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Staying warm and dry on the slopes is hugely important — getting cold and wet can put a quick, miserable end to your ski day. Our dedicated team of ski testers has put this selection of jackets through the paces to find the top options.
Over the past 13 years, we have bought and tested over 85 men's ski jackets, including shells, insulated jackets, and 3-in-1 models. Our current review covers 17 of the best models available. Our multi-person test team includes ex-pros and mountain guides, and they took these jackets to their local ski hills during storms and bluebird days.
Our favorite jacket for several years in a row is the Helly Hansen Alpha LifaLoft. This insulated jacket is warm, waterproof, and features seven pockets to store all your chairlift snacks.
If you like the freedom to fine-tune your insulating layers, a shell jacket is the way to go, and the best one we tested is the Arc'teryx Sabre.
Those seeking the best balance of value and performance should look at Obermeyer Raze. This awesome jacket is warm, looks good, and has all the features you want in a resort jacket for hundreds less than the premium ones.
Editor's Note: We updated our men's ski jacket review on February 6, 2026, with new award-winning jackets from Patagonia, Trew, Obermeyer, and REI. Read on to check out our award-winning picks.
For several years running, the Helly Hansen Alpha LifaLoft has beaten the competition and earned its place as our favorite ski jacket. Its insulation kept us warm even on the coldest days of testing, and it's very comfortable to wear. Tester Jeff Dobronyi remarked, “I love the perfect tailoring and fit. This jacket is cozy from the hood to the wrists and kept me warm all day long.” Helly Hansen outfitted this jacket with a thoughtful array of useful features, including cozy interior wrist cuffs and a pocket with a leashed goggle wipe. Its classy style and fresh color options age well and look good on the mountain year after year. Helly Hansen's excellent proprietary waterproof/breathable membrane means the jacket sheds water well while remaining breathable.
SPECIFICATIONS
Main Fabric
85% Polyamide, 15% Elastane
Insulation
Primaloft Black 100g - 70% polypropylene, 30% polyester
That said, the Alpha LifaLoft doesn't protect from the elements as well as jackets we tested using a Gore-Tex membrane, like the Arc'teryx Sabre Jacket, but that's not to say it's not protective. It performed well in various temperatures and exertion levels and is absolutely winter storm-worthy. If you're not sure you want the extra warm and thick insulation, Helly added two features for heat management that work well. First, a unique vent in the insulation of the upper back lets warm air escape without letting moisture in. Second, zippered underarm vents can open wide to let you shed heat fast. Still, it can be a bit much in warmer ski weather when you're cranking out runs. This jacket's sibling, the Helly Hansen Alpha 4.0, isn't quite as warm and is not quite as refined, but it performed just as well in most of our tests and costs a bit less, making it a compelling alternative. If you're on the fence between the two, choose the color option that speaks to you and you won't go wrong. Otherwise, the LifaLoft remains our recommendation when warm comfort is a top priority.
For chilly skiing, the Helly Hansen Alpha LifaLoft kept us warm and protected even when temperatures dropped down into the teens with a below-zero windchill factor. It's so warm that we rarely fully zipped the collar. Credit: Ethan Maxcer
The Arc'teryx Sabre Jacket is the best shell jacket in our tests for its class-leading weather resistance, excellent ventilation, and comfortable cut — all reasons why skiers might opt for a shell jacket instead of an insulated one. Shell-only resort ski jackets have become increasingly popular, and if you ski in a warmer climate or on the most advanced slopes, you might see more uninsulated hardshells than insulated jackets. With the right layering system underneath, a shell jacket offers more versatility than most insulated jackets, allowing use across a wider temperature range. This jacket kept us dry and sheltered from the wind every time we took it out, including during big storms. It brings a loose, “freeride” cut and laid-back style to a field otherwise dominated by traditional jacket designs. One tester noted, “Everyone comments on how good this jacket looks on.”
SPECIFICATIONS
Main Fabric
80D 3L ePE Gore-Tex
Insulation
Thin flannel backer
Waterproofing
Gore-Tex
Pockets
2 hand, 1 sleeve, 1 internal zip, 2 internal dump
Weight (size large)
1.56 lbs
As with any shell, warmth comes from the insulating layers worn underneath. If you are looking for a jacket that will keep you warm on the slopes without further thought (or expense), it might be best to choose an insulated ski jacket. If you are intrigued by the idea of versatility and want to invest in various layers to wear under this shell jacket, the Sabre is an excellent option. Expect to pay a lot for it, but not much more than other high-end Gore-Tex Pro shell jackets. And it's worth the price, as our lead tester noted, “I trust this jacket with my life when the weather gets wet and windy.” If you're looking for the protection of Gore-Tex on a budget, the REI Co-op First Chair GTX shell is about half the price, but the features aren't as premium.
