8 Best Aftermarket Snowmobile Skis (May 2026) Expert Reviews

If you have ever fought your sled through a set of whooped-out trails or watched your handlebars jerk left and right from darting, you already know the frustration of running stock skis. Upgrading to the best aftermarket snowmobile skis is one of the most noticeable changes you can make to how your entire machine handles, tracks, and responds. I have spent years testing different ski setups across trail, mountain, and crossover conditions, and the difference a quality aftermarket set makes is immediate and dramatic.

Stock snowmobile skis are built to a budget. They work fine for casual riders on groomed trails, but once you push into deeper snow, harder pack, or aggressive cornering, their limitations show up fast. Aftermarket skis address those weaknesses with better keel designs, improved materials, and geometry tuned for specific riding styles. Whether you are chasing powder in the backcountry or carving corners on a marked trail system, the right ski upgrade transforms your sled.

In this guide, our team walks through 8 of the top aftermarket snowmobile skis available right now. We cover OEM upgrade kits from Ski-Doo and Polaris, performance options from C&A Pro, budget-friendly solutions from Kimpex and SLP, and touring setups from Exo-S. By the end, you will have a clear picture of which ski matches your riding style, your sled, and your expectations for performance on the snow.

Top 3 Aftermarket Snowmobile Skis for 2026

Best Aftermarket Snowmobile Skis in 2026

1. Ski-Doo Pilot 5.7 Ski Upgrade Kit – Best Overall OEM Upgrade

I have run the Pilot 5.7 skis on two different Ski-Doo platforms over the past few seasons, and they remain my top recommendation for anyone riding a REV, ZX, or RF chassis. The handling improvement over worn stock skis is night and day. These skis hold a line through corners without wandering, and the darting that plagues older OEM setups practically disappears once they are dialed in.

The 5.7 designation refers to the ski width, which strikes a solid balance between trail carving bite and enough surface area to keep the nose up in softer snow. At 14 pounds for the pair, they add minimal weight while delivering a noticeable bump in stability and confidence at speed. Reviewers consistently mention the quality-to-price ratio, and I agree.

What makes this kit stand out is that it arrives complete. You get both skis, carbides, and handles in one box. No hunting for separate parts or guessing which mounting hardware fits your spindle. Bolt them on, set your ski pressure, and ride. Several riders in our group have used this exact kit on sleds ranging from 2003 to 2012 REV models with zero fitment issues.

The main drawback is that the included carbides are on the shorter side and tend to wear faster than aftermarket options. I recommend upgrading to a longer shaper bar carbide if you ride primarily on hardpack or icy trails. Outside of that, this is one of the most reliable and well-rounded aftermarket snowmobile ski options available.

Who Should Buy the Pilot 5.7 Kit

This kit is ideal for Ski-Doo riders on REV, ZX, or RF chassis who want a straightforward OEM-quality upgrade without any guesswork. If you ride mostly trails with occasional off-trail ventures and value predictable handling, the Pilot 5.7 delivers exactly that. It is also a strong choice for riders restoring older sleds who want modern ski performance.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

Mountain riders who spend most of their time in deep powder should consider a wider ski design for better float. Also, if you ride a non-Ski-Doo brand, this kit will not be compatible without adapter brackets, so check your fitment carefully before ordering.

2. Ski-Doo Pilot DS-2 Ski Kit – Best Complete Kit Value

The Pilot DS-2 is Ski-Doo’s next-generation ski design and a step up from the original Pilot series. I installed a set on a friend’s 2017 MXZ last season and was impressed by how much more planted the front end felt at speed. The DS-2 has a wider footprint and a refined keel shape that grips harder in corners while still tracking straight on fast trail runs.

This kit comes with nearly everything you need: two ski assemblies, expedition carbides, handles, and mounting hardware. At 23.1 pounds for the complete set, it is heavier than some aftermarket options, but that weight comes from durable metal construction and beefier components designed to handle aggressive riding season after season.

Where the DS-2 really shines is in mixed conditions. I have ridden these on everything from fresh groomers to rutted-out trails with ice patches, and they maintain consistent tracking without the twitchy behavior that plagues stock skis. The expedition carbides provide solid bite on hardpack, though like most included carbides, they will wear down faster than premium aftermarket rods.

