When it comes to skiing and snowboarding, having the right apparel is essential. The right clothing ensures that you stay warm, dry, and comfortable, allowing you to focus on your performance and enjoy your time on the slopes. A full kit of outerwear, base layers, and midlayers is key. This comprehensive guide will introduce you to the best ski and snowboard apparel brands, each with its unique features, technologies, and sustainability efforts. Discover the top brands and their contributions to the world of snow sports, as we explore the ins and outs of the industry's finest names.

686

Founded in 1992, 686 is a California-based brand that focuses on creating innovative ski and snowboard apparel. Their core innovations include their proprietary infiDRY waterproofing and breathability system and their Smarty 3-in-1 technology, which offers versatile insulation options. 686 caters to a diverse range of riders and terrain types, with their popular GLCR and Hydra lines offering options for backcountry and resort skiing. The company works closely with athletes such as snowboarder Phil Jacques and is committed to promoting sustainability in its operations. They achieve this by incorporating recycled materials, using PFC-free (products made without fluorinated chemicals) durable water-repellent (DWR) treatments, and employing Bluesign-approved fabrics in the production of their items.

Curated Expert Recommendation: Gore-Tex Stretch Dispatch Bib

Arc’teryx

Canadian brand Arc’teryx, established in 1989, is known for its minimalist, high-performance mountaineering and ski gear. Their Key innovations include GORE-TEX Pro, which provides superior waterproofing and breathability, and Down Composite Mapping, which strategically places down and synthetic insulation for optimal warmth. Arc’teryx targets a variety of riders and terrain types, with their Whiteline collection designed specifically for freeride and ski touring. To ensure their products meet the highest professional standards, the company partners with elite athletes like skier Greg Hill. Additionally, Arc’teryx prioritizes sustainability and incorporates Bluesign-approved materials as well as responsible down-sourcing practices in the production of their premium garments.

Curated Expert Recommendation: Atom Lightweight Hoody

Black Diamond

Black Diamond, founded in 1989, is a U.S.-based brand known for their high-performance climbing and skiing gear. Their core technologies for ski and snowboard apparel include GORE-TEX and their proprietary BD.dry waterproofing system. Black Diamond targets a range of riders and terrain types, with their popular Helio and Mission lines offering versatile options for backcountry and resort skiing. They partner with top athletes, such as professional skier Drew Tabke, and actively engage in sustainability initiatives, including using Bluesign-approved materials and recycled fabrics in their products.

Curated Expert Recommendation: Guide Finger Gloves

Burton

Burton, a Vermont-based company, was founded in 1977 and has since become one of the most recognizable names in snowboarding. Burton Founder, Jake Burton is a legend in the snowboard industry. Known for their innovative board technologies, Burton also offers an extensive range of apparel, featuring their signature DRYRIDE and Living Lining systems for superior waterproofing and breathability. Burton's AK collection is designed for backcountry riders, while their main line targets a variety of snowboarding styles and skill levels. They have a longstanding partnership with snowboarding legend Shaun White and are committed to sustainability through initiatives like the use of Bluesign-approved materials and their ReBag program, which encourages the recycling and repurposing of used products.

Curated Expert Recommendation: AK Gore-Tex Cyclic Pants

Columbia

Columbia, established in 1938, is a well-known brand in the outdoor industry, offering a wide range of ski and snowboard apparel. Their essential tech includes Omni-Tech waterproofing and breathability, as well as their Omni-Heat thermal reflective lining. Columbia caters to a broad range of riders and terrain types, with their Titanium collection providing high-performance options for more advanced skiers and snowboarders. They collaborate with athletes like snowboarder Elena Hight and are dedicated to sustainability, with initiatives such as the use of recycled materials and PFC-free DWR treatments.

Curated Expert Recommendation: Powder Keg II Jacket

DC

DC, originally a skateboarding shoe company, was founded in 1994 and has since expanded into snowboarding apparel and gear. Known for its urban-inspired designs, DC offers functional and stylish ski and snowboard clothing. Their key technology is their Weather Defense system, which provides waterproofing and breathability. DC's product range targets various rider types and terrains, with their popular DC x 40s & Shorties collaboration, combining streetwear style with on-mountain functionality. They sponsor top athletes, such as pro snowboarder Torstein Horgmo, and are committed to reducing their environmental impact through initiatives like the use of recycled materials.

Curated Expert Recommendation: Women’s Liberate Insulated Jacket

Flylow

Flylow, founded in 2005, is a Colorado-based brand that focuses on creating durable, high-performance ski and snowboard apparel. Their primary innovations include Intuitive fabric membranes, which provide waterproofing and breathability, and PrimaLoft insulation for efficient warmth. Flylow targets a variety of riders and terrain types, with their popular Quantum and Lab Coat lines being especially popular among backcountry and freeride enthusiasts. Partnering with professional athletes like skier Angel Collinson, the company places a strong emphasis on sustainability. They achieve this by incorporating recycled materials and PFC-free DWR treatments in their products.

