Choosing the best ski jacket depends on what type of skier you are. For beginners, a good winter jacket may be enough, but avid skiers need more features.
We've reviewed 10 great affordable jackets that will keep you warm and dry. Plus, for people looking for higher end jackets, we compiled a list of the very best brands!
“A pair of skis are the ultimate transportation to freedom.”
- Warren Miller -
Winter is here, and with it comes the harshest and coldest weather of the four seasons.
On the bright side, however, is that it brings with it the joy that is the ski season. The thrill-seekers in particular will agree that nothing quite beats the feeling of the cold wind brushing through your hair, while sliding down those breathtaking mountain slopes in winter.
Instead of taking your down jacket on your ski day, try one of the men's and women's best ski jackets that mix insulation, performance, and cool style.
This goes without saying that one of the fundamental investments you can make at the moment is a nice ski jacket.
You want a ski jacket that is windproof, fully waterproof, and warm. To protect you through these harsh climatic conditions, these jackets have been designed to implement weatherproof qualities that secure you from the penetration of cold, which may ultimately leave you with frostbite or getting sick.
They have also optimized other features like size and weight, making them most suitable for skiing and exploring the outdoors in the cold. These modern-day best jackets are also fashionably appealing and up to date with regards to today’s tends.
Picking the right ski jacket is all about managing the weather conditions that you are more likely to encounter on the mountains.
Therefore, besides not freezing like an icicle, you are guaranteed to look good in the event that your ski mate decides to take that sudden snap for the 'Gram'.
Quick Links - Ski Jacket FAQS
In this article we hope to answer the most frequently asked questions about buying the best winter jacket for skiing. Want to go directly to a question? Click the link.
Top 10 Winter Ski Jackets 2021 — Our Picks
Before we get to our reviews, which include links to retailers who carry various ski jacket products, here's a quick preview of which ones we chose based on quality, overall customer satisfaction and value for the money, along with the our rating.
Jackets designed specifically for skiing can range in price point from about $100 all the way to thousands of dollars for high-end and best ski jackets. Make sure you select the option that best suits you.
Since we know not everyone can afford that, we chose to feature a mixture of men's, women's and children`s winter and ski jackets at different price points — from brands known for quality and affordability.
Best Ski Jackets — Current Amazon Prices
For this Top 10 list, we focused on budget friendly ski coats. We also have a list of other major ski jacket brands if you don't find what you are looking for.
Table shows products in order from high to low at the time of our research. Since price tag frequently change, the order may not be exact when you view it.
Please Note: Links in this chart go to Amazon. To see our reviews, continue reading.
Amazon.com prices as of 5/11/2020, 5:24:05 AM - details
Best Ski Jackets 2021 Reviews
When it comes to a jacket for skiing, you'll need to decide whether you want one with all the "extra" features or whether a good quality winter-jacket will do — it all depends on how often you plan on hitting the slopes!
To ensure that you are adequately prepared for this oncoming season, we have scoured the multitudes of skiing attire out there to present you with the ultimate compilation of the best ski jackets available in the current market.
We've also put together a comprehensive buying guide, complete with an infographic that makes sense of all those waterproofing and breathability numbers!
Okay, let's get on to the reviews, so you can learn more about these great winter jackets for skiing!
Wantdo Men's Mountain Waterproof Ski Jacket Review
Wantdo is a brand that has come up and made its place in the world of outdoor garments. Exerting a fine craftsmanship with respect to quality and fashion, the company brings you one of the finest and best ski jackets in the markets.
Perhaps the most eye-catching feature you’ll notice when you purchase Wantdo Mountain Waterproof Ski Jacket is how comfortable and lightweight it is. It is one of the highly recommended best men's ski jackets.
There are 14 different color options for this particular best men's ski jackets to choose from, and of course Wantdo makes it on the list of some of the best ski jackets for women and kids too. This will surely come in handy for those back country adventures.
The jacket is both waterproof (waterproof rating: 10000 mm) and windproof giving you the best weather protection, and it features multiple pockets:
The Wantdo Ski Jacket is easy to breathe through and has been proven great for a multitude of tasks, including skiing, cycling, skating and more.
