The Best Ski Jackets of 2024-2025

Whether you’re at a ski area or out-of-bounds, you’ll need to be protected from the elements. From sunshine to bitter wind and wet snowflakes, finding the best ski jacket will keep you warm, dry, and on the mountain longer.

To help you find the best fit and option for your needs, we created this guide with our favorite jackets for alpine skiing at the resort or heading into the backcountry. If you’re looking for a stylish, supremely waterproof, and durable ski jacket, you can’t go wrong with the Stio Environ Jacket, which also has many size options. And for $200 less, you can get the equally waterproof Eddie Bauer Chair Six Jacket for Men, which is less tailored and lacks comfort details like fleece-lined pockets but gets the job done.

Many of these ski jackets work well for other winter activities, from sledding to snowboarding or shoveling. If you’d like to learn more about the details of ski jackets, scroll through our Buyer’s Guide or jump to the Price & Value summary. You can also consult the Comparison Chart to help steer your decision process. Otherwise, read our full gear list and check out our awarded picks.

Editor’s Note: We updated our Ski Jackets buyer’s guide on November 11, 2024, adding jackets like the Norrona Tamok GORE-TEX Performance Shell Jacket, Strafe Nomad, and our new favorite backcountry jacket, the Black Diamond Recon Stretch LT.

The Best Ski Jackets of 2024-2025

Best Overall Ski Jacket: Stio Environ Jacket
Best Budget Ski Jacket: Eddie Bauer Chair Six Jacket
Softest 3-Layer Ski Jacket: Patagonia SnowDrifter
Best Waterproof-Breathable Ski Jacket: Rab Khroma Kinetic Waterproof Jacket
Warmest Puffy Ski Jacket: Sync Performance Stretch Puffy
Lightest Backcountry Ski Jacket: Black Diamond Recon Stretch LT Shell
Best 50/50 Crossover Ski Jacket: Strafe Nomad 3L Shell

Specs

Fit: Regular
Insulation: No
Shell: PeakProof 3L waterproof/breathable, 100% recycled polyester 150-denier face fabric, PeakProof membrane
Waterproof rating (mm): 20,000
Breathability (g): 10,000
Weight: 822 g

Pros

Incredibly waterproof and windproof
Durable construction
Great fit
Generous size run, XS-XXXL for men and XXS-XXL for women
Recycled fabric

Cons

A bit heavy for backcountry use
Not very breathable

For the style-conscious and technical skier, the Stio Men’s Environ Jacket ($465) is one of the best options when it comes to protection in any weather. The Environ is constructed from 100% recycled polyester as well as a PFAS-free DWR for extra water repellency (in addition to the PeakProof Hydrophilic waterproof membrane), upping the product’s sustainability game. The details of this jacket are all adjustable from the hemline to the cuffs and the easily removable hood. Stio calls this fully seam-sealed jacket a workhorse — and we agree. For ladies, there’s the Stio Women’s Environ Jacket.

Compared to previous iterations, Stio shortened the hemline of this layer. Admittedly, we prefer the previous cut for helping to keep out snow and up the warmth factor on the chairlift. We do appreciate the addition of another chest pocket for the guys — though we wish they’d added that to the women’s silhouette. The other pockets include two zippered hand pouches, an interior zippered security pocket, a zippered forearm sleeve pocket for a ski pass, and an internal mesh stash pocket.

What the jacket lacks in breathability, the design makes up for with generous, unlined pit zips to help you quickly cool off when crushing laps or inbounds hikes. Those zips are two-way, too. We love the soft, flexible feel that this textile maintains, despite being an incredibly waterproof and windproof option. You can tell that this jacket was conceived in the Tetons, where -20 degree Fahrenheit stormy mornings are a regular occurrence.

We agreed that the revamped snow skirt sealed out powder even when face shots were on the menu. All of the zippers on this jacket were particularly smooth, and the silicone zipper pulls are easy to grab even with heavy mittens. For resort and occasional backcountry skiing and riding, the Environ is a standout for burly, waterproof protection, and is a great choice for skiers who venture out no matter the conditions, from snowstorm to shine.

Specs

Fit: Regular, straight
Insulation: None
Shell: 3L 100% polyester WeatherEdge Waterproof Stretch Fabric
Waterproof rating: 20,000 mm
Breathability: 20,000 g
Weight: 499 g

Pros

Budget-friendly
Material acts like a hardshell, moves like a softshell
Sealed seams
Extended size options for women including petite, tall, 1X-3X

Cons

Pockets are mesh-lined
Powder skirt is not removable
Standard length that ends at hips could be a drawback for some skiers

We’re impressed with the Eddie Bauer Chair Six Jacket for Men and Eddie Bauer Chair Six Jacket for Women ($249) for the kits’ versatility and stunning price. The jacket is a 3-layer design, offering protection from the elements while remaining flexible. This layer is extremely comfortable and allows for full range of motion. While this jacket is built for the resort, it’s suitable for dabbling in the backcountry. At a lower price, you’re sacrificing overall fit (it’s a bit boxier and less tailored) and soft touches like fleece-lined pockets and wider, smoother cuff velcro. But for a functional snow jacket, this design hits the mark.

The Chair Six Jacket comes with Eddie Bauer’s Storm Repel DWR and proved to be waterproof throughout testing despite feeling soft and breathable. Every seam is taped and the jacket comes with a powder skirt that is not removable. The longevity of the waterproofness remains to be tested but initially, we were impressed. Two underarm vents allow the wearer to shed excess heat and are fairly standard in size and placement. Unlike the Eddie Bauer Chair Six Shell Pants (men and women), these vents do not have a mesh lining and will allow snow to enter, in the event of a fall or accidentally leaving them open on a powder day.

Skiers will be happy to find a chest pocket, two hand pockets, and an arm pocket for storing necessities. With the exception of the arm pocket, all of the pockets are nylon-mesh lined. We would have preferred that they be sealed pockets to keep things from getting wet, but sealed pockets would add to the overall weight of the jacket. Inside is a mesh dump pocket. Thanks to the lightweight construction, the jacket compressed easily and could be stuffed in a backpack when traveling uphill in the backcountry. The jacket is a shell without any insulation, meaning minimal bulk, which makes it perfect for carrying up and wearing downhill. The shape of the jacket is straight and offers a lot of room for layers. We would hesitate to call it baggy, but it wasn’t exactly form-fitting. Combined with the stretch of the fabric, this jacket allowed us to move freely without feeling like we were wearing a parachute.