The Obermeyer Raze offers better range of motion than nearly every jacket we tested, letting us rip turns, slip through trees, and recover from off-run wipeouts without binding. We think it's an awesome jacket for weekend skiers who like to attack runs and have fun all over the mountain, no matter their skill level. “I felt physically free in this jacket, able to move my arms and shoulders in any direction with nearly zero restrictions,” head tester Chris Maxcer said. “Usually this level of freedom comes from oversizing or excess material, but the Raze has a clean, almost trim fit that never gets in the way.” The HydroBlock Pro waterproofing sheds sleet and rain alike, while the waterproof zippers work well and look fantastic. Plus, you get plenty of pockets for phones, snacks, passes, and goggles. The included microfiber goggle wipe and stretchy interior thumb and wrist cuffs elevate this jacket above its price range.
The Obermeyer Raze isn't quite perfect. We were a bit disappointed in the short underarm vents. They have a mesh lining that keeps them together and reduces their ability to dump serious heat quickly. Interestingly, this jacket also felt a bit heavy. The bargain-priced REI Co-op Powderbound Insulated weighs less but is nearly as warm. It provides a similar range of motion through oversizing rather than tailoring. The modern and fully-pocketed Trew Gear Cosmic Primo delivers similar flair with storm-shedding performance to match. The key difference is that it's a shell that has no insulation, so you'll have to add midlayers for warmth. Back to the Raze: For hard chargers on a budget, its no-fuss warm insulation and mobility impressed us the most. Its great features and clean style are a bonus, and we think anyone who hits their local ski hill several times a month will be psyched with this jacket, especially for the price.
Even when the early season snow lacks cover, the Obermeyer Raze feels like a versatile, agile jacket that's willing to go with you to find the fun. Credit: Chris Maxcer
Not enough breathability and ventilation for ski touring
The REI Co-op First Chair GTX jacket offers almost all the benefits of a high-performance ski shell at an affordable price. It keeps the weather out with sturdy shell fabric, a Gore-Tex membrane, and a helmet-compatible hood. It fits over internal layers with ease, is relatively stylish for advanced skiers, and includes a full feature set for resort skiing and riding, including armpit vents so you can let some heat out if you get too toasty on those sunny days. The powder skirt isn't removable, but our tests revealed it tucks away nicely when not in use. Discerning users may choose to invest in a high-end 3-layer ski shell with elite waterproofing like the Arc'teryx Sabre Jacket, but for the casual resort skier, the First Chair is an absolutely adequate option.
The First Chair shell includes a hanging inner lining fabric that adds noticeable warmth and reduces breathability. Generally, we value warmth in a ski jacket, but many who purchase shell jackets usually do so for their versatility and ability to adapt to a wide range of temperatures, depending on which underlayers are worn. The bit of warmth added by the inner lining may be appreciated by resort skiers, but folks looking for a backcountry jacket for skinning or hiking uphill may want to look elsewhere. However, we still think the First Chair is a great deal for resort skiers looking for a reliable shell jacket. If you're new to skiing and are looking to get out there for the lowest amount possible, the insulated GEMYSE jacket offers warmth and weather-resistance for under $100.
With a budget-friendly price, the REI Co-op Powderbound Insulated offers all the core features and performance most experienced resort skiers need to ski comfortably in typical weather conditions. It includes a waterproof membrane, a helmet-compatible hood, a soft fleece collar for your chin, a sleeve pass pocket, vents, and a built-in powder skirt. “When I took this jacket out on the slopes, I was surprised at how well it covers all the basics,” Chris said. “Sure, the powder skirt isn't removable, and the underarm vents are a bit short, but seriously, these are quibbles, not complaints.”
One design choice illustrates where the REI Co-op Powderbound Insulated struggles to compete with jackets that cost twice as much — the non-waterproof front zipper and fabric storm flap. The coverage is good enough for a typical day at a ski resort, but the fabric storm flap gives the jacket a lackluster vibe. In addition, because the fit is large with a blocky torso, the lack of visual contrast down the middle makes the jacket look far plainer than the functionality it delivers. If style is a factor for you, consider the similar Obermeyer Raze. It costs a bit more but offers improvements without straying into the land of premium pricing. Alternately, as long as you're willing to pack a midlayer for extra warmth when needed, the uninsulated REI Co-op First Chair GTX has a much better front zipper and Gore-Tex waterproofing, giving it a storm-ready edge.