The ski jacket is also conveniently designed. Part of this includes a stand collar, snap-button epaulets on its shoulders, as well as a full zipper closer at its front side. With these features, the ski jacket retains enough warmth to aid you face the harsh winter temperatures with boldness.
Our Rating: 4.5 out of 5
Pros
Cons
Wantdo Men's Mountain Waterproof Ski Jacket
Arc'teryx Men's Beta Ar Waterproof Ski Jacket Review
Arc’teryx offers a wide variety of beta jackets in the best men's ski jackets category, with their purpose ranging from super-light to the severe weather attires. Having retained its position in Arc’teryx’s lineup since 2000, the Beta Ar All-Round jacket stands to be a favorite among the masses.
This probably has something to do with its premium Gore-Tex Pro ripstop fabric, helmet compatible DropHood™, and WaterTight™ zippers that make it suitable for versatile mountaineering users.
The flagship piece of this ski jacket constitutes of a complete feature set. This includes a sturdy hood with an upgraded Cohaesive® cord lock adjusters to enhance security. It has enforced pit zips to allow that extra ventilation and even though it is hard-shell, it only weighs 1 ounce.
When put to the test, this ski jacket fulfills all that you may need from a winter jacket. Whether it’s breathability, durability, weather protection, and fit, the attire supersedes expectation. And the DWR (Durable Water Repellent) finish does a great job of repelling moisture.
The Beta Ar jacket is designed to optimize for comfort. It’s extremely sublime fit gives you the feeling that you are covered wholly from head to your bum without the overwhelming feeling of bulk and chunkiness.
As if that’s not enough, the 80-denier on the shoulders are built to incorporate backpack straps, snowfall, and rain.
This particular style comes in 9 different colors, in sizes ranging from X-Small to XX-Large. The Beta AR, as well as other jackets in Arc’teryx’s Beta line, are also available in a women's style.
With all these considerations put to actuality, the Beta AR truly earns its place as among the best in its class. Its durability makes it well deserving of its seemingly incredible price tag.
Our Rating: 4.5 out of 5
Pros
Cons
Arc'teryx Men's Beta Ar Waterproof Ski Jacket
686 Girls Dream Insulated Ski Jacket Review
Founded by Michael Akira West, an avid skier since the 80’s, 686 offers a wide range of ski jackets and attire for men, women and kids.
The 686 Girls Dream insulated jacket simply looks fun and trendy at anybody’s first glance. With its inspired print designs, the jacket stands out among its plainer counterparts. Specifically engineered to best suit the feminine physique, the Flora brings the optimum feel of quality and comfort.
Growth is a continuous process; it’s no surprise to find the clothes that were a perfect fit only a few months back, being too small for you. Well, thanks to the multiple sizing system from Youth Evolution, the arms of this jacket have been tailored to extend up to 1.5 inches, ultimately meaning that you can wear it again and again in the event that you increase in size.
Besides its eye-catching appearance (available in different designs), the 686 Dream is fully equipped with all that you may need to stay warm and dry during your day in the slopes.
To ensure that water does not seep in, the ski jacket has fully taped seams, tested and backed with an incredible 10k rating on water resistance. Its fabric is also easily breathable with a Polyfill synthetic insulation that allows for better heat retention.
It has an adjustable hood. The drawcord at the back of its hood enhances easier adjusting and mesh underarm vents conveniently positioned allow the release of excess heat. The underarm vents offers the maximum breathability you will need drug challenging uphill climbing.
Also included with the jacket is a powder skirt to prevent snow from getting in, wrist gaiters that restrict cold air from your sleeves, an internal goggle pocket with scratch-proof sleeve as well as an audio cord outlet for easy access to your music.
Our Rating: 5 out of 5
Pros
Cons
686 Girls Dream Insulated Ski Jacket
Columbia Sportswear Boy's Bugaboo Interchange Fleece Ski Jacket Review
Columbia Sportswear has made good use of their patented thermal-reflective technology to bring you a boy’s jacket with a really impressive rate of heat retention.
The Bugaboo stands out among other best ski jackets on the market with its bold design and a zip-in interchange element that literally gives your son three jackets in one. Your son can wear each piece separately, or zip them together for added protection against the elements. It becomes top of the line recommended men's ski jacket that keeps you warm.
