How to tell the difference between a two ply and a single ply track

Starting in 2008 Ski-Doo and Camso (Camoplast at the time) changed the snowmobile world by creating a lightweight track that sheds about 5-10lbs depending on length. They called this new track a single ply, and for those unfamiliar with Snowmobile track construction, it has nothing to do with the rubber. A ply refers to the nylon cords that run through the track. Forever tracks were only available in 2-ply construction. As material technology advanced and Ski-Doo’s new XP chassis looked to shed weight in every possible way, the single-ply track was born. Arctic Cat and Yamaha followed suit and put the single-ply track on some models, while Polaris has stayed with the 2-ply.

Spotting The Difference

So can you tell a single-ply track from a two-ply track just by looking at it? Well, yes, you can if you know where to look. The tracks look, feel, and thickness is identical to the two-ply counterpart, but if you look at the side of the track through the window, you can see the cords. A single-ply track will only have one row of cords while a two-ply track will have two rows. It’s the only visual cue you can use to tell the two types of tracks apart.

Single ply track on left with 1 row of cords, Two ply on the right with 2 rows

For single-ply tracks, we offer our Top Gun SP line that features a larger diameter stud head and backer to provide more surface area to compensate for the weaker track. The single-ply kits come with a stainless nut, and the thin profile head allows the bigger head to sit flush into the track and not beat up the running gear.

Top Gun II series stud on the left, Top Gun SP stud on the right

Our stud application guide lets you know if your snowmobile features a single-ply track but a few quick facts to know about the OEM’s and the models can help.

-All Ski-Doo models 2008 to present have a single-ply track.
-Polaris has only put 2-ply tracks on their snowmobiles
-Arctic Cat and Yamaha have equipped some snowmobiles with single-ply tracks, primarily crossover models starting in 2009.

Want to find out right now if your sled came with a single ply or two ply track?  Enter your snowmobile in the guide below: