SnoWest November 2025 by Harris Publishing

THE WORLD’S LIGHTEST MOUNTAIN SLED

Hopovers. Bowties. Re-entries. Steep lines. It all gets better when the sled’s lighter.

Photo: Tristin Ironi

ROTAX 850 E-TEC TURBO R

2026 SKI-DOO SUMMIT ADRENALINE WITH EDGE PACKAGE

Built with the most in-demand deep snow features, the Summit Adrenaline with Edge Package delivers a powerful punch to winter’s deepest days. Based on the supremely agile REV Gen 5 platform with an available Rotax 850 E-TEC Turbo R engine, it brings a ﬂawless 180 factory-backed HP to the party with exclusive features to dominate the mountains and the competition.

HP

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HARRIS PUBLISHING, INC.

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SNOWEST TEST STAFF

RYAN HARRIS - STEVE JANES

RHETT CLARK - JUSTIN STEVENS

BRUCE KERBS - BROC GENTA

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SNOWDUST

THE ANDREAS BERGMARK MACHINE

SNOWEST TEST RIDER RHETT CLARK WORKS THE 2026 LYNX SHREDDER RE FOR THE CAMERAS. THIS MODEL HAS BECOME THE GO-TO BIG-AIR BACKCOUNTRY SLED FOR THE SPORT’S TOP ATHLETES SUCH AS ANDREAS BERGMARK. GOOGLE HIM.

RIDERS: RHETT CLARK

PHOTO: TRISTIN IRONI FOR SNOWEST

BOOST BATTLE

COMPARING THE BIG DOGS

BY STEVE JANES

When you take the biggest, baddest and most powerful mountain snowmobiles and put them head-to-head in the steepest terrain and deepest snow, the question isn’t “Who’s going to come out on top?” but rather “Who’s going to come out on top the fastest?”

Both the Polaris Boost and the Ski-Doo Turbo have the capability of going anywhere snow can stick to a mountain. Both generate 180 horsepower at elevation. Both pull hard … and keep on pulling. Both generate track speeds that will propel you through the deepest, lightest snow. And both

require the very top-tier rider to manage the speed and power of the machine.

The Boost is a Patriot 840 cc liquid-cooled engine with electronic Cleanfire injection and electric start. The Turbo R is a Rotax 849 cc liquid-cooled engine with E-TEC direct injection and SHOT starter.

Although the power curve on both models can climb to vertical very quickly, the Boost tends to be a mid-high rpm with a broad torque curve while the Turbo R is a quickspooling and snappy power curve.

STEVE MARTIN

When it comes to keeping the power on the snow, the Boost has two models—the Pro RMK and the RMK Khaos—that deliver different handling characteristics. The Pro RMK Boost tends to stay more planted in the snow delivering forward thrust while the RMK Khaos Boost is more playful with the front end coming up quickly and allowing you to pivot much faster.

mountain lineups.

For Ski-Doo, the Summit X Turbo R is designed to stay level in the snow while the Expert is more for technical riding and tighter turning.

Ski-doo features both 154 and 165 tracks with 3-inch lugs.

Polaris offers 155 or 165 tracks with either 2.75- or 3.25-inch lugs Polaris sleds tend to be about 10-15 pounds lighter than the Ski-Doos, depending on the models, which gives them the edge in power-to-weight. However, the Turbo R offers a cleaner bottom-end engagement which actually makes the Summits feel lighter in the snow.

Polaris

TEST RIDER INSIGHTS

Ryan Harris—It boils down to this: Turbo R has more mid range and quicker throttle response. Patriot Boost RMKs are still a lighter sled though.

Brock Genta—The new Pro Boost offers the new Handlebar Bags on the LE that are super handy and don’t get in your way. The graphics also pop on the snow and look really good. Another upgrade this year are the front and rear bumpers. Mechanically it’s the same as the 2025 so you know it will perform on the snow.