Yes, the fit is a bit big and vague, but the REI Co-op Powderbound Insulated covers all the basics and performed quite well when we tested it while skiing in Idaho. Credit: Chris Maxcer
The Patagonia Storm Shift Insulated fits and performs far better than its understated good looks suggest. We think it's particularly great for weekend and vacation resort skiers who need a versatile insulated jacket that can handle whatever the weather brings on their ski days. “When you're planning far in advance, you need a ski jacket that can do it all,” noted Chris Maxcer, who tested this waterproof jacket on the slopes in Idaho. “This no-fuss winner kept me warmer than I expected on cold days, but I never came close to overheating when the temps rose above freezing one afternoon.” For warmth, Patagonia strategically places insulation at the front and back of the torso — but not at the sides under your arms. The result kept our chests and backs warm but let excess heat and moisture escape through the 2-layer Gore-Tex sides. For even faster heat management, the underarm vents easily open wide with two-way zippers.
SPECIFICATIONS
Main Fabric
150D 100% recycled polyester
Insulation
Thermogreen 100% recycled polyester
Waterproofing
2-layer Gore-Tex ePE
Pockets
2 zippered handwarmer, 1 zippered chest, 1 zippered forearm, 1 interior zip, 1 interior drop in
Weight (size large)
2.375 lbs (XL)
The Patagonia Storm Shift Insulated provides outstanding performance, but its comfort features are not as refined as the Helly Hansen Alpha LifaLoft. For instance, it doesn't feel quite as plush around the cuffs or collar, and the front chest pocket lacks insulation to keep phones warmer for better battery life. However, the slicker shell fabric sheds water easily and will likely work effectively even if the DWR coating wears off over time. Better yet, unlike the trim-fitting LifaLoft, the Storm Shift fit is true-to-size and provides enough room for a thick midlayer for extra cold days. If the Storm Shift's price makes you pause, the Obermeyer Raze impressed us with its comfortable midweight warmth, making it nearly as capable for those needing versatility on a tighter budget. As for the Storm Shift Insulated, it covers all the bases with enviable quality, and we think its low-key style will stand the test of time, so you can wear this one for many years to come.
With lightweight, strategically placed insulation that kept us warm, the Patagonia Storm Shift Insulated felt more like an agile shell than a bulky coat. Credit: Chris Maxcer
The Trew Gear Cosmic Primo is the perfect shell for resort skiers who fear no black diamond run and hit it hard enough to feel their hearts pounding at the bottom. Better yet, Trew packs the Primo with pockets, so you can load up on snacks to fuel more runs and avoid the lodge. A lot of shell jackets look bland, but not this one: The strategically placed pockets with waterproof zippers evoke a ready-for-anything vibe — which it is. “I really like the burly 3-layer fabric,” noted Chris, who tested this jacket while skiing in Idaho. “I wasn't worried about tearing it when I hit little frozen aspens or brush.”
SPECIFICATIONS
Main Fabric
100% Recycled nylon
Insulation
None
Waterproofing
PNW Primo
Pockets
2 hand, 2 zippered chest, 1 forearm, 1 interior zippered chest, 2 internal drop in
Weight (size large)
2.06 lbs (XL)
The Trew Gear Cosmic Primo has a modern freeride fit that also runs large. This gives you plenty of room for layering, but if you're between sizes, you should likely size down for a more traditional fit. In addition, the collar is extra tall and roomy, often covering our mouths on runs. In some weather, this was annoying, but we appreciated it on windy lift rides. For backcountry earn-your-turns treks, the thick fabric lacks breathability, but the monster pit zips help if you need to dump heat fast. This shell is heavier than many, so if you're looking for a lightweight one, consider the Arc'teryx Rush, which is better at moisture management if you're skinning up slopes. If a high-end shell is out of reach, consider the REI Co-op First Chair GTX, which includes a breathable Gore-Tex membrane at a reasonable price. Of course, if you want pockets, not backpacks, the Cosmic Primo brings versatility with a high-energy aura.
If you hate skiing in shells that skimp out on pockets, the good-looking Trew Gear Cosmic Primo has more pockets than we know what to do with. Better yet, when the snow flew in Idaho, the coverage and weather protection was outstanding. Credit: Ethan Maxcer
With the recent explosion of backcountry skiing, many garment manufacturers are producing touring-specific ski shells. Skiers can generally wear these jackets inbounds and out-of-bounds, but they may trim some useful resort features in favor of lightweight, streamlined performance. The Arc'teryx Rush jacket is a weather-resistant, lightweight, well-tailored, and very stylish shell. It has plenty of features for a day in the backcountry, like well-placed pockets and a helmet-compatible hood, and also includes a few favorite features of resort skiers, like a powder skirt and a pass pocket. This jacket is lightweight, bomber, and keeps users dry and comfortable in the backcountry, period.
