When it comes to snowboarding, having the right gear is crucial, but having the right accessories and clothing can make just as much of an impact on your day as your board and bindings.

What is trendy? What colors should you choose? Do you want an anorak jacket or a zip-up? Are mittens or gloves better? As a Snowboarding Expert here at Curated and a long-time snowboarder with over 20 years of experience, I love helping riders find the right products to help them get out and enjoy the slopes to the fullest.

Snowboard trends come and go each season, so deciding how stylish to go without forfeiting performance is a tricky balance. Let’s look at some of the most important gear for snowboarding and what is trending.

What Should You Wear Snowboarding?

1. Snowboard Jacket

Your snowboard jacket is the centerpiece of your outfit. Choose one that's stylish and also keeps you warm and dry. Bold and bright colors often help your friends pick you out on the slopes, but classic and sleek shades never go out of style. Look for waterproof and breathable materials with the right amount of insulation for you, and don't forget about handy features like pockets and vents.

2. Snowboard Pants

When it comes to snowboard pants, comfort is key! Find a pair with a great fit, allowing for plenty of movement whether you’re cruising the park or flying down steep groomers. Waterproof and breathable fabrics are essential and bonus points for cool designs and extra features like reinforced cuffs and cargo pockets.

3. Layering Pieces: Baselayer and Mid-Layer

Dressing in layers helps regulate your body temperature on the slopes. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer (Merino wool rocks!) to keep you dry, followed by a cozy mid-layer, like a fleece or insulated jacket, to retain warmth. Feel free to get creative with colors and patterns!

4. Gloves or Mittens

Protect your hands with the right gloves or mittens. Consider your preference for the dexterity of gloves versus the warmth of mittens, and look for features like touchscreen compatibility, wrist leashes, and durable materials. Don't be afraid to pick a bold color that might offset the rest of your outfit to really stand out.

5. Snowboard Socks

Your feet will thank you for investing in quality snowboard socks. Look for ones made from moisture-wicking materials with cushioning in the right places. Say goodbye to cold feet and hello to all-day comfort on the mountain.

6. Goggle and Helmet

Safety and style go hand in hand with the right goggles and helmet. Opt for goggles with various interchangeable lenses for different light conditions and a helmet that combines safety features with a sleek design. Remember, it's all about looking good while staying safe! Never compromise the safety of your head for style.

7. Accessories: Beanies, Face Masks, Neck Warmers

Complete your snowboard outfit with some fun accessories. Choose a beanie that complements your jacket and pants, a face mask to shield you from the cold, and a neck warmer for added warmth. These small touches can make a big difference in both style and comfort!

Trendy Snowboard Jacket Styles

Bold Patterns and Prints

Make a statement on the slopes with jackets featuring eye-catching patterns and prints. From geometric designs to abstract art, you'll turn heads while shredding the mountain. Remember, there's no such thing as too bold when it comes to snowboarding style! Roxy, Volcom, Airblaster, and 686, among others, offer lots of patterns and prints that will make you stand out from the rest.

Muted Earth Tones

Whether riding resort or backcountry, consider jackets in muted earth tones like olive green, burnt orange, or charcoal gray. These colors look great and blend seamlessly with the natural winter landscape, offering a timeless and sophisticated aesthetic. There are many options, from solid-colored jackets to two-toned block styles, to check out. FlyLow, Burton, and Mountain Hardware are a few places to start.

Parkas and Longline Jackets

Stay warm and stylish with parkas and longline jackets. These extended-length options provide extra coverage and insulation, keeping you cozy during chilly chairlift rides or deep powder days. Plus, they create a sleek silhouette that's both fashionable and functional. Consider pairing them with some fitted snow pants for a stylish look.

Anorak’s

Jackets that pull over your head instead of zip have a unique look that will make you stand out from the crowd. If going that route, make sure there is a zip on the side or an easy way to get it over your head without causing a scene in the lodge at lunch. While these jackets look cool and can offer more warmth, getting them on and off can get tiring for some.

Sustainable Materials

Show your love for the planet by choosing jackets made from sustainable materials or eco-friendly brands. You'll look great and feel good knowing you're supporting environmentally conscious efforts in the snowboarding industry. Both Picture Organic and Patagonia have some stylish jackets that use recycled materials. Many other brands have eco-friendly options as well.

Key Features to Look for

When selecting a jacket, prioritize features like waterproofing, breathability, and insulation. GORE-TEX will keep you the driest, even in inclement weather, but if you’re a sunny day snowboarder, anywhere from 15K-20K of waterproofing should be fine for you. A quality jacket should also allow for adequate airflow and provide good breathability. These features are essential for a comfortable and enjoyable day on the mountain.

Snowboard Pants Trends

Slim and Tailored Fits

Ditch the baggy look and opt for slim or tailored-fit snowboard pants. These styles offer a modern and streamlined appearance without compromising on mobility. Plus, they'll make your snowboarding moves look even more impressive!

Cargo and Utility-Inspired Style

Embrace the practicality of cargo and utility-inspired pants. These designs often feature multiple pockets, perfect for stashing your essentials while you ride. Plus, the rugged aesthetic adds a relaxed, adventurous vibe to your outfit.

