Snowmobiling is one of the most thrilling winter activities. Snowmobiling enthusiasts understand the importance of proper gear for comfort, protection, and performance on the trails. Battling freezing temperatures, bitter winds, snow and water makes staying comfortable (and safe) a challenging task. Without the right gear, a trip can end up not just dangerous but potentially deadly. Due to these factors, rider apparel can be almost as important as the snowmobile itself. When it comes to snowmobiling apparel, monosuits have gained popularity as a convenient and practical alternative to the traditional jacket and bib combination.
In this article we trudge waist deep through the world of snowmobile one-piecers, explaining what they are, what to look out for, and the pros and cons versus a two-piece system.
What is a Snowmobile Monosuit?
Firstly, what exactly is a monosuit? A snowmobile one-piece suit is an outer layer snowmobile suit made up in one piece, or onesie, or monosuit. A monosuit is a one-piece snowmobile suit that combines a jacket and pants into a single garment. It is designed to be a single encapsulating unit, replacing the need for separate jacket and pants (or bib). This design provides complete coverage and eliminates the need for separate jacket and bibs.
Ah, the monosuit debate. Chances are, you're curious about the advantages of a one-piece snowsuit versus a traditional jacket and pants. The most obvious benefit is convenience. With a monosuit, you only have to worry about one outer layer to keep you dry out on the trails. And while a two-piece suit can protect you from the elements, a one-piece version will better protect the torso.
In comparison to separate jacket and pants, the onesie tends to offer a more comfortable fit as constriction points and overlap for fitting to the body are removed. Without this overlap there is also less room for cold air, snow and water to find its way to the body.
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One of the drawbacks of the single suit is that removal of the clothing can be more difficult; where if you were to enter an establishment, a single jacket would be easy to remove. You can be forgiven for thinking “it’s a snow onesie, how complicated can it get?”.
Not all snowmobile monosuits are created equal, and there are different designs and factors to consider when determining which monosuit you should buy. Snowmobile one-piecers come either insulated, or without insulation. The non-insulated one-piecers (also known as a “shell”) provide protection from the cold wind, snow and water.
Key Features to Consider
One-piece snowmobile suits come either in two or three layer construction, depending on whether insulation is built into the suit. The outer shell is designed to be durable given the nature of riding through the wilderness. On the underside of the suit is an inner liner, usually made of breathable, moisture-wicking material for rider comfort and heat management.
Fabric Connection and Openings
The fabric connection points and openings are areas susceptible not only the wear but also as a point of entry for cold air and water.
Zippers
Zippers can be found all over the suit; whether it be the main line to zip yourself in, for ventilation, pocket access or drop seats for bathroom practicality.
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Ventilation
Ventilation points come in handy when needing to cool the body down or dissipate excess moisture from within the suit.
Pockets
Pockets form a basic utilitarian function; being able to stash away your things. When out in the wilderness you may have more that you wish to carry on person than just the old “wallet, phone, keys”.
Drop Seats
Drop seats are a long zipper setup running side to side along the rear of the suit to improve accessibility and practicality for bathroom breaks.
Internal Suspenders
Even though the snowmobile onesie removes the risk of snow intake through the waist area, we still have the wrist and ankle regions to contend with. Most snowmobile one-piece suits now come with internal suspenders incorporated into them. Beyond the fit, the suspenders also have the additional benefit of being able to remove the top half of the onesie without the entire thing falling to the floor.
Snowmobiling is a physically engaging activity. Even though you don’t have waist sizes to contend with; you still want a snowmobile onesie that fits you correctly. A one-piece snowmobile suit that is too large will become baggy and cumbersome.
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Prices vary from company to company, one-piecer to one-piecer. As a whole, snowmobiling is not exactly a sport for the tight pocket.
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Monosuit vs. Two-Piece Suit: A Comparison
One of the most common debates among riders is whether a one-piece or a two-piece suit is the better choice. There’s no universal answer in the snowmobile suit debate. The best option depends on how and where you ride. The good news is that modern gear offers excellent choices in both categories, today’s technology ensures you’ll stay warm, dry, and ready for the ride ahead. Before making your decision, consider your riding style, budget, and local weather.
Both options are widely available, and you can find snowmobile suits for sale at most gear shops and online retailers.
