Stay Dry: Introducing The Best Women’s Ski Jackets 2024
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Are you seeking the perfect ski jacket to keep you warm and dry on the slopes? Look no further than our roundup of the best women’s ski jackets. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced skier, we’ve got a jacket for you.
With so many different styles and features, we’ve narrowed it down to the options available now. So what are you waiting for? Get out there and enjoy the snow!
What Is the Best Women’s Ski Jacket?
Choosing the best ski or snowboard jacket can be tough, as many styles vary in terms of intended use, designs, and features. They will greatly impact performance and comfort when skiing or snowboarding; making the right choice is essential.
The best ski and snowboard jackets will provide insulation from extreme cold weather conditions, be waterproof to keep out moisture, and include articulated sleeve designs that allow free movement while in the backcountry.
It’s also essential to look for a jacket with adjustable features such as insulation, cuffs, helmet-compatible hoods, or powder skirts to retain heat around the body. Knowing the features of a good ski and snowboard jacket will help you select the best women’s ski jacket that suits your needs.
- Best Overall Ski Jacket – Arc’teryx Sentinel
- Best Runner-Up Ski Jacket – Outdoor Research Skytour AscentShell Jacket
- Best Warmth Ski Jacket – Arc’teryx Andessa
- Best Resort Ski Jacket – Helly Hansen Alphelia LifaLoft
- Best Backcountry Ski Jacket – ORTOVOX 3L Deep Shell Jacket
- Best Budget Ski Jacket– Patagonia Powder Town Jacket
- Best 3-in-1 Ski Jacket –The North Face ThermoBall Eco Snow Triclimate
Arc’teryx Sentinel
Best Overall Ski Jacket
Overview
The Sentinel Jacket offers big mountain skiers exceptional weather protection and mobility on the toughest terrain. This jacket is equipped with Watertight™ pit zips for quick ventilation, a snow skirt to keep you warm in deep snow, ample pockets that can be easily accessed while wearing a pack, and key Slide’n Loc™ attachments that link the jacket securely to its corresponding pant – creating one unbeatable system! Finally, it is topped off by an adjustable StormHood™ fit for helmets or hats – perfect coverage from head to toe no matter your environment.
Features
- Style: Hardshell
- Material: N70p 3L GORE-TEX
- Insulation: Warm flannel liner
- Waterproof Tech: Gore-Tex
- Vents: Yes
- Powder Skirt: Yes
- RECCO™: No
- MSRP $750
Our Take
We believe Sentinel shell offers an excellent combination of technical features for resort and backcountry skiing and is the best women’s ski jacket overall. Gore-Tex construction, waterproof zippers, and various design elements will make you comfortable in many situations. It is best used with a mid-layer for extra insulation when temperatures drop.
The large pit zips help provide some ventilation during long tours on powder days. If more ventilation is required, look to our pick for the best backcountry jacket, the Ortovox 3L Deep Shell jacket, which offers more breathability for backcountry skiers.
Outdoor Research Skytour AscentShell Jacket
Best Runner-Up Ski Jacket
Overview
Explore far-reaching landscapes and stay comfortable with the Skytour AscentShell Jacket. This lightweight, breathable 3L stretchy membrane offers waterproof protection on your adventures while keeping you dry. The HoodLock™ system keeps the excess fabric secure when not wearing a helmet, plus pit zips for extra ventilation during high activity – all secured by durable waterproof zipper pockets to guard valuable items against the elements!
Features
- Style: Shell
- Material: 93% Nylon, 7% Spandex
- Insulation: No
- Waterproof Tech: AscentShell™
- Vents: Yes
- Powder Skirt: No
- RECCO™: No
- MSRP $379
Our Take
This shell is the perfect pick for any winter adventure: backcountry skiing, resort runs, or snow adventures. Its lightweight design makes it comfortable and practical, while two convenient zippered chest pockets provide ample storage space. Best of all – its low price tag lets you enjoy top-tier features without breaking the bank!