Justin Stevens—Polaris does’t have a lot of engine changes. But when it comes to the Boost, every year they keep calibrating and making the engine run a little bit better. The 325 track in the heavier snow tends to keep the Pro more grounded. The Khaos wants to lift the skis a little bit more. So the Pro is a little bit more predictable and easier to ride. When I ride the Ski-Doo Expert Turbo R with the 32-inch front end, I realize how much I really like that sled. The way that it tracks down through the

trees is super nimble. You can stay fairly rider neutral and make the turns. At first, I was leery of the narrow front end thinking that it may be pitching me left and right. I was surprised how well it handled. I think the Boost holds the line a little better than the Turbo R. However, the Turbo R engages really hard on the bottom end. Even though Polaris has made a lot of improvements on how the Boost engages, I would say the Turbo R is still quicker. The Ski-Doo feels lighter and comes up very quickly. The

Polaris feels just a little more grounded. This changes a bit between the Pro and the Khaos. The Khaos is a little bit more playful. When it comes to overall power, the Turbo R still has a little bit quicker power delivery. I don’t know if that’s related to horsepower or just bottom end. For going through deep snow, I think the Polaris stays on top of the snow a little bit better. I think it has to do with the approach angle—it stays flatter and comes out of the snow quicker.

TEST RIDER INSIGHTS

Bruce Kerbs—It’s hard to compete with the Boost when it’s all on. That extra power can get you through a lot of tough spots. The Polaris track does get up on the snow a little better. But with the Expert’s new front end, it’s gotten a lot more comparable for getting up on the snow. When it comes to the turbo engines, The Turbo R definitely pulls harder. It just feels better on the bottom end when the turbo starts engaging over the Polaris Boost. I do like the Polaris skis better than the Ski-Doo skis. I think that’s something most people don’t pay a lot of attention to but you can feel the Polaris ski holding its line just a little better. Over all, the Polaris does hold its line better once you get it up, but the Expert isn’t that far behind it. I like the 3.25 track on the Polaris better than the Ski-Doo’s track, but I think they’re both great sleds and I think anybody would be happy with either sled.

Rhett Clark—The Boost’s power comes on a little later than the Turbo R as far as when it starts to spool up and begins to pull hard. The bottom end of the Polaris Boost feels very similar to the Patriot 850 until you get to the higher rpm when the Boost starts spooling up. I really prefer the Summit Turbo R. I just like how the turbo kicks in quicker on the Turbo R. It seems like it’s a little more rideable down low with the bottom end power and it delivers linear power—it is spread out throughout the powerband. It just seems more usable and it’s always there when you need it. In the gnarly stuff, I would prefer the Expert Turbo R. When I rode down through a nasty canyon, the Turbo R with the 165 track was just easier to ride. The longer track was just a bigger footprint on the snow so you can stay on top and pick your lines easier. d

RYAN HARRIS

protect your winter adventures

WITH SNOWMOBILE INSURANCE

As winter sports enthusiasts, we eagerly await the snowy season for the adrenaline rush of snowmobiling. The feeling of the cold air rushing past, the sight of the unspoiled white landscapes—it’s a winter wonderland waiting to be discovered. Amidst the excitement and adventure, it’s essential to ensure that you’re properly protected with snowmobile insurance. Here are a few reasons why snowmobile insurance is a wise decision.

Peace of mind

The most signi cant bene t of snowmobile insurance is the peace of mind it brings. Knowing that you’re covered in case of unexpected events allows you to fully immerse yourself in the winter experience. Focus on the breathtaking landscapes and the adrenaline rush of riding, without the nagging worry of potential nancial setbacks.

Protect your snowmobile

Your snowmobile is a valuable investment that deserves protection. With comprehensive and collision coverage, you can rest easy knowing that repair or replacement costs will be covered in the event of certain damage, theft, or accidents. Keep your ride in top condition without breaking the bank.

Be prepared for the unexpected Accidents can happen, even to the most experienced riders. Snowmobile insurance offers liability coverage, protecting you from the nancial implications of thirdparty injuries or property damage, up to speci ed limits. You can relax and have fun in your winter activities, whether riding on trails or exploring the backcountry, when you have the right protection.

Homeowners insurance

Homeowners insurance may provide some coverage for your snowmobile, but it often has limitations and can have a more costly deductible. A dedicated snowmobile insurance policy ensures that you’re adequately covered speci c to your needs.

