There is no doubt that a first ski trip can be super exciting but also stressful and not just because you’d never done it before and you’re anxious. The real source of the stress in this situation is needing the right gear for this experience but realizing you know nothing about the right clothes to get and where to get them.
It turns out that there are some specific things you need to put on to ensure your safety and that you don’t freeze out there on the slopes, of course!
But when you get down to it, it’s all just too confusing! How much is enough and how much is just too much?
Are one good jacket and pair of pants all you need, or are the layers and the accessories just as important?
These are questions you might have asked yourself, which is why this guide is meant to help you browse through some of the best ski jackets and pants on the market and learn their best features so you can make an informed choice before venturing out on the mountain.
The North Face Women’s Arrowood Triclimate DWR Jacket
The first jacket featured on our list is really versatile and features some much needed neck coverage and sip-in integration.
Just keep in mind that the sizes tend to be a little smaller than expected so make sure to size up to allow enough room for some layering, especially if you are in between sizes.
Aside from that, this is a huge favorite among skiers but also people who just happen to live in colder climates.
It was designed with a seam-sealed DWR outer which does an amazing job just keeping the low temperatures as well as the wetness out, protecting you from harsh weather.
Another reason why it’s considered so versatile is that you can detach the outer shell from the lining and mix and match it with different pieces from the TriClimate lining as well.
This way, you can basically have a custom jacket while also remaining warm on the slopes. It comes in all sizes between XS and 2X.
Burton Ski/Snowboard Covert Jacket
This snowboard jacket is built with comfort and protection in mind and also seems to be really durable, so you know you’ll be able to enjoy it for a long time.
It is made of two-layer DryRide fabric, something commonly known for waterproofing.
But of course, if you care more about remaining warm in the snow – it is a snowboarding jacket after all – you’ll be pleased to find out that it features THERMOLITE insulation.
What this means is that it is not bulky at all and made out of 40% recycled material but is still as warm as they come even though it is so lightweight.
The hollow core fibers will be able to regulate your body temperature with ease, keeping you comfortable while on the slopes.
And during those times you need more ventilation, just know that it comes with zips in the armpit. It can also be worn by women.
Wantdo Women’s Mountain Waterproof Ski Jacket Windproof Rain Jacket Winter Warm Hooded Coat
This ski jacket comes in multiple color options and is machine washable. If you’re not planning on going skiing that often, this is an ideal product for you since it’s one of the more basic options.
Despite this, it’s still designed to protect you just as well as other, more advanced models, being windproof, waterproof and super lightweight and breathable all the while keeping you warm and toasty in the snow.
It even features an internal drawcord at the hem, a detachable and adjustable hood, and even a spot to thread your earbuds through for the best experience.
The sizing options are great as well, coming in small, up to 3X.
Burton Women’s Jet Set Ski/Snowboard Jacket
This is another product that you should not miss! Its waterproofing and insulation are both great, allowing you to worry about nothing else on the mountain except showing off your skills!
The main material it is made of is DRYRIDE 2-layer polyester fabric.
This helps with resisting really strong weather elements due to the strong shell it provides.
And all this is possible without any bulk and heavy feeling, the jacket still being very comfortable and lightweight, allowing the wearer to move freely.
Another impressive feature this jacket has been designed with is ThermoLite insulation, which also contributes a lot to it being lightweight and warm.
It has large interior pockets to keep your items safe at all times as well as zippered hand warmer pockets!
Finally, it is specifically created to be slim fit, meaning that it will highlight your natural shape so if you want to layer a lot, which you probably should, you might want to size up.
The North Face Thermoball Triclimate Jacket
This jacket is made from sustainable materials and is super versatile but the sizes are quite limited, unfortunately, coming in XS, up to only XL.
Other than that, it’s great because you basically get three different jackets in one!
This is because the smart design allows you to either subtract or add layers in order to get the right amount of warmth for the weather and activity you’re planning.
This way, you can have a jacket that will protect you from the cold on the slopes but which is also just right to wear when you’re out and about, hitting the town in chilly weather.
The shell is waterproof and is seam-sealed and stretchy enough to allow you to freely move while skiing.
One of the layers is a Thermoball and can even be worn separately to remain dry and comfortable in wet weather.
The North Face Women’s Thermoball Full Zip Snowboard Jacket
Another jacket from The North Face, this option is just as innovative!
Their snowboarding jacket for women features ThermoBall insulation, which is incorporated in its body.
What this means is that it features synthetic fiber clusters as opposed to the more traditional down clusters.
Furthermore, it has tiny air pockets which are meant to trap the heat for longer, keeping you warm no matter what the conditions.
Another impressive feature is the ripstop nylon shell, which is a fabric type known for being super lightweight and durable at the same time.
Even better, it also features a durable water repellent treatment that is meant to literally repel water.
It comes with a lifetime warranty.
RAB Xenon Jacket Womens
This jacket is easy to pack and lightweight. It’s also made with recycled polyester synthetic insulation and its hood will fit under your helmet with no issue.
It is made with ripstop fabrics so even if you’re a beginner and will end up falling quite a lot on the slopes while learning, the jacket will remain intact.
The pockets are quite special as well, two of them being handwarmer ones with zippers while a third one is meant to be used as a stuff sack.
The sizing is quite limited, unfortunately, coming in sizes XS, up to only an L.
Columbia Women’s Bugaboo Interchange Snowboard Jacket
With this jacket, you can never go wrong! One of its best features is the thermal reflective technology it was designed with.