We realize that the pricing of this jacket will be a deterrent for many. However, weather resistance at this level comes at a cost, as Gore-Tex fabric is expensive, and waterproof zippers and sealed seams typically increase the production cost compared to less weather-resistant shells. Frequent users and skiers who hit the slopes numerous times a week will appreciate the design and performance this model offers. If you spend most of your time in the backcountry or side-country and want a jacket that can perform well on the occasional resort day, the Arc'teryx Rush is a great pick.
Some users like the ease of an insulated ski jacket, while others prefer the shell and insulating components to be separated for maximum customization. Enter the “3-in-1” ski jacket, which attempts to deliver the best of both worlds. These products include both a shell jacket and an insulating layer that zip together to create a single insulated ski jacket if desired. The 686 Smarty 3-in-1 Form Insulated is our favorite 3-in-1 jacket we've tested, thanks to its great fit, warm weather resistance, and well-designed features. And it delivers all of this at an excellent price.
It has a full-coverage hood, a waterproof/breathable membrane, great style, and tons of pockets. However, despite all of these bells and whistles, we found it lacking in terms of vents compared to the best of the best. It is a bit on the heavy side, but we didn't feel like it was a burden to wear. It also has a casual style that looks great in a variety of contexts. Jeff remarked, “This jacket's style feels right at home in ski-town bars and restaurants.” One of the main benefits of 3-in-1 jackets is that they provide versatility for a variety of weather conditions and, thus, great value. If you know you're headed for extremely nasty weather, the Smarty won't quite keep up with the jackets designed specifically for this purpose. A jacket such as the Arc'teryx Rush, with the appropriate layering underneath, is more suitable for frigid, sub-zero winds.
The 686 Smarty has a nice fit. Not too loose and baggy, but not too tight, either. Credit: Jeff Dobronyi
The armpit vents are short, mesh-lined, and don't open very widely unless you pull them apart. Credit: Jeff Dobronyi
Two front chest pockets augment two handwarmer pockets. This jacket has a lot of pockets. Credit: Jeff Dobronyi
Product Comparison Table
Testing ski jackets out on the slopes is a hard job. And to be clear, that's a not a grin of joy, it's a work smile. We're only doing this so you can find the right jacket and have fun. It's what we do. Credit: Ethan Maxcer
How We Tested
We started this review by diving into the market's current jacket offerings before selecting the most promising ones for hands-on testing. Then, we purchased dozens of them at retail price and hit the slopes. From snowy and windy days in the Sierra to brutally cold and clear days in the Tetons, our testers put these jackets through more than 100 individual tests – we ski lap after lap in each of these garments. To better compare products, we took single ski runs in each jacket, then changed in the lodge between runs to get real-time comparisons in similar conditions and note the differences between jackets. Finally, we ran each jacket through a shower test, wearing each in a shower for 5 minutes to take note of water resistance. Over the past ten years, our team of experts has tested well over 80 of the best ski jackets and have designed this comprehensive review to help you find the best options based on value and performance.
We tested ski jackets using six performance metrics:
Warmth (20% of overall score weighting)
Weather Resistance (20% weighting)
Comfort and Fit (20% weighting)
Breathability (20% weighting)
Style (10% weighting)
Features (10% weighting)
Why Trust GearLab
Our test team is led by professional ski guide, IFMGA Mountain Guide, and OutdoorGearLab Contributor Jeff Dobronyi. Jeff lives, skis, and guides in Colorado and leads ski trips worldwide, from Wyoming to Canada, Europe, and South America. Logging upwards of 125 days per year on skis, Jeff gets intimate with his ski gear and puts it through the wringer in various climates, in both the resort and the backcountry.
He's joined by long-time ski enthusiast and GearLab Review Editor Chris Maxcer. Chris represents the everyman resort skier and frequently hits his local Idaho ski hills. He's tested lots of ski gear for GearLab, including jackets, goggles, helmets, gloves, base layers, and ski pants, and loves to discover gear that outperforms its price point.
Our goal is to test each jacket in a variety of conditions, including side-by-side with other jackets to better assess their relative performance out in the wild.
Analysis and Test Results
Everyone needs something different from their ski jacket, depending on how much they ski, the climate in which they ski, and what kind of skiing they prefer, so keep your own needs in mind as you consider our scores and weighting.
Worse Value
Better Value
What's the Best Value?
Ski jacket prices range from relatively affordable to astronomical. Most budget options provide nearly as much warmth, weather resistance, and other important performance attributes as the most expensive jackets. Still, the top-of-the-line offerings generally provide more refined comfort, fit, tailoring, and style.
The Obermeyer Raze competed well against ski jackets that cost hundreds more. Credit: Chris Maxcer
We think the best balance of price and performance in our lineup is the Obermeyer Raze. For under $350, you get a warm, weather-resistant, comfortable jacket with great ski-specific features and excellent style. If you still can't swing that price (we get it — ski gear adds up fast!), the REI Co-op Powderbound Insulated is another jacket with a good performance-to-price ratio for about a hundred bucks less.