With a combination of its Omni-Heat™ thermal reflective liner seam sealed shell, the boys' Bugaboo is made both waterproof and breathable. Therefore, in the event that your boy decides to go falling into puddles, the water would simply roll right off.
With this ski jacket, safety during playtime in the cold winter is guarantee. Your child would be ever dry and nicely warm.
What’s even better, this jacket features Columbia’s OUTGROWN™ system that makes it possible for you to extend the cuffs — extending the life you get out of the coat as your son grows. The Taffeta-lined storm hood is removable and adjustable storm, and will keep him warm. To further reinforce this, the jacket has button closures and Omni-Tech™ sealed seams that enhance its wind and waterproof qualities.
The ski jacket has reflective material as well, making sure your kids are ever visible, even if they wander off in the snow. Other touches that complement its overall function include adjustable cuff tabs, zippered hand pockets, and taffeta fleece-lined hood.
And if father and son want to look alike, the Bugaboo also comes in men's sizes!
As an added bonus, there are media and goggle pockets, as well as zippered pockets for his hands.
Our Rating: 5 out of 5
Pros
Cons
Columbia Sportswear Boy's Bugaboo Ski Jacket
Patagonia Women’s Down Sweater Jacket Review
Patagonia offers you more than just a fancy brand name. This zip-up jacket can be confidently acclaimed to deliver light, comfort, and compressible warmth, opportune for the cold weather.
When most people think of down jackets, the first thing that often comes to mind is something that’s big and bulky. However, this one is anything but that — perhaps that’s why Patagonia calls it a sweater.
This conveniently portable jacket has grown to become the typical modern-day recommended attire for your alpine missions, worn by itself or as part of your layering.
The outer fabric of the Patagonia is extremely light, perhaps one of the first feature you’ll notice when you wear it. The 100% recycled polyester ripstop material is sewn with thoroughly quilted construction and boasts of really impressive abrasion resistance.
Its clean design leaves enough room for additional base layers, and its polyester lining is smoothly done woven with a DWR finishing.
Take a look at the Patagonia 100% Traceable Down Sweater | Courtesy of Patagonia
In addition, it has a drawcord hem to seal out drafts, two hand pockets that are fully zippered, a high-loft top quality goose down insulation, and nylon-bound cuffs to protect your wrists from cold. The jacket is fashionable and trendy and comes in both women’s and men’s styles.
Although this down sweater from Patagonia doesn’t have a hood, it does have a collar that can be worn up or down. Or you could go for one of their down sweater vests.
Our Rating: 4.5 out of 5
Pros
Cons
Patagonia Women's Down Sweater Jacket
Helly Hansen Women's Powderqueen 2.0 Ski Jacket Review
Helly Hansen has always stood out among other brands in the world of winter wear and fashion, which is perhaps why this next jacket from their selection has such highly rated reviews. Just by the mere look of the women’s Powderqueen, it’s hard not to notice the aura of elegance and royalty that it exudes.
You can see it in its design, which is a perfect display of Helly hansen's experience and craftsmanship, not to mention the careful blend of intuitively selected colors.
Good style is not the only promise that comes with the helly hansen Powderqueen, the jacket also lives up to all the typical requirements of an exceptional ski jacket. The helly hansen comes fully insulated, featuring its heat-capturing synthetic PrimaLoft fill that will keep you more than warm in any mid-winter condition.
Helly Hansen even went the extra mile with this longer relaxed, extremely well-fitting jacket with a 2-layer fabric from its very own Helly hansen Tech. This in turn gives it a 4-way stretch, making this thing of beauty the ultimate weather protection suit.
The helly hansen design also features a blend of high collars and a hood that is helmet-compatible, providing extra heat for the colder lift rides.
As if that’s not enough, Helly hansen integrated its H2Flow system which is made to regulate your body temperature according to your output and the conditions around you. To back this further, the helly hansen has side ventilation zippers in the under arms that gets rid of excessive heat.
With the Helly hansen signature mark of quality engraved on its breast that just screams ‘Take me home!’, it becomes evident what extents Helly hansen went in making of this jacket.
The helly hansen women’s jacket is fully breathable, with articulated arms for a more superior fit. It comes with an attached powder skirt and dual hand warmer pockets that give you easy side and top access and wrist gaiters that will help you adjust your cuffs as suited.
