As each snowmobile season approaches, I always meet the snowmobile specialist for seven years at Magasin Latulippe in Quebec, Claude Desrochers. I ask him to give me some interesting suggestions for snowmobilers among all the products he offers. This season, clothing takes center stage.
The Scott company presents this suit called Back X Dryo in two models for men and women. It was designed for off-piste enthusiasts. According to the expert, it is perfect for those who ride snowmobiles in the mountains and do all sorts of stunts. Scott’s Dryosphere membrane is very breathable. The outer layers are sealed and the women’s model has a stretch insert for the back. Four zippers, two at the front and two at the back, provide direct ventilation during activities. The straps are removable. ($479.95)
Photo provided by Karl Tremblay
The Pèlerin heated jacket offers three intensity levels. Activation can be done manually or via Bluetooth. The application is a brand new system coming onto the market this year. The interior is made of fleece to keep you warm if you ever run out of power in the rechargeable batteries. The top of the jacket, chest and back are heated. ($229.95). Battery life is eight hours when used at minimum temperature.
Photo provided by Karl Tremblay
FXR’s new Ice Pro two-piece model is ideal for trappers, snowmobilers and ice fishermen. The garment is waterproof, has a long coat and is equipped with the FAT system, which allows you to swim for up to two hours if you fall into the water. It is definitely not a life jacket (PFD). When we get out of the water, the fabrics keep us warm. It is well ventilated on every side. The pants have neoprene knee padding that allows for hours of kneeling. This system is removable. (Coat $459.95 and Pants $429.99)
Photo provided by Karl Tremblay
Quebec manufacturer Choko launches this season with its Neutron one-piece suit, equipped with the Floataid membrane that allows you to float if you ever fall into the water. This garment is waterproof and blocks the wind. The Teflon treated fabric is very soft. The seat is lined with fleece. The knees are lined to provide more warmth and block the wind, which is the case with the Storm leggings. There are also four zippers for ventilation. (Men $519).
The Whisper women’s model is made from 320 denier Teflon nylon. He is also floataid. When you come out of the water, it is excreted through the seat of your pants, making you feel lighter and lighter. The women’s model is equipped with a zipper at the hip, which allows you to go to the toilet without having to take off the entire overalls. (Women: $619)
Photo provided by Karl Tremblay
Pèlerin heated socks warm the sole of the foot, under the toes and on the top of the foot. These socks are made from 35% merino wool, which keeps feet dry. There are three intensity levels: low, which can last for 12 hours, medium, which can last for 6 hours, and high, which can last for four hours. The batteries are rechargeable. You arrive with the Bluetooth application. You need to adjust one floor at a time. ($189.95)
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The Black Bear heating pad is a very interesting option to keep you warm when you do outdoor activities such as snowmobiling, ice fishing or participate in outdoor sports competitions. The seat is very light thanks to the USB port and three intensity levels. It offers up to eight hours of battery life, depending on how hot you want it to be. ($129.95)
Photo provided by Karl Tremblay