Best Women’s Ski Jackets Buying Guide

A quality ski jacket is a necessary part of your skiing gear and needs to keep you warm and also make you look good. 

The women’s ski jackets are also available in a variety of styles and features hence it is important to know how to pick the right one that suits your needs by considering the following point.

Shell or Insulation

There are two main types of women’s ski jackets. Either insulated or shell (no insulation). 

Usually, insulated/padded jackets are warmer but less adaptable than shell jackets. An insulated ski jacket contains an outer layer that is windproof and waterproof, together with an insulating layer built directly into the ski jacket providing extra warmth. 

The insulating inner layer is likely to be made of fleece, down or a synthetic fabric which is very soft, lightweight and breathable. Many insulated jackets may contain an additional insulator piece that is removable. 

These types are known as system jackets or 3-in-1 jackets. If you skiing in very cold places, an insulated jacket is best suitable. Shell jackets ideal for someone who is the warmer person by nature.

Fit

When you are considering the fit, it is all about the shape of the jacket plus the activity you are doing. Another aspect can be the look and style you prefer. 

You can go for slim fit which sits close to the body, regular fit which are true to size or relaxed fit which offer more room for layering and comfort.

Cut/Length

The jackets come in different lengths and cuts and suitable for a particular reason. You have shorter athletic cut which offers a flattering look keeping you warm at the same time and are better for snow riding. 

Longer lengths good for wetter conditions and powder skiing as it gives your behind with more coverage and keeps you warm. The cut and length will depend on your style. 

For the lengths we have cropped for that flattering fit, hip length tailored fit and style and thigh length tailored for additional protection. Also knee length and full length.

Waterproof Coating

This is one of the most important factors in choosing a ski jacket. This will help you know how fast the jacket will become saturated and begin allowing water to penetrate to the layers below.

Breathability

The breathability is measured by the ability of the ski jacket to transfer moisture from the inside to the outside. You need to buy a jacket that is made from a fabric that is able to air out or breathe to allow moisture to go through. Nylon and cotton are breathable fabrics.

Fabric Durability

You need a jacket that is durable and able to withstand extreme weather conditions like extreme exposure to rains or high winds.  The women’s ski jackets are made different from your everyday winter jacket.

Seams

Some jackets have seams taped on the inside making them more waterproof. Some have all their seams fully taped. These jackets are however more expensive. 

Others have only the critical seams sealed meaning that only some of the seams are taped. They are less expensive. They are handy as long as you don’t spend a long time in wet weather or in the snow.

Vents

 Go with a jacket that has an underarm vent to give hot air room to escape and draw in cool air without you undoing the front zip. 

The vents may be mesh-lined or open to the air. Others have a 2-way zip making it easier to use and may double as a pocket.

Powder Skirt

This is a wide elastic band found inside the jacket at the waist. Also called a snow skirt. It helps prevent the snow from getting inside your clothes. Silicone strips can at times be added around the band to keep it in place. 

Some powder skirts are removable while you can keep others away when not being used. If you planning on doing powder skiing this is a good feature to look out for.

Front Zipper Cover/Storm Flap

This feature covers the front zipper of your ski jacket preventing wind and moisture from penetrating inside. 

You may find some storm flaps having some soft fleece over the zipper so that the cold metal does not irritate your face.  This is considered by many as a must-have feature.

Other Additional Features include: 

A hood that is either fixed, detachable or stowaway. You do not have to remove the stowaway but instead, you just fold up or roll up and then they are tucked into their designated area Stowaways. 

Wrist closure which is adjustable and closes around the wrist or on top of your glove. 

Cinch cord adjustment to help your jacket and pants hold in place. Internal cuffs and thumb loops to keep snow and cold from entering into the sleeves. 

Pockets in case you need to carry stuff with you. Additional fabric lining found mostly on higher end jackets for extra warmth to the wrists and palms.