To put the icing on this cake, the helly hansen jacket is fitted with a RECCO Rescue System, so in the unfortunate event that you ever get lost in an avalanche, you can rest assured that someone can find you.
Our Rating: 4.5 out of 5
Pros
Cons
Helly Hansen Powderqueen Ski Jacket
The North Face® Arrowwood Triclimate® Jacket Review
Incorporating not one, not two, but three jackets in one, The North Face Arrowwood Triclimate® can best be described as an embroilment of versatility. With this jacket, two detachable pieces can be worn separately but can still be easily combined to form a third one with more insulation. You’ll be able to adapt regardless of the intensity or the fluctuations in those winter temperatures.
Other than this outstanding feature, the jacket is made of a waterproof, yet sufficiently breathable outer shell together with a fleece zip-in liner jacket. With this, you can remain fully insulated in the cold morning and detach the fleece when things warm up.
The outermost jacket is made to enhance comfort. It is fully equipped with zippered pockets, an adjustable hood, and not forgetting, its smooth taffeta lining. In addition to this, its seams are fully sealed to prevent leaking. It has Velcro cuffs, which can be adjusted appropriately for a better fit, a hem cinch-cord that helps seal off your waist, and its zip-in is made compatible to complementing garments to increase flexibility.
Simply put, be it that icy morning or sunny afternoon, you’ll never be too hot or too cold.
Besides jackets, The North Face also has other snow gear, including winter hats, boots, and scarves. This means that, by purchasing this product you would also get access to gear that would most suitably complement it. And of course, they make jackets for kids and women too.
The North Face Warmth Rating: "Warmest" Breathability Rating — 750-800 g/m²/24 hours
Our Rating: 4.5 out of 5
Pros
Cons
The North Face Men’s Arrowwood Triclimate Jacket
The North Face® Boys' Vortex Triclimate® Jacket Review
There aren’t many jackets out there that consider the possibility of a versatile range of appearances, however The North Face does with the Vortex winter jacket — which is great for active sports like skiing. Like the adult jackets in the Triclimate® line, this jacket made specifically for kids can be what the youth term as a triple threat.
This beast of a jacket encompasses two separate layers that can not only be worn separately, but they can also morph together to form a whole other jacket with added warmth. Because of the different layers, your kids can rock this jacket at any time of the year.
Other than the fancy design, the convertible pairs are waterproof, with fully sealed seams. These seams are very necessary because they completely seal up the holes that are created when the materials are sewn together. With the possibility of penetration eliminated, you can comfortably relax while your kids are out in the snow knowing they are ever warm.
To accommodate for size, the Vortex incorporates an adjustable drawcord feature at its hem as well as adjustable cuffs that would result in that ultimate snug fit.
Also included are zip hand pockets, which allow for safe storage for all those nice things your little ones don’t pay for. It has a hard-shell outer coating, which would guarantee longevity and durability.
This jacket comes in youth sizes ranging from XX-Small to X-Large, and six different colors. If you have a little princess, check out The North Face’s winter and ski jackets for girls.
Our Rating: 5 out of 5
Pros
Cons
The North Face® Little Kids/Big Kids Boys' Vortex Triclimate® Jacket
Burton Girls' Hart Winter Jacket with Helmet Compatible Hood Review
When it comes to winter sports, for over 40 years Burton has been brand with a great reputation for quality, and this girl’s skiing jacket is no exception.
The taffeta lined Burton Hart ski jacket for girls has a microfleece back panel and Thermacore™ insulation in the body, hood and sleeves, as well as critically taped seams. It also features YKK® Zippers which means added durability that will stand up to the wear and tear of lots of use. It also comes integrated with helmet compatible hood.
In terms of breathability and waterproofing, Burton has your budding snow bunny covered with its DRYRIDE™ exterior (rated at 10,000mm / 5,000g) and the jacket is treated with PFC-free DWR.
The built-in Room-To-Grow™ System will extend the life of the jacket, allowing your young skier to gain extra length in the sleeves simply by removing the special red stitching just above the wrist cuff (which are adjustable by the way).
This jacket also features Burton’s Helmet Compatible Fulltime Contour™ Hood with drop construction, an elastic hood gaiter, and adjustable crown, not to mention a snag-free neckline and a chafe-free chin guard.
