Trail Snowmobiles
Let's kick things off with one of the most popular and beginner-friendly types: trail snowmobiles. If you're looking to get your hands on your first snowmobile or even plan on renting such a machine, a trail snowmobile might be your best option, especially if you're on a budget.

Trail snowmobiles blend touring and efficiency into one and are typically a reliable choice. They tend to be lighter and less aggressive, which also means they're easier to control. Moreover, they are simple sleds with a relatively basic construction – because of this, they can move nimbly on the snow.

There are many options available in this category. As a general rule, power is pretty limited on these machines. Don't get me wrong: that doesn't mean you can't have fun on them; it's just they're less powered than other sleds on this list. If you do want to ride more boldly, trail snowmobiles will be able to handle it.
Some models also come with a sporty suspension that enables you to get over some obstacles more easily. Moreover, the track length is about 120 to 137 inches (305 to 348 centimeters), while the lug height ranges from 0.9 to 1.5 inches (2.3 to 3.8 centimeters).

Think of them as economy cars – even though they're not fancy, they're reliable and capable and will get the job done. However, if you're passionate about this winter activity and you learn the ropes, you might find yourself yearning for a more powerful and exciting machine. These vehicles are suitable for both slow-paced sightseeing and full-throttle touring.

Sport Trail Snowmobiles
A sport trail snowmobile is the natural evolution of a trail snowmobile. They are equipped with fancier features, such as a better suspension. These components make sport trail snowmobiles more suitable for riding on tough terrain compared to trail sleds. They have the same lightweightness but with sportier attributes that a trail snowmobile lacks.

In fact, you might find it easier and more natural to ride more aggressively on this type of snowmobile, especially since they boast more power. Don't expect a crazy upgrade, however. A sport trail snowmobile will be faster than a trail one, but they typically sport a small engine outputting around 80 hp.
So, sport trail snowmobiles might be the best choice for intermediate riders. That being said, a complete beginner might be able to handle one of these, but it's best you first try your hand with a trail snowmobile.

Performance Snowmobiles
Here's where things get a bit more serious. As the name suggests, these bad boys are designed to offer performance, prioritizing smooth rides and aggression. You'll also find more advanced technology on them, such as electronic fuel injection and digital gauges.

Performance snowmobiles come with wider tracks, providing increased traction and stability. They can handle high-speed riding, and their advanced suspensions allow them to carve turns.

Of course, these machines offer more power than the previously discussed types. Moreover, they boast a bulkier frame and body and are equipped with a more capable suspension that will let you ride over almost every terrain. You can go full throttle on them without worrying if they can handle it, although you'll have to hold on tight.
Think of these as a sports car – they're better equipped and offer more excitement. However, just as you wouldn't want a complete beginner behind your sports car's wheels, the same goes for performance snowmobiles: their aggressive handling and power might be too much for beginners to handle.
Performance snowmobiles are often used as racing sleds due to their supreme power and acceleration.

Mountain Snowmobiles
Just as the name suggests, these snowmobiles are meant for those who want to tackle steep elevations. This type of snowmobile, also known as a backcountry sled, features long tracks with tall lugs for more stability and traction in deep snow. What's more, the skinny ski stance and the long tracks also make them a handful to handle on trails.
Keeping the comparison going, you can see mountain snowmobiles as supercars: they're sleek, nimble, and lightweight, but they also boast increased power. Moreover, they prioritize performance over comfort. Their decreased weight allows you to stay on top of the snow while still providing enough power and torque to navigate challenging terrains.

They aren't the faster option despite being equipped with powerful engines. What's more, they can also be quite expensive.

Mountain snowmobiles have at least a 146-inch (371-centimeter) that can go up to 175 inches (444 centimeters), with lugs measuring between two and three inches (five and 7.6 centimeters). Furthermore, they will have at least a 600cc motor but can go up to 850cc. They're typically equipped with 2-stroke engines as 4-strokes are heavier and harder to get unstuck.

Crossover Snowmobiles
Crossover snowmobiles are designed to do a little bit of everything. They enable you to tackle various terrain and snow conditions, so they're most popular among those who'd like to try different riding styles.
Engine size varies from model to model, but most crossover snowmobiles will feature a medium track length. Their versatility allows them to go on and off the trail with ease.

If you're not sure about what type of terrain or snow conditions you will encounter on an adventure, crossover snowmobiles are a safe choice. However, because they're a good middle option with all-around capabilities, they don't really excel in any specific scenario.

Touring Snowmobiles
Touring snowmobiles are all about keeping you comfortable on long-distance rides. They come with special features that enable you to accommodate additional gear or passengers.
Most touring models have an extended seat that can fit two people. Moreover, they're longer than other snowmobile variants, so you have extra room for storage.

Of course, to keep you nice and cozy on a long ride, touring snowmobiles are fitted with a soft suspension designed to take up as much of the bumps and stresses of riding. You might also discover extra features like heated seats and grips, larger windshields, and stereo systems.

Utility Snowmobiles
Utility snowmobiles prioritize function rather than performance. So, instead of the exciting capabilities you get on a performance snowmobile, you'll find that utility sleds allow you to haul heavy loads to hard-to-reach places while still offering decent performance.

As a recreational rider, you probably won't be interested in this type of snowmobile. However, if you live in a place where snowmobiles are a must due to challenging conditions, these models are definitely worth it.
Even though they don't look flashy and can't reach immense speeds, utility snowmobiles will get you where you need to go. They're typically on the heavier side, but they come with wide tracks that let you float on powder.
Expect to find various practical features built into utility snowmobiles. For instance, some will boast accessories such as racks, winches, and hitches.