How to Choose a Ski Jacket

Before hitting the slopes, beware of the cold winds and falling snow. Find a ski jacket that keeps you warm and dry without hindering your mobility. Campsaver has all kinds of ski jackets that fit those needs, including insulated, softshell, and hardshell ski jackets. Each has unique features to suit your specific needs while optimizing warmth and comfort. Our guide here is to help explain the differences between the various types of ski jackets for men, women, and kids that are available. Be sure also to check out our blog on How to Layer Clothes!

What Are the Different Types of Ski Jackets

• Hardshells or outer shells for men and women are a great outer layer with a layering system, a mid-layer, and a base layer. Hardshells are not insulated, but they are water-resistant and or windproof. Look for hardshell ski jackets with fully taped seams on the inside of the jacket to keep water out. In an office poll, our team told me to look for outer layers with breathability of around 15,000-20,000 grams. It is ideal that your ski jacket wicks away internal moisture from sweat and does not lock it in – otherwise, you will feel damp and clammy.
• Softshell jackets for men and women will be more breathable than other outer shells. Soft shells are very light and made of stretchy fabric; these jackets will often feature water-resistant properties.
• Mid-Layers for men and women come in a range of fits, from tight to loose, depending on each skier's preferred fit. Too tight may restrict your movements or make you feel uncomfortable. Too loose might not be insulating enough or fit comfortably under your ski jacket.
• Insulated ski jackets keep you warm when the mercury drops. With an insulated jacket, you will not need to layer as much; however, if the temperature rises, you can become overheated. Insulation can eliminate the need to have to purchase multiple layers but can cause you to get hot on warmer days. Choose between either down insulation or synthetic insulation. Natural down insulation is lightweight and warm in cold conditions. However, down may lose some of its insulating properties when wet. Synthetic insulation will keep the wearer warm even when the ski jacket is wet. Also, ensure that the outer layer of the insulated jacket will keep snow out and is water-repellent. Shop women’s insulated ski jackets here!
• 3-in-1 jackets for men and women are a versatile option by combining two jackets into one. The outer shell jacket protects from the elements. There is also an inner layer of fleece, down, or synthetic insulation. You have three ways to wear this jacket style: the outer shell, the inner liner, or both.

What Should I Look for When Buying a Ski Jacket?

Each ski jacket will have a wide range of features to consider. Depending on your wants and needs, this can make a specific ski jacket more enticing than others.

• A helmet-compatible ski hood will fit over your ski helmet, protecting and keeping you warm and dry.
• A ski jacket with underarm vents in the armpits can help keep you cool when your body heat rises. You can open and close these vents with a zipper. Also, a plus is having a mesh liner to keep snow out if you happen to fall. 
• Ski jackets with many zipper pockets are a big plus, such as chest pockets and inside pockets with headphone ports. A ski pass pocket in the arm is also a great feature in ski jackets.
• Snow skirts and waist gaiters help keep snow from going up the back of the ski jacket, keeping you warm and dry.
• Thumbholes and windproof cuffs provide additional warmth and prevent snow and cold air from sneaking into your ski jacket sleeve.
• Some jackets use Recco Technology in the coat. The patented RECCO® technology is a two-part system featuring an active detector, carried by the rescuer, and a passive reflector, carried by the user. This can be a significant safety feature, as it can help rescuers determine your location.

Shop Ski Jackets at Campsaver!

Whether you're a skier or a snowboarder, love the thrill of the black diamond slopes, or maybe you prefer the bunny hills, then head over to the lodge for a hot chocolate; Campsaver has ski jackets that will fit your style and your needs. We have all the brands you need, including Arc'teryx, Marmot, Salomon, and Black Diamond for men, women, and kids. Don’t forget to get your ski socks, backcountry skis, snow poles, and more skiing and snowboard equipment!