Family and friends

Policies can provide off-premises and permissive use, allowing you to con dently have friends and family drive your snowmobile occasionally. You also have the option to add minor operators as drivers, so you can rest easy knowing that you have the right protection if something goes wrong.

Personalized protection

Since no two snowmobilers are alike, snowmobile insurance lets you choose your own coverage options. You can customize your policy to include things like accessory and custom parts/equipment coverage to provide protection if you’ve made enhancements or upgrades to your snowmobile. This way, you can be sure that your insurance plan matches your speci c needs.

Con dence for nancing

Obtaining insurance coverage for your snowmobile is often a requirement from lenders if you have nanced its purchase. Not only does snowmobile insurance ful ll this obligation, but it also provides peace of mind by safeguarding your nancial interests.

Have fun in the winter with con dence, knowing that you have the proper coverage for your situation. Invest in snowmobile insurance and ensure that your thrilling escapades remain just that—thrilling, safe, and unforgettable. Let the snow-covered landscapes be your playground, and let insurance be your safety net.

Scan to get a quote in as little as 3 minutes

to learn more.

SCOTT RHODES

BEST FEATURES BUY EARLY FOR

SLEDS

BY STEVE JANES

We know it’s a little late in the game to be promoting the Polaris snow check models. After all, if you didn’t put your order in last spring then for the most part your only options are either an in-season model with fewer bells and whistles, or hope that someone may have backed out of his snow check and the dealer can get you hooked up with an Limited Edition (LE) model.

But what are the actual differences between a LE (spring only) and an in-season model?

The LE models are the Pro RMK 850 Boost, RMK Khaos 850 Boost and the 9R in both the Pro and Khaos version. If you want the big horsepower, you have to buy early. The LE models also feature the Burandt Edition front bumper and rear HD bumper plus the quick-attach handlebar bags. You also get the Walker Evans Velocity shock package and the 155-inch track with the choice of either the Series 8 275 track or Series 9 325 track. Finally, the LE models come with the 7S digital display which features all

the instrumentation found on a standard gauge plus mapping and rider tracking.

The LE also comes with a very cool chrome graphic package that sets the snowmobile apart on the snow.

If you didn’t place an order, the in-season models include the Pro RMK 850 and RMK Khaos 850 with either the 155 or 165 tracks. You can also get the option of either the 2.75 or 3.25 lugs.

Also available is the RMK SP, which comes in either the

650 or 850 Patriot engine and 155 track length. The SP is a value buy and comes with Polaris IFP shocks. It has a fulllength tapered tunnel.

Although some of the added features can be added to the in-season models, often you are limited to what the dealer has in stock, which can be in very limited supply. Also, not all dealers will stock a full line of in-season models so you may find the pickings pretty slim the later you wait into the season.

TEST RIDER INSIGHTS

A LOOK AT WHAT THE SNOWEST TEST CREW HAD TO SAY ABOUT THE POLARIS MODELS

Bruce Kerbs—The one thing that stands out to me on the 9R LE is the engine. The 9R is a great running sled. The power is consistent from idle clear to the top end. It’s a consistent power. It pulls hard out of the gate and just keeps pulling. The backshift on it is great. In the trees, when you need to let off and then get back on it the power is there. Polaris has done really well with the engine. The 9R handles well in the powder and through the trees. I really like the 3.25 track on not only the 9R but all the Polaris RMK sleds with big horsepower. Polaris has done a good job with the track pattern making it

a great all-around track in most snow conditions. I feel like it gets you up on top of the snow and keeps you there even when you think you’re about stuck. The engine combined with the track gives you a great combination of power and flotation. The look of the new LEs with the chrome graphics, particularly with the orange and blue, is a great look for this year. It really stands out on the snow. Polaris has also added some accessories that will be standard on the LE. The quickattach handlebar bag is really convenient. You can put your goggles, gloves, water and whatever you might need on the

handlebars so not everything is riding on your back. The front bumpers are really durable. We’ve had to go over some of the smaller trees and the bumper just bends them over. They also complement the chrome look in the graphics.