Speaking of layers, Eddie Bauer also offers the Chair Six Hybrid Half Zip for Men ($129), a midlayer designed to round out the whole kit. This insulated midlayer is a fleece-lined, breathable sweater that kept us warm on the chairlift. The hybrid piece contains 60g Polyfil insulation, strategically body-mapped over the shoulders, chest, and upper arms. This Half Zip kept us toasty on cold days without a sweaty back. The layer includes a zippered chest pocket and a kangaroo pouch, making it great for après or around town. But if you’re looking for an insulated ski jacket, check out the Patagonia Men’s Insulated Powder Town Jacket. Overall, the Chair Six Jacket is a great pick for the budget-conscious skier looking for full features in a shell jacket that could be used for resort and a bit of backcountry. This jacket would also be a great option for someone looking for a backup set of ski outerwear.

Specs

Fit: Regular
Insulation: None
Shell: 3-Layer H2No Patagonia performance benchmark, PFC-free (fabric, membrane, DWR finish), 100% recycled plain weave, 100% recycled polyester backer
Waterproof rating (mm): 20,000
Breathability (g): 20,000
Weight: 590 g

Pros

Stretchy material makes for an incredibly comfortable fit
One of the best-looking jackets tested
Among the most sustainable, toxin-free, healthiest options on the market

Cons

A bit lightweight for harsh weather and wetter snow climates
Not insulated if that's a necessity

A resounding favorite from our testing panel, the Patagonia Men’s SnowDrifter Jacket ($449) is light enough to excel in the backcountry, yet sturdy enough to tackle resort riding. The SnowDrifter is a stylish, high-output layer that won’t hold you back from first chair to last, from alpine starts to backcountry summits. The ingredients are also among the healthiest, and most toxic-free for you and the environment. Ladies, you can grab the Patagonia Women’s SnowDrifter Jacket with all the same features. A proprietary textile — rather than say, one made by GORE-TEX — this jacket was heavily tested through Patagonia’s multiyear testing rounds for waterproofness plus durability and breathability, called the H2No Performance Standard. This one passed. The factory where this kit was manufactured is also Fair Trade Certified.

Supporting uninhibited movement, the SnowDrifter Jacket incorporates a two-way stretch fabric throughout, which we loved. The waterproofness reaches 20K/20K, which is our baseline suggestion for use in a coastal snow climate including Pacific Northwest-based skiers. What we haven’t tested, yet, is if this lightweight friend would hold up through back-to-back heavy, wet snowstorms. The jacket feels so soft and light that some of our testers are skeptical of the long-term protection against moisture — but that could simply be perception, because the textile feels so buttery and lean, like a softshell. For a more traditional-feeling density, check out the Rab Khroma Kinetic Waterproof Jacket, which is still lightweight, durable and offers supreme waterproofness and breathability.

Like other Patagonia outerwear we’ve put to the grind, some testers found that this jacket ran a little large. Like the other options in Patagonia’s 2024/2025 outerwear lineup, the SnowDrifter is an eco-friendly powerhouse setting an industry benchmark. While the former iteration of the SnowDrifter had 70% recycled fabric, this one is 100% recycled including the 50-denier polyester stretch plain weave and the polyester knit backer. What’s more, the entire manufacturing process is free of perfluorinated chemicals (PFCs) including the fabric, membrane, and DWR finish.

With eye-catching aesthetic, the SnowDrifter comes in sharp colors — including some of our favorite combinations of the season — clean design lines, all the features you need and none that you don’t. The generous underarm vents help regulate heat in a pinch. That chin guard and hood provide great protection on stormy days. This jacket is one of our top choices for both human-powered and lift-accessed skiing. For most intermountain and drier continental snow climates, we’re confident the SnowDrifter would make for a great jacket-of-all-trades for the skier who samples both the resort and backcountry goods. The full kit comes with bibs, too: Patagonia Men’s SnowDrifter Bibs Review.

Read Review: Patagonia SnowDrifter Men’s Jacket Review: A 3-Layer Shield Born for the Backcountry

Specs

Fit: Regular
Insulation: None
Shell: 3-layer 20D Proflex
Waterproof rating (mm): 20,000mm
Breathability (g): 25,000
Weight: 474 g (women’s size 10); 538 g (men’s size M)

Pros

Stretchy
Breathable
Very comfortable

Cons

No powder skirt
Hemline a little high

Especially for the backcountry or weather-ridden resort days, this Rab Men’s Khroma Kinetic Waterproof Jacket ($400) is one of our top choices for lightweight weather protection in a comfortable silhouette. Constructed from Rab’s proprietary Proflex material, the Khroma Kinetic balances breathability, waterproofness, and windproofness. The fabric has a malleable, forgiving feel, and the fluorocarbon-free DWR treatment keeps wet snow beading off the face fabric. Unless you need to invest in a premium waterproof build, in the Rab Khroma Latok GORE-TEX Pro Ski Jacket, this one is nearly $300 cheaper and fits the bill for the majority of resort or backcountry skiers and weather conditions.

In terms of comfort, we loved the stretch factor. A little stretch goes a long way, especially on cold days when we had to layer a fleece and a light puffy jacket underneath the shell. A large, two-way adjustable hood easily accommodates a ski helmet without restricting mobility, and we appreciate the low-profile internal cord locks. This jacket also has a few venting options for when it’s time to shed some heat on the skin track. We found that opening the rear arm vents and the chest pockets can create a nice draft.

When it comes to technical features, the Khroma Kinetic is better equipped for touring and mountaineering than powder days at the resort. It has two large Napoleon pockets with plenty of room for a beacon, bars, and glove liners on a tour. A two-way zipper makes for easy access to a harness during mountaineering endeavors. This jacket doesn’t have a powder skirt. For resort skiing, it has a small shoulder pocket for a ski pass.

For skiers hoping to get by with one jacket for the resort and the backcountry, the Khroma Kinetic is an excellent choice. For the ladies, check out the matching Rab Women’s Khroma Kinetic Waterproof Jacket. While the Patagonia Men’s SnowDrifter Jacket serves a very similar purpose and skier, the Khroma Kinetic feels slightly denser — and therefore a bit warmer and more wind-blocking — and has a higher breathability rate and two chest pockets, all at a lower price point.

Specs

Fit: Athletic
Insulation: 50/50 PrimaLoft Black ThermoPlume and polyester insulation
Shell: Stretch Knit
Waterproof rating (mm): 10,000
Breathability (g): 10,000
Weight: Unavailable for women’s jacket; 453 g (men’s size L)

Pros

Extremely warm
Flexible fabric
Streamlined fit

Cons

No underarm vents
Too much insulation for warm spring days

Have you ever skied with a down jacket on beneath a shell? Despite stinging cold conditions, the internal heat that builds up can be stifling, as most lack ventilation and underarm zippers. The fit can be cumbersome, too. Our solution: the Sync Performance Men’s Stretch Puffy and Sync Performance Women’s Stretch Puffy ($349) with synthetic insulation.

