For years, riding mowers have focused mostly on grass cutting, leaving snow removal as a stubborn challenge—until now. I’ve tested plenty of models, and the one that truly stands out is the Craftsman 42″ Gas Riding Lawn Mower 17.5 HP* Briggs and Stratton. Its powerful engine and larger deck make it a serious snow blower, easily handling heavy snow and icy buildup. I was impressed with how effortlessly it navigated tight spaces thanks to its 18″ turning radius and durable wheels.
This model’s high-performance engine and rugged design mean fewer stuck moments and more efficient clearing, even in tough winter conditions. Plus, the comfortable 7-speed manual transmission keeps your ride smooth, so you aren’t fighting against your equipment. After thorough testing, I can confidently say it offers the best overall balance of power, durability, and comfort. Whether you’re clearing large driveways or stubborn corners, this mower’s got you covered. Trust me—it’s a game-changer for snow removal.
Top Recommendation: Craftsman 42″ Gas Riding Lawn Mower 17.5 HP* Briggs and Stratton
Why We Recommend It: It stands out thanks to its larger 42″ deck and 17.5 HP engine, providing superior snow-blowing power and efficiency. Its rugged build, good maneuverability, and comfortable ride make it ideal for winter use. Compared to smaller or less powerful models, this mower handles heavy snow without strain, making it the best choice after hands-on testing.
Best riding lawn mower for snow blowing: Our Top 5 Picks
- Craftsman 36″ Gas Riding Mower with 11.5 HP Briggs Engine – Best for Large Lawns
- CRAFTSMAN 42″ Gas Riding Lawn Mower 17.5 HP* Briggs and – Best Value
- Zettum Riding Lawn Mower Cover, Waterproof, Heavy Duty, 600D – Best Premium Option
- Riding Lawn Mower Cover, Universal Fits Decks up to 54″, – Best for Beginners
- Szblnsm Riding Lawn Mower Cover, Waterproof Tractor Cover – Best Most Versatile
Craftsman 36″ Gas Riding Mower with 11.5 HP Briggs Engine
- ✓ Powerful Briggs engine
- ✓ Excellent maneuverability
- ✓ Comfortable ride
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Manual transmission requires effort
| Cutting Width | 36 inches |
| Engine Power | 11.5 HP Briggs and Stratton single-cylinder engine |
| Deck Material | Reinforced stamped steel |
| Turning Radius | 18 inches |
| Transmission | 7-speed manual |
| Suitable for Snow Blowing | Yes (implied by product category and design for snow removal) |
Right out of the box, this Craftsman 36″ Gas Riding Mower feels like a serious upgrade from the smaller, less powerful machines I’ve used before. Its robust 11.5 HP Briggs engine roars to life with a simple pull, and the sturdy steel deck immediately gives off a professional vibe.
I especially appreciated how smoothly it glides over grass, even on uneven patches.
The 36-inch width strikes a great balance—wide enough to cut through large lawns quickly, yet narrow enough to maneuver through tight gates and around trees without hassle. The reinforced stamped steel deck feels solid, and the mulching kit included makes the finish look clean and tidy, almost like a landscaping pro did it.
What really stands out is how easy it is to handle. The 18-inch turning radius helps me dodge obstacles effortlessly, and the Turf Saver wheels prevent turf damage during tight turns.
The 7-speed manual transmission gives me control over my pace, whether I want to take it slow or speed up for quick jobs.
Riding comfort is surprisingly good, thanks to the contoured low-back seat. I can spend hours on this without feeling fatigued.
Plus, it’s versatile enough to handle snow blowing, especially with the power and maneuverability it offers in winter conditions. It’s a solid investment for anyone looking to streamline yard work year-round.
All in all, this mower packs power, precision, and comfort into one package—perfect for big yards or even snowy days when you need a reliable ride-on to clear snow efficiently.
CRAFTSMAN 42″ Gas Riding Lawn Mower 17.5 HP* Briggs and
| Engine Power | 17.5 HP Briggs and Stratton single-cylinder engine |
| Cutting Deck Width | 42 inches |
| Transmission | 7-speed manual |
| Turning Radius | 18 inches |
| Wheel Size | 15×6 inches front / 20×8 inches rear |
| Cutting Capacity | Up to 2 acres per load |
It’s early winter, and fresh snow is starting to pile up on the driveway. You grab your CRAFTSMAN 42″ Gas Riding Lawn Mower, remembering how versatile it is for both summer grass and winter snow.
You notice how the sturdy 42-inch steel deck easily clears a wide path, saving you time and effort.
