How to choose a ski jacket
Choosing a ski jacket can be a minefield. What ‘mm’ of waterproofing is best? What’s a ‘shell’? Don’t worry – we cover everything you need to know right here.
Whether you’re lapping the slopes in the Italian Dolomites in mid-April or ripping Alaskan steeps in January, you need the right ski jacket for the job. But where do you start?
Picking the right ski jacket is a complex task. And, with so many options, it can feel overwhelming. But we’ve brought clarity to the chaos so you can select the perfect outerwear for whatever adventures await.
Ready to dive in? Then let’s not waste any more time. We’ll sort your insulation grams from your breathability grams, millimeters from membranes, and pockets from pow skirts. By the end, you’ll be completely confident in your choice!
Tips on choosing a ski jacket
Waterproofing and breathability
Waterproofing is typically the biggest factor in choosing a ski jacket. Breathability is often a secondary concern because the two almost always scale together (written as ‘20K/20K’ or ‘20,000mm/20,000g’). Breathability, in a nutshell, relates to how much vaporized sweat can be exuded through the jacket’s membrane. It’s represented as a ‘g/24hr/m2’ value, which is how many grams of vaporized water can pass through a square meter of the fabric in 24 hours. And higher values equate to greater volumes, preventing sweat buildup. So, why is high breathability such a big deal? It’s needed when you’re producing lots of body heat, such as when you’re ski touring or learning.
Most high-quality ski jackets pair excellent waterproofing with superior breathability. This combination means that the more effective the jacket is at repelling water from the outside, the better it is at releasing sweat from the inside. This balance is enhanced by design features like ventilation zippers and strategic layering.
We quantify waterproofing with an ‘mm’ value, which represents the height of a water column in millimeters that can be resisted by the fabric before water penetration occurs. A higher mm value indicates a stronger barrier against water, ensuring that you remain dry even in extreme conditions. For the most rigorous outdoor activities and varied weather scenarios, a waterproof rating at the top of the scale ensures the best protection and comfort.
Types of ski jackets
There are a few different ski jackets to think about. Primarily, you’ll want to decide between an anorak (a pullover style) or a zip-through. Anoraks don’t have the front zipper, so you get extra storage with a kangaroo pouch pocket. Plus, many riders prefer them for their style and simplicity.
On the other hand, a zip-through is incredibly versatile – especially when you need to access your mid layers or take your ski jacket on and off. Ultimately, which style you go for comes down to preference. Then, there’s insulation to consider. And more isn’t always better!
Insulated
Insulated jackets have a built-in insulation layer between the shell and the liner. This insulation keeps you warm on the mountain and can be made from synthetic or natural down (feathers). Alternatively, your jacket might have synthetic compact insulation, a network of woven fibers that trap micro air pockets to lock in heat.
Most insulated ski jackets fall between the 60-120gsm range, with the weight relating to the ‘thickness’ of the insulation, i.e., grams of insulation per square meter of area. Thicker jackets are warmer but less breathable. They’re also bulkier, so movement becomes a little more difficult.
Get cold easily? An insulated ski jacket might be the right choice. However, in most cases, a lighter insulation weight is more favorable for versatility and comfort. For example, around 60gsm offers a good weight balance with little bulk. If you get cold, add another layer underneath. But remember, if you’re too warm, you can’t remove the built-in insulation!
Shell
Shell jackets don’t have an insulation layer. Instead, you’ll control your warmth through layering. Usually, a base layer and a mid layer (like a fleece or puffer jacket) keep you cozy on the mountain. And, if you get too hot, remove your mid layer. Run cold? Just layer up. Shell jackets are extremely versatile, making them popular among experienced riders. They’re also much lighter and easier to move in.
You’ll find a few types of shell ski jackets. Lined shells are the most common and balanced choice. Because they have no insulation except for a smooth ‘liner’, (which offers extra pockets and comfort), lined shells are versatile and practical.