We’ve reached for this jacket countless times for nail-biting temperatures — between -10 and 10 degrees — while skiing the slopes at Crested Butte Mountain Resort and Telluride Ski Resort where the conditions can be variable and frigid in Southwest Colorado.

Even with windchill, this jacket holds body heat yet is breathable when we hop into the trees or charge moguls and work up a sweat. This performance puffy is very stretchy (including the hood), pliable, and doesn’t feel fragile. We can reach down to adjust our boots or pick up a pole or put our arms overhead with no problem. Taking tight turns through the glades is no problem with the ease of this fabric.

The shoulders feature additional fabric reinforcements, so skis can’t slice in when we’re carrying gear around. Built with tenacious fabric and water-resistant construction, the Stretch Puffy is our number-one choice if we need extra warmth on a frigid day on the slopes.

Specs

Fit: Athletic, slim
Insulation: None
Shell: BD.dry 3L PFC-Free DWR Membrane, 93% Nylon, 7% Elastane face fabric
Waterproof rating (mm): 20,000
Breathability (g): 20,000
Weight: 482 g

Pros

Excellent stretch for a ski shell
More breathable than traditional ski shells
Light and packs down small

Cons

Too light for harsh, cold resort days
Demands smart layering for year-round use

Sunny spring days and long, fast-paced climbs turn most ski shells into steam rooms. But the ultralight Black Diamond Recon Stretch LT Shell ($400) prioritizes weather protection that doesn’t slow you down. Most ski shells weigh 600 grams or more and the Recon LT registers only 482. That may not seem like much (especially for us metrically challenged Americans), but the difference is palpable in terms of hand feel and the ability to shed heat and moisture. It also incorporates elastane into the face fabric for four-way stretch, which allows for more athletic tailoring while maintaining full freedom of movement.

The Recon LT is much softer and more flexible than most stiff, crinkly ski shells. And despite 20K/20K waterproofing and breathability, easily wads up, folds up, or packs down when you need to stow it in your pack. It’s a minimalist shell, but the light backer on the inside makes it comfortable against the skin if you’re rocking short sleeves.

This was the perfect shell for contributor Justin Park’s late-season spring testing hiking windy ridges at Breckenridge Ski Resort and skinning up long, sweaty couloir approaches in the intense high-elevation sun. The generous pit zips help keep it on when things get hot. But you can also blow open the main zipper and use the chin flap snap to hold it in place for maximum ventilation.

While the Recon blocks wind and repels precipitation adequately for the Rockies, we could feel the cold knocking at the door on colder, windy storm days. It’s a perfect touring and spring skiing shell, but most skiers will want something beefier for nasty midwinter resort skiing — like the Patagonia Untracked Jacket or Stio Figment Jacket. You can layer up underneath and be fine, but there are plenty of better heavy-duty options if you ski mostly via chairlift. On the plus side, however, the Recon can pull additional duties as a shoulder season hiking and biking jacket without feeling like you’re forcing it.

Read Review: Lightweight Backcountry-First Shell: Black Diamond Recon LT Jacket Review

Specs

Fit: Relaxed
Insulation: None
Shell: Ripstop 3-layer eVent DV Alpine shell; 100% Nylon face with 20D Tricot backer
Waterproof rating (mm): 16,000
Breathability (g): 20,000
Weight: 625 g

Pros

Excellent breathability
Lightweight
Relaxed fit

Cons

Expensive
Thin for cold resort days

The growth of backcountry skiing has lots of ski apparel brands trying to create one jacket to span the boundary lines. On paper, this sounds much better than spending $1,000 or more to get two purpose-built jackets for each ski day. In reality, touring is a high-output sport that requires light, breathable layers, while resort skiing demands weather protection and warmth — and few jackets do both well. The Strafe Nomad 3L Shell ($679) comes as close as we’ve seen to threading the needle.

Within the fabric, the Nomad shuns a claustrophobic GORE-TEX membrane for an eVent membrane that sacrifices some weather resistance for much better breathability. In a lighter construction, the blend actually lets air escape before you build up enough heat and moisture to dampen your baselayers. In terms of build and handfeel, the Nomad is appropriately somewhere between a stiff, crinkly GORE-TEX Pro shell and a thinner, backcountry-first shell like the Black Diamond Recon LT. In our testing, the Nomad held up just fine in high winds and wet snow, but if weather resistance is a top priority, you’ll want to look elsewhere.

Regarding weight and packability for touring, it’s closer to most resort shells, but it’s the balance of breathability and weather resistance that sets it apart. Most other crossover shells are just lighterweight versions of existing resort shells and aren’t realistic to leave on for most high-output touring in normal temperatures.

This baggier, freeride fit might be an adjustment if you’re used to a slimmer touring shell. But there’s enough room to ensure mobility, even though the fabric itself doesn’t have any stretch. Any shell can get too hot when touring on warmer days, and the Nomad is no exception. It also sacrifices some wind- and water-resistance compared to high-end GORE-TEX, but the compromise makes it one of the best options we’ve tested for a true 50/50 ski jacket option.

Read Review: Strafe Nomad 3L: A True Backcountry and Resort Ski Jacket

Specs

Fit: Freeride
Insulation: None
Shell: GORE-TEX (3-layer) 100% recycled, Bluesign-approved nylon, PFC-free DWR treatment
Waterproof rating (mm): 28,000
Breathability (g): 20,000
Weight: 754 g

Pros

Exceptional durability and build quality
New GORE-TEX ePE fabric slashes environmental footprint
Excellent coverage for powder and storm days

Cons

Expensive
Too long, heavy for backcountry use

Norwegian outdoor apparel brand Norrona has been making outdoor gear since 1929, but its ski apparel has become more common in North American lift lines and skin tracks over the past half-decade or so. As of the 2024-2025 season, the long-standing Tamok jacket now uses GORE-TEX’s PFC-free ePE membrane, which is more environmentally friendly while retaining most of the performance of the old GORE-TEX Pro construction. Now dubbed the Norrona Tamok Men’s GORE-TEX Performance Shell Jacket ($699), this is a premium build and high performance tool for skiers. Especially when paired with the Tamok Bib, this is about the highest level of storm protection you can buy.

At the resort, this is a midwinter beast of a jacket. Yes, it uses the high-end GORE-TEX membrane, but notably, it pairs with 70D and 160D face fabrics that are thicker and more durable than most shells. There’s also reinforcement on the shoulders and elbows with even burlier 200D patches.

The Tamok is nothing if not durable, and this is a shell you could run through season after season of heavy use. It’s also backed by Norrona’s 5-year warranty just in case.

While the Tamok has great venting options, it’s not a realistic backcountry ski jacket option. The cut is extra-long, down to about mid-thigh, so it can be restrictive for active uphilling and definitely is a problem if using an airbag avalanche pack with the strap between the legs.