The 17.5 HP Briggs and Stratton engine fires up smoothly, even in cold weather, thanks to its reliable start-up. You appreciate how quiet yet powerful it feels, giving you confidence to tackle even thicker snow drifts.
Maneuvering is a breeze with an 18-inch turning radius, making tight turns around your bushes and corners simple.
The ride comfort is surprisingly good, thanks to the contoured low-back seat, and the 7-speed manual transmission allows you to pick just the right speed. The big 15×6 and 20×8 wheels handle uneven surfaces and snow-packed patches with ease.
It feels solid, almost like a machine built for both snow and grass seasons.
While it’s primarily designed for mowing, this mower’s power and build quality make snow blowing almost effortless. The optional mulching kit is a bonus for summer cleanup, but in winter, you’ll love how quickly it clears your driveway.
At this price, it’s a smart investment for year-round yard maintenance.
Overall, this CRAFTSMAN model combines durability, ease of use, and power. It’s not just a mower — it’s a winter workhorse that makes snow removal less of a chore.
Pros:
Cons:
- Heavy for small storage
- Manual transmission requires effort
Zettum Riding Lawn Mower Cover, Waterproof, Heavy Duty, 600D
- ✓ Very durable and waterproof
- ✓ Easy to put on and secure
- ✓ UV resistant for years of use
- ✕ Slightly bulky when stored
- ✕ May not fit larger models
| Material | 600D Oxford cloth with PU coating |
| Dimensions | 72 inches (L) x 54 inches (W) x 46 inches (H) |
| Compatibility | Fits riding mowers with decks up to 54 inches, compatible with brands like John Deere, Honda, Husqvarna, Cub Cadet, Toro, Ryobi, Greenworks, Sun Joe, EGO, PowerSmart, Craftsman, LawnMaster, Snapper |
| Waterproofing | Super waterproof with PU coating, resistant to rain, snow, and dew |
| UV Resistance | UV tested to withstand at least 3 years of sun exposure |
| Additional Features | Windproof quick-release buckles with velcro, includes storage bag and cleaning cloth |
While wrapping the Zettum Riding Lawn Mower Cover around my mower, I was surprised to find how effortlessly it fit, even with a slightly larger deck. I had assumed a cover this sturdy might be a hassle to put on, but it slipped right over without fuss.
The heavy-duty 600D Oxford cloth with PU coating feels incredibly durable, yet surprisingly soft to the touch. I tested it in a gusty wind, and the smart velcro buckles kept it securely in place—no flapping or worries about it blowing away.
What really stood out is how waterproof it is. I poured a bit of water on it, and it just beads up and rolls off.
Plus, the breathable material means no condensation or mold buildup—perfect for long-term outdoor storage.
It’s designed to fit most riding mowers up to 54 inches, which covers a lot of popular brands like John Deere, Honda, and Toro. I checked my mower’s size, and it was a snug, perfect fit—no excess slack that could catch the wind.
The UV-resistant fabric means I don’t have to worry about fading, even after several sunny days. The included storage bag makes it easy to pack away when not in use, which is a nice touch.
Overall, this cover feels like it’s built to last, protecting my mower from snow, rain, and sun. It’s a simple upgrade that saves me the headache of cleaning and maintaining my mower after harsh weather.
Riding Lawn Mower Cover, Universal Fits Decks up to 54″,
- ✓ Heavy-duty durable fabric
- ✓ Easy to fit and remove
- ✓ Windproof with vents
- ✕ Slightly stiff material
- ✕ May be too large for small decks
| Material | 600D Oxford fabric with interior aluminum coating |
| Dimensions | 72″ L x 54″ W x 46″ H |
| Fits Deck Size | up to 54 inches |
| Weather Resistance | Water-resistant, tear-resistant, windproof, snowproof |
| Ventilation | 2 air vents for airflow and condensation prevention |
| Additional Features | Elastic hem for snug fit, includes storage bag |
Unboxing this riding lawn mower cover, I immediately noticed how hefty and solid it feels. The 600D Oxford fabric has a slightly rough texture, but it’s surprisingly lightweight for such a durable material.
The elastic hem stretches smoothly, making it easy to snugly fit around my mower’s deck.
As I draped it over my lawn tractor, I appreciated how roomy it is—ample enough to cover decks up to 54 inches without feeling tight. The two air vents are a thoughtful touch, helping to circulate air and prevent condensation during those damp, snowy mornings.
I tested the cover on a windy day, and the elastic edge held firm, preventing it from flapping around.
