somewhere around 80 horsepower, however, this will be more than sufficient for several intermediate riders. To their credit, sport trail snowmobiles have retained some of the lightweight features that make them ideal for first-time snowmobilers.

Performance Snowmobiles

Some of the best aggressive sports snowmobiles can be found in the high-performance category of the market. It's similar to driving a high-performance automobile in that they have smooth suspension and a lot of power. These high-performance snowmobiles are typically purchased by experienced riders who are looking for a thrill. A good deal of experience is required because the aggressive handling and power of a performance snowmobile are sometimes too much for newcomers to handle safely and effectively.

Touring Snowmobile

The snowmobiles for touring are likewise of the high-end sort, but they are designed for a completely different purpose. These are the Nissans of snowmobiles, with ride quality and comfort taking precedence above aggressiveness and performance. Those who want to ride for long periods of time will most likely invest in a touring snowmobile. Another thing to keep in mind concerning snowmobiles for touring is that they are often larger in size. It won't be able to turn on a dime or do other maneuvers with the same ease as you would find in a sporty snowmobile.

Utility Snowmobiles

Although the aforementioned varieties of snowmobiles are suitable for recreational use, utility motor snowmobiles are strictly for commercial use. The massive pickup trucks of the snowmobile world, replete with strong towing abilities, more durable frame construction, and a significant amount of power. This is also where you'll often find the greatest wide-track snowmobiles on the market. Wider tracks enable more grip on the snow surface and faster acceleration when moving in powder snow, which is advantageous. The other sorts of snowmobiles will most likely be more suited unless you have a special need for the utility snowmobile (for example, you routinely transport stuff). Snowmobiles classified as utility are among the most dependable of all types of snowmobiles.

Best Snowmobile Brands

Following that, let's start by looking at some of the greatest snowmobile manufacturers available. As is true with most riders, everyone has their own tastes. However, the brands listed below are the most well-known and trustworthy brands.

Yamaha

These snowmobiles are well-known for being very dependable, with one writer characterizing them as "among of the most adaptable machines now on the market. Yamaha manufactures sport, trail and utility snowmobiles, among other things. However, you won't be able to find any touring motor snowmobiles from this brand since they don't produce them.

Arctic Cat

This brand is yet another maker of high-performance snowmobiles. There is little question that their charm is in the $13,000 and price bracket, which positions them much above the normal sub-$10,000 Yamaha model. As a brand that caters to enthusiasts, Arctic Cat is typically thought to be a good fit. Although most people are familiar with Arctic Cat for its fast and furious snowmobiles, the brand also manufactures touring snowmobiles.

Polaris

This is another manufacturer for high-end sport snowmobiles, with most of their models costing more than $15,000 at the time of writing. This is a very aggressive and reliable snowmobile that is capable of tackling mountain terrain with ease for a reasonable purchase.

Ski-Doo

Ski-Doo is a well-known snowmobile manufacturer, and the company's name is often used to refer to all motorized sleds in common speech. On the basis of pricing, Ski-Doo is similar to Yamaha, with several popular models available for less than $10,000. Ski-Doo manufactures both off-road sport trail vehicles and off-road touring vehicles.

How to Select the Most Appropriate Snowmobile for Your Needs

You should now be familiar with the many kinds of snowmobiles available, as well as the most famous ones available on the market. After that, let's put everything together with a few pointers on how to choose among the numerous alternatives. While you're out shopping for a snowmobile, remember to look for the greatest helmet for your particular requirements as well. This page provides a comprehensive overview of the most common options.

Make a financial plan that includes insurance.

For those considering purchasing their first snowmobile outright, a budget of $10,000 is a reasonable starting point for planning your purchase. Yamaha and Ski-Doo, two of the most well-known snowmobile companies, both offer units in this price range, as previously noted.A good secondhand snowmobile will typically cost between $2,000 and $8,000, depending on its condition.

Don't forget to include insurance costs in your budget as well.

