Everyone deserves to enjoy the outdoors year-round, especially in the magic of winter, without the additional barrier of finding apparel that fits. To help speed up the process, we rounded up the best plus-size ski and snow gear for women based on expert interviews, and we’re currently field testing these choice picks.
The outdoor industry still has a ways to go to serve extended size options to skiers, riders, sledders, and other winter recreationists, but over the past few years, a handful of brands have pioneered high-quality options. You’ll find insulated options like the L.L.Bean Rugged Ridge Parka or backcountry-oriented designs that are more breathable and decked out with great pockets, like the Outdoor Research Snowcrew Jacket. The sizes in this category include 1X-4X, as well as extra short through long lengths.
Read on for top sellers in women’s plus-size snow apparel that doesn’t skimp on functionality, style, or protection. For in-depth advice on how to select the best plus-size apparel, read the Buyer’s Guide or jump to the Price & Value summary. Still weighing your options? Consult our Comparison Chart to see how the choices stack up. Otherwise, take a look at our awarded goods for the 2024-2025 season.
Editor’s Note: We updated our Women’s Plus-Size Ski and Snow Gear guide on November 13, 2024, with a Price & Value, Fit & Sizing, Plus Sizes, Straight & Extended Sizes sections — and field testing is currently underway in Utah and California.
The Best Plus-Size Ski and Snow Gear for Women of 2024-2025
- Best Overall Plus-Size Ski Jacket for Women: L.L.Bean Rugged Ridge Parka
- Best Budget Plus-Size Ski Jacket for Women: Columbia Whirlibird IV Jacket
- Most Stylish Plus-Size Ski Jacket for Women: Plus Snow Cartel Brooklyn Ski Jacket
- Best Plus-Size Backcountry Ski Jacket for Women: Outdoor Research Snowcrew Jacket
- Best Plus-Size Midlayer for Women: The North Face Women’s Plus Osito Jacket
- Features: Detachable and adjustable hood, fleece neck warmer, goggle pocket with wipe
- Waterproofing: Yes
- Insulated: Yes
- Sizes: 1X, 2X, 3X
Pros
- Reaches below hip
- Five pockets total for plenty of storage
- Two-way zipper with storm flap
- Great price
Cons
- Not the most stylish lifestyle option
- Size range does not go up to 5X
Columbia Whirlibird IV Jacket
- Features: Zip-in and 3-point Interchange System, attached and adjustable hood, pit vents, ski pass pocket, goggle pocket
- Waterproofing: Yes
- Insulated: Yes
- Plus Sizes: 1X, 2X, 3X
Pros
- Omni-heat thermal reflectivity
- Five total pockets
- Wear synthetic insulation layer solo, or shell solo, or pair the two
Cons
- Best for moderate rain and snow versus heavy snow
Plus Snow Cartel Brooklyn Ski Jacket
- Features: Pit vents, powder skirt, detachable hood, detachable faux fur, goggle pocket
- Waterproofing: 15K/15K waterproof breathable laminate
- Insulated: Yes
- Plus Sizes: 18-30
Pros
- Feminine cut
- Insulation ranges from 100 to 40 grams throughout the jacket in targeted zones
Outdoor Research Snowcrew Jacket
- Features: Helmet-compatible hood, pit zips, powder skirts, ski pass pocket
- Waterproofing: Yes
- Insulated: Yes
- Plus Sizes: 1X, 2X, 3X, 4X
Pros
- Utilizes recycled materials
- Insulated chest pocket to preserve phone battery
- Ski helmet compatible
- Super waterproof
- Brushed tricot fabric that lines the chinguard and hand pockets is dreamy-soft
Cons
- Tad pricier than budget options but not the most expensive either
The North Face Women’s Plus Osito Jacket
- Features: 100% recycled fabric
- Waterproofing: No
- Insulated: Yes
- Plus Sizes: 1X, 2X, 3X
Pros
- Great layering piece for beneath a winter jacket
Cons
- Extended sizes stop at 3X
Plus Snow Pure Lapland Softshell Ski Pant
- Features: Zip hand pockets, storm cuff, high-rise waist, fleece-bonded lining
- Waterproofing: 20K/20K waterproof breathable laminate
- Insulated: No
- Plus Sizes: 18-30 (including extra short, short, regular, long)
Pros
- Super waterproof and breathable at 20K/20K
- Great price
Cons
- Not the most dense if you prefer thicker pants
- Lack insulation
- The waistband doesn’t have pull tabs for adjustable (but has belt loops)
- Features: Thermal-reflective lining and synthetic insulation, reinforced hem, internal leg gaiters, adjustable waist
- Waterproofing: Yes, critically sealed seams
- Insulated: Yes
- Plus Sizes: 1X, 2X, 3X