Beyond the robust build, there are several features that help the Tamok stand out. Because of the extra-long hem, there’s room for two oversized parka-style pockets with zippers and flaps that deliver plenty of storage, especially when paired with the oversized zippered chest pocket which comes with a tethered goggle wipe. There’s also the now-ubiquitous sleeve-mounted ski pass pocket. Ultimately, this eco-conscious shell is big, burly, and durable.

Read Review: Weatherproof Fortress for All-Season Freeriding: Norrona Tamok GORE-TEX ePE Jacket and Bib Review

Specs

Fit: Freeride
Insulation: None
Shell: 80D and 40D Recycled GORE-TEX Pro Most Breathable
Waterproof rating (mm): 28,000
Breathability (g): 20,000
Weight: 611 g

Pros

Best-in-class weatherproofing
Mobility-friendly fit
Lightweight

Cons

Expensive
Inadequate breathability for high-output touring

Rab officially entered the ski space with its Khroma line in 2020 after years of making durable, high-end ski mountaineering gear. The lineup is geared toward backcountry skiers, but layers such as the Rab Khroma Latok GORE-TEX Pro Ski Jacket ($680) are just as suitable for the resort as on the skin track. As a bonus, the face fabric is 100% recycled. Compared to the Rab Khroma Kinetic, the Latok is much more waterproof — it’s the highest level of waterproofness among any of our favorite ski jackets — and more durable with 40-denier and 80-denier textiles. As a result, the Latok is less breathable and much pricier. There are also additional pockets: two for hands, one Napoleon, and one for a ski pass.

Coming out strong, the 28K waterproofing is what sets this jacket apart. It won’t blink in heavy, wet snowfall or high winds and will be plenty of jacket even if you never leave the resort. But if you do take it out of bounds, the oversized chest pockets are accessible when wearing a pack and big enough to stash skins on quick transitions. Inside each sleeve is a slender wrist gaiter with thumb holes to help block the cold air.

The Latok employs best-in-class weatherproofing via GORE-TEX Pro, though they use the relatively lighter variant — which is the most breathable option — for an overall lower net weight and better packability in addition to slightly improved breathability. It’s still a pretty stuffy GORE-TEX shell (hence the 28K waterproofness) compared to a dedicated backcountry design, like the Black Diamond Recon Stretch LT Shell. But the Khroma is a great option if you tour casually or occasionally in colder conditions.

We found that this fit is roomy, which is great for mobility to make up for the lack of stretch and relatively stiff GORE-TEX fabric. This results in some blousing when wearing a pack, but you can size down if you’re between sizes for a trimmer fit for the backcountry. Our 6’0” tall tester fell right between an L and an XL but went with the XL for more mobility and comfort. This is a perfect shell for the resort skier who gets out in the backcountry but isn’t screaming up the skin track, doesn’t mind stopping to shed the Latok when warranted, and also doesn’t want to have to buy a separate shell just for touring.

Read Review: Rab Khroma Latok Ski Jacket: A High-End Crossover Shell

Specs

Fit: Regular
Insulation: None
Shell: 2-layer 100% Circular Polyester (factory scraps and used jackets), Teflon Ecoelite PFC-free DWR
Waterproof rating (mm): 20,000
Breathability (g): 20,000
Weight: 1080 g

Pros

Textile feels durable
Pockets are roomy
Cut is spacious for layering and comfortable
Circular fabric cuts down on factory waste and landfill

Cons

Not the most lightweight jacket
If you're looking for an athletic cut, check out other options

Keeping waste out of landfills while keeping us warm and stylish, the Picture Men’s Naikoon Jacket ($390) continue the company’s legacy of sustainably-produced, eco-friendly outerwear with unique colorblock style. We love the comfortable fit of this jacket and appreciate the ample pocket space, which helps us carry everything we need on warm or cold resort days. For the sacrifice of wearing extra grams, we enjoy this density, weight, and under-layer roominess on stormy days at the resort.

Recently, Picture debuted an in-house Circular Polyester made from upcycled fabric, which comprises the Naikoon. The textile is made with 60% factory scraps and 40% used jackets. The rollout fully replaces the brand’s bio-sourced polyester with the aim of reducing emissions and dependence on fossil fuels compared to bio-sourced polyester.

The Naikoon has seemingly endless pockets to carry necessities at the resort. We like that there are two lower pockets and two upper chest pockets, one of which carries a leashed goggle cloth for cleaning the opticals. There’s a pass pocket on one arm, an interior drop pocket for goggles or an extra lens, and a zippered chest pocket. We also found that the hood fits comfortably over a helmet without inhibiting movement. The cinch adjusters up front helped to further seal out the elements.

For extra warmth and comfort, we appreciated the polyester-taffeta sleeve and hood liners, which are also made from fully recycled material. Wrist gaiters helped seal in the warmth and prevent snow from getting up our sleeves. If you end up too hot on the slopes, long underarm zips help to quickly regulate temperature. Overall, this was one of the coziest jackets we have tested. With an affordable price, fashionable look, and relaxed fit, the Naikoon Jacket is a great option for resort skiers in wintry climates — especially those who value eco-friendly production. If you’re looking for a more athletic jacket with fewer grams, check out the Rab Men’s Khroma Kinetic Waterproof Jacket, which is also in this price zone.

Specs

Shell: 3L 100% recycled PeakProof, 150-denier face, 20-denier tricot backer, 80/20 PFC-free DWR finish
Insulated: No
Waterproof (mm)/breathability (g) rating: 20,000/10,000
Number of pockets: 8
Weight: 876 g (men's); 766 g (women's)

Pros

Freeride, baggier fit for freedom of movement
Ample, spacious pockets
Hood fits over helmet easily

Cons

Pricier choice
Not primary pick for backcountry and uphilling

The freeride-inspired Stio Men’s Figment Jacket ($499) combines a baggier fit with sustainable materials and pockets galore: This design is among our favorite freeride kits out there. All the details create a supremely durable jacket that lives for steep, deep powder days, laps in blizzards, and launching off rocks at the ski resort. The backbone of the Figment lies in the materials: The 3-layer piece utilizes a 100-percent recycled fabric with a waterproof/breathability rating of 20,000mm/10,000g, meeting a high benchmark for blustery days while sacrificing some breathability. The jacket also boasts a PFC-free DWR finish. For ladies, there’s the Stio Women’s Figment Jacket.

The freeride fit lived true to its name letting us charge and huck hard without worry about the jacket constricting our movements. The design was particularly noticeable with the helmet-compatible hood that kept snow out without blocking our field-of-view or limiting our ability to turn our head on descents. We found that the jacket felt relatively large compared to the sizing chart and would encourage buyers to consider down-sizing to get the best-fitting jacket. Also this fabric feels heavier than other jackets and isn’t super breathable, meaning we wouldn’t choose it solely as an uphill or touring jacket for above-freezing conditions. At the same time, the heavy-duty fabric excels, keeping weather out and helping us stay comfortable on lift rides or really frigid tours. After a series of full-on testing weeks, the layer still looks new, leading us to believe it’s one of the more durable options.