Curated Expert Recommendation: Malone Jacket

Helly Hansen

Established in 1877 in Norway, Helly Hansen is a storied brand with a long history of providing innovative, high-quality gear for outdoor enthusiasts. Their innovations include Helly Tech, which offers waterproofing and breathability, and their LifaLoft insulation, which delivers lightweight warmth. Helly Hansen's product range covers various rider types and terrains, with their ULLR collection being particularly popular among freeride and backcountry enthusiasts. The company works closely with elite athletes like Swedish skier Henrik Windstedt and places a high priority on sustainability. They incorporate Bluesign-approved materials and PFC-free DWR treatments in their products to reduce their environmental impact.

Curated Expert Recommendation: Elevation Infinity Shell Jacket

Mammut

Mammut, a Swiss brand founded in 1862, is known for its high-quality outdoor gear, including ski and snowboard apparel. Their proprietary tech includes GORE-TEX and DRYtechnology, which provide excellent waterproofing and breathability, as well as Ajungilak insulation for efficient warmth. Mammut targets a variety of riders and terrain types, with their popular Eiger Extreme and Nordwand lines being well-suited for alpine and backcountry enthusiasts. Partnering with professional athletes like snowboarder David Birri, the company is deeply committed to promoting sustainability. They achieve this by incorporating Bluesign-approved materials, PFC-free DWR treatments, and recycled fabrics in the production of their products.

Curated Expert Recommendation: Stoney HS Jacket

Marmot

Marmot, established in 1974, is a U.S.-based brand known for their high-quality outdoor gear, including ski and snowboard apparel. Their Foundational technologies include GORE-TEX and MemBrain, both providing excellent waterproofing, vents, and breathability. Marmot is regarded as having some of the best hardshell jackets on the market. Marmot offers a range of ski and snowboard clothing suitable for various skill levels and terrain types, with their Alvar 3L line being especially popular for freeride enthusiasts. Marmot works closely with athletes, including pro snowboarder Maddie Mastro, to ensure their products meet the highest standards. In addition, the company is committed to promoting sustainability and achieves this goal by incorporating Bluesign-approved materials and PFC-free DWR treatments in their products.

Curated Expert Recommendation: Hype Down Hoody

Moncler

Moncler, an Italian luxury brand, was founded in 1952 and has become synonymous with high-end ski and snowboard fashion. Known for their iconic down jackets, Moncler combines style and function to create sophisticated yet practical winter wear. While their products are designed for a wide range of riders, they have a particular appeal to fashion-forward individuals seeking luxury on the slopes. Moncler has partnered with top athletes, such as French skier Alexis Pinturault, and focuses on maintaining high-quality standards and ethical sourcing practices, including using certified down and eliminating fur from their collections.

Curated Expert Recommendation: Brizon Ski Jacket

Norrona

Norwegian brand Norrona, founded in 1929, is known for its high-quality ski and snowboard apparel, featuring innovative designs and technologies. Their Leading technologies include GORE-TEX Pro and PrimaLoft insulation for superior waterproofing and warmth. Norrona targets various rider types and terrains, with their popular Lofoten and Tamok collections offering options for backcountry and freeride enthusiasts. They work with top athletes, such as snowboarder Ane Enderud, and are committed to sustainability, using recycled materials, PFC-free DWR treatments, and Bluesign-approved fabrics in their products.

Curated Expert Recommendation: Lofoten Gore-Tex Jacket

Outdoor Research

Outdoor Research, founded in 1981, is a Seattle-based company known for their high-quality outdoor gear, including ski and snowboard apparel. Their Major technologies include AscentShell, which provides excellent waterproofing and breathability, and VerticalX insulation for efficient warmth. Outdoor Research targets a range of riders and terrain types, with their popular Skyward and Hemispheres lines being especially popular among backcountry and freeride enthusiasts. They sponsor top athletes, such as skier Jessica Baker, and are committed to sustainability, using recycled materials and PFC-free DWR treatments in their products.

Curated Expert Recommendation: Women’s Helium Down Hoodie

Picture Organic

Picture Organic, established in 2008 in France, is a brand focused on creating eco-friendly ski and snowboard apparel. Their core innovations include their proprietary DRYPLAY membrane for waterproofing and breathability, and their Bio-Sourced hardshell fabrics, made from sugarcane waste. Picture Organic targets a diverse range of riders and terrain types, with their popular Welcome and Exa lines offering versatile options for freeride and backcountry enthusiasts. They collaborate with athletes like snowboarder Victor Daviet and are dedicated to sustainability, using organic, recycled, and bio-based materials in their products.

Curated Expert Recommendation: U77 Bibs

Rossignol

Rossignol, established in 1907 in France, is a storied brand in the ski and snowboard industry that offers a wide range of high-quality apparel. Their key technologies include their proprietary MP+ waterproofing and breathability system and Thinsulate insulation for efficient warmth. Rossignol targets a diverse range of riders and terrain types, with their popular Blackops and Experience collections offering options for freeride, backcountry, and resort skiing. They work with top athletes, such as skier Chris Del Bosco and snowboarder Marion Haerty, and are committed to sustainability, using recycled materials, PFC-free DWR treatments, and responsible down-sourcing in their products.