Here's a comparison of the two types of suits:
| Feature | Monosuit (One-Piece) | Two-Piece Suit |
|---|---|---|
| Seamless Protection | With no separation at the waist, an insulated suit prevents snow, wind, and cold air from sneaking in. | The biggest downside is the gap between jacket and pants, allowing for potential snow intrusion. |
| Temperature Control | Limited flexibility-built as an all-in-one system. One drawback is reduced flexibility when adjusting to changing weather. | More relaxed and adaptable. Layering Options: you can adjust your outfit easily. Very convenient-can take off the jacket indoors while keeping pants on. |
| Style | Sleek, athletic, and performance-driven. | More relaxed and adaptable. |
| Mobility | The benefits of a one-piece snowmobile suit are it offers free movement and unmatched comfort in regulating body temperature. | N/A |
| Innovative Solutions | ||
| FXR has designed a two-piece suit that can be connected to give you the full advantage of a one-piece suit. The FXR M Elevation Suit features a Dri-Link design that connects the top of the suit with the bottom to create a seal between the two. Dri-Link also acts as an expansion gusset to allow short or tall riders to adjust the waist height and inseam to their preference. The editors of SnoWest tested the M Elevation last winter and loved the versatility it offers, which is really nice in mountain riding where temperature ranges tend to be pretty wide due to the inversions found at certain elevations. | ||
Popular Monosuit Models
509, a leading brand in the industry, offers a range of monosuits with distinct features and suitability for various snowmobiling adventures.
509 Allied Mono Suit
509's Allied Mono Suits are available in both shell and insulated styles. These suits utilize 5Tech and Cordura materials, providing excellent durability and weather protection. Both the insulated and shell styles are recommended for backcountry and crossover snowmobiling. The insulated style is particularly suitable for crossover terrain as it offers less airflow, providing added warmth in colder conditions. On the other hand, the shell style is recommended for mountainous environments, offering a mid-flow design that balances airflow and protection. The Allied insulated style incorporates 3M Thinsulate Insulation for enhanced warmth, while the shell style does not feature insulation.
The newly-updated 509 Allied Mono Suit Shell is designed to excel in harsh weather conditions. With fully seam-taped, waterproof/breathable fabric and burly, triple-stitched Cordura 300D polyester construction, it offers exceptional weather protection.
509 Stoke Mono Suit
The Stoke Mono Suit is specifically designed for backcountry riding and mountain terrain. This mono suit is available only in the shell style and utilizes the 5Tech Pro material with Fusion Welding and YKK zippers. It offers high to mid flow, providing optimal performance in various snowmobiling environments.
The 509 Stoke Mono Suit Shell offers complete coverage and protection from snow, wind, and other weather conditions. Its waterproof and breathable construction, fusion welded seams, and Internal Stoke Harness ensure optimal comfort, control, and convenience.
509 Either Mono Suit
The Either Mono Suit is recommended for backcountry riding and is available only in the shell style. It features Sympatex material and YKK zippers. The Either Mono Suit is designed for big days in extreme environments. It incorporates the waterproof, windproof, and highly breathable Sympatex membrane, ensuring comfort even in the harshest conditions. Venting, built-in knee protection, waterproof zips, and ample pockets are among the many features of this versatile mono suit.
509 Youth Rocco Mono Suit
The 509 Youth Rocco Mono Suit is the perfect companion for young snow riders pursuing their snow riding dreams. With its weatherproof outer shell, 200 grams of synthetic insulation (with additional insulation in the seat), and velcro cuff closures, this suit is designed to provide ultimate comfort and protection whether sledding, participating in snowsports, or simply playing in the snow. The suit also offers easy velcro hem closures, lycra wrist closures, a removable full coverage hood, a main zipper for easy entrance, leg opening zippers, snow gaiters, and stirrup to hold pant legs down (removable if not needed), reflective hits for visibility, and a kill switch D-ring for added safety.
Additional Tips for Choosing and Using a Monosuit
- Layering: The layers that you wear beneath your onesie can be almost as important as the suit itself. Good quality layers (such as merino) will help to keep you warm and wick away sweat so that you do not become uncomfortably saturated in the suit.
- Gear Maintenance: Making sure the rest of your gear; helmet, goggles, face mask or neck warmer, gloves, socks and boots are all in good working order and tailored to riding conditions will massively improve your overall riding experience. Wet boots and thinning gloves make for not only an uncomfortable time, but can become a health and safety risk.
- Visibility: Be seen with monosuits with reflective detailing, as well as bold color combinations from brands like FXR, Klim and TOBE snowmobile gear.
- Durability: One-piece snow suits versus two-piece constructions allows for maximum durability, with seams sealed in critical areas, and choosing a men's snowmobile suit with reliable waterproofing, lining and vent system keep you comfortable.
Ultimately, a one-piece snowmobile suit gives you the best chance of keeping warm, dry and comfortable out in the field; and is always a worthy investment.
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