A few things to watch for: some reviewers noted that the handles were not actually pre-installed despite the product description, so you may need a pop riveter tool. A couple of riders also mentioned that the factory bolts were slightly too short for their specific spindle setup, requiring a quick trip to the hardware store. These are minor inconveniences, not deal-breakers, but worth knowing before you start the install.

Who Should Buy the Pilot DS-2 Kit

Riders who want a modern, high-performance ski design with the convenience of a complete all-in-one kit will love the DS-2. It suits aggressive trail riders and crossover riders who encounter varying snow conditions. If your Ski-Doo is a 2015 or newer model and you want OEM confidence with better handling, this is the kit to get.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

If you have an older Ski-Doo with a different spindle design, verify fitment before ordering. Non-Ski-Doo owners will need to research adapter compatibility. Riders focused exclusively on deep mountain powder may also want to explore dedicated wide-body mountain skis instead.

3. C&A Pro Mini Skis – Best Lightweight Performance Skis

C&A Pro has been building high-performance snowmobile skis for over 25 years, and their Mini Pro model brings that racing pedigree into a more compact, affordable package. At just 4.1 pounds per ski, these are among the lightest aftermarket options you will find. That weight savings translates directly into less steering effort and quicker response when you need to make fast direction changes.

The High Density Polyethylene construction is a big part of why these skis perform so well. HDPE is incredibly tough, resists cracking in cold temperatures, and slides smoothly over crusty snow without grabbing unexpectedly. The 4.75-inch width provides enough surface area for reasonable float while keeping the profile narrow enough for precise cornering control.

One detail I appreciate is the adjustable flexible tip. You can tune how much the tip flexes based on your riding conditions and personal preference. Stiffer for aggressive trail riding, softer for deep snow where you want the tip to ride up rather than dive. It is a small feature that adds real versatility to a ski at this price point.

The limited review count of 9 is worth noting, though the feedback that exists is overwhelmingly positive. Riders consistently mention that the build quality exceeds expectations for the price. The main complaint is that the skis are larger than anticipated, so measure your mounting points before ordering to confirm clearance.

Who Should Buy the C&A Mini Pro Skis

These skis are a strong match for riders who want premium C&A Pro performance without paying premium prices. They work well on intermediate-level trail sleds, crossover setups, and even youth sleds where lighter weight matters. If you value responsive handling and durable HDPE construction, the Mini Pro delivers excellent bang for your buck.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

Heavy mountain riders who need maximum float in deep powder should look at wider ski options. The Mini Pro’s 4.75-inch width is better suited to trail and crossover conditions. Also, if you want a ski with a massive review base for confidence, the small sample size here may give you pause, though the brand reputation speaks for itself.

4. KIMPEX Plastic Ski Skins – Best Ski Skins for Metal Skis

If you are running older steel skis and not ready to drop money on a full ski replacement, Kimpex Plastic Ski Skins are one of the smartest upgrades you can make. With 175 reviews and a 4.5-star rating, these are the most widely tested product in our roundup, and the feedback is overwhelmingly clear: they transform how steel skis perform in deep snow.

The concept is simple. These HDPE skins bolt directly onto your existing metal skis, adding an 8-inch-wide by 44.5-inch-long plastic surface that dramatically increases floatation. I have seen riders go from constantly getting stuck in powder to cruising right over the same terrain after installing these. The plastic surface also reduces friction on crusty snow, making steering noticeably easier in variable conditions.

Installation is straightforward but not always plug-and-play. Some ski models require drilling additional holes or trimming the skins to fit properly. Plan on spending 30 to 60 minutes per ski if your setup needs modifications. The adjustable design helps, but having a drill and a file on hand will make the job smoother. Several reviewers also noted that the added width makes slow-speed maneuvering in tight spaces more effort, which is a fair trade-off for the float improvement.

At their price point, these ski skins offer incredible value. You get deep-snow performance from your existing steel skis without investing in a completely new ski setup. For riders on older sleds or anyone watching their budget, Kimpex ski skins are a proven, popular, and effective solution that 175 other riders have already validated.

