It's that time of year again! The snow is starting to fall, the temperatures are dropping, and the slopes are calling your name. If you're like me, then you can't wait to grab your snowboarding gear, get out there and start shredding some powder.
But before you do, make sure you have the right gear - that means the best snowboard jacket out there as every snowboarder needs the right kit to make it a day to remember in the mountains!
We will be taking a look at some of the best snowboard jackets for this winter season from waterproof, breathable mountain models to warm, budget-friendly park styles. We'll discuss what to look for when buying different types of jacket, and we'll recommend some of our favorite models. So whether you're a beginner or an experienced rider, read on for the scoop on the best snowboard jackets out there.
Don't forget to check out our Buyers Guide - What to consider on the best snowboard jacket and Handy Hints to give you a steer on the best snowboard jackets for this season!
Right, let's dive in!
BEST SNOWBOARD JACKETS MEN'S- OUR TOP PICKS:
BURTON COVERT SNOWBOARD JACKET
QUIKSILVER MISSION SNOWBOARD JACKET
WILDHORN OUTFITTER DOVER SNOWBOARD JACKET
FLYLOW ROSWELL INSULATED SNOWBOARD JACKET
686 GLCR CORE GORE TEX SNOWBOARD JACKET
JONES SNOWBOARD MTN SURF JACKET
BEST SNOWBOARD JACKET WOMEN'S- OUR TOP PICKS:
VOLCOM WESTLAND SNOWBOARD JACKET
686 ATHENA INSULATED SNOWBOARD JACKET
BURTON KEELAND SNOWBOARD JACKET
ROXY JET SKI PREMIUM SNOWBOARD JACKET
BURTON COVERT SNOWBOARD JACKET:
What Works For Us:
Looking for a lightweight, breathable and low-bulk snowboard jacket that won't break the bank? Look no further than the Burton Covert. This great value jacket comes packed with features to keep you comfortable on the slopes all day long.
The living lining adjusts to your body temperature, wicking away moisture when you sweat and retaining heat when it's cold. The underarm mesh lined vents help you dump heat when needed, and the loose fit allows you to layer up underneath if required.
The DryRide 2 layer fabric keeps you well insulated and protected from the elements, while the taped seams help lock out the cold. You'll also appreciate the loads of storage space, including an internal mesh dump pocket, goggle pocket and media port zippered pocket.
The powder skirt is excellent and with removable water resistant waist gaitors with jacket to pants interface, there is no way the snow is coming in! The contour hood is helmet compatible and adjusts from the rear with a single pull.
The Burton Covert is waterproof and breathable and gives plenty of freedom to move on the slopes and has space for layering up which makes it a great option for mountain boarding.
What You Need to Know:
Shell: DryRide 2 layer waterproof and breathable fabric
Insulation: Thermolite
Vents: Yes
Powder Skirt: Yes
QUIKSILVER MISSION PRINTED SNOWBOARD JACKET:
What Works For Us:
Looking for a stylish and performance-packed ski jacket that won't break the bank? Check out the Quiksilver Mission Printed Jacket! This great option for mid-range budget is loaded with features to keep you comfortable and protected on the slopes.
10k Quiksilver dry Technology provides waterproofing and breathability, while warmflight Eco insulation and mesh lined armpit vents allow you to regulate heat as required. The taped seams and powder skirt help block out the cold and snow, and the jacket gives you plenty of mobility for bombing on the slopes.
Additional handy features include a ski lift pass pocket in the wrist, a hand warmer pocket with key clip, adjustable cuffs, and an adjustable fixed hood. Plus, the jacket has a pant to jacket interface for a snug fit. So whether you're shredding powder or carving groomers, the Quiksilver Mission Printed Jacket has you covered!
What You Need to Know:
Shell: 10K Quiksilver Dry Technology
Insulation: WarmFlight Eco Insulation
Vents: Yes
Powder Skirt: Yes
WILDHORN OUTFITTERS DOVER SNOWBOARD JACKET:
What Works For Us:
Looking for a top-of-the-line ski jacket that won't break the bank? Look no further than the WildHorn Outfitters Dover Jacket! This jacket is designed with both style and function in mind, so you'll look great on the slopes while staying warm and dry.
The Dover Jacket is made with 2 layer fabric construction and taped critical seams, so you can rest assured that you'll be protected from the elements. It also features 12K waterproofing and breathability from heat release armpit vents, so you'll stay comfortable even when you're working up a sweat. Plus, the powder skirt prevents build up of snow and the thumb holes on the sleeve keep your jacket from riding up when you take a tumble.
There are multiple easy access pockets with advanced zippers, so you can keep your essentials close at hand, and the helmet compatible hood with multiple drawstrings provides maximum coverage when you need it most. The waist is also adjustable with a drawstring, and the built-in finger gloves come in handy on those cold days.