We tested a few jackets in the sub-$100 range and were pleasantly surprised. The GEMYSE Men's Mountain Fleece Lining costs less than a day's lift ticket and provides good performance for the occasional skier. It also performs well as a general winter jacket, with a removable hood and plenty of warmth for the winter months. We also like the Free Soldier for value, which represents a small step up from the Gemyse in the quality scale for not much more money (and we like its style and color options better, too). If you're a new skier or you just want to hit the slopes a couple times a year in a warm and weatherproof jacket without spending a fortune, these jackets are sufficient — as long as you don't expect ultra premium features.
The Free Soldier ski jacket is warm and protective with gear features, representing a good value. Credit: Jeff Dobronyi
The GEMYSE Men's Mountain provides an excellent value. Credit: Jeff Dobronyi
3-in-1 jackets can also offer great value since they combine a hardshell with an insulated inner liner jacket. The Columbia Whirlibird V Interchange offers a good value, checking all of the boxes that we need in a dependable ski jacket. The 686 Smarty 3-in-1 Form Insulated hits the sweet spot of cost to performance, too, offering the best value in 3-in-1 jackets we tested.
With three layering options in one, this jacket represents a good value for budget-conscious skiers. Credit: Jeff Dobronyi
For a great shell jacket that won't bust your savings, the REI Co-op First Chair GTX is half the price of the more expensive shells and still features Gore-Tex for great waterproofing. It's perfect for resort use and performs nearly as well as the pricier shells in the review. In our opinion, only the most hardcore users need the performance of the premium shells we tested, like the Arc'teryx Sabre and Arc'teryx Rush.
Ripping up the piste in the inexpensive REI Co-op First Chair GTX. Credit: Jeff Dobronyi
Warmth
Skiing is a cold-weather sport. Our jackets need to keep us warm to take advantage of the best days on the hill. However, skiing is also an aerobic sport that produces heat; the better we get, the more aerobic it becomes. So, a jacket that is too warm for the given weather and activity level can be a hindrance in certain situations. Furthermore, skiers often wear layers underneath their jackets to fine-tune their warmth levels. We gave higher scores to the warmer jackets, but keep in mind the average temperatures where you ski most and your usual exertion level.
Synthetic insulation maintains its warmth when wet and is widely used in ski jacket construction. Jackets like the Helly Hansen Alpha Lifaloft and Obermeyer Foundation prove just how warm synthetic insulation can be. In fact, most of the insulated jackets we tested kept us quite toasty, even while stationary on cold chairlifts — even the budget models. The lower-scoring jackets in our warmth test were shells with no insulation at all. If you know you run cold, we suggest choosing an insulated jacket, which will take some strain off your layering decisions.
The Patagonia Storm Shift Insulated stacks most of its insulation in the front and back panels. Credit: Chris Maxcer
The Helly Hansen Alpha 4.0 has plenty of high-quality synthetic insulation, keeping us warm on most days without a mid-layer! Credit: Jeff Dobronyi
The 686 Smarty 3-in-1's heavily insulated mid-layer insert offers plenty of warmth, while a hanging liner in the shell jacket adds even more. Credit: Jeff Dobronyi
The Columbia Whirlibird V Interchange features a zip-in insulated sweater midlayer, as well as a two-layer shell piece, which can be worn separately or zipped together. Credit: Jeff Dobronyi
Shell-style jackets like the Trew Gear Cosmic Primo lack insulation. They're designed to be waterproof, snowproof, and windproof. Extra warmth is gained by layering with base layers, shirts, or light jackets underneath. Credit: Chris Maxcer
Need help dialing in your underlayers?
See our reviews of insulated jackets and warm base layer tops. We've also tested ski gloves to find the warmest and most dexterous pairs.
All shell-only jackets require you to think a little harder about your layering system. Some include no insulating features whatsoever, like the Arc'teryx Rush. Others, like the Arc'teryx Sabre, attempt to trap air and provide warmth with a thin fleece liner while still keeping a shell-like feeling. The REI First Chair GTX and Patagonia Powder Town use a thin hanging nylon liner to trap some heat.
The thin, brushed fleece liner of the Sabre's shell fabric adds a small amount of insulating power, as well as great next-to-skin feel. Credit: Jeff Dobronyi
Even the least expensive insulated jackets in our review deliver enough warmth for most days at the ski area. Jackets like the MAGCOMSEN and Free Soldier don't feature high-quality components, but they are plenty warm for the occasional skier who wants to stay warm on the slopes.
