In recent years, the powersports industry has witnessed a major transformation. No longer are enthusiasts satisfied with stock machines. Whether it’s a rugged UTV, a street-savvy motorcycle, or a high-performance ATV, riders crave customization that matches their style, needs, and environment. Among the most noticeable trends? The growing demand for wraps and custom aesthetics across top side by side brands.
Side by sides—also known as UTVs (Utility Task Vehicles)—have exploded in popularity for off-road adventure seekers and working professionals alike. As these machines become more advanced, the expectations for style, performance, and individuality grow alongside them. And with a wide range of accessories, mods, and aftermarket upgrades available, the sky’s the limit when it comes to personalization.
Why Customization Matters in the Side by Side Market
Side by sides are no longer just tools for hauling gear or patrolling rugged terrain. They’ve evolved into lifestyle vehicles. From the dunes of Glamis to the forests of the Pacific Northwest, UTV owners want machines that not only perform well but reflect their personal identity.
Here’s why customization is booming:
- Brand Competition: Polaris, Can-Am, Honda, Yamaha, and Kawasaki are leading side by side brands, all offering premium models with distinct personalities. Owners want theirs to stand out, even within the same brand.
- Event Culture: Whether it’s trail rides, mud bogging, or sand drag races, events play a huge part in powersports culture. Unique designs help individuals and teams stand out.
- Social Media Influence: Instagram and TikTok are driving the aesthetics race. Custom wraps, lighting, and decals become shareable content that fuels brand and user engagement.
- Business Applications: Companies using UTVs for hunting lodges, property management, or rentals often want branded wraps that reinforce their logo and professionalism.
Top Side by Side Brands Offering Customization Potential
Let’s take a look at the key players in the market and what makes each an ideal platform for creative customization:
Polaris
Arguably the biggest name in the side-by-side world, Polaris models like the RZR and Ranger offer serious power and a broad accessory market. Their aggressive body lines and bold factory colors make them perfect candidates for wraps and performance mods.
- Best for: Sand dunes, trail riding, racing
- Popular customization: Wraps, turbo kits, long-travel suspension, aftermarket wheels
- Can-Am
The Maverick and Defender series have established Can-Am as a performance-oriented brand with luxury features. Their models have smooth panels ideal for full-body vinyl wraps.
- Best for: High-speed performance and luxury trail rides
- Popular customization: LED light bars, audio systems, desert-style wraps
- Honda
Honda’s Talon is a tech-forward machine, great for riders who want reliability and off-road fun. Though Honda’s color options are fewer, they make a great base for high-contrast wrap designs.
- Best for: Trail reliability, everyday riders
- Popular customization: Roof wraps, rocker panel protection, safety accessories
- Yamaha
The Yamaha YXZ1000R is a high-performance model known for its manual transmission—something rare in UTVs. Yamaha side by sides have a sporty aesthetic and a loyal fan base.
- Best for: Racing purists and manual gearheads
- Popular customization: Performance tuning, racing stripes, sponsorship graphics
- Kawasaki
The Teryx and Mule lines cater to both outdoor workers and recreational riders. While not as flashy as others, Kawasaki models are incredibly reliable and highly adaptable.
- Best for: Utility work, hunting, and exploring
- Popular customization: Camo wraps, bed racks, winches
Wraps: The Customization Secret Weapon
A high-quality wrap can completely change the personality of your UTV. Whether you’re repping your favorite anime, showcasing your company logo, or just protecting the paint from the elements, a wrap offers versatility, affordability, and full creative control.
Benefits of wrapping your side by side:
- Paint protection: Especially important for resale value or when riding in harsh terrain.
- Personal branding: Whether you’re an influencer, a racer, or a small business, your wrap tells a story.
- Easy to update: Compared to paint jobs, wraps are easier to replace or update seasonally.
- Cost-effective: Professional wraps are often cheaper than a new paint job and can last for years with proper care.
- One of the rising names in this space is 10KWraps, which offers hundreds of stock and custom designs tailored for cars, motorcycles, and yes—UTVs. From anime-inspired artwork to sport-specific designs, they provide solutions for both personal and business uses.
The Role of UTV Wrap Designers
Behind every great side by side wrap is a designer who understands the geometry of the vehicle. Unlike a flat canvas, a UTV is full of contours, rivets, and body lines that require precision design and printing.
Top characteristics of a good wrap designer for UTVs:
- Knowledge of specific side by side brands and their body styles
- Ability to scale and tile designs for large or unusual panels
- Understanding of terrain-related wear (mud, sand, UV exposure)
- Fluency in durable vinyl types (3M IJ180, Avery Dennison, etc.)
- Designers must consider not just how a wrap looks—but how it performs in a demanding environment.
Essential Accessories to Match Your Wrap
Once you’ve wrapped your ride, don’t stop there. The best custom UTVs pair their aesthetic with performance and utility accessories. Here are a few ways to round out your side by side style:
- LED Light Bars & Underbody Lighting
Show off your wrap during night rides with lighting upgrades.
2. Beadlock Wheels & Off-Road Tires
Match color schemes with anodized or custom painted wheels.
3. Seats & Harnesses
Custom seats with embroidered logos add to both safety and swag.
4. Audio & Communication Systems
Play music or communicate with other riders—great for group rides and events.
5. Custom Roofs & Doors
Wrap these elements to complete the look and add functionality.
Getting Started with Your Custom Wrap
If you’re new to wrapping your UTV, here are a few steps to guide you through:
- Pick Your Platform
Identify your side by side brand and model year. This helps ensure the wrap kit fits precisely.
2. Select a Theme or Concept
Choose something that reflects your personality or purpose. Popular themes include camouflage, flames, tribal, anime, and company logos.
3. Find a Reputable Designer or Supplier
Look for businesses with experience specifically in UTVs—not just general vehicle wraps.
4. Decide: DIY or Professional Install
If you’ve never done a wrap before, professional installation is recommended—especially for full-body coverage.
5. Maintain Your Wrap
Wash gently, avoid pressure washers on edges, and consider ceramic coating for added durability.
Expanding Influence Through Custom Rides
More and more, custom-wrapped UTVs are becoming status symbols at events and on social media. Businesses use them as mobile billboards. Riders use them to represent clubs or build personal brands.
A sharp-looking machine that turns heads wherever it goes doesn’t just make the owner feel proud—it gets shared, remembered, and recognized. This can turn your weekend hobby into an influential platform, especially if you’re active in the online off-road or side by side community.
Even if you’re just out for fun, a custom wrap connects you with the broader movement of creativity in motorsports.
Wrapping Up the Ride
Customization in the world of UTVs is more than a trend—it’s a movement. As riders seek to express their individuality and boost functionality, the power of visual upgrades like wraps is only gaining momentum.
With more side by side brands supporting customization through modular builds and aftermarket support, there’s never been a better time to invest in personalization. From weekend warriors to ranch owners, the UTV community is thriving on expression and performance alike.
Whether you’re adding a bold anime-themed wrap, a stealthy camo pattern, or a brand-specific racing stripe, the message is clear: your ride is your signature.