In order to obtain a more realistic picture of how your snowmobile purchase will influence your bottom line for each month, you should look for both the insurance and the snowmobile simultaneously.

Take the time to carefully consider your requirements.

In the case of a sport trail snowmobile, there's no purpose in purchasing one when what you truly need is the utility motor snowmobile that can transport wood. This is why the intended use of your sled is as crucial as the money you pay for it. In fact, by purchasing the greatest snowmobile for your requirements, you would save more money in the long term since it will work well for many years to come. Fortunately, this is not a difficult task. Snowmobile manufacturers create sleds that fall into one of many categories.

Check out the reviews on the internet.

On the internet, there is a thriving enthusiast community for snowmobiles. Platforms such as Hardcore Sledder, Snowmobile Forum, and DOOTalk are excellent places to learn more about snowmobiles. If you're a total novice, it would behoove you to join the discussion and learn about the models and brands that fans consider to be the best of the best. On the other hand, you should focus on the things that snowmobile aficionados despise since there's a valid reason for them to do so.

Understand the Engine Strokes

Snowmobile engines are available in two-stroke and four-stroke configurations. The movement of the piston when in an engine cycle is what makes the difference.

Which is preferable? There isn't truly an impartial answer to this question. In reality, this is a topic on which experts often disagree. Two-stroke engines are often more lightweight and powerful than four-stroke engines. Many manufacturers, however, are moving to larger four-stroke engines in order to comply with government efficiency rules.

If you're looking for a used and older model, you will want to pay close attention to the engine stroke as well.

Inspections Are Crucial

Inspection is highly recommended when purchasing a used snowmobile, particularly when purchasing a snowmobile for the first time. In certain areas, locating a mechanic who can examine your sled for you may be more difficult than, say, finding a car repair, based on where you reside. The time you invest in discovering an expert, on the other hand, will be worth it.

Tips for Choosing Your Snowmobile

Sledding season is right on the verge, thanks to the crisp days and darker nights. It doesn't matter if this is your first year of sledding or you're looking to upgrade to a more modern machine, understanding a few insider techniques may make locating a fantastic used sled much simpler.

1. Be realistic in your expectations of what you need.

When determining the size of the snowmobile you need, your budget, riding aptitude, and riding location are all key considerations. Calculate how much money you are willing to spend, and keep in mind that you'll need money for petrol, oil, and replacement components, among other things. As a result, creating a realistic budget is arguably the most crucial thing you should do right away. Personally, I advocate purchasing the most up-to-date sled you can afford while keeping within your budget; sleds continue to develop year after year, so upgrading to a new style will always help you better and love the sport more.

2. Select a brand.

Every manufacturer has several excellent sleds to offer. Inquire from your friends about their motorcycles and find out which dealers are close to you, then pay them a visit and ask any questions you may have. By doing so, you will have access to a wealth of terrific information and establish a wonderful working relationship with dealers able to assist you with parts or service in the future. They might even have some excellent pre-owned sleds for sale.

3. The overall appearance

If a sled seems to be in poor condition, check the body and tunnel for any unusual wraps or bends, which will indicate whether the vehicle has been impacted severely. Check the skis to make sure they aren't missing or worn carbides, and also inspect the spindles to make sure they do not have any unusual play in their rotation. Check the alignment of the A-arms and suspension to ensure that everything is in proper alignment.

The ability to rotate the track will enable you to check for worn clips or worn lugs, as well as to ensure that the sliders are in excellent working order. however, everything may be rectified, but only with money, it is important to keep your budget in mind while deciding whether or not to explore deeper or to walk away from a situation.

Snowmobile Ski FAQs

How do I Maintain My Skis?

Skis are often made of either plastic or metal materials. Since they are in charge of the snowmobile's turning and forward direction, you must ensure that they are in proper alignment with your snowmobile before using it. When you park your sled on a firm surface, you may verify the distance between the skis' back and front parts by rotating the handlebars completely straight and measuring the distance between them. You should consult your owner's handbook to establish the correct alignment measurement to use. If you believe that your skis are out of alignment, do not attempt to correct the problem yourself. You should seek guidance from a qualified expert.