Arc’teryx Andessa
Best Warmth Ski Jacket
Overview
Conquer winter weather in this ski and snowboarding masterpiece! The combination of waterproof GORE-TEX fabric, down insulation, Coreloft synthetic insulations, a removable powder skirt, and more helps ensure your comfort despite deep snow or heavy rain. Down Composite Mapping places the right amount of warmth where it’s most needed, while 750 fill European Goose down is strategically placed for added warmth. And no need to worry about heat escape – specially designed vents keep you cool when things heat up. The insulated DropHood fits over standard helmets for extra protection from the cold!
Features
- Style: Insulated jacket
- Material: GORE-TEX 3L
- Insulation: 750 fill European goose down and Coreloft™ 100
- Waterproof Tech: GORE-TEX
- Vents: Yes
- Powder Skirt: Yes
- RECCO™: Yes
- MSRP $950
Our Take
If you get past the hefty price tag, this jacket has unparalleled warmth, luxurious comfort, and outstanding craftsmanship. The Andessa by Arc’teryx is the must-have insulated jacket for resort skiing – especially in colder climates. Zipper vents offer a quick way to dump heat for warmer days.
Offering unrivaled build quality, you can be sure that this top-notch winter choice will keep you toasty through many snow seasons yet to come!
Helly Hansen Alphelia LifaLoft
Best Resort Ski Jacket
Overview
The Alphelia is the best ski jacket and perfect for a day on piste resort skiing. Offering a combination of LIFA® technology and Primaloft® synthetic insulation, this jacket is designed to keep you light, warm, and comfortable during those alpine adventures. Ideal for those who still value style in outdoor apparel, the classic Alphelia silhouette looks great while effortlessly providing optimal protection against the elements. Plus, this version of the Alphelia is even more lightweight than its predecessor, making packing for weekend trips an absolute breeze!
Features
- Style: Insulated Jacket
- Material: HELLY TECH®
- Insulation: LIFALOFT™
- Waterproof Tech: 2L Helly Tech
- Vents: Yes
- Powder Skirt: Yes
- RECCO™: Yes
- MSRP $500
Our Take
The Alphelia ski jacket provides superior warmth for resort skiers, keeping you comfortable on those long chairlift rides, and offers plenty of practical features like a zippered chest pocket, helmet-compatible hood, and a snow skirt. Not to mention a durable construction that will help make your investment last.
Ortovox 3L Deep Shell Jacket
Best Backcountry Jacket
Overview
Empower yourself to take on any alpine conditions and keep adventuring comfortably with the Ortovox 3L Deep Shell Jacket for women. Featuring a lightweight yet supple design that won’t compromise your mobility when freeriding, this jacket is equipped with protective elements like adjustable cuffs, wrist gaiters, and an adjustable two-way hood – plus ergonomic ventilation zippers if you need extra breathability. They have taken insulation to the next level with 100% Merino inserts in the chin and chest area.
Features
- Style: Shell
- Material: 100% polyamide MEMBRANE
- Insulation: Merino Inserts
- Waterproof Tech: TORAY DERMIZAX EV
- Vents: Yes
- Powder Skirt: Yes
- RECCO™: No
- MSRP $730
Our Take
We love the loose cut of this jacket and the freedom of movement, making it the most comfortable and the best women’s backcountry outer shell while ski touring. It has an outstanding balance of weatherproof technology and lightweight materials with the targeted insulation of the Merino inserts -hello, naturally odor-resistant! The only downside is that it does not have a RECCO reflector for additional backcountry safety.
Patagonia Powder Town Jacket
Best Budget Ski Jacket
Overview
Patagonia is introducing a new and improved women’s ski jacket for winter 2023 – the Powder Town. Featuring updated design elements, such as an improved pocket layout, fresh colors, and a longer cut. Patagonia continues to move to more sustainable materials like post-consumer recycled polyester shell fabric and 100% recycled insulation with PFC-free DWR technology; this model covers all your needs while remaining accessible to a wide range of budgets!