A plethora of pockets means you can fit enough for a full day’s adventure in your jacket alone — forget about pant pockets and packs. Starting with a large chest phone pocket, the pouch could fit even the largest phones and was easy to access with gloves on. Across the chest is another deep pocket with a built-in lens wipe on a cord, which was perfect for wiping camera lenses and goggles when the weather moved in. Two large, lower hand pockets have zippers plus a buttoned flap to double-secure important items: We found the envelope was hard to operate with a gloved hand and while not obviously functional, were aesthetic. A wrist pass pocket rounded out the exterior pockets. Inside, a large mesh chest pocket has a zip closure. Two large mesh stash pockets are perfect for stashing goggles, skins, gloves, and a GoPro, especially on an in-bounds hike.

Overall, this style-forward, service-oriented kit is ideal for resort shredders that aim to charge hard with zero outfit restriction. The thoughtful design is a premium choice for skiers that want to be ready for anything — be it capturing footage or carrying lunch – and bring gear without toting a pack. The Figment Jacket a great ski resort choice for bell-to-bell days, hike-to terrain, cold days in the backcountry, or even the occasional tomahawk. This jacket simply keeps the weather out, time and time again.

Specs

Fit: Relaxed
Insulation: Not insulated
Shell: 3-layer
Waterproof rating (mm): 10,000
Breathability (g): 20,000
Weight: 576 g (women’s size M); 627 g (men’s size M)

Pros

Very durable fabric
Comfortable shell for big movement
Over-sized underarm vents

Cons

No insulation

If you need a lightweight, breathable, windproof, and waterproof shell for backcountry adventure, here’s a superstar choice: the Outdoor Research Men’s Skytour AscentShell Jacket ($429). The design is 20% more lightweight than its predecessor, the Skyward. This hardy 40-by-60-denier nylon and spandex face fabric is a stalwart against harsh conditions and a loaded pack. The cut is roomy and long. We appreciate that the hood is wire-brimmed so it doesn’t collapse.

We love that the vents are super-tall — they stretch from the hem all the way past our armpit and up to the inside of the chest. So, we don’t need to stop to remove our pack and jacket on uphill climbs with these huge vents.

There are two lower hand pockets and two upper chest pockets on the exterior and internal mesh pockets for skins. The fabric is breathable and buttery soft. We reach for this jacket for backcountry skiing and snowmobiling.

While this is an excellent jacket for tours, you can also wear the Skytour AscentShell for inbounds days at the ski mountain. If you’re looking for a women’s version, check out the Outdoor Research Women’s Skytour AscentShell Jacket.

Specs

Fit: Relaxed
Insulation: None
Shell: 3-layer
Waterproof rating (mm): 28,000
Breathability (g): 20,000
Weight: 700 g

Pros

Enough room to layer up a fleece or micro puff jacket beneath the shell
Extremely durable
Slightly longer drop in the back for extra protection

Cons

Expensive

Arc’teryx delivers these tough, flexible shell jackets for tackling big mountain ski lines at the resort or in the backcountry: the Arc’teryx Men’s Sabre Jacket ($750). While this ski jacket is an investment, it continues to be at the top of our stack because it’s so functional, perform exceptionally well, withstand years of abuse, and look good.

This design features a durable yet buttery 80-denier (70 in the Sentinel) nylon face fabric, so we don’t need to worry about exploring the glades or playing fetch with an excited pooch at the base. From blustery conditions to blower powder, the three-layer GORE-TEX fabric is waterproof, breathable, and blocks wind well.

And the seams are fully sealed to bar moisture. If you build heat on deep-snow laps, the underarm vents are a lifesaver, and the powder skirt helps keep base layers dry. A soft flannel backer provides a bit of warmth for cooler days on the chair lift. The hood fits over a helmet. The sabre features two external hand pockets, one small sleeve pocket, two internal mesh pockets, and one internal pocket with a zip closure.

If you’re looking for a comfortable, lightweight shell that stands season after season and manages variable conditions from spring sunshine to storms, the Sabre Jacket is a worthy choice.

Specs

Fit: Regular
Insulation: 80g (40g in the sleeves) Thermogreen 100% recycled polyester
Shell: 2-layer 100% recycled postconsumer polyester, PFC-free DWR, Bluesign-approved 100% recycled polyester taffeta liner, Patagonia's H2No in-house multiyear durability standard
Waterproof rating (mm): 20,000
Breathability (g): Unavailable
Weight: 870 g (men’s); 764 g (women’s)

Pros

RECCO included
Super comfortable to move in
Underarm zippers are included

Cons

Perfect amount of warmth on a cold day but a bit toasty on super warm spring days

If you tend to get a bit chilled on the lift ride or ski in a wind-blown location, push this insulated jacket to the top of your list. Ready for a powder day and delivering excellent waterproofness is the Patagonia Men’s Insulated Powder Town Jacket ($399). There’s also a women’s version: Patagonia Women’s Insulated Powder Town Jacket. Patagonia nailed the comfort and fit of this design. Beyond that, the jacket is completely free of PFC chemicals.

The 75-denier shell, liner, and lower body of the jacket are all 100% recycled polyester blends. Even the insulation is 100% recycled polyester. The lining is Bluesign-approved while the product is Fair Trade Certified sewn. Inside, a taffeta liner is smooth without noise and ups the jacket’s class and quality.

We really appreciate the pockets on this jacket, which are ergonomic and functional. There’s a small pass pocket on the left forearm, a large left exterior chest pocket, a wide interior dump pocket with a zip closure, a wide-mouthed interior mesh pocket, and two softly lined hand pockets. Patagonia is also launching the Warmth Index, a new metric that measures the warmth of each of the brand’s products. That way, skiers can compare jackets side by side for their own insulation needs. The Insulated Powder Town is the warmest all-mountain snow jackets that the brand makes.

The Powder Town is available in a noninsulated version, too: the Patagonia Women’s Powder Town Jacket and Patagonia Men’s Powder Town Jacket ($349).

Ski Jackets Comparison Chart

Scroll right to view all of the columns: Price, Fit, Insulation, Shell, Waterproof Rating, Weight.