High-Waisted Pants and Bibs

High-waisted and bib-style pants offer extra coverage and warmth, making them perfect for colder days on the mountain. They also provide a unique and flattering look.

Color Coordination

For a polished and put-together outfit, coordinate your pants with your jacket. This can be as simple as matching colors or as bold as pairing complementary patterns. Either way, you'll look like a snowboarding pro from top to bottom.

Key Features to Look for

Like your jacket, your snowboard pants should offer essential performance features like ventilation, waterproofing, and insulation. These features will ensure you stay comfortable and protected, regardless of weather conditions.

Layering for Warmth and Style

Baselayer Materials and Fits

Choose base layers made from moisture-wicking materials like Merino wool or synthetic blends to keep you dry. When it comes to fit, opt for a snug yet comfortable fit that won't bunch up under your outer layers. Icebreaker and Smartwool offer many base layers that keep you cozy and fresh-smelling all day.

Midlayer Options

For your mid-layer, consider options like fleece, down, or synthetic insulation. These materials provide excellent warmth, ensuring you stay toasty without sacrificing mobility. Consider the cozy feel and extra weight of fleece versus the lightweight packability of down, and decide what is right for you. Jackets like the Patagonia Nano Puff or the Arc’teryx Atom Hoody could be great options.

Balance Breathability and Insulation

When layering, it's crucial to find the right balance between breathability and insulation. Too much insulation can cause overheating, while inadequate breathability leads to dampness. Experiment with different combinations to find what works best for you and the conditions you typically ride in.

Mix and Match Colors and Patterns

Layering is an opportunity to get creative with colors and patterns. Mix and match your base and mid-layers to create a unique and personalized snowboarding outfit.

Gloves, Mittens, and Handwear Trends

Leather and Synthetic Options

When it comes to snowboarding gloves and mittens, you can't go wrong with durable materials like leather or high-quality synthetics. Not only do they provide excellent warmth and protection, but they also look stylish and can last multiple seasons. Check out Hestra for some excellent leather options.

Touchscreen Compatibility

Stay connected on the mountain with touchscreen-compatible gloves or mittens. These handy options allow you to use your smartphone without exposing your hands to the cold. Perfect for capturing epic snowboarding moments or checking the weather forecast!

Bold Patterns and Colors

You can be bold and choose to make a statement with your handwear. Opt for gloves or mittens in bold patterns or vibrant colors that complement the rest of your outfit. After all, snowboarding is all about expressing yourself and having fun!

Wrist Leash Attachments

Keep your gloves and mittens secure with wrist leash attachments. This convenient feature prevents you from accidentally dropping or losing your mittens off the lift, saving you time and frustration on the slopes. Who wants to be searching for a lost glove under the lift line for an hour?

Snowboard Socks, Goggles, and Helmet Styles

Snowboard Sock Materials and Cushioning

Choose socks made from moisture-wicking materials like Merino wool or synthetic blends for optimal comfort. Look for cushioning in key areas like the shin and heel to help prevent pressure points and keep your feet cozy all day long.

Goggle Lens Technology and Frame Designs

Select goggles with advanced lens technology that adapt to changing light conditions and offer excellent UV protection. Stylish frame designs not only look great but should also be comfortable and compatible with your helmet. Opt for interchangeable magnetic lenses if you like to swap out often, and check out the Smith 4D Mag goggles if you want excellent peripheral vision and quality vision up and down.

Helmet Safety Features and Aesthetics

Your helmet should provide top-notch safety features while still looking stylish. Look for helmets with adjustable fit systems, proper ventilation, and certifications that meet industry safety standards. If possible, always go with a MIPS helmet for the safest ride. And, of course, choose a design and color that complements your snowboarding outfit!

Accessories to Complete Your Look

Beanies and Headwear

While helmets are always recommended, some opt to wear a beanie underneath for added warmth. Others choose something like a BlackStrap balaclava for extra warmth in a sleek style with added color. Coordinate with your jacket and pants, or opt for a fun pattern that adds a pop of personality to your look.

Face Masks and Neck Warmers

Protect your face from the cold with a face mask or neck warmer in a warm and breathable material. Choose a design that goes with your outfit, or go for something bold and unique. There are many options for over-the-helmet fleece protection as well as under-the-helmet options.

Stomp Pads and Snowboard Leashes

Personalize your snowboard with stomp pads and leashes that match your outfit or showcase your individual style. These functional accessories look cool and help improve your snowboarding experience.

Backpacks and Bags

Carry your gear in style with a backpack or bag that suits your aesthetic. Look for options with useful features like board straps, hydration systems, and multiple compartments for easy organization.

Finding the Best Snowboard Outfit Trends for You

Overall, your snowboard outfit is where you can showcase your personality and flair on the slopes. While comfort and functionality are the most important, there are so many unique colors and designs that will help you feel confident and express your style on the slopes. Reach out to me or one of my fellow Snowboarding Experts here on Curated for help dialing in your winter setup!