What Should the Length of a Snowmobile Ski Be?

Snowmobile skis come in a variety of lengths, with no significant variation between them. The ones that are utilized for watercrossing, on the other hand, are often shorter. Choose wider skis for improved flotation, which are the greatest option for mountain snowmobiling since they provide more surface area for the snow to stick to. Snowmobile skis, on the other hand, are typically between 41 and 44 inches in length. Snowmobiles typically have a width ranging from six to eight inches in width. The weight fluctuates from four to seven pounds depending on the model.

Is there an advantage to using broader skis rather than narrow skis while racing?

If you like to ride in powdery conditions, a wider ski will undoubtedly be more comfortable for you to use. The broader skis give greater buoyancy since the weight is more evenly distributed across each ski. If you purchase bigger skis, you should look for models with squared edges, which will help you to receive a greater bite when turning in harder packed snow.

When should I replace the skis on my snowmobile?

It's not so much the skis themselves that you're concerned about maintaining, but you should still examine them on a regular basis. Keep your focus on the carbides on the skis, rather than the whole ski itself. It is necessary to replace the carbides after they have worn down to a point where they are flush with the host bar. Some individuals wait until they're practically falling apart before getting help, but this may be dangerous and result in hazardous treatment.

Buy on Walmart

C&A Pro Razor RZ Skis - Black 77020320 - Walmart Link

Raider Black All-Terrain replacement Skis (1 Pair) - Walmart Link

Curve 150-01014 Xs Leader Ski Kit W/4" Carbides - Walmart Link

Camoplast 711290001 Universal Touring Ski - Walmart Link

Ski-Doo New OEM Black Snowmobile Pilot DS-2 Ski Kit, 860201487 - Walmart Link

Curve 150-01004 Xs Ski Bottom Blue - Walmart Link

Extreme Max 5800.2000 Economy Snowmobile Dolly System - Red - Walmart Link

Buy on eBay

C&A Pro Razor RZ Skis - Black 77020320 - eBay Link

Raider Black All-Terrain replacement Skis (1 Pair) - eBay Link

Curve 150-01014 Xs Leader Ski Kit W/4" Carbides - eBay Link

Camoplast 711290001 Universal Touring Ski - eBay Link

Ski-Doo New OEM Black Snowmobile Pilot DS-2 Ski Kit, 860201487 - eBay Link

Curve 150-01004 Xs Ski Bottom Blue - eBay Link

Extreme Max 5800.2000 Economy Snowmobile Dolly System - Red - eBay Link

Conclusion for Snowmobile Ski Buyers

Conclusion for Snowmobile Ski Buyers
Conclusion for Snowmobile Ski Buyers

Since skis are critical components of the snowmobile, you cannot just purchase any ski that you see in a shop or on an e-commerce website. To ride effectively, you must know which pair of boots to wear depending on your style of riding and the normal snow path of the route that you will be riding.

It is critical to understand that there are many distinct types of snowmobile skis. That is why you must get the ones that are appropriate for your own style.

Despite the fact that this review contains details on some of the greatest ones available on the market, you cannot choose just one of them. The goods included in this review are distinct kinds of skis that are designed to be used with certain snow conditions and riding styles in mind. As a result, you should be familiar with the characteristics of the ones you need.

I've changed a lot of snowmobile skis over the years, and although there are a lot of nice alternatives available, the C&A Pro Razor RZ Skis are my personal favorite among the bunch.

They are a substantial enhancement that may significantly improve your sled's performance in a variety of snow situations. This is achieved via improved stability, a unique edge design for control, and penetrating powder.

About Frank V. Persall

Frank is originally from the UK, but he has a passion for skiing that knows no bounds. He has made it his life's mission to visit the best ski resorts across the USA and the World. Frank loves spending time with his wife and three children on ski slopes, as they all share his love for the activity.

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