Features
- Style: Insulated jacket
- Material: Durable 2-layer 100% Recycled Fabric
- Insulation: Thermogreen® 100% recycled polyester insulation
- Waterproof Tech: H2No®
- Vents: Yes
- Powder Skirt: Yes
- RECCO™: Yes
- MSRP: $399
Our Take
The Powder Town insulated ski jacket checks all the boxes and is budget-friendly while being one of the most sustainable in the lineup. We love the high-quality build and the warmth this jacket provides. It may be a little too warm on a spring day, but pit zips could help dump heat, extending use into the tail end of the season.
The North Face ThermoBall Eco Snow Triclimate
Best 3-in-1 Ski Jacket
Overview
Get ready to hit the slopes in style with The North Face Women’s ThermoBall™ Eco-Snow Triclimate® Jacket! This 3-in-1 insulated jacket is designed to keep you warm and dry during all your winter activities. Crafted from 100% recycled insulation, it keeps your body cozy and helps do your part for nature – a win-win situation!
Features
- Style: 3 in 1 (shell + insulated jacket)
- Material: PVC free, Durable Water Proofing
- Insulation: ThermoBall™ Eco insulation
- Waterproof Tech: DryVent™ 2L shell
- Vents: Yes
- Powder Skirt: Yes
- RECCO™: No
- MSRP $360
Our Take
For anyone looking to build their ski kit from scratch, a 3-in-1 Ski Jacket is a budget-friendly foundation. The North Face Thermoball stands out as a good option, and the insulated inner layer performs as well as some down options but keeps you warm while wet. Remember that these tend to be drafty, especially near the zippers, when the inner layer is zipped into the shell.
Black Diamond Dawn Patrol Hybrid Shell
Overview
The Dawn Patrol Hybrid Shell is your perfect companion for stormy backcountry missions! The proprietary BD.dry™ waterproof/breathable solution keeps you dry and protected, while the breathable softshell fabric in critical areas provides thermal regulation to keep you comfortable on the ascent. Plus, 4-way stretch allows mobility so you can stay agile when venturing up the skin track or down your line. The innovative design includes a center front dual zipper with built-in mesh panel ventilation and perforated panels over the collar – allowing you to breathe freely without compromising protection from inclement weather!
Features
- Style: Shell
- Material: 4 way Stretch Nylon Double Weave
- Insulation: No
- Waterproof Tech: BD.dry™ waterproof/breathable solution
- Vents: Yes
- Powder Skirt: No
- RECCO™: Yes
- MSRP: $350
Our Take
Black Diamond delivers a feature-packed and thoughtfully designed Dawn Patrol Shell. We love the innovative chest venting system, chest pockets sized for skins, harness compatibility, and the perforated collar panel, to name a few. It is a slim fit cut, so we recommend sizing up if you prefer a little more space for layering over a puffy jacket and need room for stashing gear.
Helly Hansen Powderqueen 3.0
Overview
Conquer the slopes in the women’s Powderqueen 3.0 jacket, offering all-weather protection with its HELLY TECH® Performance 2-layer construction and PrimaLoft Black Eco insulation – made from 100% recycled materials! This insulated ski jacket features a longer, more relaxed fit than most downhill jackets for improved freeride mobility while keeping you warm during cold lift rides, thanks to its high-collar design. For maximum safety out there on the mountain, this stylish model also comes with premium freeriding elements such as a ski helmet-compatible hood plus compatibility between your ski pants and your coat – now that’s one powerful queen of powder!
Features
- Style: Insulated jacket
- Material: 100% Polyester
- Insulation: PrimaLoft® BLACK Eco
- Waterproof Tech: HELLY TECH®
- Vents: Yes
- Powder Skirt: Yes
- RECCO™: Yes
- MSRP $450
Our Take
We love the Helly Hansen Powderqueen 3.0. It has a more relaxed fit while keeping you protected against the elements and offering ample space for movement or added layers. This versatile jacket has thoughtful features such as the high collar, goggle shammy, internal media pocket, and battery saver phone pocket. It may be too warm for backcountry skiers, especially on mild days or toward the end of the season.