Synthetic insulation and a fleece lining mean the Free Soldier can be worn without a midlayer on average winter days. Credit: Jeff Dobronyi
Proper Fit Improves Warmth
If your jacket is too large, big air gaps inside your jacket can take extra energy to keep warm. Large air gaps also allow more air flow, which may allow cold air to flow inside your jacket. For example, the REI Co-op Powderbound Insulated fits big through the torso, so sizing down could make it rank a bit warmer for some users. However, larger fits provide more room for layering with thicker midlayers. So if you prefer to add or shed midlayers to regulate warmth, the Powderbound provides great versatility even when a smaller size could prove warmer on its own.
Weather Resistance
Great ski conditions often coincide with stormy winter weather. Good ski jackets need to keep the user dry and protected during snow, sleet, wind, and rain on the lower mountain because braving those elements allows us to ski when conditions are best. Our weekends and vacations might overlap with storms, and if your ski jacket isn't weather-resistant, you might find yourself dethawing in the lodge instead of enjoying the slopes. And even on the most memorable days, if snow and wind are getting into your jacket through the hood, sleeves, and hem, you won't be having fun.
The shell-only Arc'teryx Sabre and Arc'teryx Rush earned optimal scores for their weather resistance, and both use Gore-Tex Pro membranes. In our testing, these jackets repelled all precipitation, from liquid water to snow, and blocked the wind from penetrating our inner peace on cold, windy chairlift rides where our chins are tucked deep into our collars.
The Arc'teryx Sabre Jacket easily withstands our 5-minute shower test, and beads water off the outer shell after rubbing the fabric vigorously. Credit: Jeff Dobronyi
Other jackets, like the Trew Gear Cosmic Primo and Patagonia Storm Shift Insulated rank slightly lower, but they still provide awesome weather resistance that is capable of fending off most any weather while the chairlifts are still running.
With a tightly woven shell fabric with a water-repellant coating, the Patagonia Storm Shift Insulated sheds water easily. Credit: Chris Maxcer
As expected, most of the ski-focused jackets we tested use waterproof fabrics in their shells and synthetic insulation. This design is a classic combination of weather-resistant ski clothing. As a result, most jackets score relatively well in this category. Plus, synthetic insulation is cheaper to produce than down and helps keep jackets affordable while also maintaining its insulation properties when wet (unlike down insulation).
Inner synthetic insulating layers, either separate or placed underneath the shell's waterproof membranes, are not usually waterproof, but have varying levels of water resistance. Credit: Jeff Dobronyi
For maximum weather protection, ski jackets should also provide large, well-fitting helmet-compatible hoods. Most are adjustable, so you can snug them over your helmet to keep the wind from pushing them too far back. The Obermeyer Raze's hood required little adjustment for good protection, while the Trew Gear Cosmic Primo was so large it was harder to get fitted quickly.
Some jackets have better-fitting, more weather-resistant hoods than others.
Comfort and Fit
Skiing and snowboarding are active sports, and our ski clothing needs to enhance our performance without limiting our movement. And, since we spend a lot of time in the cold, our jacket materials should be comfortable and cozy. A good ski jacket fits our bodies closely, eliminating unnecessary material and bulk while also allowing for movement and a wide range of motion. It also has soft external and internal fabrics, comfortable cuff closures, neck and chin guards, and fleece-lined pockets. Fit can vary from one person to another, so pay attention to differences in fit and body type, not just the scores. It is worth noting that our primary testing was done by thin, athletic men who wear sizes medium and large.
We wear each jacket while out on the slopes and pay particular attention to how each model moves with our bodies. Some jackets have a baggy fit, like the Arc'teryx Sabre or Trew Gear Cosmic Primo, which allows for unrestricted motion and portrays a certain style, but the extra material can be uncomfortable, depending on your taste.
We loved the loose, freeride cut of the Sabre, but it won't appeal to every skier. Credit: Jeff Dobronyi
Helly Hansen's Alpha LifaLoft and Alpha 4.0 feature a slim torso design that contours to our bodies without inhibiting motion. The soft fabrics and stretchy cuff openings also contribute to this jacket's top score for comfort. All of the Arc'teryx jackets, including the Sabre and Rush, have great fits.
The Helly Hansen Alpha LifaLoft fits slim and trim compared to most ski jackets. Credit: Chris Maxcer
Some jackets have a “boxy” fit, which does not contour to the body's curves and can feel loose, bulky, and uncomfortable for skinnier folks. The Columbia Whirlibird V felt a bit boxy and untailored to our test team, as did the REI Powderbound Insulated.
The Obermeyer Foundation has a slightly boxy cut, which makes it seem like a more generic and “beginner” jacket. Credit: Sam Willits
We were particularly impressed by the comfort and fit of the REI First Chair GTX, which delivers a great cut and unencumbered movement in a jacket that costs much less than the more expensive jackets with high-end tailoring. This coat fits our bodies well and skis like a dream, making us forget how much money we saved. We also like the fit of the 686 Smarty 3-in-1 Form Insulated, which fits well and is easy to ski while wearing despite its bulky footprint.
