Reviewed: This season's best ski jackets
It’s not just about keeping the weather out that’s a priority when shopping for a new ski jacket. They’ve also got to look good, fit well and (increasingly important) look after the planet.
We’ve trawled the world of outerwear to bring you a selection of the best for this season as skiers prepare to return to the slopes.
All are designed specifically for snowsports, whether you ski or snowboard, so no matter whether you want to be warm and cosy, watch what you spend or go super technical, there’s something for everyone and every budget.
Read our expert guide to buying a new ski jacket here.
Women
Best for classy femininity without compromise
Schöffel Paznaun, £480
A flatteringly elegant jacket with features to satisfy the most hardcore ski fan.
Fully waterproof and breathable four-way stretch fabric for total comfort even when skiing hard // Detachable hood that fits over a ski helmet to ward off the harshest of weather days // Primaloft Gold insulation keeps chills at bay // Lycra inner cuff gaiter with thumb slots for luxurious comfort // In-built Recco reflector helps search and rescue in an emergency
schoeffel.com
Best for clean-cut style
Patagonia Powder Bowl Gore-Tex, £380
A beautifully minimalist look with a superb feel. Classic Patagonia attention to detail combined with their deep desire to be as environmentally friendly as possible.
100 per cent recycled outer material with a soft finish that’s surprisingly durable // Cosy fleece layer behind the neck // Massive stash pocket inside is great for keeping hats and gloves warm when not in use // Zippered media pocket inside the chest pocket for double security // Recco reflector aids rescue teams
eu.patagonia.com
Best for affordable technicality
Scott Explorair 3L, £275
Incredible value that belies the features and flattering fit of this true mountain shell for everything from big-mountain charging to green run groomers.
Wind and waterproof shell jacket for perfect layering to match the day’s conditions // Large adjustable venting to cool down as the going gets tough // Spacious helmet compatible hood // Integrates recycled materials to minimise the environmental impact // Scott’s approach takes care of their factory workers, as well as the planet
scott-sports.com
Best for a touch of luxury
Henri Duvillard Meije Faux Fur, £420
Chic styling married with water and windproof materials in this insulated jacket means it’s not only great for skiing, but looks superb about town.
Faux fur for a toasty face, that can easily be removed. Hood can also be detached // Classic silhouette with a belt to hug the waist, complimenting a range of body shapes // Waterproof and windproof with low-bulk warmth so style doesn’t sacrifice comfort
henri-duvillard.com
Best for toasty times
Planks Huff’n’Puffa, £200
Sick of being cold on those bitter mid-winter days? This toasty number’s got it covered, with warm insulation, full weather protection and a killer look.
Synthetic insulation, including plant-based fibres, so the warmth’s not the only reason to feel good // Waterproof, breathable outer keeps all the weather out, and uses recycled materials // Longer cut for more complete coverage from chilling winds // Available in a diverse range of colours and prints to match differing styles
planksclothing.com
Men
Best for backcountry adventures
Ortovox Deep Shell, £590
Beautifully lightweight freeride jacket with excellent technical details making backcountry adventures that bit more comfortable.
Waterproof, windproof, breathable membrane keeps harsh weather at bay without overheating when working hard // Sustainable, warm and soft merino wool lines key areas where the body is particularly sensitive to the cold // Merino mesh pouch in front left pocket to keep your phone warm, so the battery’s ready to capture that next epic shot // Spacious helmet-compatible hood improves protection on those stormier days
ortovox.com
Best for changeable days
Arc’teryx Macai LT, £625
Technical blend of natural and synthetic insulation, with Gore Tex’s renowned weather proofing, for maximum comfort whether you’re skiing or out and about in resort.
Synthetic insulation in areas where moisture can accumulate with responsibly sourced goose down elsewhere for superb warmth // Gore-Tex breathable weatherproofing to keep the elements out and the warmth in // Built-in Recco reflector aids rescue services in an emergency // Hood fits over a helmet, further enhancing that cosy feeling
arcteryx.com
Best for budget conscious eco-aware
Picture Object, £265
Amazing value in a feature rich jacket that doesn’t cost the earth – in both senses. Sound sweet? It should do; it’s made from repurposed sugarcane waste.
Environmentally sensitive composition of biosourced polyester, from sugarcane waste, and recycled polyester // Fully weatherproof and breathable, with a cosy insulated lining that wicks moisture away // Snuggly, stretchy inner wrist gaiters with thumb loops // A plethora of pockets, including a secreted goggle wipe
picture-organic-clothing.com
Best for icy-cold carving
Salomon Arctic Down, £400
A true cold-weather shield with responsibly sourced down to keep you wrapped up snug whether riding the lifts in resort or just walking the dog at home.
Full weather protection from the waterproof, breathable outer // Natural down is a wonder insulator and works for the harshest conditions // Stretchy inner wrists with thumb holes to seal in the heat // Inner stash netting and security pocket, so valuables can be kept warm and safe // Zip-off powder skirt to adapt to home use
salomon.com
Best for brightening the mood
The North Face Dragline, £380
Brilliantly bright to lift dull days to something of joy. It’s not just the colour that’s stand-out with tons of features and environmentally sensitive construction.
Face fabric is 100 per cent recycled with a bio-based membrane to keep water and wind out, while letting your skin breathe // A host of outer-pockets for storing snacks and essentials // Two inner stash nets for warm stowage // Lens cloth hidden in the sleeve pocket // Shell design for all conditions, even in spring // Quieter colours available for the less bold
thenorthface.co.uk
