A well-fitted, winter-specific jacket is a necessity when it comes to skiing or snowboarding, especially when someone is trying to make it all the way from the first chair to the last chair of the day. A great jacket keeps skiers and snowboarders dry all day long because once they’re cold and wet, it’s downhill from there (and not in a fun way). Every skier and snowboarder wants to make sure it’ll keep them warm when it’s windy or dumping snow, provide a good range of motion, and be breathable for those warmer days.

There are many options out there to choose from and the best jacket differs from person to person. Here on Curated, Ski and Snowboard experts help people of all sizes and skill levels find the right winter jacket for them. Check out some of the most popular brands below, including what they are known for, what to look out for, and information on the sizes they offer. Don’t forget to chat with a Curated Expert for free advice and recommendations on the best jacket for your needs.

HOW TO MEASURE

Chest Measure around the fullest part of your chest, underneath your arms

Waist Measure around the smallest part of your waist, keeping the measuring tape slightly loose.

Neck Measure the circumference of the base of your neck

Sleeve Measure by starting at the center of your back at the base of your neck, all the way along to your wrist.

Hip Measure the circumference at the widest part of your hips, standing with your feet together

Inseam With a pair of pants of your choice, measure the seam from the crotch to the bottom of the leg.

Unless stated otherwise, all measurements are in inches.

Airblaster

Unless stated otherwise, all measurements are in inches.

Good for: Airblaster makes jackets for resort or park snowboarders by life-long professional snowboarders, Travis Parker, Jesse Grandkoski, and Paul Miller. They have a wide range of jacket options, ranging from those with some waterproofing to full waterproofing, those on the spectrum of warm, warmer, warmest, and jackets with different cuts for length. Airblaser carries jackets that are standard-length, those that are 2-inches longer in the back, and those that are 2-inches longer all around. Overall, Airblaster jackets have an average fit that runs a little on the tighter side. They cater to sizes in the range of XS to XXL. They do not carry XXS or 3XL and up.

What to look out for: When checking out Airblaster jackets, be sure to take into account the warmth level and moveability of the jacket, especially if the backcountry is of interest as some of these jackets can be tight in the arm and chest areas. While they’re great inbounds, some of the jackets aren’t known for their flexibility or breathability, like the Airblaster Beast or the Toaster, which happens to be the warmest one.

Price Range: $100 - $250

Burton

Unless stated otherwise, all measurements are in inches.

Good for: Burton tailors its jackets for resort and park snowboarders with its boxy and looser fit. Its jackets incorporate GORE-TEX and cater to a wide range of prices and sizes. They range in size from XXS to XXL, and their fit is pretty true to size but is designed to fit on the looser side. In addition, Burton has made headway on sustainability by focusing on fostering a sustainable work culture, advocating for gender equality, and developing a list of restricted substances so that it doesn’t use materials with environmental, health, and safety concerns.

What to look out for: Compared to other brands, some of Burton's extended sizes (XL - 3XL) run a little small so this is something users can look out for if they are within that size range.

Price Range: $150 - $400

Columbia

Standard

Big

Tall

Unless stated otherwise, all measurements are in inches.

Good for: With their tailored fit and shorter length, Columbia makes form-fitting jackets that are more geared towards resort skiers of all skill levels from newer skiers taking their first runs to those at an expert level. Columbia uses a unique reflective lining, Omni-Heat Reflective™, on the inside of their jackets to reflect one’s own body heat back onto themselves, which is designed to increase warmth and insulation. These jackets keep winter sports enthusiasts warm and dry all day long.

What to look out for: Columbia’s jackets run on the smaller side, so those who are typically an XS would be comfortable in an S. While Columbia jackets are not the highest end jackets, like The North Face or Flylow, they’re still reliable jackets without the steep price tag.

Price Range: $150 - $600

DC

Unless stated otherwise, all measurements are in inches.

Good for: DC jackets cater towards the casual inbounds or park snowboarder who cares about looking good when they’re going down the hill. They will provide warmth for average days but on very cold days, some extra layers may be needed. The jackets fit relatively true to size and are designed to be on the looser, more boxy side.

What to look out for: Their sizes range from XS to XXL, so this brand may not be ideal for someone outside of that range. DC jackets are not geared for those looking for the warmest jacket to take into the backcountry.