Justin Stevens—It was nice to be riding the Pro RMK 9R with the 325 track in the heavier snow. With all that power, the Pro tends to stay a little more grounded. The Khaos 9R wants to lift the skis a little bit more. The Pro would maybe be a little bit more predictable and easier to ride. However,

for most riding I prefer the Khaos 9R over the Pro 9R. When I was on the naturally aspirated Khaos 850, we were shooting up through some trees and I was following another rider. I was moving through the trees and it kind of reminded me about a few years ago when that was all we were riding. I was having a lot of fun right until the rider in front of me stopped, which forced me to stop, and then he took off again and roosted me pretty good. And he also left me a 6-foot trench to deal with. That’s when I realized why I like the Boost.

NELS EIDE

INSIDER OPINIONS

Julie-Ann Chapman—If experienced women riders ask what is a good sled for them to buy, I recommend the Polaris Khaos 165 with the 2.75-inch track. This snowmobile will give them the confidence with the throttle and is easy to maneuver even with the longer track.

For families looking to get started into the sport, I recommend the Polaris Indy or Indy SP, depending on the age of their kids. The SP offers a little more stability than the mountain models but can still maneuver and get around in deeper off camber terrain. And if you’re on a budget, the RMK SP is the perfect mountain sled at a budget price. But you do take a bit of a cut on shock performance.

Dan Adams—A day out on the snow with family is a special day. I’d say those days are more about fun and making sure everyone in the group has a sled that they can handle without too much intimidation. The RMK 850 or 9R with the 155 2.75 track fits this category in my opinion. These sleds have all the right features and can be outfitted with lots of storage options for family get-togethers.

Buying a sled today is all about deciding what type of riding you are ultimately looking forward to. When on a budget, the RMK 850 155 or 165 is a great way to get a highly capable mountain sled that’s typically way under the cost of the 9Rs or Boost sleds. I often tell people that are

looking to buy their first sled to find something that fits their budget and will get them out on the snow. As they gain confidence in their riding, upgrading their existing sled or trading up is always an option. Remember that it doesn’t have to be the most expensive sled on the hill to have fun; get out there and just ride.

Chris Burandt—If I’m going on a fun family chill ride, I’m bringing out some Old Iron. My 1997 Indy 700 RMK with SLP everything and mechanical reverse is my go-to family day ride sled.

It’s so cool to see both Polaris and Ski-Doo with entry level mountain sleds that are very capable and affordable. The Polaris 850 SP 155 is a mega deal and very capable. On the used side of things, the Axys chassis even to this day still remains a viable option in the mountains. However, with just a little bit more budget you can step into the Matryx chassis and really get a sled that’s ready to take on anything the mountain throws at you.

Matt Entz—With a limited budget, I’m looking for either a holdover or very gently-used Polaris 850 PRO RMK 155. That setup doesn’t get the proper credit with the other ‘Factory Mod’ sleds available. But it’s still super capable and fun to ride. d

VS. HCR FREERIDE TAKING AIM AT THE BEST

BY STEVE JANES

When Arctic Cat announced the addition of its 2026 HCR models, our first thoughts were whether a first-year snowmobile could compete with a veteran sled—the SkiDoo Freeride—in the technical performance riding division of the mountain market.

This is the class where big drops and long jumps create viral footage for social media. For a snowmobile in this category, it is necessary to have enough power to get you to the top of the mountain, enough track to take you through deep snow and enough suspension to take the big hits without unloading the rider.

It’s the top-end mountain version of the crossover sled.

The Freeride is arguably the king of this class. However, Cat set its sights high by developing a snowmobile that takes some of the best features from the M 858 Sno Pro and adding a twin-rail rear suspension with Coil-over Fox QS3 shocks on a 154x2.6-inch PowderClaw track. Throw in a Catalyst chassis and vertical steering post and you have a snowmobile that is quick to react, holds a tight sidehill and is easy to maneuver in deep snow.

However, the Freeride is built around the Rev Gen5 chassis with rack steering and the rigid tMotion XT rear skid. It comes with KYB Pro shocks and track options of 146, 154 or 165 PowderMax with either 2.5-inch or 3-inch

lugs. It also offers a power package option of either the 850 E-TEC engine or the Turbo R.

