Side-by-side or ATV for plowing snow

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If you are going to be plowing snow this winter, you need to make sure you have the right setup! A side-by-side or ATV for plowing snow can be a tough choice.

However, when you compare the two for plowing snow, there really is no comparison.

Both can work just fine and both can be a terrible choice depending on your situation.

Don’t worry, we will help you decide!

MotoAlliance DENALI UTV 72 inch Universal Snow Plow Kit

We highly recommend the MotoAlliance DENALI UTV 72-inch Universal Snow Plow Kit for anyone in need of a reliable and easy-to-use plow system for their UTV.

Things to consider

Whether an ATV (all-terrain vehicle) or a UTV (utility terrain vehicle) is better for plowing snow depends on your situation.

In general, side-by-sides and UTVs are larger and more powerful than ATVs. Because of this, they can in some situations be better suited for plowing snow.

The size and weight of the ATV, the amount of snow to be plowed, and the requirements of the job are the biggest things to consider.

Do you typically get a foot of snow and your driveway is a mile long?

Well, then you may opt for a side-by-side (or even a full-size truck 🙂 )

If your snowfall is on the lighter side and your work area is smaller, then you may be fine with an ATV.

If you want a step-by-step guide on how to plow snow with a side-by-side or an ATV you can check out the Polaris Guide.

Real-world experience

Plowing a typical residential driveway with even a foot of snow is usually fine with an ATV.

Plowing a typical residential driveway with side-by-side works fine, but it can be a pain since the machine is so much bigger.

Plowing a large area with a lot of snow on an ATV can be a pain.

Plowing a large area with a lot of snow using a side-by-side can be a lot of fun!

I typically plow roads a mile or two long through deep snow when ice-fishing and the side-by-side is a ton of fun. Snow is flying off the plow!

Side-by-Side Advantages

Many side-by-sides have doors and heaters.
Side-by-sides are bigger and heavier
The plow can be bigger and heavier. The weight of the plow matters, it keeps it from floating up over the snow. The size of the plow matters you can clear areas faster with a bigger plow.
You may have more options for plow attachments (V Plow, straight plow, scoop, etc)