For added comfort, there are vented Pit Zips™ and zippered microfleece pockets to keep her hands warm. Speaking of pockets and storage, there’s lots of it in this jacket including a sleeve pass pocket with hook-and-loop closure, Therma-Pocket with a media port, a goggle pocket plus loops to hold gloves when not in use and a ticket O-ring.
Wait, we’re not done yet…
This jacket comes with an ergonomically designed waist gaiter/power skirt that is water repellent and can be connected to her favorite ski pants.
Available in nine vibrant color options, in sizes ranging from girls X-Small to X-Large, the Burton Hart Jacket is not only functional and warm for hitting the slopes, but we believe she’ll love the stylish looks of it so much she’ll want to wear it every day.
And you’ll love the fact that the jacket comes with a lifetime warranty.
Our Rating: 5 out of 5
Pros
Cons
Burton Girls' Hart Ski/Snowboard Winter Jacket
Moerdeng Women's Waterproof Ski Jacket Review
This next product from Moerdeng is one of the best budget friendly, multipurpose jackets in the game. You not only get a jacket for skiing, but it doubles up as a coat that you can comfortably wear outdoors during the cold or rainy season.
The jacket is both water and windproof, featuring a professional fleece liner and fabric with cotton padding that will not only prevent water from getting in, but also retain as much heat as possible. When you wear this jacket from Moerdeng, the first thing you are bound to notice it the fleece in its inner lining. It provides a luxurious feeling of winter warmth, comfort and breathability.
This women's winter jacket comes in six different colors/designs, in sizes ranging from small to XX-Large. The fabric (rated at waterproof over 10000mm) used to make its outer layer is also high quality and wear resistant — guaranteed to make it last through multiple seasons.
The jacket also features a powder skirt to prevent those unwanted snowflakes from creeping in, a stand collar for extra warmth and comfort around the neck, and a removable storm hood whose full insulation properties will keep your head sheltered from any storm.
With this jacket you get the very best elastic Velcro cuffs that will tighten the grip on your wrists, keeping the jacket as windproof as possible.
The women’s jacket design also has some hidden gems that add to overall appeal and convenience of the product. These include adjustable hidden buttons, zipper closure system, a stretchable thumb hole which snuggly seals the warmth in, as well as a fluff lining for extra comfort.
The style of this jacket makes it ideal for a variety of activities. So, if you are a lover of outdoor sports like snowboarding and downhill skiing, this may be the one for you.
Our Rating: 4.5 out of 5
Pros
Cons
MOERDENG Women's Waterproof Winter Snow Coat Mountain Windbreaker Hooded Raincoat
What Are the Best Ski Jacket Brands?
It may seem obvious, but ski jackets are also good for snowboarding!
When we did our research for the best jackets for skiing, it was hard to come up with just 10 because there are many options.
For our purposes, we chose to focus on a combination of affordability and features, which meant that we included several 'all around' winter jackets, not just "pure" ski jackets.
Why? Because for casual skiers or people new to skiing, these types of jackets provide good, budget friendly options.
As a result, our top 10 list actually 'missed' some of the best brands known for making excellent ski jackets. If our focus was purely on jackets designed specifically for skiing, these brands would absolutely have made the list.
While top 10 list does include top ski jacket brands such as Helly Hensen, Burton, 686 and Arc’teryx, if these don't meet your needs, you definitely want to check out these additional 11 top brands (presented in alphabetical order):
2021 Best Ski Jacket Buying Guide
“There is no such thing as too much snow.”
- Doug Coombs, American Extreme Skier -
There’s more to ski jackets than good looks.
These jackets do well to keep you warm during subzero temperatures and protect you from both the snowfall and the wipeouts. These jackets are a fundamental part of your skiing experience, and thus choosing the right one for your needs becomes your ultimate priority.
So, what should you keeping mind before you pick the best one out from collection of brands out there in the market?
Follow through for more information!
Get a Waterproofed Skiing Jacket That’s Breathable
While at it, you should look for a jacket that is able to keep the snow out while at the same time getting rid of the moisture and the heat that your body produces while you ski. These jackets come with the two features inbuilt, and at other times one feature standing out more than another.