The tiny silver dots are surprisingly effective in managing heat smartly, making sure that you will remain warm while wearing it.
Another impressive feature is the Omni-Tech which basically makes the jacket both windproof and waterproof so you have all fronts covered.
The lining is a combination of polyester and nylon.
Finally, it comes with storage pockets that you can trust with your valuables on the slopes.
More precisely, it has inner security pockets as well as two zippered hand ones.
The North Face Women’s Superlu Jacket
This skiing and snowboarding jacket for women from The North Face has an urban style but features all the athletic specs you’ll ever need at the same time!
To protect your back from directly touching snow if you happen to fall, the back hem is lower than in most such jackets.
Of course, the insulation and breathability are top tier but this jacket has some other impressive features such as the internal goggle pocket, a wrist pocket for ski passes, a chest pocket for your music devices and even zippered underarm vents!
It is waterproof as well so you can trust it in the rain but keep in mind that the sizes only range between XS and L.
Arc’teryx Beta AR Snowboard Jacket
Another option that you should not ignore is the Arcteryx Beta AR Snowboard Jacket.
One of the best features of this product is the Gore-Tex fabric, which is high performing.
Unfortunately, you might not like that this compromises on the comfort, this jacket being a bit bulky and heavy when compared to others on this list.
The DropHood is helmet-compatible, allowing you to use it for some extra warmth without obstructing your vision.
It also features smart, laminated pockets with a special design that will keep all the contents a hundred percent dry.
Helly-Hansen Womens Switch Cargo 2.0 Pant
Now that you have checked out some of the best skiing and snowboarding jackets on the market, it is time to hopefully pick some equally qualitative pants for the same occasion as well!
With that being said, the first pair comes from Helly-Hansen and they are low-rise with a hard shell, which also feature PrimaLoft insulation.
They were designed for high performance but are still lightweight, featuring a DWR-coated two-layer fabric.
For some added comfort out there on the slopes, they have articulated construction at the knees and seat so you can move as freely as you need.
For some added safety, they come with an embedded RECCO rescue reflector.
Of course, pockets are always key, so these pants have some extra cargo ones too!
Judging by many reviews, buyers are impressed by the great insulation, warmth and fit, checking all the boxes!
Mountain Warehouse Mesa Extreme Womens Softshell Ski Pants
Another pair that features RECCO reflectors, this model of pants also has great ventilation so you never have to worry about sweating and feeling gross under it during high intensity physical activity.
Other than that, they are a bit basic as far as skiing pants are concerned which is why they are perfect for casual skiers who would rather not invest in professional gear they are only rarely planning to use.
Regardless, they are still great quality and will do the job just right, being waterproof, insulated and breathable.
Finally, they come with three pockets, one on the back, meant for your ski passes and phone and two more zippered ones at the sides.
Columbia Bugaboo Omni-Heat Snow Pant
These pants are not only comfortable and efficient but also super stylish!
At under a pound of weight, they are lightweight and comfortable but still have no issue keeping you warm and dry.
They also have internal gaiters, fully taped seams, as well as an adjustable waist in case you need some extra help with sizing it perfectly to your body type.
Perhaps the only con is that they do not have any leg vents but that is not that big of a downside and you might not even care about it.
They feature 5 pockets in total, both at the sides as well as running down the legs.
Helly Hansen Women’s Powderqueen Bib Pants
The Powderqueen ski pants really stand out when it comes to comfort and protection from the cold.
This is thanks to a four-way-stretch design that allows a lot of bending and twisting in them.
There is also a reinforced design that will keep them in perfect condition for a very long time.
The insulation will keep the wearer warm without overheating them but if you still get a little bit hot, there is a solution for that as well! All you need to do is release the zippered side vents for some ventilation!
In case of emergency, you can also rest assured that these pants feature a RECCO chip so the rescue team can easily spot you if you get lost or injured on the slopes.
Outdoor Research Women’s Skyward II Pants
These pants are ideal on warmer days and for backcountry skiing. They are breathable and lightweight thanks to the AscentShell electrospun membrane they feature.
In case you feel like you are still overheating in them, there are two way zippered vents on the sides.
Another great feature is the designated beacon mesh pocket.
All you need to do is put your safety accessory in there and you are free to go enjoy the slopes.
There is a boot-adjusting power strap too and because it’s a slot added, you won’t need to take it off in order to tighten your snow boots.
Reviewers love the pocket placement, the pants’ durability and breathability.
Flylow Foxy Bib
These pants are technically a bib but still, they are a great choice for hitting the slopes since they’re so warm and comfortable.
They are made with three-layer fabric with a DWR treatment and also feature the vents and pockets everyone wants.
They even have a kangaroo pouch so you can rest assured that you’ll never run out of storage!
Thanks to their athletic fit they feel good when they’re on and look just as great!
Dynafit Beast Hybrid Pant
If you spend more time climbing a mountain than going down it then these are the ideal pants for you!
They are considered hybrid pants due to the fact that they feature the breathability of softshell pants but still come with waterproof fabric in the knees, thighs, legs, and backside, to protect you from wet weather conditions, be it rain or melting snow.
The ventilation sips feature water-repellent zippers and they run from the hips all the way down to the knees so you can be sure you’ll never overheat.
They are considered high performance so you’ll totally love them if you’re a professional athlete but even beginners can enjoy their great quality just as much!