Curated Expert Recommendation: SKPR 3L Jacket

Roxy

Roxy, established in 1990 as a women's surf brand, has since expanded into snow sports, offering a range of stylish and functional ski and snowboard apparel for women. Their key clothing tech includes Roxy DryFlight waterproofing and WarmFlight insulation. Roxy caters to a diverse range of riders and terrain types, with their popular Torah Bright collection, designed in collaboration with the Australian snowboarder, being a standout. Roxy is dedicated to sustainability, using recycled materials and PFC-free DWR treatments in their products, and they sponsor top female athletes, including skier Lena Stoffel and snowboarder Robin Van Gyn.

Curated Expert Recommendation: Women’s Snowstorm Jacket

Salomon

Salomon, established in 1947 in France, is a well-respected brand in the ski and snowboard industry. Their key innovations include AdvancedSkin Dry and Warm, which provide excellent waterproofing and insulation. Salomon targets a broad range of riders, from beginners to experts, with their QST and S-Lab collections offering cutting-edge gear for freeride and backcountry enthusiasts. They also create stellar ski accessories including ski goggles and ski helmets. Partnering with professional athletes such as snowboarder Bode Merrill, the company is strongly committed to minimizing their environmental impact. They achieve this by incorporating recycled materials and PFC-free DWR treatments in their initiatives to reduce their carbon footprint.

Curated Expert Recommendation: QST 3L Jacket

Spyder

Spyder, established in 1978, is a U.S.-based brand known for its high-quality, performance-driven ski and snowboard apparel. Their Leading technologies include GORE-TEX waterproofing and PrimaLoft insulation for superior protection and warmth. Spyder targets a range of riders, from beginners to professional athletes, with their popular Leader and Eiger lines offering options for resort and backcountry skiing. They partner with top athletes, such as U.S. Ski Team members Tommy Ford and Mikaela Shiffrin, and are dedicated to sustainability, using recycled materials and PFC-free DWR treatments in their products.

Curated Expert Recommendation: Sentinel Pant

Strafe

Founded in 2009 in Aspen, Colorado, Strafe is a brand focused on creating high-performance, stylish ski and snowboard apparel. Their Primary innovations include eVent and Polartec fabrics, which provide excellent waterproofing and breathability. Strafe targets a range of riders and terrain types, with their popular Cham and Scarlett lines being particularly suited for backcountry and freeride enthusiasts. The company partners with athletes, including skier Wiley Maple, to ensure their products meet professional standards while remaining environmentally conscious. They achieve this by incorporating recycled materials and PFC-free DWR treatments in the production of their products, demonstrating a strong commitment to sustainability.

Curated Expert Recommendation: Hayden Jacket

The North Face

Founded in 1966 in San Francisco, The North Face has long been a household name in outdoor apparel. Known for their innovative technologies, such as GORE-TEX and ThermoBall insulation, North Face has a range of high-quality ski and snowboard clothing suitable for all types of riders. Their Steep Series collection is specifically designed for backcountry enthusiasts, featuring durable materials and practical designs. In addition to ski jackets, North Face also makes some of the best gloves on the market. North Face also collaborates with professional athletes, like snowboarder Hana Beaman, to create gear that meets the needs of the most demanding riders. They actively engage in sustainability initiatives, using recycled materials and responsibly sourced down in many of their products.

Curated Expert Recommendation: Thermoball Eco Snow Triclimate Jacket

Trew Gear

Founded in 2008, Trew Gear is an Oregon-based company that focuses on creating high-performance, stylish ski and snowboard apparel. Known for comfort, their key technologies include their signature Dermizax NX membrane, which provides superior waterproofing and breathability across their skiwear lines. Trew Gear targets a variety of riders and terrain types, with their popular Powfunk and Stella lines being well-suited for backcountry and freeride enthusiasts. Working with professional athletes like skier Colter Hinchliffe, the company places a strong emphasis on sustainability. They achieve this by incorporating recycled materials and Bluesign-approved fabrics in the production of their products, demonstrating their commitment to environmentally responsible practices.

Curated Expert Recommendation: Primo Bib

Volcom

Founded in 1991, Volcom is a California-based brand known for its youth-oriented, alternative approach to ski and snowboard apparel. Their Foundational technologies include Zip Tech, which allows for seamless integration between jackets and pants, and their TDS (Thermal Defense System) for efficient insulation. Volcom targets a diverse range of riders and terrain types, with their Guch Stretch GORE-TEX line, designed in collaboration with pro snowboarder Bryan Iguchi, being a standout for backcountry riding. Volcom's commitment to sustainability is evident through their use of recycled materials and PFC-free DWR coatings in their products.

Curated Expert Recommendation: L GORE-TEX Jacket

Conclusion

With so many excellent ski and snowboard apparel brands available, finding the perfect gear for your needs can be an exciting adventure. This comprehensive guide has introduced you to the top brands in the industry, each with their unique features, technologies, and sustainability efforts. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, there's a brand out there that will cater to your specific needs and help you perform your best on the slopes. To find the perfect brand and kit for you be sure to chat with one of our Experts here at Curated! We specialize in providing the best deals and personalized recommendations to fit your needs.