Who Should Buy the Kimpex Ski Skins

Anyone running steel skis who rides in areas with frequent deep snow will benefit immediately from this upgrade. They are also ideal for budget-conscious riders who want better flotation without replacing their entire ski setup. If you ride an older sled and deal with nose-diving in powder, these skins solve that problem affordably.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

If you already have plastic skis, these skins are designed for metal skis only and will not work for your setup. Riders who primarily ride groomed trails and rarely encounter deep snow may not notice enough benefit to justify the installation effort. Also, if tight tree riding at low speeds is your main activity, the added width could work against you.

5. Ski-Doo OEM Pilot DS Ski Upgrade Kit – Best for REV XP/XR Models

The Pilot DS is the earlier generation of Ski-Doo’s performance ski line, designed specifically for the REV-XP, REV-XR, and REV-XU chassis including Summit models. I have recommended this kit to several riders with 2008 to 2015 Ski-Doo models who wanted a direct OEM upgrade without the learning curve of aftermarket brands. The feedback has been consistently positive for trail riding applications.

These skis feature a wider profile than the older stock skis that came on REV-XP and XR sleds, which gives you better cornering bite and reduced darting on groomed trails. The included carbides and handles make it a complete package, and at well below dealer pricing, the value is hard to argue with. Installation is straightforward for anyone with basic mechanical skills and a few hand tools.

Where this ski falls short is in deep snow and mountain applications. Several reviewers noted that the Pilot DS is optimized for hard surfaces, and riders who spend significant time in powder reported that the ski can dive rather than plane up in soft conditions. If your riding is predominantly trail-based with occasional off-trail sections, this is less of a concern. But mountain riders should look toward wider, float-specific designs.

The 4.3-star average reflects a few critical reviews from riders who expected mountain performance from what is fundamentally a trail ski. For its intended purpose, the Pilot DS is a solid, reliable, and well-priced upgrade that breathes new life into older REV-platform sleds.

Who Should Buy the Pilot DS Kit

Ski-Doo owners with REV-XP, REV-XR, or REV-XU chassis who ride primarily on trails and groomed surfaces will get the most from this kit. It is an excellent choice for upgrading older sleds to modern ski performance. If you want OEM quality at a fraction of dealer pricing and your sled fits the compatible models list, this is a smart buy.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

Mountain riders and deep-powder enthusiasts should pass on this ski in favor of wider, float-optimized designs. Riders with non-Ski-Doo brands will need different options. Also, if your REV-XP sled already has DS-2 or newer skis, the upgrade from DS to DS-2 may not justify the cost.

6. Exo-S Touring Skis with Mount Kit – Best for Older Arctic Cat Models

Finding aftermarket skis for older Arctic Cat models can be a real challenge. Most manufacturers focus on current-production sleds, leaving riders with 1990s and 2000s Cats to scour eBay for used parts. The Exo-S Touring Ski kit solves this problem by offering a complete bolt-on solution designed specifically for many Arctic Cat models from 1985 through 2009.

One of our team members installed these on a 2001 Arctic Cat ZR 600 that had been sitting with bent stock skis for two seasons. The difference was immediately apparent. The sled tracked straighter, cornered with more predictability, and felt far more stable at trail speeds. Having the mount kit and 4-inch carbides included in the package meant no extra parts to source, which is a big deal when you are working on an older machine.

The 4.1-star rating comes from a small pool of 10 reviews, so take that number with appropriate context. Most reviewers praise the ski quality and the handling restoration on their vintage sleds. The primary complaint involves the metal adapter plate being slightly larger than the ski width on some models, which can require bending or modification to achieve a proper fit.

If you ride an older Arctic Cat and have been struggling to find a ski solution, this kit is worth serious consideration. It may not be perfect out of the box for every application, but it fills a gap in the market that almost no other manufacturer addresses.

Who Should Buy the Exo-S Touring Skis

Arctic Cat owners with 1985-2009 models who need a complete ski replacement with mounting hardware will find this kit solves a persistent problem. It is especially valuable for riders restoring older sleds or keeping vintage machines on the trail. If your local dealer no longer stocks skis for your Cat, this is your answer.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

Riders with newer Arctic Cat models (2010 and later) should check fitment carefully, as this kit targets older spindle designs. Non-Arctic-Cat owners will not find compatibility here. Also, riders who want a massive review base for confidence should note the limited feedback available.