The REI Co-op First Chair GTX has a loose, freeride feel, without being too baggy. Credit: Jeff Dobronyi
The Obermeyer Raze is easily one of the most comfortable insulated jackets we've worn. It offered unrestricted arm and shoulder movement without bagginess.
Even for our wide-shouldered testers, the Obermeyer Raze offered unrestricted mobility. Credit: Ethan Maxcer
Breathability
The mountains can be filled with dramatic temperature swings. Skiers might encounter a frigid morning starting the car, a hot and stuffy experience herding the kids into ski school, cold and windy chairlift rides to the top of the mountain, aerobic downhill skiing, and a sunny and warm afternoon of slush skiing in the spring. Ski jackets provide warmth by trapping the body's natural heat inside the jacket. A well-ventilated ski jacket allows the user to keep this heat inside the jacket or let it escape through zippered vents, through the shell fabric itself, or via other specific features.
Some jackets feature highly breathable fabrics that slow the internal buildup of heat and moisture. Jackets that use Gore-Tex tend to breathe well, allowing water vapor to escape through them. The Arc'teryx Rush and Arc'teryx Sabre shells use Gore-Tex and breathe remarkably well.
Shell jackets, like the Trew Gear Cosmic Primo, tend to breathe better than fully insulated options. They are often better for hard-charging resort skiers or backcountry explorers. Credit: Chris Maxcer
The best ski jackets almost always utilize other vent strategies to help you dissipate heat quickly and cool down. The most common type of vent is an underarm vent. When it comes to heat management, bigger is usually better. The Trew Gear Cosmic Primo boasts particularly long pit zips, letting us unzip the vents to dump heat fast.
In general, the longer the pit zip, the faster you can dump excess heat when you're skiing hard. At 14 inches, the Trew Gear Cosmic Primo's vents are some of the longest we've measured. Credit: Chris Maxcer
The Patagonia Storm Shift Insulated uses a two-way zipper to make underarm ventilation easier to adjust and fine tune. Credit: Chris Maxcer
The REI Powderbound Insulated underarm vents work, but they're a bit undersized. Credit: Chris Maxcer
For a jacket that's built for hard-skiing mobility, we were surprised to see the mesh vent liner in the Obermeyer Raze. It slows the ability to dump heat fast. Credit: Chris Maxcer
Inexpensive jackets tend to skimp on the length of vents, while some include vents that are barely useful. The 686 Smarty 3-in-1 and Columbia Whirlibird V, for example, have pit zips, but the vents do not continue through the inner layers (like all 3-in-1 jackets we've tested). This means that separately layered component jackets tend to lack the ventilation air flow you might expect. Some vents, like those in the Obermeyer Raze uses a mesh material that doesn't let the vents gape open. This provides better weather protection but reduces airflow.
The REI First Chair GTX has long pit vents. Credit: Jeff Dobronyi
Some premium insulated jackets, like the Helly Hansen Alpha LifaLoft and Alpha 4.0, include strategically placed breathability sections. These jackets have small channels built through the back panel insulation to let a small amount of air flow through the shell fabric. These work well to prevent our backs from getting sweaty on warmer days.
The Helly Hansen Alpha LifaLoft features a mesh channel back vent to provide ventilation for one of the hottest places on the body. Credit: Chris Maxcer
The Patagonia Storm Shift Insulated doesn't use insulation at all in its large underarm side panels. This strategic design allows water vapor to escape through the thin waterproof/breathable shell without having to wind its way through insulation. Our testers reported remarkable temperature comfort over a wide range of temperatures and activity levels in this jacket.
Patagonia's Storm Shift Insulated has two side panels that lack insulation, letting water vapor and excess body heat escape. Credit: Chris Maxcer
Style
Skiing is an aesthetic sport, and style is becoming more prevalent than ever before. Fortunately, style is different for everyone. The one consistency is that the better we look, the better we feel, and the more fun we have. A good ski jacket has great style while retaining its performance. Style is the most subjective characteristic of outerwear, and our ratings in this category might be completely different than how you would rank them, so feel free to ignore us and go with what you like!
Ski jacket styles range from slouchy, “core” styling that evokes the ski bum lifestyle to tight-fitting alpine racer looks that would feel at home on the World Cup podium. Some jackets are neutral in their styling, which can look good if well-tailored but bad if left uncontoured. We took our jackets to the slopes and around town for aprés in the ski bars of Jackson, Wyoming. We asked for opinions along the way from friends, family, and even a few strangers.
