Snowmobiles, as the name implies, are motorized vehicles designed specifically for traveling on snow. Snowmobiles made for recreational use allow one or two riders to sit in an open cockpit. The vehicle is propelled along a rubber track or tracks, and skis are used to steer.

Although snowmobiles are sometimes used as rescue vehicles, for trail grooming, or in sports competitions, most snowmobiles function as pleasure vehicles for families and individuals. Snowmobiles achieved great popularity in the 1970s, and used snowmobiles from this era and other eras are still bought and sold.

Just four major manufacturers dominate the market for new snowmobiles in the US today, making snowmobiles for sport, touring, mountain, and trail purposes. Arctic Cat makes over 50 models of snowmobiles, including the Firecat line of high performance snowmobiles. Canadian company BRP makes the popular Ski-Doo line of snowmobiles, among them the world's best selling snowmobile, the MX Z model. Polaris Industries, from Minnesota, also makes a variety of snowmobiles. Its RMK line of snowmobiles are considered by many to be the best all round mountain sleds. Finally, Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA makes and sells snowmobiles for every purpose.

Snowmobiling occasionally comes under fire for two main reasons, both relating to the two-stroke engines most snowmobiles utilize. Two-stroke engines (also sometimes used in mopeds and motor scooters) tend to produce more emissions and noise than four-stroke engines. Manufacturers today are producing snowmobiles with four-stroke engines to reduce both the pollution and noise associated with snowmobiles.

For enthusiasts, snowmobiling offers a number of attractions. Today's snowmobiles perform well in all kinds of snow conditions, and riders need not restrict themselves to marked trails. Modern snowmobiles can go quite fast (close to 100 mph), and although safety-conscious riders exercise caution in choosing their speed, snowmobiling still provides a sense of exhilaration, freedom, and fun. Snowmobiling may seem easier to learn than skiing, but buyers and riders should be aware that accidents can happen when driving any vehicle. Riders should make sure to invest in appropriate safety gear, such as helmets and gloves.