Ski & snowboard jackets

Ski and snowboard jackets are basically the same. There are only two differences: a snowboard jacket is much looser and is a lot longer. While snowboarding, you often end up on your buttocks: either to fasten your snowboard or because you lost your balance while standing still. The extra length keeps your jacket from creeping up while fastening your bindings, keeping you warm and dry. In turn, the loose fit allows you to move with complete freedom. That’s all the more important for snowboarders as you stand on your board sideways. Skiers need to make fewer big movements and can simply clip their boots to the skis while standing. So the ski jackets are a bit tighter and shorter. 

Whatever jacket you choose for your snowy adventures, it should have at least a few of the characteristics listed below. Choose a jacket that is:

• Snow and windproof. It can get seriously cold when skiing due to wind and drifting snow. A jacket with a water-repellent layer will go a long way towards helping with that. If you want to keep it completely waterproof, opt for a jacket with waterproof membrane.
  
• Breathable. After all, skiing remains an intense physical exertion. Being warm is good, but sweating through your jacket is anything but. Not only are you far too hot to ski comfortably, but you also start to feel clammy because your sweat cannot escape.
• Lightweight. The lighter your ski jacket, the less weight you must lug around on your skis. A lightweight jacket also offers much more freedom of movement than a thick one.
• Comfortable. Freedom of movement is incredibly important. While trying on your jacket, make all the moves you would make on the slopes. That way, you can be sure your jacket is flexible enough.

• Snow and windproof
  
• Breathable
• Flexible and lightweight
• Insulating

In general, you can divide ski jackets into three major groups, each of which has its pros and cons:

• Hardshell: A technical hardshell is wind and waterproof and unlined. The advantage is that these jackets are often very lightweight and breathable. One drawback is that a hardshell has no insulating power. So you’ll need to wear a second insulating layer, such as a fleece and/or down jacket. 
  
• Softshell: a softshell protects you especially well from the wind and gives you a lot of freedom of movement thanks to its elastic properties. They are often warmer than hardshells, too, thanks to a thin layer of insulation. The downside is that they are usually not completely waterproof. They hold off the first snow shower without a problem, but a softshell does not offer enough protection on heavy or wet snow days. 
• Classic: the best solution for many winter sports enthusiasts. A classic jacket protects you from the wind and snow and the insulating inner layer keeps you nice and warm. The only drawback is that you cannot take off the insulating layer on warmer days.

There are also a lot of handy extras to choose from. Not all of them are necessary, but they are pretty practical:

• A snow catcher: an elastic band inside your jacket that prevents snow from getting inside your jacket.
  
• Sleeve pocket: indispensable if you don’t want to lose your ski pass.
• Cuffs: the buttons on the inside of the sleeve ensure that snow cannot creep in past your cuffs either.
• Extra-large hood: if your hood fits over your helmet, you won’t get snow down the back of your neck.

The best ski jacket is one that gives you enough freedom of movement and protects you from the elements. Choose a jacket that is snow and windproof. It can be quite windy on the mountain peaks and all that drifting snow can get quite wet. If you want to be fully protected, choose a completely waterproof jacket with a waterproof membrane.

You want to be able to make all the movements required to make you glide down the slopes smoothly without hindrance. So when you’re trying on your jacket, take the time to mimic those movements. Choose a jacket that gives you flexibility while fitting perfectly.

All ski jackets are water-repellent, but not necessarily waterproof. A water-repellent layer will keep you dry during a short snow shower, but it’s no match for really wet conditions. If you want a jacket that is fully wind and waterproof as well as breathable, choose one with a membrane, such as GORE-TEX. This keeps water from getting inside, but allows your sweat to escape to the outside. This way, you won’t get all clammy while skiing or snowboarding and your body temperature stays regulated.

It’s a myth that it’s not good to wash your skiwear regularly. It’s actually quite important to give your ski jacket a good cleaning and care session before and/or after each winter sports holiday to keep it clean, breathable, and water-repellent. These tips will keep your ski jacket in tip-top shape:

• You can absolutely wash your jacket in the washing machine. Just make sure you close all zips, Velcro fasteners, and snaps. Always follow the washing instructions on the label.
  
• Use the technical washing products from Nikwax or Grangers. Both fabric softener and detergent for regular clothing are out of the question. They affect the waterproof layer of your jacket and damage the down.
• A down jacket is best washed on a low wash programme specifically for down: low rpm and no more than 40°C.
• Treat your jacket with an impregnating agent to restore the water-repellent layer after every two washes.