Pros
- Thermal reflective fabric adds insulation alongside the synthetic insulation
Cons
- Not the most waterproof choice for heavy, wet snowfall
- Features: Fleece chin warmer, interior electronic pocket, removable faux fur, pass pocket, powder skirt
- Waterproofing: 10K/10K waterproof breathable laminate
- Insulated: Yes
- Plus Sizes: 18-22 (also available in 2-16 and petite sizes)
Pros
- Insulated with 150 grams in the body and sleeves plus 40 grams in the hood
Cons
- Not all colors are offered in extended size run
- Features: Waist adjustment tabs, zip hand pockets, avalanche beacon pocket, thigh vents
- Waterproofing: Yes
- Insulated: No
- Plus Sizes: 1X, 2X, 3X, 4X
Pros
- All plus-sizes include short, regular, and tall options
- Super waterproof option
- 56% recycled fabric and 100% recycled liner
Cons
- Not the stretchiest fabric choice
- Features: Fleece-lined and high back waistband, zippered hand pockets, reinforced hems, powder cuffs, ventilation
- Waterproofing: 15K/15K waterproof breathable laminate
- Insulated: Yes
- Plus Sizes: 18-22, short, regular, and long
Pros
- Internal leg vents
- Scuff guards
- Fleece-lined waistband
Cons
- Vents are small — but at least they’re there
- Features: Fleece-lined waistband, seat, and knees, waist adjusters, durable scuff guards, inner snow gaiters
- Waterproofing: Yes
- Insulated: Yes
- Plus sizes: 1X, 2X, 3X
Pros
- Insulated
- Several pockets
Cons
- No ventilation zips
- Features: Two hand pockets, jacket stashes into its right hand pocket
- Waterproofing: DWR treatment on surface
- Insulated: Yes
- Plus Sizes: 1X, 2X, 3X
Pros
- Down fill is very compressible and super warm
Cons
- Natural down fill can be vulnerable to super wet weather
- Features: Sealed and taped seams, removable hood, underarm vents
- Waterproofing: Yes
- Insulated: Yes
- Plus Sizes: 1X
Pros
- Underarm vents aren’t always available on plus-size apparel and they are here
- Integrated write gaiters
- Soft micro-fleece liner on chin guard
Cons
- Not the most color options
- Features: Bluesign-approved materials, Fair Trade-certified factory, double-snap closure on waist band
- Waterproofing: DWR
- Insulated: Yes
- Plus sizes: 1X, 2X, 3X
Pros
- Three pockets
- Articulated knees
Cons
- Not the most waterproof or most insulated choice
- Limited color options
Plus-Size Ski and Snow Gear for Women Comparison Chart
Scroll right to view all of the columns: Waterproofing, Insulated, Plus Sizes.
| Snow Gear | Price | Waterproofing | Insulated | Plus Sizes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| L.L.Bean Rugged Ridge Parka | $199 | Yes | Yes | 1X, 2X, 3X |
| Columbia Whirlibird IV Jacket | $230 | Yes | Yes | 1X, 2X, 3X |
| Obermeyer Tuscany II Jacket | $279 | 10K/10K | Yes | 18-22 |
| Plus Snow Cartel Brooklyn Ski Jacket | $320 | 15K/15K | Yes | 18-30 |
| Outdoor Research Snowcrew Jacket | $349 | Yes | Yes | 1X, 2X, 3X, 4X |
| Plus Snow Pure Lapland Softshell Ski Pant | $240 | 20K/20K | No | 18-30 |
| Columbia Bugaboo Omni Heat Pants | $120 | Yes | Yes | 1X, 2X, 3X |
| Outdoor Research Snowcrew Pants | $229 | Yes | No | 1X, 2X, 3X, 4X |
| Obermeyer Bliss Pant | $199 | 15K/15K | Yes | 18-22 |
| L.L.Bean Wildcat Waterproof Insulated Snow Pant | $169 | Yes | Yes | 1X, 2X, 3X |
| The North Face 1996 Retro Nuptse Jacket | $300 | DWR treatment on surface | Yes | 1X, 2X, 3X |
| DSG Outerwear Craze 5.0 Hooded Snowmobiling Shell Jacket | $250 | Yes | Yes | 1X, 2X, 3X, 4X |
| The North Face Women’s Plus Osito Jacket | $100 | No | Yes | 1X, 2X, 3X |
| REI Powderbound Snow Pants | $149 | DWR | Yes | 1X, 2X, 3X |
How We Tested the Best Plus-Size Ski and Snow Gear for Women
We interviewed experts and conducted research to find the best plus-size ski and snow gear for women.
When Plus Snow surveyed more than 1,000 men and women in its first-ever plus-size global winter sports survey, data showed that nearly 75% are active skiers. Yet, 97% responded that they have difficulty finding appropriate-fitting gear, and 60% said that this lack of gear has prevented them from heading outside for winter sports at all.
“I work to source and supply plus-size clothing, but also to advocate so that more brands make plus-size clothing options, and then more people can enjoy the outdoors safely,” said Mon Balon of Plus Snow, an online winter gear shop with inclusive sizing.