The HCR is better designed to attack a slope while the Freeride can either overpower it with the Turbo R or attack it with its naturally aspirated 850 engine. If you are comparing the Cat 858 with a 154x2.6-inch track against the Ski-Doo 850 with the 154x2.5-inch track, then the HCR has a slight advantage in both power and traction. However, the Freeride 146x2.5-inch will have an advantage in quicker, tighter turning, the Freeride 154x3 or 165x3 will have the advantage in the steep slopes and deep snow and the Freeride Turbo R will have the advantage with any track configuration.

The HCR strengths are with its suspension geometry and shocks for attacking a hardpack or chewed up slope. Its heavy-duty twin rail rear skid is built for high-G maneuvers.

The Freeride strengths are with the Turbo R option where it has the power advantage in any terrain. With the track options it has either the traction of the 3-inch lugs or the tighter turning ability with the 146. And it has lost a little weight to improve its handling and quickness.

It’s going to be interesting to see how the HCR competes with the Freeride this coming season. But one thing is for sure, Cat has let the mountain market know that it’s here to compete in all aspects of technical terrain riding.

TEST RIDER INSIGHTS

A LOOK AT WHAT THE SNOWEST TEST CREW HAD

TO SAY ABOUT THE FREERIDE VS. THE HCR

Bruce Kerbs—Although I didn’t get a chance to ride the 2026 HCR at the same time as the 2026 Freeride, and the snow conditions were totally different, I did get a feel for how the HCR handled. And I’m very familiar with how the Freeride handles in similar snow conditions. The HCR isn’t as easy to get up on its side as the M 858, but once there it holds an edge better. It sticks to the sidehill and allows you to pick your line a little easier. The Freeride also holds its line better with the tMotion XT with rigid rear arm rear suspension. The HCR twin

rail suspension feels very durable on the jumps. But I think it comes down to Ski-Doo having the advantage with both the Turbo R and the 3-inch lugs in deep snow. The HCR is overall more comfortable to ride—I think it’s easier to ride than the Freeride. The chassis feels lighter than the Freeride. With the aspirated engines, both are fairly similar in power. I thought the Freeride was clutched better, perhaps more refined because it’s been around longer. I do believe that everything Cat needs to improve or show more attention to they are doing. d

PREMIUM PRICE FOR PREMIUM PACKAGE

BY STEVE JANES

Although Ski-Doo certainly rewards their loyal customers who order their products during the spring, the company also offers quality in-season models with premium options at affordable prices for those who wait until fall before making their purchasing decisions.

Even the impressive Rotax Turbo R engine is available in the fall. However, there are still a few incentives on the spring-only models which make it much more attractive to place the order earlier rather than later.

First on our list is the weight savings that come with the spring-only models—the Summit X and Expert. The X has the most weight loss with 14 pounds trimmed off the already light-

est sled in Ski-Doo’s mountain arsenal. Much of this loss came from a super-short tunnel built with thinner aluminum and a shorter heat exchanger. Not only do you lose weight, but you eliminate areas for snow buildup.

The Summit X also comes with a coil-over rear shock on the tMotion suspension and new forged aluminum upper A-arms on the RAS 3 front suspension.

The Expert’s weight stayed about the same but added the new Twin link steering and 32-inch front end which makes it handle incredible in tight maneuvering. Not only does the narrow front allow the Expert to cling to the steepest sidehill bet-

ter, but the new steering system also eliminates slop (wiggles) in the steering, making it feel much more stable going down the trail, even with the narrow ski stance.

The Expert also uses PowderMax and Untra-Light fullrod track on the 155 models which are designed to be more aggressive in deep snow and technical riding on the rigid arm t-Motion X rear skid

The in-season models are the Summit Adrenaline Edge and the Adrenaline. The Adrenaline Edge comes with the pivot arm t-Motion X rear skid and is available with either the Rotax 850 E-TEC or Turbo R engine. It has the standard 34-inch front end,

and it features the short tunnel for better deep-snow capability.

The Adrenaline comes with the t-Motion rear skid and is available with either the Rotax 850 E-TEC or 600R E-Tec engines.