The effectiveness of jackets in terms of waterproofing and breathability is primarily dependent on the materials used to make them — and picking the best jacket for skiing is a balance between them. Initially you might be thinking that you want something that is as waterproof as possible, but the problem is that the more waterproofing, the less air can pass through and the less breathable it becomes. Since skiing is an active sport, this would be trapping in all your moisture and body heat, creating a 'sweat box'.
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Waterproof Ratings for Ski Jackets
“Hydrostatic head” is the extent of the waterproofing for these jackets is measured in numbers ranging from 5000 mm on the lower scale to 28000 on the higher side. Waterproofing ratings measure how much moisture can pass from the outside through a piece of material.
One thing that is important to keep in mind when considering the level of waterproofing is that not only does it keep water from getting in, but it also effects how moisture and body heat is released. Think about it this way… A plastic is waterproof, but it certainly would not be a good material to make a ski jacket out of. The same is true for heavy duty raincoats. Sure, they would keep you dry, but they are not designed for the rigors of skiing.
This is why you also need to consider breathability when buying a ski jacket, not just whether it's waterproof.
There are two common rating scales for breathability: MVTR and RET.
Moisture Vapor Transmission Ratings for Ski Jackets
The extent of breathability of jackets is often signified by what is known as the Moisture Vapor Transmission Rate, or MVTR for short. This rating measures how quickly water vapor (in grams) passes through a piece of material (a square meter in size) from the inside to the outside over time (24 hours).
The lower the number, the less moisture passes through, and the more waterproof a material is – but that also makes it less breathable.
The lowest MVT score possible is 0, but of course this is not used for clothing (unless you plan on wearing a jacket made of glass or aluminum). Technically speaking, an article of clothing with an MVTR of 20,000 [20,000g/m2/24hr] means that 20,000 grams of vapor/moisture passed through it in a day.
But what does that mean for you?
For clothing, the moisture we are talking about is perspiration and body heat. And for an active sport like skiing, you want a jacket that allows your body to breath.
For ski jackets, the range is typically between 10,000 g/m²/24h to 30,000 g/m²/24h — with the MVTR of 10,000 being moderately breathable, but not very well suited for high energy skiing. Most ski jackets fall somewhere in the middle range, providing a good balance of breathability and water resistance.
With advances in technology, materials such as Gore-Tex have come on the market with MVR ratings of 25K and up, that also provide excellent water proofing. Jackets like this of course, tend to be on the more expensive side.
Resistance to Evaporative Heat Transfer Rating for Ski Jackets
MVT is just one of the scales used to measure how well air and moisture flow through a garment. You may also come across another rating for the breathability called the RET scale (Resistance to Evaporative Heat Transfer) measures the resistance to evaporation and ranges from 0 to 30.
The lower the number, the more breathable the piece of clothing is.
Which is More Important, Breathability or Waterproofing?
All these numbers may be a bit confusing and you may be wondering, now what? As we said before, you need to strike a balance that is best for your needs. Both are important, but each skier has their own personal preferences.
For example, if you are a high speed, super active skier, breathability may be more important. But you would probably not want to go below a 6 for winter sports because there would be no protection from the cold. However, moderate skiers often look for jackets in the 13 to 20 RET range.
If you are a new skier, it's likely that you won't be going super fast, but you may also have quite a few falls along the way. If so, then you want a jacket that can handle all that contact with the snow on the ground.
It's good to keep in mind that in general, the higher the waterproofing value of a skiing jacket, the lower the rate of heat and moisture escape. You can choose to go with one or both of them.
Dressing in layers is a great way to get that balance.
ATTENTION:
We know "numbers" and all this technical stuff can be boring, so we interrupt this buying guide with a laughter break...
Video: Humor break - Funny skiing disasters [What not to do on a chairlift]
Fun Footage of Skiers Falling Off Chairlifts | Courtesy of Warren Miller Entertainment
Feel better?
Okay then, let's get back to what to look for when buying a ski jacket.
Types of Ski Jackets to Consider
The materials used to make these jackets come in different weaves and sources. While some will have the outer surface made of several layers hence more weight, others will come with simple layers and very lightweight. For some resort skiers, the weight of your ski jacket isn’t usually a deciding factor. The more the layers this apparel comes in, the more abrasive resistant it is. Also, the more robust the materials used in making these items, the more durable they are. Other ski jackets may include 3 in 1 jacket features that will meet your every need.