Norrona Lofoten Gore-Tex Pro
Overview
Conquer the mountain with this original, waterproof, durable shell jacket designed by free riders for big mountain adventures. This versatile jacket is perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and trekking – on or off-slope! It comes equipped with a protective storm hood adjustable at the touch of your fingertips, plus two-way underarm zippers and a Napoleon chest pocket to keep essentials safe. An inside mesh pocket ensures breathability whilst keycard pockets add convenience when out in nature. Asymmetric cuffs aid the wearer’s comfort by adjusting via Velcro straps, while integrated wrist gaiters ensure warmth throughout activities outside during winter months.
Features
- Style: Shell
- Material: 70D GORE-TEX® PRO
- Insulation: none
- Waterproof Tech: GORE-TEX®
- Vents: Yes
- Powder Skirt: Yes
- RECCO™: No
- MSRP $799
Our Take
This is no ordinary shell! Crafted with top-of-the-line GORE-TEX PRO laminate for maximum protection on wet snow days, the extended back length and helmet-friendly hood make it a must-have. Store all your backcountry essentials – from hip belt pockets to generous pit zips and chest vents you’ll be sure to regulate your body heat.
Not only that but at just 1.3 lbs, this lightweight powerhouse comes in fun color options plus cozy wrist gaiters so you can feel extra snug when tackling those mountainside adventures!
Outdoor Research Carbide
Overview
The Carbide Jacket is the perfect companion for winter adventure seekers! This three-layer waterproof jacket from Pertex® allows you to take on any conditions confidently and comfortably. Whether it’s resort laps or out in the backcountry, this feature-packed ski jacket covers all your ski and snowboard needs. Get ready to hit the slopes with complete confidence – no matter where they may lead!
Features
- Style: Shell
- Material: 100% nylon
- Insulation: No
- Waterproof Tech: Pertex® Shield 3L
- Vents: Yes
- Powder Skirt: Yes
- RECCO™: No
- MSRP $299
Our Take
The Outdoor Research Carbide does not compromise when it comes to ski-specific features – pit zips, a snow skirt, and a forearm pocket for storage are all there. But its real showstopper is that this jacket weighs in at an incredibly light 1 pound 2.8 ounces, making it the perfect backcountry companion. It’s probably too lightweight for resort skiing without additional layers, or save it for a milder day.
Columbia Whirlibird IV Interchange
Overview
Bundle up and hit the slopes in this classic 3-in-1 insulated jacket! Designed for snowy days, it features underarm vents, a ski pass pocket, a goggle pocket, chest, and hand pockets – giving you all of your mountain needs without sacrificing comfort. With an adjustable hood, plus cuffs that provide just the right fit, stay warm while shredding down fresh mountainside trails with ultimate warmth throughout every adventure.
Features
- Style: 3 in 1 (shell + insulated jacket)
- Material: 72% Nylon/ 28% Polyester
- Insulation: Thermarator™ 100% Polyester
- Waterproof Tech: Omni-Tech™
- Vents: Yes
- Powder Skirt: Yes
- RECCO™: No
- MSRP $230
Our Take
The Whirlibird IV Interchange could be the perfect jacket for casual skiers who want to enjoy their time on piste. Or, for those just getting into winter sports, we love the price tag, and it will give you a quality option while you learn what features are most important to you.
Helly Hansen Elevation Infinity Shell Jacket
Overview
Experience the ultimate protection and performance with this pro-skier-approved ski shell jacket. Constructed from groundbreaking LIFA INFINITY PRO™ fabric, this jacket offers unrivaled durability without compromising sustainability – no chemicals used in the waterproofing process and no reproofing required! Its articulated cut ensures maximum freedom of movement even in powdery conditions while its two-way front zipper and underarm vent zippers allow you to control your body heat during exertion. The small details make all the difference when navigating treacherous terrain, like RECCO® transponders for improved safety and helmet/backpack compatibility, plus a Life pocket+™ for phone storage.
