With snowpack levels soaring to 116% of normal and annual snowfall at 117 inches, winter has come with a vengeance. If you rely on UTVs for snow-clearing tasks, choosing the right UTV snow blade is no longer just a preference — it’s a necessity.
But what makes a great snowblade? The material it’s made from is the difference between a quick, efficient clear-out and a snowy struggle. Whether you’re battling heavy, wet snow or icy drifts, the right blade material will help you power through the elements.
Ready to take on winter like a pro? Below is a comprehensive guide on UTV snow blades and why their material truly matters.
The Basics of UTV Snow Blade Construction
A UTV snow blade is your ticket to clearing your snowy paths efficiently. However, it isn’t just a piece of metal. It’s a carefully crafted tool with a few key parts, including:
- Moldboard: The curved front that pushes snow
- Cutting Edge: The sharp part that scrapes ice and snow
- Trip Springs: Flexible parts to protect the blade and your UTV
- Reinforcement Ribs: Add strength without extra weight, preventing warping under pressure
- Mounting System: Securely attach your blade to your UTV with heavy-duty brackets and bolts
When your UTV snowblade is built with the right components, winter work becomes easier. Invest in a well-constructed blade, and be ready to clear your driveway and parking lots with ease.
Popular UTV Snow Blade Materials
When winter hits and the snow piles up, your UTV snow blade material can make all the difference. The type of material affects not only blade performance but also plowing efficiency and how long it lasts.
Let’s explore the snow blade material benefits of the most popular options to help you choose the best fit for your needs.
Steel
Steel snow plow blades are the rugged warriors of snow removal. They’re tough, durable, and can handle the harshest winter conditions. You can use it for heavy-duty snow-clearing operations and on abrasive surfaces like gravel roads.
Pros:
- Superior scraping ability reduces reliance on salt and ice melt
- Perfect for tough conditions like packed snow and ice
- Very sturdy, especially high-carbon steel
- Resistance to deformation
Cons:
- Can be noisy
- Heavy, which can affect smaller UTVs’ fuel efficiency
Ensure you pair your steel blade with durable UTV snow blades that have ample power. Use it on large or rugged areas where scraping efficiency is essential.
Rubber Snow Plow Blades
Rubber snow plow blades are known for their quiet operation and gentle touch. They are perfect for delicate surfaces like cobblestone driveways without risking damage. While they may not be as aggressive as steel blades, they excel at clearing light to moderate snow.
Pros:
- Affordable and easy to replace
- Quiet operation, making them ideal for noise-sensitive areas
- Gentle on surfaces, reducing the risk of scratches or gouges
- Generally lightweight compared to steel
Cons:
- Less effective at scraping packed snow or ice
- May wear out faster than steel or polyurethane
Use rubber snow blades for lighter snow and sensitive surfaces. You may also need a bag of salt or ice melt when snow-clearing.
Polyurethane Snow Plow Blades
Polyurethane snow plow blades offer a balance between durability and flexibility. They are quieter than steel blades and more durable than rubber blades.
Pros:
- Quieter than steel blades, reducing noise pollution
- Flexible yet durable, lessening wear and tear on your UTV
- Gentle on surfaces while still providing better scraping than rubber
- Can handle varied terrains and snow types
- Resistant to most chemicals, including de-icing agents
Cons:
- The most expensive option upfront
- Not as effective as steel in clearing tough snow or ice
Opt for polyurethane snow blades if you prefer versatility. They’re an ideal choice for both residential and commercial use.
Carbide-Tipped Snow Plow Blades
Carbide-tipped snow plow blades are the ultimate in durability and cutting power. They can last up to 20x longer than standard steel, excelling in abrasive environments like salt-covered roads.
Pros:
- Unmatched durability
- Sharp cutting
- Abrasion resistance
Cons:
- Higher cost
- Brittleness risks chipping on hard impacts
You can use carbide-tipped blades on highways and other high-traffic areas with abrasive surfaces. Opt for blades with life extenders to maximize durability and get value for your money.
Choosing a UTV Snow Blade: Other Key Factors
Research from the Nationwide Children’s Hospital indicates that snow shoveling sends 11,500 people to the emergency room annually. Don’t be one of them — a UTV snowblade is the ultimate winter warrior, making snow removal a breeze. But with so many options, here are other factors to help you pick the right one:
Understand Your Snow Removal Needs
Before you choose a UTV snowblade, assess your plowing goals. Are you tackling long or short driveways? The type of snow matters too — light, fluffy powder is different from dense, wet snow.
And don’t forget terrain — flat surfaces are simple while uneven land can be challenging. Ensure you match the blade to your needs for manageable snow removal.
Blade Size
While a larger blade can move more snow in one pass, ensure you match it to your UTV’s power. For smaller areas like driveways, a 48″ to 60″ blade is ideal. But if you’re clearing larger spaces, a wider blade (up to 72″) is more efficient.
Plow Type
Straight blades are the classic choice — perfect for general snow removal on driveways and parking lots. They’re easy to control and handle most snow conditions.
However, if you frequently encounter deep snow or heavy drifts, a V-plow is ideal. Its V-shaped design cuts through snow easily, making it the right pick for tough winter conditions.
Power and Compatibility
Choosing the right snow plow depends on your UTV’s power. A larger blade demands more power, so ensure your machine can handle the extra load. Also, match your UTV’s specifications with a compatible plow size from our lineup.
Pick the Right UTV Snow Blades
Not all blades are created equal. From steel and rubber to polyurethane, your UTV snow blade should meet your unique needs.
Ready to tackle winter’s snow? Equip your UTV with the perfect blade from HitchDoc Outdoors. We’re your one-stop shop for high-quality UTV accessories. Reach out to us to shop our premium products.