You’ll sometimes notice the word ‘softshell’, which describes another type of laminated fabric. These jackets have a smooth but soft outer shell, a membrane, and a fleecy interior, all laminated into one layer. They’re casual and often come in a ‘hoodie’ design, making them popular with laid-back riders, cruisers, and park rats. They’re also great for spring riding.
Ski jacket features
Ski jackets have many, many features! Everything from the hood to the hem will either suit your needs or not, so it’s best to have a good overview of the features.
Hood
Not all hoods are created equal. And adjustability is the prime factor. You’ll find one-way adjustable hoods (a single drawstring around the cowl), two-way adjustable (front-to-back cinch ability), or three-way adjustable (vertical length adjustability at the back of the hood).
Hood adjustability helps with how it fits – with and without a helmet. So, consider whether you’ll ride hood-up or hood-down. Plus, decide how much peripheral vision you want when riding with your hood up. Some hoods also come with a visor or peak to boost helmet fit.
Vents
Vents are a must-have, especially for insulated ski jackets. Zip-through styles will have underarm vents, while anoraks will sometimes have full-length side zips that lead into underarm vents.
Zip-through jackets also have the bonus of unzipping at the front for extra ventilation. In contrast, anoraks have a half or quarter-zip design to open the collar. However, whatever the style or position of the vents, they’re there to keep you cool and make sure sweat stays to a minimum.
Pockets
Pockets should be another big consideration. If you’re not a fan of riding with a backpack, then your pockets will be vital. We’ve already mentioned anoraks having oversized pouch pockets at the front, which are really handy. However, zip-throughs will also have big hip pockets for storage.
Zip-through jackets have more internal storage and big ‘mesh’ pockets to store larger items. It’s pretty essential to have a media pocket for your phone and a lift ticket pocket on the left sleeve to get through the lift gates.
Taped seams
Taped seams are an extra layer of protection against the elements. Waterproof ‘tape’ is applied to the interior of the jacket’s seams at the shoulders, hood, and sleeves to stop water from soaking through the weakest points of the construction.
Some ski jackets will have ‘critically taped’ seams, which means the top seams are taped to protect where the weather hits the hardest. ‘Fully taped’ means all seams are taped. This is definitely the better choice for riding all day in all weather.
Powder skirt
Powder skirts may or may not be a feature you require, depending on where you ride. They are an elasticized gaiter that cinches around the hips to prevent snow and powder entering the jacket.
A snow skirt keeps you warmer and dryer – especially handy on deep powder days. On groomers, they’re not really needed. However, if you fall a lot or are just starting out, they can prevent groomed snow and slush from getting inside your ski jacket and snow pants.
Wrist gaiters
Wrist gaiters help to keep your hands warm and prevent your sleeves from riding up. They can make your gloves fit better, too.
Typically, wrist gaiters are made from stretch material, such as Spandex or Lycra, and are common in many ski jackets. They can also prevent snow from going up your sleeves as they form a barrier between your gloves and jacket. Think of them like a powder skirt for your arms.
Fit
Fit is the final consideration. Do you want baggy or snug? A baggier fit offers greater freedom of movement (and extra style points!) but air moves through the jacket more freely, potentially making you colder. A tighter fit is warmer but can restrict movement.
Freestyle riders often opt for oversized jackets to give them better freedom with rotational movement and prevent bunching around their hips when riding. Alpine-focused skiers, though, are free to choose a tighter fit, as they don’t need to move as much while they shred. Ultimately, it’s down to preference – and, more importantly, style!
In summary
Multiple factors go into choosing a ski jacket. No wonder so many people struggle to find the perfect one, right? But, hopefully, you now have the tools and knowledge to decide and pick the ideal style for your next adventure!
Think we missed something? Need more help choosing? Reach out to crew@montecwear.com, and we’ll be glad to give you a hand!
Women's ski jackets
Men's ski jackets
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