Best Ski Jackets for Women & Men

Whether you’re riding up a chair lift or speeding down the trail, you need a ski jacket to protect you from the harsh elements. Consider the usage, weather protection, ventilation, and other features like pockets and zips. Ideally, you’ll find a ski jacket to last you winter after winter. 

1. Use: Resort or Backcountry?

Backcountry and resort ski jackets usually have specific features for the intended activity. For instance, backcountry jackets will have a thicker outer shell to protect from sharp rocks. On the other hand, resort ski jackets will have more pockets and zips for added convenience. 

2. Shell Layers: 2L vs 3L

A three-layer laminate shell will provide the ultimate wind- and waterproofing, as well as breathability. Though a 3L model is more durable and rugged than a 2L, they both provide protection against the elements. 

3. Insulation

Since skiing takes place in colder weather, warmth is an essential consideration. There are some jackets with synthetic insulation, some with natural down insulation, and some with both. 

Many people say that there’s nothing warmer than real goose down. Though it will keep you warmer than other jackets, it’s also usually expensive. In addition, if it gets wet, it no longer retains heat.

On the other hand, synthetic insulation such as Primaloft mimics the heat-trapping properties of down. It’s usually more affordable and still keeps you warm if it gets wet. 

4. Waterproofing

In this list, several jackets have thick waterproof shells. GORE-TEX is one of the most reliable and popular waterproof fabrics. It’s also breathable, which is vital since skiing is an aerobic exercise. Some other waterproofing methods are a Durable-Water-Repellent (DWR) coating and different variations of waterproof fabrics. 

One thing to keep in mind is cleaning your GORE-TEX jacket as needed. Contrary to the myths, this will enhance, not diminish, waterproofing. 

5. Fit

Most people want their clothes to be comfortable, and ski jackets are no exception. Since we’re continually moving when we ski, we want a jacket that moves with us. Some jackets fit more loosely, while others contour to the body’s curves. We recommend reading the description of each jacket carefully to find the fit you prefer. Look for things like ergonomic tailoring and body-mapped insulation.

6. Ventilation

When skiing, your body temperature is continuously changing: frigid mornings walking to the chair lift; working up a sweat skiing downhill; warm afternoons gliding through slush. A great ski jacket provides the ventilation to adjust the warmth as you go. That’s why many jackets have massive vents and pit zips that allow heat to escape. Keep in mind that insulated jackets will be harder to cool off since they trap heat. 

7. Other Features

Certain features make your long days on the slopes more convenient. Ski-specific features can make an already-good jacket perfect for you. 

• Helmet-compatibility

Finding a hood that fits over your helmet is a must. Some hoods reduce visibility, while others rotate with your head. You want the hood to be well-fitting and snug, designed to fit over your helmet.

• Pockets

Pockets are essential for spending full days on the slopes. If you mostly do resort skiing, you’ll want to find a jacket with an RFID pass pocket. Some jackets also have big pockets to hold snacks, extra gloves, hand warmers, and trail maps. 

• Powder Skirt

Powder skirts help keep the snow out when it’s piled up high. If the snow keeps coming up through your waist, you’re going to have to leave the slopes early. That’s why a powder skirt, removable or attached, is an essential part of the best ski jackets.