Features
- Style: Shell
- Material: 100% Polypropylene
- Insulation: No
- Waterproof Tech: LIFA INFINITY PRO™
- Vents: Yes
- Powder Skirt: Yes
- RECCO™: Yes
- MSRP $750
Our Take
It’s clear this Helly Hansen jacket is built by skiers and for skiers – this performance ski shell jacket is the ultimate combination of superior technology and sustainability. The longer fit provides unparalleled protection from the elements without compromising quality or comfort!
And we love that Helly Hansen is moving towards more sustainable manufacturing without using chemicals in waterproofing.
Picture Seen Jacket
Overview
With the arrival of the Seen Jacket from Picture, they’ve upped the ante on technical performance apparel. Utilizing repurposed sugarcane waste for its bio-sourced hard shell and a 20K/20K membrane with Teflon EcoElite™ PFC-free treatment to keep out moisture, this waterproof garment is made more effective by body mapping construction featuring Thermal Dry System technology that wicks away sweat precisely where it’s needed most — plus Coremax lining eliminating cold spots! Add in adjustable hood cuffs and skirt attachments so you can customize your fit even further, along with fully taped seams and water-resistant zippers for superior protection – get ready to experience lightweight warmth without sacrificing style or the environment.
Features
- Style: Shell
- Material: 58% Biosourced Polyester, 42% Recycled Polyester Dobby
- Insulation: No
- Waterproof Tech: Teflon Ecoelite™
- Vents: Yes
- Powder Skirt: Yes
- RECCO™: No
- MSRP $300
Our Take
Picture takes the most innovative approach to sustainable sources for raw materials, and we love the repurposed sugar cane used for the hard shell. This shell is incredibly breathable but also windproof. It has pockets in all the right spaces, and we recommend sizing up to accommodate any additional layers you may wear.
Black Crows Ferus Mechanical Jacket
Overview
The Ferus Mechanical Jacket is built for active all-terrain skiing, combining comfort and style with an inner lining of mechanical stretch fabric. A relaxed fit allows freedom of movement, while a slightly longer cut offers big mountain silhouettes. Get ready to amp up your performance on the slopes in this dynamic piece!
Features
- Style: Shell
- Material: 45% Repreve polyester, 55% polyester
- Insulation: Primaloft black eco
- Waterproof Tech: Dull membrane 2LS
- Vents: Yes
- Powder Skirt: Yes
- RECCO™: Yes
- MSRP $539.95
Our Take
The Ferus ski jacket is the perfect winter staple – fitted, long cut in the back, and equipped with pit zips for extra ventilation! You’ll find two outer waterproof chest pockets plus an easily accessible pass pocket; the main zipper is also guaranteed water resistant!
An additional inner chest pocket holds a tethered lens wipe for just when you need it most. The slim design keeps snow away without needing a zip-in powder skirt, and we love the broad Velcro tabs to ensure that your sleeves stay snug around your wrists!
What to look for when buying a ski jacket?
Buying a ski jacket is an essential and often expensive purchase, particularly if you plan to use it in multiple contexts. First and foremost, it is crucial to consider the intended use: Are you mainly skiing resort slopes? Planning some backcountry skiing? Ski mountaineering?
Each type of skiing requires different features in a jacket, such as breathability, waterproofness, and warmth – needlessly extreme features may be a waste of money. Those looking for resort skiing should opt for moderate breathability, robust waterproofness, and good insulation.
Meanwhile, those venturing out in the backcountry may want lighter material with more breathable construction, keeping them warm during ascents but won’t weigh them down during ski touring. And then there are ski mountaineers who require a technical balance between lightness and all weather protection.