Price Range: $150 - $450

Flylow

Unless stated otherwise, all measurements are in inches.

Good for: Flylow caters to the expert backcountry skier. It can definitely be used in the resort as well, but the lightweight feel, seamless zippers, and windproofing make it best for the backcountry. Flylow has higher-end jackets, reflected in the price tag as well. Its jackets run true to size and are form-fitting but still boxy, rather than being restrictive in certain places. The company pursues sustainability efforts, such as reusing boxes and fabrics and making sure its gear is built to last.

What to look out for: This brand is not ideal for entry-level skiers looking for their first jacket. Instead, this is for someone who needs a piece of gear that holds up under all conditions but is still breathable in the backcountry.

Price Range: $130 - $450

Helly Hansen

Unless stated otherwise, all measurements are in inches.

Good for: Helly Hansen jackets are definitely high-performance jackets. They keep winter sports enthusiasts warm and dry, and that’s probably why a lot of ski patrollers wear this brand. They’re for the expert resort skier who doesn’t want the weather to hinder the length of time they’re outside. They run a little bit bigger size-wise, and range in size from XS to 3XL. They’re relatively form-fitting and don’t run too long either.

What to look out for: This brand wouldn’t be ideal for backcountry skiers unless they’re looking specifically at their shell for layering, or entry-level skiers unless the price tag isn’t a deterrent. Other than that, most of their jackets are quite versatile! Warm weather, cold weather, wet weather, the majority of their jackets can do it all.

Price Range: $200 - $900

Marmot

Unless stated otherwise, all measurements are in inches.

Good for: Marmot is great for intermediate to advanced resort skiers on those cool to very cold days. The fit is on the smaller side, but not form-fitting. Its jacket sizes range from XS to XXL, so it doesn’t have the most extensive range of sizes. They do have some sustainability efforts, from fair wages and conditions to eco-friendly fabrics. Marmot has eliminated fluorocarbon-based chemical PFOA from all its new products and 44% of its volume uses recycled and renewable materials.

What to look out for: Marmot’s jackets are less ideal in warm conditions, since its jacket warmth ratings are only “warmer” and “warmest.”

Price Range: $150 - $600

Mountain Hardwear

Unless stated otherwise, all measurements are in inches.

Good for: Mountain Hardwear jackets are designed for the expert backcountry skier or snowboarder. Their shell is made to be durable for the more technical skier or snowboarder so that it holds up against the elements. They run relatively true to size and are made to be layered, so they’ll be a little less form-fitting than some of the other jackets on the market.

What to look out for: Mountain Hardwear does not have a ton of outerwear options, but the options it does have will be reliable and durable. It has mostly shells, with some down jackets that can be layered underneath. Mountain Hardwear does not have a very large size range either, only providing sizes from S to XL.

Price Range: $450 - $650

The North Face

Unless stated otherwise, all measurements are in inches.

Good for: The North Face makes high-end jackets geared for the intermediate-expert resort, and sometimes backcountry, skier. Its jackets are insulated for the coldest climates and are quite versatile with good ventilation and sometimes even a Triclimate 3-in-1 style suitable for all things Mother Nature has in store. The 3-in-1 style, like the ThermoBall™ Eco snow Triclimate Jacket, features a ThermoBall liner, which is removable for warm days but fits seamlessly under the shell for cold days. The North Face uses ThermoBall, an ultra thermal insulation technology powered by PrimaLoft, a synthetic fiber alternative to down.

What to look out for: The North Face makes jackets that are on the more expensive side, so that might deter an entry-level skier. In addition, it has an extensive size range on the larger end but not for smaller sizes, as jackets range from S to 3XL and fit relatively true to size.

Price Range: $100 - $600

Obermeyer

Unless stated otherwise, all measurements are in inches.

Good for: Obermeyer caters to a range of resort skiers, from the casual skier to the expert skier. Its jackets are shorter length-wise and are more slim-fitting than those of many other brands, and sizes range from XS to 3XL and fit relatively true to size. They also have some unique features, like cell-phone specific pockets on the interior of the jackets, mesh pockets for extra goggle lenses, removable hoods, and RECCO® reflective technology on the outside of their jackets for increased safety.