You won’t lack to find some jackets with some extra reinforcement on critical areas like the elbows and the shoulders. The latest trends have the whole apparel being made from one piece by having the durable areas woven into the material. This works well to cut down on the use of seams, which are water-vulnerable.
Video: What to look for when buying a ski jacket
Skiing 101: How to Buy a Ski Jacket with Bryan Rogala | Courtesy of Outside
There are three main types of jackets for skiing: hard shell, soft shell and insulated (which can be either soft or hard).
Hard Shell Ski Jackets
These types of jackets come with a wind-resistant and waterproof design, which enables them to withstand a variety of adverse weather conditions giving you the best weather protection. This makes these jackets very ideal for backcountry skiers in harsh settings.
Hard shell jackets are usually not insulated (although there are some brands that include a removable insulated lining) but they do form the upper part of the layering system, and they are straightforward to pack into compact and manageable sizes.
The downside of these jackets is, they are not as breathable as the soft shell jackets and hence may not be the best option for the active skier.
Soft Shell Ski Jackets
These types of jackets are versatile and can be worn as either an outer or mid-layer. Though most are treated with the DWR water repellent coating they not waterproof. This means that if you are anticipating some heavy snow or are heading out into the back country, a hard-shell jacket would be the best option — either alone, or as a layer over the soft shell jacket.
Insulated Ski Jackets
These types of jackets are the best option for casual skiers who like gliding through the dense alps in colder countries like Canada and the Pacific Northwest (PNW). Insulated skiing jackets usually feature a waterproof outer shell, as well as an insulation layer right beneath the waterproofing shell.
The insulation either comes in synthetic or down insulation. The latter typically work better in areas with -20 degrees and also dry since they are both hot and lightweight. When choosing these types of jackets, it is preferable to consider the kind of activity that you are most likely going to be involved in as well as the anticipated temperatures. This is because, unless the temperatures run below freezing point, opting for the insulated jackets will mean excess heat for you.
What’s Your Fit and Style?
While all jacket features play a crucial role in enhancing your skiing experience, there are some that stand out in terms of importance. This includes waterproofing and breathability, and also fit.
Some ski jacket models will include a sleeve pocket on the left arm, which guarantees for both easy access to your ski pass and compatibility with RFID passes and electronic gates.
In general, ski jackets fall into one of three designs in terms of fit.
Regardless of which style of ski jacket or ski gear you are getting, unless you are purchasing more than one, make sure that the size you get leaves room for extra-base layers for colder weather conditions. Active resort skiers and backcountry skiers more than often pick a 3-layer fabrication for its improved range of comfort, motion, and lighter weight.
What Kind of Skiing Will You Be Doing?
The type of ski jacket you choose doesn't just depend on the temperatures and your personal fashion style, it also depends upon the type of skiing you are doing. Arming yourself with the right ski gear can work magic for you.
As we have mentioned before, the more "active" you are, the more you are going to generate body heat and sweat. This is where breathability comes in to play.
They kind of skiing you do can also influence the type of ski jacket, and ski gear you will require as you glide down the slopes.
Features to Look for in Ski Jackets
Helmet Compatible Hood
Some ski jacket will come integrated with switch hoods, and others simply won’t. The hoodie comes in handy in protecting your head in case the snowfalls. However, there’s more to the hood than just keeping you dry.
Does the hood adjust for snug fit? Can you detach it from the jacket when you don’t need it and also, can you wear a helmet over it? See, all these are things to consider when choosing a jacket with a hoodie.
Vents (aka Pit Zips)
While on the quest for the best skiing jacket, make sure the one you get features vents, which are mainly located on the underarms and also around the chest. These vents can be unzipped to allow you to cool off. They are backed by a mesh that prevents snow from coming inside.
Powder Skirt (aka Waist Gaiter)
Some jackets feature powder skirts that come in different formats depending on the brand. Some are detachable, and others attach to the pants while others will come with stretchy panels that go over whatever your skiing apparel. The one you choose here will be dependent on your preference.