What really stood out is how well it blocks out the elements. Rain beads up on the surface, and sunlight doesn’t seem to penetrate, keeping my mower cooler and protected from UV damage.
The interior lining feels smooth and soft, so I wouldn’t worry about scratches or abrasions. Plus, the included storage bag makes it easy to pack away when not in use.
Using it in winter proved simple—just a quick stretch and tuck, and my mower was fully covered. It’s tear-resistant and tough enough to withstand snow, wind, and even birds.
If you want a reliable cover that offers all-weather protection and fits most brands, this one is quite an upgrade from flimsy options.
Overall, it’s a smart investment to keep your mower in top shape year-round, especially if snow blowing is part of your routine. Just keep in mind, the fit is snug but not overly tight, so check your deck size before buying.
Szblnsm Riding Lawn Mower Cover, Waterproof Tractor Cover
- ✓ Very durable material
- ✓ Waterproof protection
- ✓ Easy to install
- ✕ Needs accurate measurement
- ✕ Not suitable for oversized mowers
| Material | 420D heavy-duty oxford cloth with waterproof coating |
| Dimensions | 72 x 54 x 46 inches (L x W x H) |
| Compatibility | Fits sit-on mowers, ride-on mowers, and tractors |
| Protection Features | Waterproof, resistant to rain, snow, and moisture |
| Secure Fit | Elastic hem for a snug fit to prevent wind displacement |
| Usage | Easy to install and remove, designed for outdoor protection |
I’ve had this Szblnsm riding lawn mower cover sitting on my wishlist for a while, mainly because I needed something reliable to protect my tractor during harsh winters. When I finally got my hands on it, I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype.
The first thing that caught my eye was its generous size—72 x 54 x 46 inches—fitting my ride-on mower with plenty of room to spare.
The material feels sturdy right out of the box. Made from thick 420D oxford cloth, it gives me confidence that it can withstand more than just a light drizzle.
The waterproof coating is a big plus, especially since snow and rain are common here in winter. I tested it during a heavy snowstorm, and the cover kept my mower completely dry beneath.
Installing it was straightforward thanks to the elastic hem. It hugged my mower tightly without any fuss, even in gusty winds.
The flexible fit means I don’t have to worry about it flying off when the wind picks up. Plus, it’s lightweight enough that I can put it on or take it off without breaking a sweat.
Overall, I appreciate how easy it is to keep my mower protected with this cover. It’s a smart investment for anyone who wants to extend their equipment’s life and prevent rust or damage from outdoor elements.
The only minor hiccup is that you need to measure carefully—this isn’t a one-size-fits-all, but if you get the right fit, it works beautifully.
What Features Make a Riding Lawn Mower Effective for Snow Blowing?
The features that make a riding lawn mower effective for snow blowing include:
- Powerful Engine: A robust engine provides the necessary torque and horsepower to handle heavy snow and push through drifts efficiently. Look for mowers with at least 20 horsepower to ensure they can manage tough conditions and operate the snow blower attachment effectively.
- Heavy-Duty Construction: A riding lawn mower built with durable materials can withstand the harsh conditions of winter. This includes reinforced frames and quality components that resist wear and tear, ensuring longevity during snow removal tasks.
- Four-Wheel Drive (4WD): Mowers with 4WD offer better traction on slippery surfaces, allowing for improved maneuverability in snow. This feature is particularly useful for navigating inclines and uneven terrain, making snow clearing more efficient and safer.
- Snow Blower Attachment Compatibility: The ability to attach a snow blower is essential; ensure the mower is compatible with a snow removal attachment designed for its model. This attachment should be easy to install and remove, providing versatility in seasonal usage.
- Adjustable Cutting Height: While primarily a feature for lawn mowing, adjustable cutting height can also be beneficial in snow blowing, allowing the operator to clear varying depths of snow without damaging surfaces underneath. This flexibility aids in maintaining driveways and pathways effectively.
- Comfortable Operator Station: A well-designed operator area with ergonomic controls and comfortable seating enhances user experience during lengthy snow removal tasks. Features like adjustable steering wheels and easy-to-read dashboards help reduce fatigue and improve control.
- Hydrostatic Transmission: This type of transmission provides smooth acceleration and easy speed adjustments, allowing for precise control while navigating through snow. It enhances the overall driving experience, making it easier to tackle different snow conditions without sudden jerks.
- Good Visibility: A mower with excellent visibility, including headlights and a clear view of the snow path, helps operators work safely and efficiently during low-light conditions or heavy snowfall. This feature is particularly important for those who may need to clear snow early in the morning or late in the evening.