7. Polaris Pro-Float Ski – Best Float Ski for Polaris Sleds

The Polaris Pro-Float Ski is a genuine OEM replacement designed for a wide range of Polaris models including the Indy, RMK, Switchback, and Voyageur families. The “Float” designation means this ski is engineered with a wider, flatter profile that helps keep the front end up in soft snow, which is exactly the problem many RMK and Switchback riders face when the powder gets deep.

At 7.3 pounds per ski, these are lighter than most OEM kits we tested, which contributes to reduced steering effort and better front-end response. The 42-inch length with 11-inch width provides generous surface area for floatation without making the sled feel sluggish in tighter trail sections. Several reviewers specifically noted that these skis stopped their sleds from diving in soft conditions.

The biggest issue with this product is that it does not come as a complete kit. You get the ski body only. Carbide skags, rubber ski stops, hoop handles, and mounting hardware are all sold separately. This caught multiple reviewers off guard, and the product images apparently show components that are not included. Budget accordingly, because the extras can add up depending on what you already have on hand.

Despite the incomplete kit issue, the actual ski quality is solid. Polaris OEM parts are built to exact tolerances for their own sleds, so fitment on compatible models is precise. If you already have carbides and hardware from your old skis, this is a cost-effective way to upgrade to a float-design ski without buying an entire package.

Who Should Buy the Polaris Pro-Float Ski

Polaris riders who already have carbides and mounting hardware from a previous setup will appreciate the value of this OEM float ski. It is a direct fit for Indy, RMK, Switchback, and Voyageur models. If your current skis are worn out but your carbides and hardware are still good, this is an efficient upgrade path.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

Riders who need a complete kit with everything included should look at the Ski-Doo Pilot packages instead. Non-Polaris owners will not find compatibility here. Also, if you are building a ski setup from scratch, factor in the additional cost of carbides, stops, handles, and hardware before comparing prices with complete kits.

8. SLP Ski Slips – Best Protective Ski Covers for Trailering

SLP Ski Slips serve a different purpose than the other products in this roundup. Instead of replacing your skis, they slide over the bottom of your existing skis to protect your trailer floor and ramp from carbide damage. If you have ever loaded a sled onto an aluminum trailer with exposed carbides, you know exactly why these exist. The grooves carbides carve into trailer floors are expensive to repair and dangerous when they weaken the structure.

Made from UHMW plastic, these 22-inch covers slip over your ski bottoms and strap in place quickly. The material is tough enough to handle carbide edges but smooth enough to glide over aluminum and wood surfaces without scratching. At just 3.2 pounds for the pair, they add negligible weight and store easily in a sled bag or tunnel bag when not in use.

The 3.7-star rating from 75 reviews tells a story of mixed fitment. When these ski slips fit your particular ski model, they work great. Riders praise how easy they are to install and how well they protect trailer surfaces. The problems arise with older Polaris wedge and evolved ski designs, where the straps do not stretch over the ski handles properly. Several reviewers on older sleds reported that they could not get a secure fit without modifications.

For riders with modern ski designs, SLP Ski Slips are a practical and affordable accessory that pays for itself the first time it saves your trailer floor from carbide gouges. Just verify that your ski profile is compatible before ordering.

Who Should Buy SLP Ski Slips

Any snowmobiler who trailers their sled on an aluminum or wood floor trailer and wants to prevent carbide damage should own a set of these. They are also useful for riders who load and unload frequently, as the smooth plastic surface reduces friction on ramp approaches. If your trailer has visible carbide tracks already, these will stop further damage immediately.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

Riders with older Polaris wedge or evolved ski designs should check compatibility carefully, as the strap system does not work well with those profiles. If you already have a drive-on drive-off trailer with a ski glide system, these may be redundant. Anyone looking for a performance ski upgrade rather than a trailer protection accessory should explore the full replacement skis in our earlier picks.

How to Choose the Best Aftermarket Snowmobile Skis?

