Like the GPS receiver and the aerosol can, the snowmobile has its origins in military technology. The rubber tracks used on off-road military vehicles had proven practical in winter weather, and Joseph-Armand Bombardier of Quebec, Canada initially adapted this design to create large multi-passenger vehicles. Over time, Bombardier refined his design. His first "Ski-Doo" sold in 1959 and Bombardier Industries remains a leader in the snowmobile industry today.

Photo courtesy Sweet Light Photography Snowmobiles are used for recreation and transportation.  See more images of snowmobiles.

In this article we'll take a look at how snowmobiles work and find out how they serve as recreation and transportation in cold climates.