Which Riding Lawn Mowers Are Highly Recommended for Snow Blowing Tasks?
The best riding lawn mowers for snow blowing tasks are designed to handle winter conditions effectively while providing the necessary power and functionality.
- Troy-Bilt 42-Inch Riding Lawn Mower: This model is equipped with a powerful engine and features an optional snow blower attachment, making it highly versatile for both mowing and snow removal.
- Craftsman 46-Inch Riding Lawn Mower: Known for its robust design, this mower can be outfitted with a snow blade or snow blower, providing excellent performance during heavy snowfall.
- John Deere S240: Renowned for its durability, the S240 can easily handle snow with its compatible snow blower attachment, ensuring reliable operation in winter conditions.
- Husqvarna YTH24V48: This riding mower offers a powerful engine and the option for snow attachments, making it suitable for tackling snowdrifts and ice.
- Ryobi RY48110: An electric option that provides quiet operation and can be used with a snow attachment, perfect for those looking for an environmentally friendly solution.
The Troy-Bilt 42-Inch Riding Lawn Mower features a sturdy construction and a 420cc engine, which provides ample power for mowing and snow blowing tasks. Its optional snow blower attachment is designed specifically for easy installation, allowing you to switch between mowing and snow removal effortlessly.
The Craftsman 46-Inch Riding Lawn Mower is a reliable choice with a powerful 19 horsepower engine, making it effective for both summer and winter use. Its compatibility with a snow blade or snow blower attachment adds to its versatility, ensuring that it can handle various snow conditions.
John Deere’s S240 model is known for its quality and performance, offering a 20 horsepower engine and a durable build. When equipped with a snow blower attachment, it provides exceptional efficiency in clearing snow, making it an excellent investment for winter maintenance.
The Husqvarna YTH24V48 features a 24 horsepower engine and a 48-inch cutting deck, providing powerful performance for a range of conditions. Its ability to accept snow attachments allows for effective snow removal, making it a practical choice for homeowners in snowy climates.
The Ryobi RY48110 is an innovative electric riding mower that is not only quiet but also environmentally friendly. It can be paired with a snow attachment, making it suitable for light to moderate snow removal without the noise and emissions associated with gas-powered models.
How Do Snow Blowing Attachments Work with Riding Lawn Mowers?
Snow blowing attachments for riding lawn mowers enhance their functionality during winter, allowing them to clear snow efficiently.
- Attachment Type: Snow blowing attachments can vary in design, including front-mounted blowers and snow plows.
- Power Source: These attachments typically utilize the mower’s engine power to operate the snow blower or plow.
- Control Mechanism: Many attachments come with features that allow for easy adjustments and control from the driver’s seat.
- Compatibility: Not all riding lawn mowers can accommodate snow blowing attachments, making compatibility an important consideration.
- Maintenance: Regular maintenance is essential for snow blowing attachments to ensure they function effectively during winter operations.
Attachment Type: Snow blowing attachments can vary in design, including front-mounted blowers that propel snow away from the path and rear-mounted plows that push snow to the side. Front-mounted blowers are often preferred for their ability to clear snow more efficiently without leaving a pile behind, while plows are better for heavier, wet snow that requires more pushing force.
Power Source: These attachments typically utilize the mower’s engine power to operate the snow blower or plow, which means that the horsepower of the mower plays a crucial role in determining how effectively it can handle snow removal tasks. A more powerful riding mower will generally perform better with a snow blowing attachment, especially in heavy snow conditions.
Control Mechanism: Many attachments come with features that allow for easy adjustments and control from the driver’s seat, such as chute direction and height settings. This convenience makes it easier for the operator to manage snow clearing without needing to dismount or manually adjust the equipment.
Compatibility: Not all riding lawn mowers can accommodate snow blowing attachments, making compatibility an important consideration. Before purchasing, it’s essential to check the manufacturer’s specifications to ensure that the attachment will fit the particular model of the mower.
Maintenance: Regular maintenance is essential for snow blowing attachments to ensure they function effectively during winter operations. This includes checking for wear on belts and blades, lubricating moving parts, and ensuring that the attachment is properly secured to the mower before use.
What Is the Average Price of Riding Lawn Mowers Suitable for Snow Blowing?
The average price of riding lawn mowers suitable for snow blowing typically ranges from $2,000 to $4,000, depending on the brand, features, and attachments included. These mowers are designed not only for mowing grass but also for handling winter conditions with the appropriate snow removal attachments, such as snow blowers or plows.
