How To Stay Warm While UTV Riding

When temperatures drop, many UTV owners put their models into storage. However, that doesn’t mean you have to follow suit. With these modifications recommended by Road Track & Trail, you can enjoy a UTV ride, regardless of the wind and weather. 

Upgrade Your UTV

There are two important upgrades we recommend if you plan to take your side-by-side out in the winter. Keep in mind your options will depend upon your budget and your model, so do your research. 

An Enclosed Cab

Enclosed cabs can protect from snow and wind, going a long way to making a winter UTV ride more comfortable. Though an enclosed cab is not a standard UTV feature, many manufacturers produce modification kits to add this feature to the models they produce. Non-OEM kits are also available, though these may not offer the same degree of protection. 

Enclosed cabs on UTVs come in hard and soft panel enclosures. Hard panels are more expensive at $2,500 to $4,000 but offer superior protection. Soft panel enclosures offer less protection but are more budget-friendly at $300 to $1,000 per enclosure. When selecting a cab, focus on finding the best fit. The better the cab seals, the better it will keep warm air in and keep the passengers warm. 

Heaters

Adding a heater is a simple but effective way to stay warm on a winter UTV ride. As a bonus, a heater will prevent your side-by-side’s windows from fogging up and help you maintain visibility. You can choose to install one heater vent under the dash or multiple vents throughout your UTV. The installation process is easy enough that mechanically inclined UTV owners may choose to perform it themselves. However, if you aren’t as confident with a wrench, you can always ask a service center for help. 

Upgrade Your Riding Gear

Your usual riding gear probably isn’t insulated for the cold, so you should consider modifying and adding to your usual outfit. A full-face visor or snowmobile helmet keeps the wind off your face and insulates your head. Look for a model with features that help prevent your breath from fogging up your vision. A balaclava doesn’t hurt, either. 

Your extremities are the first to feel the nip, so waterproof boots and heated gloves are a must. Electrically heated jackets, pants, and other clothes can help keep you warm using your UTV’s batteries. Layers are highly recommended, as they are warmer than a single large coat and can be removed or discarded to respond to temperature changes. 

Once you’ve made some modifications and put on your warmest clothes, get on out there and ride your UTV! For more information about winter riding or to view our range of pre-owned UTV models, visit Road Track & Trail at our dealership in Big Bend, Wisconsin. We are proud to serve customers whether they are from as near Milwaukee and Waukesha or as far away as Chicago.