Ski Jackets	Price	Fit	Insulation	Shell	Waterproof Rating	Weight
Stio Environ	$465	Regular	Not Insulated	PeakProof 3L	20K	822 g
Eddie Bauer Chair Six Jacket	$249	Regular, Straight	Not Insulated	3L	20K	499 g
Arc’teryx Sabre	$750	Relaxed	Flannel backer	3L	28K	590 g (W); 700 g (M)
Rab Khroma Kinetic Waterproof	$400	Regular	Not Insulated	3L 20D Proflex	20K	474 g (W); 538 g (M)
Sync Performance Stretch Puffy	$349	Athletic	50% PrimaLoft from recycled material; 50% water-repellent, fluorocarbon-free down	N/A	10K	453 g (M)
Patagonia SnowDrifter	$449	Regular	Not Insulated	3L	20K	590 g
Picture Naikoon	$404	Regular	Not Insulated	2L	20K	1052 g (M), 921 g (W)
Black Diamond Recon Stretch LT Shell	$400	Athletic, slim	Not Insulated	BD.dry 3L PFC-Free DWR Membrane, 93% Nylon, 7% Elastane face fabric	20K	482 g
Strafe Nomad 3L Shell Ski Jacket	$679	Relaxed	Not Insulated	Ripstop 3-layer eVent DV Alpine shell; 100% Nylon face with 20D Tricot backer	16K	625 g
Patagonia Insulated Powder Town	$399	Regular	80g (40g in the sleeves) Thermogreen 100% recycled polyester	2L	N/A	870 g (M) 764 g (W)
Outdoor Research Skytour AscentShell	$399	Relaxed	Not insulated	3L	10K	576 g (W) & 627 g (M)
Patagonia Untracked	$699	Regular	Not insulated	3L PFC-free	30K	595 g
Norrona Tamok Men’s GORE-TEX Performance Shell Jacket	$699	Regular	Not insulated	GORE-TEX (3-layer) 100% recycled, Bluesign-approved nylon, PFC-free DWR treatment	28K	754 g
Rab Khroma Latok Jacket	$680	Freeride	Not insulated	80D and 40D Recycled GORE-TEX Pro Most Breathable	28K	611 g
Stio Figment	$499	Freeride	Not insulated	3L	20K	876 g

How We Tested the Best Ski Jackets

Our GearJunkie testers wear and beat up these ski jackets in a range of winter conditions. We take these layers skiing at resorts, off-piste, in the backcountry, for skimo races, and while steering snowmobiles. These jackets have kept us dry and warm during blizzards and cold spells. By contrast, we’ve tested these jackets in the high-angle, high-intensity sun of spring.

Our Expert Testers

Contributor Justin Park skis more than 100 days each season, split evenly between backcountry and resort days. From sub-zero January pow days to slushy June touring missions, he puts dozens of jackets, skis, boots, and pants through their paces at high elevations.

Albert Kim, one of our lead GearJunkie testers, is based in southern Utah. He cut his teeth in the snowsports industry working as a ski builder for Wagner Custom Skis in Telluride, Colorado.

GearJunkie Senior Editor Morgan Tilton specializes in snowsports and has lived in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains for more than three decades, where she grew up, learned to ski at her home mountain of Telluride Ski Resort, and lives today in Crested Butte. She’s been an outdoor industry journalist covering snowsports for more than a decade.

Since 2021, additional contributors have included Steve Graepel, Ryan Wilchens, Eric Phillips, Sarah Stubbe, Kaylee Walden, Sean McCoy, Austin Beck-Doss, and Will Brendza.

Our Testing Grounds

Park is based in Breckenridge, Colorado. Despite the desert environment of southern Utah, Kim regularly skis at Brian Head Resort and the surrounding backcountry near an elevation of 10,000 feet. Constantly changing conditions have Kim putting his outerwear through its paces, which demands top-tier protection and durability.

Tilton manages nearly two dozen gear testers across the country and field tests between the desk shuffle. In 2023, she tested gear for 114 hours across 35 days. To date in 2024, she tested apparel for 216 hours throughout 62 days of recreation from the ski area to the backcountry. Those days exclude the countless hours of shoveling.

The GearJunkie team meets for an annual on-snow test week to grind out turns and swap notes, including two previous gatherings at Crested Butte Mountain Resort, which is known for its expert terrain.

Our Testing Process

Throughout field tests, we note a variety of metrics including performance, protection, quality, longevity, fit, functionality, features, size range, and value.

In addition to our experience, we consider the most novel, style-specific, popular, highly rated, and legacy products across a range of price points. This collection of ski jackets serves a range of athletes and applications.

the best ski jackets — Non-insulated jackets work well for a range of temperatures and conditions; (photo/Jason Hummel)

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose a Ski Jacket

Ski jackets work well for a range of activities outside of laps at your local ski hill or in the backcountry. These winter jackets are so functional that they also work well for shoveling the driveway, walking the dog, snowmobiling, snowboarding, and more.

If you’re on the browse for a jacket that’s more specific to snowboarding, check out our Best Snowboard Jackets buyer’s guide. The main differences are the fit, style, and brand alliance.

ski jackets buyer's guide — Some ski jackets are longer and baggier while others are more athletic and streamlined for performance; (photo/Morgan Tilton)

Ski Jacket Fit

Generally, ski jacket designs land in two camps: trimmer with a more streamlined, athletic fit or roomier and boxier with a more relaxed silhouette. Both can be comfortable. If you’re wearing a backpack in the backcountry, it can be better to wear a well-fitted jacket so the fabric doesn’t get pinched up.

Size-wise, each manufacturer has its own size charts for ski jackets. Be sure to take your personal measurements and match them up with the size charts.

A handful of companies deliver more size inclusivity with broader offerings for men’s and women’s apparel including TREW Gear, Columbia, Obermeyer, and L.L.Bean. While there are unfortunately no men’s ski jackets on our list with extended sizes, the Stio Men’s Environ Jacket offers the broadest size range of XS to XXXL. The Eddie Bauer Chair Six Jacket for Women has plus sizes 1X-3X, in addition to XS-XXL, petite, and tall options. We’d like to see more size options added for our favorite men’s ski jackets.

Everyone’s body is unique, so check the exchange and return policy before you buy.

Insulated vs. Non-insulated Ski Jackets

Some ski jackets offer no insulation, which is a versatile option to use across a variety of conditions. This waterproof, breathable layer helps you stay dry and protected from the sun and wind or abrasion, like from a tree branch or snow burn if you slide out. There’s typically enough room to add a midlayer and base layer beneath for chilly or cold days. This type of jacket works well for warm spring turns at the resort or powder days when you typically accumulate heat carving turns. A range of weight and densities exist, so you might prefer a heavier hand feel if you ski where there’s frequent windchill.

Other ski jackets are insulated, like the Patagonia Insulated Powder Town, for additional warmth in cold, windy locations. For some skiers, especially those going into the backcountry, these jackets can pigeonhole them into donning too much warmth. Insulated jackets also tend to be overkill on warm spring days or in more mild winter locations. The type and warmth of insulation varies across each jacket from flannel to down-filled panels or synthetic proprietary fabrics.