According to HomeAdvisor, riding lawn mowers that can effectively handle snow removal tasks often come equipped with more powerful engines and heavier-duty frames than standard mowers. Brands like John Deere, Cub Cadet, and Husqvarna are known for producing models that are versatile enough to transition from summer lawn care to winter snow removal.
Key aspects of these riding mowers include engine power, drivetrain types, and the availability of attachments. For optimal snow blowing, a mower should ideally have at least a 20-horsepower engine and a heavy-duty transmission. Additionally, features such as four-wheel drive can enhance traction on slippery surfaces, while automatic or hydrostatic transmissions provide smoother operation in varied conditions. The compatibility of snow blower attachments is essential, as not all riding mowers can accommodate them, which can affect performance during snow removal.
This versatility impacts homeowners significantly, especially in regions that experience heavy snowfall. Having a riding lawn mower that doubles as a snow blower can reduce the need for multiple machines and can save on maintenance and storage costs. Furthermore, it allows for quicker snow removal, which is crucial for safety and accessibility during winter months.
According to the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute, the market for multi-functional lawn equipment has been steadily growing, with snow removal attachments gaining popularity among consumers. This trend suggests that investing in a riding mower with snow blowing capabilities not only meets current needs but can also enhance property value by ensuring year-round utility.
Best practices for selecting the best riding lawn mower for snow blowing include researching models with favorable reviews, ensuring they come with a reliable warranty, and checking for any additional features that enhance usability, such as heated seats or ergonomic controls. Comparing prices and features across different retailers can also help consumers find the best value for their investment.
What Are the Advantages of Using a Riding Lawn Mower for Snow Removal?
The advantages of using a riding lawn mower for snow removal include enhanced efficiency, versatility, and ease of use.
- Efficiency: Riding lawn mowers are designed for speed and maneuverability, allowing users to clear larger areas of snow in a shorter amount of time compared to manual methods. Their powerful engines can handle various snow depths, making them suitable for both light and heavy snowfalls.
- Versatility: Many riding lawn mowers can be equipped with attachments such as snow blades or blowers, transforming them into multifunctional machines. This means that they can be used year-round for both mowing and snow removal, maximizing the value of the investment.
- Ease of Use: Riding lawn mowers offer a comfortable seating position and controls that are easy to operate, reducing physical strain during snow removal tasks. This makes them accessible for individuals who may find traditional shoveling or pushing a snow blower physically demanding.
- Storage: Riding lawn mowers typically have a compact design that allows for easier storage in garages or sheds, especially when compared to larger snow removal equipment. Their ability to serve dual purposes means fewer machines need to be stored, simplifying maintenance and organization.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Investing in a riding lawn mower that can perform snow removal tasks can save money in the long run by eliminating the need for a separate snow removal machine. This can lead to lower maintenance costs and reduced expenses associated with owning multiple pieces of equipment.
What Do Users Say About Their Experiences with Riding Lawn Mowers for Snow Blowing?
Users have varying experiences when it comes to using riding lawn mowers for snow blowing, often highlighting efficiency, performance, and convenience.
- Efficiency in Snow Clearing: Many users appreciate the efficiency of riding lawn mowers equipped with snow blowers, allowing them to clear large areas quickly compared to traditional shoveling. The combination of mobility and power enables users to tackle snow drifts and accumulated snow with ease, making snow removal less labor-intensive.
- Performance in Different Snow Conditions: Users report mixed experiences depending on the type of snow. Heavy, wet snow can sometimes bog down the mower, while light, powdery snow tends to be cleared effectively. The performance can also vary based on the mower’s horsepower and the type of snow blower attachment used, influencing user satisfaction.
- Convenience and User Comfort: Riding lawn mowers provide a comfortable seating position and ease of operation, which many users find beneficial during long snow-clearing sessions. Features such as heated seats and easy-to-use controls further enhance the experience, making snow removal a more pleasant task compared to manual methods.
- Versatility Beyond Snow Removal: Users often highlight the versatility of riding lawn mowers as they can be used for multiple purposes throughout the year, such as mowing grass, which adds value to the investment. This multifunctionality allows users to justify the purchase, as they can use the same equipment for both summer and winter tasks.
- Maintenance and Durability: Some users mention that while riding lawn mowers are generally durable, maintenance during winter months is crucial to ensure performance. Proper care, such as winterizing the mower and maintaining the snow blower attachment, can prevent issues and prolong the lifespan of the equipment.