Lastly, look through available features like pockets and ventilation – nothing like finding that perfect feature late in the game!
What’s the difference between insulated and shell jackets?
Ski coats come in two distinct types: insulated and shell.
An insulated jacket is great for keeping you warm and dry on cold, snowy days, as its materials are thicker than traditional shell coats due to various insulation layers.
In contrast, shell jackets offer more breathability and mobility, making them ideal options if you tend to heat up quickly while backcountry skiing. While they may not be as protective against the elements, such as wind or rain, as insulated jackets, they do offer more freedom of movement.
What are the essential features to consider when buying a ski jacket?
Pockets: Skiing with your essentials close at hand and out of the elements is essential for a great day on the slopes! Look for jackets that include two or more zippered pockets, one of them being an easily accessible Napoleon-style chest pocket – perfect for storing smaller items like phones, cards, and money.
Internal dump pockets are hugely beneficial, too; they offer large storage space within easy reach so you can keep gloves, goggles, and snacks handy. Be sure to consider what items you will carry in your pockets when deciding the jacket style and sizing.
Hood and Collar: Look for a hood with an adjustable fit that fits comfortably over your helmet – keeping you warm and safe in even the harshest weather conditions. Not only will it protect against frosty lift rides, but it also won’t impede vision, so you can make sure to stay aware of your blind spots.
Consider a high collar to protect you from the elements when fully zipped up. Like the Dawn Patrol Hybrid Shell from Black Diamond, other collar features are a fleece-lined chin to protect skin and perforated fabric for breathability.
Ventilation: For the active resort or backcountry skier, throwing in pit zips or deep chest zip vents can make all the difference. Not only does it allow for an instant blast of fresh air to cool down after vigorous runs on the slopes, but some designs even offer extended zips along your arms from ribcage to elbow – perfect if you want added breathability without sacrificing practicality!
Cuffs: fitted cuffs fasten around the wrists under or over the gloves, depending on your glove cuff style. Meanwhile, wrist gaiters are used to keep the snow from entering your gloves, but with an additional advantage: their secure fit prevents cold air from slipping through without compromising dexterity.
Does the waterproofing technology matter?
Waterproofing technology is an essential feature of a ski jacket. Regarding waterproofing technology and function, today’s ski jackets have come a long way. Many brands offer different levels of waterproofing, from basic to full-spectrum Gore-Tex® and other high-end materials.
For everyday skiers, knowing the weather conditions you will face is important before choosing a jacket with the right waterproofing level. When skiing in wet snow conditions, having a medium waterproof rating is crucial for comfort and warmth.
Time to Gear Up!
Purchasing the best women’s ski jacket may seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. With research, knowledge, and understanding of features, you can easily find a functional and comfortable jacket. Quality insulation, breathability, and a weatherproof exterior are all must-haves when finding the best ski jackets for women.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I consider in terms of insulation and warmth?
When selecting a ski jacket, it’s essential to consider the insulation and warmth it offers. The jacket should be able to keep you warm in cold conditions but not overheat when you’re active. Look for jackets with insulation like down or synthetic materials, which provide warmth without bulk. Also, consider the climate you’ll be skiing in and whether the jacket offers adequate protection against the cold.
How important is waterproofing and breathability in a ski jacket?
Waterproofing and breathability are crucial for ski jackets. A waterproof jacket will keep you dry in snow and rain, while a breathable jacket allows moisture from your body to escape, preventing overheating and sweat buildup. Look for jackets with high waterproof and breathability ratings, and consider features like sealed seams and water-resistant zippers for added protection.
What are the key features I should look for in a ski jacket?
Essential features in a ski jacket include a snow skirt to prevent snow from getting inside the jacket, adjustable cuffs and hoods for a snug fit, and plenty of pockets for storing essentials. Also, consider jackets with ventilation zips under the arms, which can be opened for additional airflow. The jacket’s fit is also important; it should allow for freedom of movement without being too loose or tight.