With the spring-only models, you get the optimum technical performance setup for aggressive deep-snow riding. With the in-season models you basically get what’s setting in the dealer showroom … and those models are limited so you need to be shopping early in the fall.

Either way, you will be getting a quality snowmobile that has been proven to be reliable and capable of deep snow conditions. The choice is yours. You can’t go wrong.

STEVE JANES

STEVE MARTIN

RIDER IMPRESSIONS

A

LOOK AT WHAT THE

SNOWEST TEST CREW HAD TO SAY ABOUT SUMMIT X VS ADRENALINE

Bruce Kerbs—The shorter tunnel and shorter cooler is a good addition. The Summits have lost some of the weight and the shorter tunnel definitely helps you when you’re climbing and are about stuck. It helps you to get out of the hole a little better

Justin Stevens—Ski-Doo has changed pretty much everything with the new front end on the spring-only Expert. The linkage is changed, the spindles are changed, the ski is specific for the S32 front end, so it’s hard to pinpoint what single element is the best. Compared to last year’s Expert, with all the new changes I thought there would be a learning curve in figuring out how this sled was going to handle. I thought it would be really tough to ride a 32-inch front end. But to be honest, I think it is actually easier

to ride than the 34-inch front end. I don’t think that has to do as much with the width as it does with the geometry and skis—everything Ski-Doo has done to the front end to make it rideable.

Rhett Clark—I’d say the spring-only Expert with the 32-inch front end and Twin link steering is more for an advanced rider who wants to take the sled into steeper, more technical terrain. The rear skid doesn’t react as quickly as the tMotion skid so it’s just more predictable in handling. You can pick a line easier and hold that line. We just came down a steep slope through the trees where you have to hold your edge and the Expert does it much easier than any other Ski-Doo model.

BRADY

INSIDER

Tony Jenkins— have an extremely limited budget, perhaps the one you should consider is the 2026 Ski-Doo Summit Edge 850 154 with 2.5 lugs. This snowmobile is a very capable machine. Also, Ski-Doo is the leader in resale values for used machines.

Jay Mentaberry —My first advice would be if you’re looking at the snowmobile market, get that new sled! The bank

has a bunch of money. LOL. I guess it depends on how limited your budget is, but I still would probably recommend either a nice used Summit X, Expert or Freeride. If you’re new to the sport and have limited funds, buy anything that gets you out on the snow d

MATHIEU HAMEL-GAGNON

A change in the weather can be beneficial, especially for superstitious people. The hot 90-degree days during past Hay Days events have typically led to down snow years the last few seasons. With the early September event being void of scorching sun rays this year, maybe it’s a sign that great snow is headed our way. Or maybe it just meant attendees and exhibitors had to be on their toes during an unseasonably cool weekend while dodging rain bursts and gusts of wind.

Despite hot summer-like temperatures, Hay Days is known as the official kickoff to the snow season. Yet in recent years, at least in most regions, snow hasn’t followed…at least not in ways snowmobilers dream of.

Hay Days 2025 weather was a little different, but as thousands converged on a massive field near North Branch, Minn., those dirt fields quickly transitioned to mud. However, the

cooler weather did seem to help the mindset of those looking for cold weather gear.

Since 1976, the Sno Barons Hay Days Grass Drags and Swap Meet has been snowmobiling’s most-attended annual event and the main gathering point to celebrate our industry. The show, which spans more than 30 acres of space, attracts snowmobilers from across the North American snowbelt to see the sights, enjoy state-fair-like food, catch some racing, purchase snow gear, and generally prepare for the winter ahead.

The show takes place on the weekend following Labor Day and has become a must-attend event for snowmobile enthusiasts. If you missed out, don’t worry. We’ll give you the highlights of what you may have missed, but don’t let it happen again.

GOOD NEWS, BAD NEWS

For those exhausted and frustrated after years of chasing current FIM Snowcross World Champion and five time ISOC Pro Champion Elias Ishoel, their odds just increased for a win as the Ski-Doo snowcross racer announced his retirement. For everyone else it’s considered unfortunate news but understandable, after two consecutive years of serious injuries contributing to his announcement. With 15 Pro-Lite wins and 47 Pro wins, Ishoel retires as one of the most successful racers ever. He captured five consecutive ISOC Pro class championships in North America and last season took the FIM Snocross World Championship title in Europe. But what he’ll likely be most remembered for was his electrifying style of racing.