2-Layer vs. 3-Layer

A two-layer jacket has a face fabric — such as polyester or nylon — connected to an inner liner that protects the fabric, is breathable, and adds comfort. These jackets usually feel less hefty than a three-layer jacket. A couple of our favorites include the Patagonia Insulated Powder Town and the Picture Naikoon. Some have an insulation layer, and the outermost surface is usually treated for waterproofness. The price is generally more moderate compared to three-layer jackets.

Dialing up the durability, a three-layer jacket is a waterproof/breathable membrane — often made by GORE-TEX — sandwiched between a tough face fabric and liner. Sometimes the outer fabric is treated for waterproofness. These jackets offer more protection for fierce weather conditions and are pricier. Broadly, you’ll want to scrutinize how robust you need your jacket to be for the conditions you’ll ski in.

Waterproofness

A waterproof jacket is ideal for skiing because weather can be flippant, and you don’t want to run the risk of getting wet from snow or rain. The top-tier standard for waterproofness is GORE-TEX, a membrane integrated into various jacket designs.

The material is waterproof, windproof, and breathable. Some brands have a proprietary version of waterproof/breathable fabrics.

Waterproofness is measured by the amount of water that can be placed atop a fabric before it leaks from 5,000 to 20,000 mm or greater. The latter end of the spectrum leads to a less breathable fabric.

0-5,000 mm: Resistant to light rain, dry snow
6,000-10,000 mm: Waterproof for light rain and dry, non-heavy snow
11,000-15,000 mm: Waterproof for moderate rain and dry, non-heavy snow
16,000-20,000 mm: Waterproof for heavy rain and wet snow
20,000 mm and greater: Waterproof for heavy rain and dense, wet, heavy snow

The most waterproof jacket we’ve tested provided 30,000mm protection. Jackets at 10,000 mm, like the Outdoor Research Skytour AscentShell, are adequate for many skiers and riders, though it depends on the environment.

Face fabric treatments, which can be eco-friendly formulas or chemicals toxic to the environment, can also make a jacket waterproof. And some jackets have sealed seams to block moisture.

Breathability & Air Permeability

For high-output skiing on powder days, aim for a jacket with breathability of 10,000-15,000 g. Backcountry skiers and uphill athletes should look for even more breathability — 20,000 g or more.

The breathability of a ski jacket is in a constant balance or pull-game with the waterproofness. Generally, the more waterproof an outer layer is, the more hard-pressed the fabric is to be fully breathable. On the far end of that spectrum, imagine your favorite workout t-shirt that you pull on for a hike or the gym: It’s not waterproof but allows your sweat to exit.

A small number of jackets are considered air permeable, such as the Strafe Nomad Jacket. These jackets use a different waterproof/breathable construction than the standard set by GORE-TEX. While GORE-TEX membranes allow moisture to escape in the form of vapor, air permeable fabrics let air pass through, so you don’t have to start sweating to activate the jacket’s breathability. Fabrics with air permeability include the Strafe Nomad’s eVent, Flylow’s The Perm, and the BD.dry fabric used in the Black Diamond Recon LT Shell.

If you want a more breathable ski jacket, pay attention to that metric, as well as if there are underarm vents. Of course, you’ll also likely want a jacket that is not insulated if breathability is a priority.

Ventilation

Often ski jackets offer ventilation by way of underarm zippers, which help regulate body temperature. This feature is great for warm-blooded folks or those who ski in warm conditions and for powder days when your body works hard to make turns.

Some underarm zippers are longer than others. The most generous design in our guide is offered in the Outdoor Research Skytour AscentShell Jacket, which stretches from the hem past the entire armpit and to the underside of the arm.

One innovative ventilation design we’ve seen: a front-facing and closable mesh vent that parallels the front zipper. In terms of quality, YKK zippers are the toughest.

Weight

A jacket’s weight can become an important factor for backcountry skiers who often need to stash their jackets in a pack and can’t sacrifice space for bulk.

Similarly, some uphill athletes want to wear a jacket for weather protection but only need a light layer. And occasional resort skiers take laps with a backpack on and might need to store their jackets as the conditions warm.

The lightest jackets in our top picks are 450-550 g like the Black Diamond Recon Stretch LT Shell. Heavier jackets are closer to 900-1,000 g.

Ultimately, you shouldn’t compromise a jacket’s safety or comfort features and adequate warmth to drop a little weight.

Collar & Hood

An ergonomic collar and hood are significant features for face, head, and neck protection against sun, snow, sleet, hail, wind, or rain. Pulling up a hood can help the body retain heat in chilly conditions.

Jacket collars vary in height and ideally have an interior chin guard that feels snug against the face — a key component on a gusty chair lift.

Hoods can be helmet-compatible, which is a priority if you need extra protection and warmth around your face and neck while riding a lift or skiing during a snowstorm. Some hoods are adjustable via elastic pulls. And others have an integrated visor so they don’t collapse beneath moisture. A handful of hoods are removable, while others are fixed.

One of our favorite hoods is on the Patagonia Men’s SnowDrifter Jacket, which offers a great shape that fits over a range of helmet sizes, and doesn’t catch a draft, plus plenty of flexibility to swivel our head while skiing downhill or sitting on the lift.

ski jacket hoods — Ski jackets typically have a helmet-compatible hood with cinch cords to adjust and tighten the fit; (photo/Jason Hummel)

Sleeve Cuffs & Powder Skirt

Powder skirts can be a great addition to a jacket to prevent fluffy flakes from flying up and soaking your base layers or lower back. Some powder skirts are fixed and not removable like on the Eddie Bauer Chair Six Jacket for Men. Others have a zipper or attachment points to connect to your ski jacket.

Sleeve cuffs generally have a Velcro closure, though they vary in width, length, and pliability. Some designs have additional snaps. Many cuffs have an inner wrist gaiter or storm cuff (a cuff within a cuff). It’s usually a stretchy fabric and adds warmth while blocking wind. Sometimes it has thumbholes to help secure the fabric over the top of the hand.

ski jacket buyer's guide — Testing ski jack pockets; (photo/Morgan Tilton)

Pockets

Most ski jackets include two exterior hand pockets with zip closures, which can be low or placed higher for compatibility with a backpack belt or harness for ski mountaineering. Other exterior pockets can include small pouches on the arm or on the chest. Deep, wide, higher-placed exterior pockets can be nice for stowing a smartphone or notebook in the backcountry.

Interior pockets often have a zip closure, ports for headphones, or a mesh construction with an elastic band at the top. These can be great for chambering a credit card or ID.

ski jacket pockets — Ski jackets often include a ski pass pocket on the arm; (photo/Jason Hummel)

Deep, wide interior pockets can be essential for holding backcountry skins, especially if the temperature is crisp and you need to prevent the glue from freezing over between uses. Occasionally, a pocket is insulated to help extend the battery life of your smartphone.

