How To Choose the Right Ski Jacket

When you’re skiing down fresh powder at your favorite slopes, the last things you want to be is too cold or too sweaty. The coat you choose to wear makes the biggest difference in how you feel while you speed down the sloped, feeling both punished and refreshed by the stiff winter air. Before you plot out your trip to the mountains, consider the importance of knowing how to choose the right ski jacket and take our advice to heart.

Consider Your Climate

The climate of a ski slope varies from cold to freezing, and you want your jacket to keep your body warm at any low temperature within that narrow range. If you plan on skiing in unbearably cold locations, you may need a shell jacket that includes a layer of cozy insulation in addition to any other layers of insulation you’d need normally. The shell will help cut through the bitter winter chill and won’t get in the way of your physical activity.

Look for Waterproof

Many jackets built for the ski slope provide you with exterior protection from the elements. Snow is just another form of water and, if it melts, it will get your clothes just as wet as if you were standing in the rain. Though it may be a clear day when you start skiing, you’ll be kicking up snow and playing in it all day long. Avoid feeling wet and cold by looking for trusted waterproof ski jacket brands.

How Much Ventilation Do You Need?

Only you know how sweaty you get while doing physical activity. While a water-resistant base layer will put in work for even the sweatiest activities, you may require a few extra openings in your jacket to prevent overheating and extreme sweating. Some ski jackets come with ventilation zippers in critical heat spots, allowing air to flow freely and sweat to evaporate.

If you know that you overheat while skiing or doing any other sort of physical activity, you may consider a ventilated jacket or a lighter waterproof shell that provides ample room for insulating layers. As you warm up, you can easily remove the layers to cool off and stay outside longer.

When it comes to how to choose the right ski jacket, the experts at Escape Outdoors can help you consider these three aspects along with the proper color, fit, and brand for your lifestyle. Browse our high-quality selection of popular outdoor lifestyle ski jacket brands, such as the adventure savants at The North Face apparel, and you’ll stay warm even while hitting the hardest slopes and the most difficult mountains.