What to look out for: Obermeyer would not be the best option for backcountry skiers or snowboarders, as it doesn’t provide the range of motion or lightness that other jackets provide.

Price Range: $300 - $700

Patagonia

Unless stated otherwise, all measurements are in inches.

Good for: Patagonia makes really reliable and durable gear, and its winter jackets are no exception. Its jackets mostly cater towards skiers with their slim fit, but snowboarders can find some more moveable options as well. Patagonia jackets tend to be worn by more seasoned skiers due to their average price, but its worn wear program makes the price more accessible to more casual winter sports enthusiasts. This program takes used jackets and either fixes them or gives the owner money for them. There’s a lifetime warranty on Patagonia products, which encourages less consumption of new goods!

What to look out for: Patagonia’s jackets are really warm and breathable, making them great for all conditions. They aren’t specifically made for the backcountry, though some shells, like the Stormstride Jacket, could be good options.

Price Range: $150 - $550

Picture Organic

Unless stated otherwise, all measurements are in inches.

Good for: Picture Organic is another brand that’s made for snowboarders by three life-long French skateboarders and snowboarders that saw a need for environmentally friendly, unique products in the outdoor industry. The Picture Organic mission is to combat climate change, so it uses recycled products to create jackets, and there are options for everyone as the brand offers a large range of jackets with waterproofing, warmth, and breathability. It also has some good shell options for backcountry riding.

What to look out for: The one drawback is that its jackets are on the smaller side in terms of fit, and only come in sizes XS to XXL.

Price Range: $150 - $350

Quiksilver

Unless stated otherwise, all measurements are in inches.

Good for: Quiksilver caters to a wide range of snowboarders, from entry-level boarders to intermediate-advanced resort and park riders. Its jackets are less-fitted to offer a wide range of motion, and fit relatively true to size. Quiksilver has sustainability efforts in place and has used over 200 million recycled water bottles in its products, including in 50% of its outerwear.

What to look out for: While Quiksilver jackets may not be as durable as Patagonia or Helly Hanson jackets, they don’t have the high price tag, making them more affordable for riders. In addition, its jackets only range from XS to XXL, so Quiksilver doesn’t cater to the widest range of riders.

Price Range: $100 - $400

Spyder

Unless stated otherwise, all measurements are in inches.

Good for: Spyder is made for a wide range of resort skiers. A lot of racers wear Spyder due to its durability and quality, including those on the U.S. Ski Team. Spyder jackets are on the more fitted end of the spectrum for ski jackets and fit true to size.

What to look out for: Spyder jackets wouldn’t be the best option for the backcountry, as they tend to be on the warmer end of jackets. There are shell options and many of the jackets have down or synthetic down, which is how they keep skiers so warm.

Price Range: $250 - $ 800

Volcom

Unless stated otherwise, all measurements are in inches.

Good for: Volcom is made for the resort and park snowboarder. It uses GORE-TEX in many of its jackets, so they’re windproof, waterproof, and durable. They have a looser fit and are typically a little longer than average ski jackets, like those from Obermeyer or Spyder. Its sustainability efforts began 17 years ago and include using less water and Repreve recycled fibers, which are made from at least 95% post-industrial and post-consumer waste.

What to look out for: Volcom jacket prices range anywhere from less than $200 to over $500 so it's easy to find something within budget, but it’s harder to find the correct size. Its jackets have a smaller fit and only cater to sizes ranging from XS to XL.

Price Range: $150 - $700

686

Unless stated otherwise, all measurements are in inches.

Good for: 686 caters to a wide range of people, from the casual snowboarder to the expert rider. Its gear is reliable and durable, and suitable for activities from park, to resort, to backcountry. It uses a range of technology as well, from GORE-TEX and DWR for waterproofing to different levels of insulation for warmth. It also has sustainability efforts in place, such as working to be climate neutral and using recycled insulation.

What to look out for: The one drawback is that 686 does not have the widest ranges of sizes, as it only carries XS to XXL.

Price Range: $200 - $600

There are many options out there to choose from, and sometimes it’s nice to bounce your questions off of someone familiar with all the ins and outs of the different jackets available. If you have any questions on finding the right jacket for your needs, chat with a Ski or Snowboard Expert here on Curated for free, personalized recommendations.