Examine what you’ll need to carry, the adequate pocket size, and if the pockets are located in the most comfortable place for you. For resort skiing, one of our favorite jackets for the pocket design is the Stio Men’s Figment Jacket, which has two chest pockets and two large hand pockets on the face.

Sustainability

Outdoor apparel brands have struggled for years to provide gear that’s equipped to stand up to the natural world we recreate in while minimizing the harm to that same natural world created by manufacturing these goods.

Outdoor brands such as Patagonia and outdoor retailers such as the REI Co-op have been pushing sustainability for years. Today, most outdoor brands have made at least minor moves in this direction: incorporating recycled fabrics, using less intensive production methods, and offering end-of-life options for old apparel.

Legislation at state and federal levels is getting into the fight, as well, with the EPA declaring several PFAS chemicals officially hazardous. California and New York both have PFAS bans set to take effect for apparel in 2025, so outdoor brands have been hard at work getting product lineups into compliance by eliminating these forever chemicals from garments. The REI Co-op has already announced it won’t carry any products that run afoul of the California bans.

Price & Value

Like most ski gear, purpose-built ski jackets from name brands aren’t cheap, and you can expect to spend a couple hundred dollars even for the lower-tier options.

Budget

The cheapest option in our top picks is the Eddie Bauer Chair Six Jacket ($249), which delivers 20K/20K performance that’s more than adequate for most ski days while keeping the price very reasonable.

Mid-Tier

For a bit more, the Black Diamond Recon Stretch LT Shell ($400) delivers lighter-weight performance in a jacket that’s equally at home on the skintrack as it is on the chairlift.

Premium

High-end shell jump to as high $700, and while it’s not necessary to spend to that level to get a competent ski jacket, these high-end options usually pair high-performing waterproof and breathable membrane such as GORE-TEX Pro. Not only do these fabrics deliver on performance, they usually have better durability, allowing you get spread the cost of the jacket out over many seasons of hard use.

best budget ski jackets — Ski jackets come in a range of waterproofness levels to help keep you dry; Editors testing at Crested Butte Mountain Resort; (photo/Jason Hummel)

Frequently Asked Questions

Ski jackets are specifically constructed to be waterproof/breathable and windproof to protect you while playing outside in the snow all day.

These designs are also comfortable and ergonomic for the sport’s big movements, like bending over to adjust boots and bindings, planting a pole, or shifting your shoulder orientation while riding moguls.

Overall, it’s a good idea to invest in a ski jacket that will help you stay warm and dry in the conditions where you most often ski.

Study the average temperatures and weather conditions where and when you most often ski. Choose a jacket that will keep you comfortable and dry in your given environment, according to how much body heat you’ll build up during your activity.

Backcountry-centric ski jackets are typically more substantial and slender with specific features for off-piste travel. They’re often more expensive.

If you want a ski jacket that works well for other heat-inducing applications, like shoveling the driveway, look for a noninsulated jacket. You can usually add layers beneath.

Alternatively, if you want a cozy jacket for cold-weather walks, low-output commutes, or mellow groomer skiing in icebox conditions, choose an insulated jacket.

You’ll also want to mull over your preferred features including adequate pockets and other garnishes like thumbholes in the wrist gaiters and a fixed or removable hood.

ski jackets and pants — Insulated ski jackets are suitable for blustery, cold conditions; Morgan Tilton testing at Crested Butte Mountain Resort; (photo/Jason Hummel)

Usually, both athletic and relaxed ski jackets are a bit roomy so you can fit a base layer and midlayer beneath if needed.

Each manufacturer has its own size charts for male or female categories. Match up your personal measurements to the size charts and check the return or exchange policy before purchase.

Next to your skin, wear a long-sleeve synthetic base layer. On super-warm spring days, you might even be more comfortable in a synthetic T-shirt.

On colder days and with noninsulated jackets, skiers often opt to add a midlayer — usually a fleece jacket or synthetic jacket.

lightweight ski jackets — Ski jackets can be layered with fleece or micro puffy jackets for extra warmth while we test outerwear at ski areas like Crested Butte Mountain Resort; (photo/Jason Hummel)

Sure! If the day-to-day outdoor conditions where you live are a match for the jacket’s insulation, waterproofness, and breathability, you could be comfortable wearing that ski jacket as a daily driver.

However, a ski jacket can get dirty with time, so it might not be ideal for certain occasions or you might need to wash it more frequently. The wash instructions are unique for each jacket and are located on the interior label.

Also, you might not want to increase the jacket’s wear and tear through daily use. Often, folks prefer to wear a cozier winter jacket that’s longer, more insulated, and more fashion-forward for everyday use.

The warmest ski jacket is an insulated puffy jacket like the Sync Performance Stretch Puffy Jacket, which has a synthetic fill. Another insulated ski jacket is the Patagonia Insulated Powder Town.

Ski jackets are a long-term investment and worth the money for the protection and comfort they provide in a winter environment.

The most economic options usually range from $200 to $300, and the average cost is $300 to $400. The most robust designs, which can be best for long days in variable conditions and backcountry skiing or mountaineering, can reach up to $750.

You don’t want a ski jacket to fit tight because skiing requires a lot of freedom of movement. Plus, it’s nice to have room for a comfortable, wicking synthetic long-sleeve beneath the jacket and a fleece midlayer if the temperatures are low or a micro-puffy if the temps plummet.

Hoods offer protection and warmth around your face, head, and neck for chair lift rides and skiing during a snow or wind storm. An ergonomic hood shields the elements, including sun, snow, sleet, hail, wind, and rain. Hoods can include an integrated brim that helps keep moisture from dripping into your ski goggles.

Pulling up a hood can help the body retain heat in chilly conditions. It’s important to look for a ski jacket with a helmet-compatible hood. Some hoods are removable while others are fixed.

A ski jacket can break down for a multitude of reasons including exposure to sunshine, rain, and snow. The materials wear due to the rub points of a heavy pack, brushes against equipment, and contact with human skin or cosmetic products like sunscreen.

Frequency of use, the roughness of the activity, and overall user care are factors that can dissolve a jacket, too. If you use your ski jacket for everyday activity, anticipate the jacket will deteriorate faster. Be sure to follow the care instructions, which are unique for each jacket. You can clean your ski jacket and then reapply the DWR coating to help extend the use.

With so many variables, you can’t predict the exact lifespan of each ski jacket. We typically find ourselves using our favorite well-constructed ski jackets for 5-6 years, but that number is often lower for backcountry gear: 2-3 seasons.

If you ski inbounds a couple of weeks each season and take good care of your jacket, you can easily assume the product life will be longer — even a decade.