Wrist Gaiters
While indulging in all the fun and the occasional wipe-out, your sleeves may get filled with snow. To prevent this from happening, look for wrist gaiters. Jackets come with simple short cuffs or long ones that cover your entire hand with some thumb holes. The benefit of the thumb hole is that it helps hold the inner sleeve up under your glove. You should go for the one that works best for you. The latter may be warmer, but it does get in the way of some skiers.
Sealed Seams
When choosing a ski jacket for skiing (or any other winter sport), make sure you go for Sealed Seams. You want to look for jackets with taped seams as opposed to the traditional simple stitching which is not waterproof. Some jackets are taped throughout their seams while others are only taped in the most critical areas, such as the shoulders. You may find some high-end shells with narrower tape, which does well to keep the weight down.
Waterproof Zippers and/or Zipper Flaps
Just like you don't want water or snow going through the seams of your ski jacket, you don't want it getting in through the zipper. The best jackets for skiing have special zippers that are actually waterproof. Another good option is a flap that covers the zipper, usually attaching on the opposite side with velcro. While we're at it, we also want to mention that well-designed ski jackets also are made so that the top of the zipper doesn't rub against your chin and some even have a guard.
Moisture-Wicking
Most ski jackets liners are usually made from moisture dispersing and quick-dry materials or even mesh, which helps in wicking out sweat. This feature helps keep you dry while skiing, especially when it's warm. Base layers also do come in handy when worn under the ski jacket.
Pockets
Skiing jackets will usually come with several pockets for a wide array of uses including a mesh for the goggles, a pocket for a smartphone with an insert for your headphones, a lift pass pocket mostly on your arm, and maybe a secure one where you can easily stash your cash or cards. It will instead be a good idea if you put this into consideration. You are probably going to need several items while you ski anyway, so make sure there is providence for storage for your carry-ons.
Use Rescue Reflectors and/or Avalanche Beacons
Video: Safety First! How RECCO Technology works
RECCO Explained in 2 minutes | Courtesy of Recco Rescue Technology
Do I REALLY Need a Jacket Designed for Skiing?
Skiing requires specific skiing apparel due to the weather conditions and the nature of the activity. However, what happens if you don’t have the proper garment for this endeavor?
Really good ski jackets are expensive, but there are alternatives if you are just a casual skier and don't want to spend a lot of money. A good example is the winter jacket, which comes with windproof and water-resistant features.
While many winter jackets won't have all the bells and whistles like waterproof zippers, powder skirts, wrist gaits and sealed seems, they will still do well for casual skiing in moderate weather conditions.
It's close to impossible to keep the snow completely out should you decide to ski through some really deep snow or take a serious tumble, but a powder skirt nonetheless has been put in place as a great line of defense. Elasticized fabric technologies is fabricated into the lining of the ski jacket around the waist, and will fasten to your ski pants near the front zipper. Some manufacturers prefer to make the snow powder skirts incase you want to use the ski jacket around town.
The most important thing to consider is whether the coat allows you good mobility. Instead of wearing a big, bulky winter coat wear a lighter one with layers underneath.
The last thing you want to do is look like Randy...
Video: How NOT to dress for skiing - Poor Randy can't put his arms down
A Christmas Story: I Can't Put My Arms Down! | Courtesy of TBS
A Few Final Words...
“Feel the mountain and let it show you how you're going to ski it. Relax and cruise. This isn't a fight, it's a dance, and the mountain always leads.”
- Jim Bowden, Sports Analyst -
While looking for the best skiing jacket may feel like trying to wade your way through a busy subway station, it can be exciting and fun when you have the right facts.
There is just so much to consider and knowing what to look out for makes it a lot less tasking. If you are going to be skiing regularly, then you will be using the ski jacket more often and hence might need a pair or so.
However, if you are a seasonal skier, then you are probably going to be using the apparel for some years to come. Either way, be sure to pick something which will not only work out well for your needs but also one that will last a lifetime.
One word of caution — even if you are on a tight budget, avoid getting a super cheap ski jacket. Not only are these likely to tear on your first fall, but unless you are skiing on a really sunny day, most won't keep you warm.
After all, it is a worthwhile investment.
And with that, we'll leave you with this video to get you really excited about your next trip to the slopes...
Video: Celebrate 70 years of ski cinematography - Warren Miller's "Timeless"
Kick off the Ski Season with Warren Miller's "Timeless" Official Trailer | Courtesy of Warren Miller Entertainment