When he was on track, fans didn’t want to take their eyes off him as he made daring maneuvers in the corners, over the jumps or through the bumps. You didn’t know what to expect, or where – you just knew it was coming and it was usually BIG. His sled control was a work of art – precision at high speed in ever changing track conditions – and often on the ragged edge or so it seemed for most, except him.

At Hay Days Ishoel was honored with a custom sled that was presented to him at the Ski-Doo booth to recognize his accomplishments.

BRADY L. KAY

CAT IS BACK

For those who stopped by the Arctic Cat display, one of the first things you may have noticed is just how accessible and passionate the factory representatives really are. What also was impressive was the short amount of time from when CEO Brad Darling and his team acquired the Arctic Cat company from Textron. It was just 140 days since they walked into the plant for the first time, yet at Hay Days they were well prepared for the season and eager to show off its new 2026 lineup. For most backcountry riders, the booth was the first opportunity to see the HCR (Hill Climb Racer) and HCX (Hard Core Extreme) sleds in person. Highlights for the HCX include and 858 C-TEC2 engine, 146-inch Fox Float Action Mountain suspension, and AWS 36 with laydown steering post as well as its tunnel-length heat exchanger.

TALK’N LYNX

The SnoWest Show podcast continues to grow in popularity thanks to interviews with our industry’s top names. Here host Ryan Harris (R) interviews the Lynx team in their booth during the show. A lot of the focus of the conversation was on the Shredder DS sled with the 850 E-TEC Turbo R engine that is quickly become a popular choice for backcountry riders.

Moments before a sudden downpour of rain, Polaris Marketing Manager Nels Eide (L) was able to pull the cover off of the oneoff Factory Mod 9R Boost backcountry sled built especially for Caleb Kesterke. A Polaris backcountry athlete from Montana, Kesterke became obsessed at an early age with the mountains and backcountry snowmobiling. It is his biggest passion, and he is already one of the most impactful riders the sport has seen.

Besides the MY26 sleds, Polaris also promoted some great causes at the show including a partnership with AMPL to create awareness for public land access with a fundraising t-shirt.

GO CUSTOM WITH DEVIANT INK

Sled wraps are becoming more and more popular and at Deviant Ink you can truly dial in the customization. Your wrap can be as mild or wild as you’d like it to be. The wide variety of patterns and designs are just the starting point as you can easily customize your wrap to match your personality. At Hay Days they took it a step further to show sleds aren’t the only thing Deviant Ink is able to create a wrap for.

GEAR UP

All the major gear brands show up at Hay Days each year including FXR, Klim, 509, Fly Racing, Castle X and more. Of course there are also other brands that aren’t as well known including monosuits that look like prison garb. To be fair the company offers more than just orange jumpsuits, ahem, monosuits. However, there is something about Judged brand gear being offered in bright orange that seems a little off.

MUST-HAVE GOGGLES?

The term “must have” gets over used quite a bit as each attendee could probably make a strong argument for something they saw at Hay Days that they just had to have. However, what a lot of snowmobile enthusiasts can agree on is the technology used for the Tempest goggles is truly impressive. With no external battery packs or wires hanging out, you’d never guess it was a heated goggle. The built in sensor inside only heats up when needed, plus the long battery life ensures you can enjoy a fog-free day without needing to recharge no matter how heated you might get while riding.

WHERE TO START

Before you get to the starting line, head to Starting Line Products to increase your sled’s performance. Its name says it all. You don’t have to actually be competing in some type of a snocross race to appreciate what this company can do to improve your sled, but it doesn’t hurt either.

RETURN SAFE WITH BCA

While avalanche danger isn’t something most backcountry riders really want to talk about, Backcountry Access goes out of its way to educate our industry. The proven BCA products are designed to make sure riders stay safe and return home.

