How to Choose the Right ATV or UTV Snowplow

What Kind of Job Are You Doing?

Start by considering where you'll use the snowplow and how much snow you need to move.

If you're clearing narrow sidewalks or pathways, a smaller plow can help you maneuver without pushing snow beyond the edges of the surface. Larger UTV plows are better suited for residential driveways, larger properties, and more demanding snow removal applications.

For rugged terrain, long driveways, or areas where you regularly encounter packed or frozen snow, a V-plow can provide additional versatility. Its V configuration can help break through snow and its scoop position can help carry and stack snow.

The best ATV or UTV snowplow is the one that matches the size of your vehicle and the work you need to perform.

Will a Snowplow Fit My ATV or UTV?

Not every ATV or UTV can use every snowplow. Compatibility depends on the vehicle's year, make, model, configuration, and the mounting system required for that application.

Before purchasing, verify that the plow is designed for your specific vehicle. A manufacturer's vehicle selector or an authorized dealer can help confirm the correct plow, mounting system, and required components.

ATV vs. UTV: Which Is Better for Snow Plowing?

Your vehicle type will influence the size and type of snowplow you can use.

Choose an ATV when maneuverability and narrow clearing areas are the priority. Choose a UTV when you need more clearing width, vehicle capacity, or operator comfort.

 The right choice ultimately depends on the vehicle you already own and the work you need it to perform.

What Size Snowplow Should You Put on an ATV or UTV?

The correct plow size depends on both your vehicle and your application. Narrow sidewalks and pathways generally call for a narrower blade, while larger UTVs can accommodate wider plows for driveways and larger areas.

Don't choose a plow based on blade width alone. Always verify that the plow is approved for your specific ATV or UTV and that the complete setup is compatible with the vehicle.

Straight Blade vs. V-Plow

Both straight blades and V-plows can be effective compact snowplows, but each has advantages.

Straight blades are generally simpler and lighter, making them a practical choice for routine driveway, sidewalk, and pathway clearing.

V-plows provide additional versatility. They can be used in V, straight, and scoop configurations, making them useful for breaking through deeper or packed snow, carrying snow, and stacking.

Steel vs. Poly Snowplows

ATV and UTV snowplows are available in both steel and poly blade materials.

Poly blades provide a smooth surface that allows snow and slush to slide easily from the moldboard. They can be a good choice when corrosion resistance and smooth snow flow are priorities.

Steel blades provide a rigid, durable moldboard and are well suited for operators who want a traditional steel snowplow construction.

Neither material is automatically better for every application. Consider the conditions you'll encounter, the type of surfaces you'll be clearing, and your preferences for durability, snow flow, and maintenance.

How Should an ATV or UTV Snowplow Lift and Angle?

ATV and UTV snowplows can be lifted and angled manually, with a winch, or hydraulically. While manual systems can work for some applications, a hydraulic lift and angle system makes operating the plow significantly easier by allowing you to control the blade from the vehicle.

This can be especially important for operators who have physical limitations, injuries, or simply don't want to repeatedly get on and off the vehicle to adjust the plow. Hydraulic controls allow the operator to raise, lower, and angle the blade without manually moving the plow or reaching down to make adjustments.

Staying on the vehicle can also help reduce the risk of slips and falls. Snow, ice, and uneven ground can make getting in and out of an ATV or UTV hazardous, particularly during an active snow event. A hydraulic system minimizes the need to leave the vehicle, helping make snow removal more convenient and potentially safer.

For anyone who expects to plow frequently, a hydraulic system can also reduce physical strain and operator fatigue while making it easier to adjust the blade as conditions change.

Consider What Happens After Winter

Your ATV or UTV may spend most of the year as a recreational or utility vehicle, so consider how the snowplow mounting system affects the machine when the plow is not in use.

Look for an undercarriage designed with good ground clearance so you can leave it installed year-round. A well-designed mounting system should provide the clearance you need to use your ATV or UTV normally without removing the undercarriage. That means less time spent crawling underneath your machine and more time using it for the things you bought it for. 

What Is the Best ATV or UTV Snowplow?

The best ATV or UTV snowplow is the one that matches your vehicle, application, desired blade size, blade style, and control system.

ATV plows are well suited to narrow sidewalks, pathways, and other areas where maneuverability is important. UTV plows provide greater clearing width and are better suited to larger driveways, properties, and demanding snow removal applications.

Before buying, verify vehicle compatibility and choose a plow that is designed for the work you need it to perform.

Frequently Asked Questions