Everyone seems to dig this jacket. Credit: Chris Maxcer
The Helly Hansen Alpha LifaLoft is a good-looking jacket. Its svelte, Euro styling still hints at a core look, implying that the wearer is here to ski hard and look good. Among shells, we think the Arc'teryx Rush looks the best with a tailored cut, clean lines, and bold color schemes. The Arc'teryx Sabre falls on the “core” side of the spectrum, which we like, but you might not. On the other hand, the Columbia Whirlibird V is styled to fit in with the crowd on the gentler slopes.
We think the Arc'teryx Sabre is the epitome of good style on the ski slopes. Credit: Jeff Dobronyi
The Alpha 4.0 looks good in a variety of settings. It has a timeless design that still remains good-looking. Credit: Jeff Dobronyi
Some jackets, like the rugged and ready Trew Gear Cosmic Primo, skip classic slim and trim lines. We were surprised at how well-placed pockets with contrasting waterproof zippers could imbue this jacket with a hard-charging, go-anywhere vibe.
The Trew Cosmic Primo exudes a style that made us feel rugged and ready for more. Credit: Ethan Maxcer
Features
The best ski jackets incorporate features that make your day on the slopes easier. We're talking about big pockets that hold lots of snacks (maybe even a PB&J), removable hoods that allow for versatile use, and sleeve pass pockets to make RFID ticket turnstiles a breeze to navigate. Ski-specific features can enhance an already good jacket.
Features seek to improve your experience with the product and activity. For example, a ski pass pocket allows you to store your RFID pass and wave your arm at the full-body scanner to avoid any dance moves, rummaging, and the dreaded lift-line holdup. Well-fitting hoods are a must for stormy days, and powder skirts can also help keep the snow out, though we don't often find ourselves using our powder skirts. Some jackets include a RECCO reflector, which can aid in locating an individual in the case of an in-bounds avalanche, which is a great safety feature.
Powder skirts help keep snow out on those deep powder days.
Our review's most heavily featured jacket is the Helly Hansen Alpha LifaLoft, which boasts seven pockets, RECCO, a high-visibility hood brim that folds away, a powder skirt, a removable hood, and a back vent.
The Alpha LifaLoft's insulated hood zips off in case you want a trimmer look. Credit: Chris Maxcer
The 3-in-1 jackets are great since you'll take home two separate jackets with all the individual features of each, plus the ability to integrate the layers seamlessly. The North Face Thermoball ECO Snow Triclimate has great features, including a goggle wipe in the left sleeve RFID pass pocket.
Additional features make life easier on the slopes, like ski pass pockets on the sleeve, reflective hoods for visibility on whiteout days, and stretchy interior wrist and thumb cuffs that seal out drafts.
The Arc'teryx Rush and Sabre are great versatile options for those who hit up both the backcountry and the resort regularly. They have everything you need for a day out of bounds and also include a powder skirt and an RFID pass pocket for inbounds versatility.
A goggle wipe on an elastic tether is attached to the inside of the ski pass sleeve pocket on The North Face Thermoball ECO Snow Triclimate. Credit: Jeff Dobronyi
Other Ski Jackets to Consider
Arc'teryx Macai - Full of down insulation and with a Gore-Tex exterior, the Macai will keep you toasty warm and offers incredible weather protection. It's sleek, comfortable, and full of thoughtful features that make your life that much nicer when spending the day out in the cold, like a soft fleece chin guard, ample pockets, a goggle wipe, armpit vents, and RECCO technology built in. It's a splurge, but it's also an investment that will pay off for years to come, especially if you ski in a cold climate. Its classic, streamlined good looks mean it's not likely to go out of fashion quickly, either.
Norrona Lofoten Gore-Tex Pro Shell - This stripped-down ski shell may not have tons of features, but it's not light on protection. It offers some of the best weather protection we've seen, especially for its ultralight weight. The Lofoten is ideal for backcountry skiers (or alpine climbing), and you'll need to make sure you layer appropriately underneath to keep warm (base layers and likely some type of puffy jacket. If you can splurge on the matching Lofoten pants, there is an interface to zip the two pieces together, keeping your body even more protected from the elements.
We can appreciate ripping turns on sweet corduroy groomers, but when there's a chance to play in the pow, we take it -- and hope you do, too! Credit: Jeff Dobronyi
Conclusion
We put some of the best ski jackets available through our rigorous testing process, and the result is a comprehensive, unbiased, and up-to-date review. There's something here for everyone, from budget options that swing above their weight class to refined and expensive high-end options for discerning and expert skiers. We know that it can be hard to sort through all the options and select the best jacket for your needs, so we've taken the time to distinguish between them. So relax and have fun finding your next perfect ski jacket (and a pair of ski pants to match). We'll see you on the slopes.