ICEAGE POPULARITY

Known for its replacement slide rails and other snowmobile accessories, IceAge was formed in 2005 out of a need for stronger solutions for backcountry riders, pushing beyond the limits of their sleds. It seemed their booth was extra crowded this year with its display of the new shocks from Fox.

NO ROOM TO WALK

It’s truly amazing how quickly a field in the middle of Minnesota can become such a popular and crowded place, at least for one weekend every September.

LET’S RACE!

There is plenty to look at while attending Hay Days, but let’s not forget what started this event. A Hay Days traditional since 1966, the worlds quickest snowmobiles at the historic Hay Days track take place each year where world champions are crowned. Racers from all over North America come to compete for the richest purse in snowmobile drag racing. The most intense and dangerous sleds on the grass is the Outlaw class, with 1000 horsepower of fire breathing turbocharged, supercharged, or nitrous oxide monsters that travel the 500 feet in less than 3.5 seconds at over 150 miles per hour. Not to mention some of these beauties cost over $100,000 just to build.

BACKWOODSBMP HAS YOU COVERED

What may have started as a small company back in 2010, BackwoodsBMP has been rapidly expanding and gaining momentum throughout the industry ever since. Its impressive lineup of products reaches all four snowmobile brands to dial in your own custom look while improving your sled.

STAYING TOPPED OFF

Seeing booths such as this one from AMSOIL is a good reminder sleds require quality fluids for long term success. We’ve had a lot of success over the years using its products in both our sleds as well as tow vehicles.

THE ULTIMATE PROTECTION FOR GARAGES AND POWERSPORTS TRAILERS!

• Modular tile system for ultimate functionality and protection.

• Designed to promote airflow and drainage in all applications.

• Customizable layouts with different colors and surfaces available.

• Hidden fastener system provides floor security and a clean, finished look.

• Combine with ProTech XT and add traction where you need it most.

• Made in the USA, with a Lifetime Warrany.

IS THAT SNOW?!

Sorry, no sign of snow this year at Hay Days, but the rain storms throughout the weekend at least got people thinking about the white stuff

GEAR STILL AVAILABLE

If you missed out on getting the latest gear from SnoWest jump online at snowest.com and get yourself hooked up.

ZBROZ RACING

Helping you conquer the terrain, Zbroz Racing was founded by four brothers—Lance, Ryan, Anthony, and Nathan Zollinger— with one shared obsession: winning. What began as a race team in 1998 quickly evolved into a suspension revolution for snowmobiles, UTVs, and ATVs. At Hay Days the brothers were back in control, showcasing some amazing suspensions.

Four of the filthiest Lynx ambassadors challenged members of the media to a nasty little showdown at Hay Days. The Down and Dirty Challenge brought the sled community together for a one-of-a-kind mud race that included SnoWest publisher Ryan Harris (lower) going up against Ross Robinson.

PLAY’N IN THE MUD

NO SNOW FREESTYLE

After the lack of snow most of us experienced last winter, seeing a sled on dirt doesn’t shock us nearly as much. Yet it’s always amusing to see the aerial show at Hay Days. There are some very athletic riders who make back flips and other tricks look routine and always stop show-goers in their tracks.

BIGGER

Everything seems bigger at Hay Days, including this oversized four wheeler.

START ‘EM YOUNG

Hay Days attendees seem to get younger each year as parents introduce their children to the powersports world with hope of jump starting their passion for the industry.

COVERED WITH CALIBER

Caliber is well known in many recreational industries for its variety of products including its flooring options that help protect your snowmobile trailer.

DON’T FOLLOW

Advice is freely shared through t-shirts and at Hay Days there are always some sayings that give you a little chuckle.

WEAR IT, TO WIN IT

A lot of fun giveaways this year, including at the Ibexx LLC booth where they were passing out free t-shirts. All you had to do was wear the shirt and follow their social pages and you were entered in a raffle to win several prizes including $5,000 cash, a G.O.A.T. tuner and a clutch kit.

A NOD TO VINTAGE

The vintage sled community is a strong as ever and it’s always fun to see the restored classics on display. Our hats are off to those dedicated to preserving our history by making sure we don’t forget just how far snowmobiles have really come d