Ski Jackets Buying Guide

Whether heading out to hit the slopes or going on a long winter hike,  make sure your ski jacket  is up to date. When facing the elements, modern materials, designs, and features have rendered the jackets  of yesteryear obsolete. Today's jackets breathe better, stay drier and warmer, and are more lightweight. They are also loaded with features to give you the most convenient and comfortable fit while supporting you in any type of activity.

The Three Layer System

The new "three-layer system" is agreed upon as the best way to protect yourself from the elements. Layered jackets  use a multitude of fabrics, laminates and coatings, each with their own price tag, advantages and disadvantages.

Base Layer

The base layer,  also known as the wick layer,  is the layer of clothing that is in direct contact with your skin. A common problem with outdoor activities is after-exercise chill. Cotton t-shirts  and other underwear  capture moisture and hold it against your body after it has stopped sweating, making you uncomfortable. Make sure you choose a fabric that will not retain moisture, but rather transport it away from the skin. Some characteristics to look for in your base layer material:

• Absorption: Only absorbs a small percentage of water--less than 1% is acceptable.
• Fibers: The fibers should be lightweight and durable.
• Odor-Blocking: Should be treated to decrease smell and itch due to body odor or fungi.

Insulating Layer

The second layer of clothing you wear is meant to retain body heat, and the best way to do this is to create a layer of still air around the body. This decreases the heat exchange between your body and the outside. This layer is commonly made up of polyesters  that are treated to make the fibers stand up and trap air, forming the protective layer of still air for the main insulation. Materials should have the same moisture-wicking properties as the base layer and should prevent heat loss. Popular options are:

• Fleece : A dense knit of polyester fabric is taken and passed through a napping machine. One side of the fabric has a tight solid weave, while the other has a fluffy, air retaining surface.
• Bunting : A fleece that is napped on both sides, creating a tight, solid weave.
• Pile : A single-sided fleece fabric that has undergone more napping, creating a thicker open fabric.

Outer Shell

The third and final layer, the outer shell,  has unique characteristics because it has contact with the outside world. This layer must be waterproof,  windproof  and get rid of body moisture. It must also protect from chaffing,  cuts,  scrapes and other outside damage. There are a few things to consider when judging the water resistance of your material.

• Waterproof: The water resistance of a fabric is measured in pounds per square inch (psi) of water pressure. Standard ISO 811 signifies the testing of the fabric under their actual usage conditions. For the outer shell, a score of 40 psi is ideal.
• Seams: Check the seams of the jacket. Like tents, this is the first place water is likely to seep through. Look for a coat with as few seams as possible and avoid seams in vulnerable places like the shoulders and upper back.
• Zippers: These are another weak point in defending against moisture. Look for zippers that are well-shielded and coated with plastic to resist humidity and rusting.

More Tips

• If you don't opt for the three layer system, you can buy a coat that has the outer two layers incorporated within. Often times, jackets come with a detachable fleece  that works as your second layer. Make sure to keep a proper first layer to ensure optimal performance of your coat.
• Your choice of an insulated piece of outerwear versus a non-insulated shell will depend on two main factors: weather conditions and what you plan to wear underneath.
• Most insulation is made of polyester and comes in a variety of weights and lofts. The greater the weight of the loft, the more insulation it provides.
• Down  is compressible, lightweight, breathable and it offers a high warmth-to-weight ratio. The only problem is that once it gets wet, it loses all of its warmth retention capabilities.
• Radial sleeves  eliminate the restrictions and tugging that occurs in the shoulders of a normal jacket or parka by using a different construction of the shoulder, armhole and underarm panels. Radial sleeves also promote easier movement.
• Zip off hoods  help to control body temperature, visibility and comfort.
• Lift ticket D-ring  gives the skier a convenient place to put their lift tickets.

Hot Products

We've done our research so that you don't have to!  Below, you will find some of the latest and warmest finds out there. 

Men's

Columbia Sportswear Men's Whirlibird Parka	Mountain Hardwear Men's Typhoon Jacket	Columbia Sportswear Men's Criterion Parka	Arc'teryx Men's Theta AR Jacket

Women's

Patagonia Rubicon Rider Jacket	Columbia Sportswear Women's Alameda Belle Parka	The North Face Women's Venture Jacket	Arc'teryx Women's Beta SL Jacket

Related Guides

Ski Poles	Skis	Ski Boots	Ski Pants	Goggles