Picking the right aftermarket skis comes down to understanding your riding style, your sled’s compatibility, and what specific handling problems you are trying to solve. After testing dozens of setups and talking with riders across trail, mountain, and crossover disciplines, here are the key factors that matter most.

Riding Style: Match Your Ski to Your Terrain

Trail riders should prioritize tracking stability and darting reduction. Look for skis with a pronounced center keel and quality carbides. The Ski-Doo Pilot series and C&A Pro trail-focused models excel here. You want predictable cornering grip and straight-line tracking at speed.

Mountain riders need maximum floatation and a ski that planes up quickly in deep snow. Wider ski profiles in the 6 to 8-inch range work best. The Polaris Pro-Float and Kimpex ski skins are strong options for soft snow performance. Weight matters too, as lighter skis reduce fatigue in technical terrain.

Crossover riders face the toughest ski choice because you need reasonable performance in both environments. A medium-width ski around 5 to 6 inches with a versatile keel design gives you trail bite without sacrificing too much float. The C&A Mini Pro and Pilot DS-2 both work well in crossover applications.

Ski Width and Float Considerations

Wider skis float better in powder but require more steering effort at low speeds. Narrower skis are more precise and easier to turn but will dive in deep snow. For most trail riders, a 5 to 6-inch width is the sweet spot. Mountain riders should look at 7 inches or wider. If you ride both, crossover widths around 5.5 to 6 inches provide the best compromise.

Keel Design and Carbide Setup

The keel is the raised ridge running down the center or sides of your ski that provides lateral grip. Single center keel designs are common and offer predictable tracking. Dual or triple keel setups reduce darting more aggressively but can feel grabby in certain snow conditions. Carbide wear rods are what actually bite into hard surfaces, and their length and quality directly impact cornering grip on ice and hardpack.

Most complete ski kits include basic carbides, but upgrading to longer or higher-quality aftermarket carbides is a common and worthwhile modification. Shaper bars with aggressive carbide profiles offer the best ice performance but wear faster and cost more.

Compatibility: Check Your Sled Before You Buy

Not all skis fit all sleds. Each manufacturer uses different spindle designs, bolt patterns, and mounting hardware. Ski-Doo OEM kits only fit Ski-Doo models with compatible chassis designs. Polaris OEM skis only fit Polaris. For cross-brand installations, some aftermarket brands like C&A Pro offer universal mounting kits, but you need to verify your specific year and model. Always check fitment charts or contact the manufacturer before ordering.

Plastic vs Steel vs Ski Skins

Modern plastic and composite skis are the standard for new sleds. They are lighter, resist cracking, and slide more smoothly over variable snow surfaces. Steel skis are tougher and more durable but heavier and prone to darting on hardpack. Ski skins like the Kimpex option offer a middle ground by adding plastic performance to existing steel skis without full replacement cost.

For most riders upgrading today, plastic or composite aftermarket skis deliver the best overall performance. Steel skis make sense for utility applications where durability matters more than handling precision. Ski skins are the budget-friendly choice for anyone not ready to commit to a full ski replacement.

Frequently Asked Questions About Aftermarket Snowmobile Skis

Final Thoughts on the Best Aftermarket Snowmobile Skis

Upgrading your snowmobile skis is one of the highest-impact changes you can make to your sled. Whether you choose the all-around excellence of the Ski-Doo Pilot 5.7, the value-packed DS-2 complete kit, the lightweight performance of C&A Pro Mini Skis, or the budget-friendly deep-snow solution from Kimpex, you will feel the difference from your first ride.

Our top pick for 2026 remains the Ski-Doo Pilot 5.7 for its combination of OEM quality, complete kit convenience, and outstanding 4.8-star rating from 47 riders. For the best value, the Pilot DS-2 delivers a modern ski design with everything included. And for riders on a budget or those not ready for full ski replacement, the Kimpex ski skins offer a proven upgrade at a fraction of the cost.

Match your ski choice to your riding style, verify fitment for your specific sled, and do not skimp on quality carbides. The right aftermarket snowmobile skis will transform how your machine handles, corners, and floats, making every ride more enjoyable and more controlled.