“Representation is also a core foundation of what we work towards,” she said. “As we all know, you can’t be what you can’t see. Fatphobia and size bias has ruled the outdoor industry for far too long, and it’s time for that narrative to change. Everybody should be able to enjoy the outdoors safely and when clothing doesn’t fit properly, it becomes a safety issue.”
Although Plus Snow has been doing the work to source brands that have inclusive sizing since 2015, other brands are finally coming around to add not just extra sizing options, but also extra sizing options in a variety of styles and at the same price point as other sizes.
Our Expert Testers & Our Testing Grounds
We are working with two longstanding snowsports professionals and athletes in California and Utah to field test plus-size apparel and will report our findings soon.
Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose Plus-Size Ski and Snow Gear for Women
Fit & Sizing
When it comes to apparel, plus size means anything beyond the standard or extended size range. Plus sizes might include 1X to 3X and can go up to 5X, but most snowsports stop at 4X because it’s been challenging for brands to find fit testers for 5X.
Inclusive sizing is another term outdoor brands are using more and more. Inclusive sizing refers not just to plus sizes but a wider range of sizes for every body type, including short, long, petite, tall, maternity, extended sizes, and plus sizes (for all genders).
Size-wise, each manufacturer has its own charts. Be sure to take your personal measurements and match them up. Everyone’s body is unique, so check the exchange and return policy before you buy.
Plus Sizes
In the U.S., the general start for plus sizing is size 14 and over.
Plus sizes are built from an entirely separate size block, which has different ratios than the size block used for straight sizes. This size run is designed to accommodate a fuller bicep, waist, and bust. The sections — like the torso or arms — don’t get longer or taller as they go up in size. Plus sizes are labeled 1X, 2X, 3X, 4X, etc. The L.L.Bean Rugged Ridge Parka goes up to 3X, for instance.
After building prototypes, the brand checks that each size matches a fit model in that size: That step is the same for extended and straight sizes.
Straight & Extended Sizes
Straight sizes refer to sizes small to large, which are constructed from a specific size block. You’ll often see straight sizes numerically listed from 6 to 14. As the sizes go up, the length changes, but the ratio remains the same.
Extended sizes are the applications of XS, XXS, XL, and XXL (as well as 0-2, 16-20) that go beyond the small-to-large spectrum.
Apparel designers take the pattern of a straight-size block — typically the medium, in the middle of the lineup — and adjust the dimensions for smaller or larger bodies. Each silhouette will be proportional and similar in shape to the next size up or down. This means that the waist-to-hip ratio is the same for a particular jacket in all sizes, from XS to XL.
Finding the Right Fit
Just like standard sizing, plus sizing varies by brand. We always recommend checking the size charts and measuring your hip, chest, and inseam if need be (for ski pants). You’ll want a ski jacket to have some room for a baselayer or light midlayer, but not be too loose (or too constricting, for that matter).
On this list, we found the Obermeyer Tuscany II Jacket to be the most accurate in terms of fit for a plus-size ski jacket, and the L.L.Bean Wildcat Insulated Pant or Columbia Bugaboo Snow Pant the most accurate in terms of fit for plus-size ski pants.
Price & Value
Budget
If you’re searching for a midlayer to pull on beneath an uninsulated shell, that’ll be the price-effective piece on our list, like The North Face Women’s Plus Osito Jacket ($100). However, insulated and basic waterproof options such as the Columbia Bugaboo Omni Heat Pants ($120) still offer up a great deal at the cost of top-tier durability and more refined pockets or premium-level waterproofness.
Mid-Tier
Designs in the next zone are more modifiable and stylish while being functional, including the Obermeyer Tuscany II Jacket ($279), which incorporates Repreve material — recycled plastic — for sustainability, as well as insulation.
Premium
Reaching for the top shelf, pieces like the Outdoor Research Snowcrew Jacket ($349) are built with the best materials for backcountry travel on skis, splitboard, or snowshoes. This apparel has the highest degree of breathability and waterproofness, underarm zips or leg vents, a functional collection of pockets, and an athletic style. Often you’ll find integrated wrist gaiters or storm cuffs, as well as a softly lined collar and hood that fits over a helmet or that is removable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many brands make plus-size clothes, but the market for plus-size ski apparel — and plus-size technical ski apparel — is much narrower. Brands like Columbia, L.L.Bean, Obermeyer, DSG Outerwear, Outdoor Research, The North Face, and Eddie Bauer all already offer or have started to offer plus-size ski gear.
Pants, Pants Revolution: Alpine Parrot Launches Plus-Size Hiking Line for Women
Alpine Parrot empowers plus-size women to stake a claim to the outdoors, with the simple act of providing pants made for outdoor adventures in size 14 and up.
The Best Women’s Winter Jackets of 2024-2025
Whether you’re looking for a warm, stylish coat to commute in a snowstorm, spectate a hockey game, or enjoy après-ski, we’ve got you covered with the best women’s winter jackets.