Whether you're an experienced boarder looking for a reliable jacket to keep you warm on the slopes or a beginner who wants to be prepared for anything, the WildHorn Outfitters Dover Jacket is perfect for you!
What You Need to Know:
Shell: 2 layer 100% polyester with 12k waterproof rating
Insulation: 100g padding on torso, 80g on hood and sleeves
Vents: Yes
Powder Skirt: Yes
FLYLOW ROSWELL INSULATED SNOWBOARD JACKET:
What Works For Us:
Looking for a reliable snowboarding jacket that won't let you down on the slopes? Look no further than the Flylow Roswell.
This 2-layer 100% polyester shell jacket comes with a 10k waterproof rating, meaning it can handle even the most extreme conditions. The DWR coating provides extra protection against the elements, while the 10k breathable membrane regulates your body heat, keeping you comfortable no matter how cold it gets.
The 60g of Spaceloft synthetic insulation on hood, body and sleeves ensures you'll stay warm and protected from the wind, without feeling bulky or restricted in movement. And if you start to get too hot, simply open up the 14" underarm vents to release some heat.
This snowboard jacket also features 7 pockets with waterproof zippers, including media ports, ski-lift pass pockets and a mesh dump pocket - so you can hit the slopes with everything you need close at hand.
The Flylow Roswell can handle the cold and the wet so you can head out onto the slopes knowing that this jacket has got you covered!
What You Need to Know:
Shell: 2 layer 100% polyester with 10k waterproof/10k breathable membrane
Insulation: 60g Spaceloft Synthetic fill
Vents: Yes
Powder Skirt: Yes
686 GLCR GORE TEX CORE SHELL SNOWBOARD JACKET:
What Works For Us:
We love the 686 GLCR Gore Tex Core snowboard jacket because it's specifically designed with snowboarders in mind. From its longer length for maximum protection against the elements to its ergonomic design that allows for great mobility and dexterity, this windproof and waterproof jacket is a must-have for any trip to the mountains.
The 2-layer Gore Tex polyester fabric is coated in DWR (durable water repellent) and features fully taped critical Gore Tex seams, making it worth the slightly higher price tag for its incredible insulation and breathability. The Air-Flo underarm vents allow you to dump heat when sweating or overheating, and there is an extra vent at the chest for regulating your body temperature.
Other features include a removable powder skirt, wrist gaiters, and adjustable cuffs to lock out the snow, thumb links and the hood is helmet compatible. The fit is snug but still roomy enough to layer up underneath if required.
With 5 easy access pockets including a touch screen phone pocket, and a leash for your keys, the 686 GLCR Gore Tex Core jacket has everything you need to stay comfortable and protected on the slopes.
What You Need to Know:
Shell: 2 layer Gore Tex polyester fabric/ DWR coated
Insulation: InfiLoft
Vents: Yes Air-Flo
Powder Skirt: Yes
JONES SNOWBOARD MTN SURF JACKET:
What Works For Us:
If you're looking for a top-of-the-line ski jacket that will keep you warm, dry, and comfortable on the slopes, the Jones Snowboard MTN Surf Jacket is the perfect choice.
This highly waterproof and windproof jacket features a ripstop fabric with a 20K waterproof rating and 20K breathability rating, making it ideal for regulate your body temperature. The 2 layer, 4 way stretch material gives you maximum movement on the slopes and has a DWR coating for additional protection against the elements.
The insulated design with PrimaLoft padding and taped critical seams ensures that you'll stay warm even in the coldest conditions. The pit vents allow you to dump heat when needed to prevent sweat build-up, while the adjustable hood with tri-pull and cord locks is helmet compatible for added protection.
The removable powder skirt prevents snow from getting inside your jacket as does the adjustable waist with cord locks. There is a large, front zippered dump pocket for storing your essentials and a handy forearm lift pass pocket .
Whether you're hitting the slopes or exploring the backcountry, the Jones Snowboard MTN Surf Jacket will keep you dry, warm and comfortable all day long!
What You Need to Know:
Shell: 2 layer 4 stretch ripstop fabric/20k waterproof/20k breathable/ DWR coated
Insulation: PrimaLoft
Vents: Yes
Powder Skirt: Yes
VOLCOM WOMEN'S WESTLAND INSULATED SNOWBOARDING JACKET:
What Works For Us:
Looking for a durable, waterproof and warm snowboard jacket? Look no further than the Volcom Westland Snowboard Jacket!
This jacket is packed with features to keep you comfortable and protected on the slopes, including a longer drop-tail for maximum snow protection, jacket-to-pant interface to lock out snow, and ergonomic slim fit for maximum movement. The 10k waterproof and 10k breathable rating, DWR coating, and critically taped seams will keep you dry and comfortable in all conditions, while the suede chin guard protects against chafing and the brushed tricot lined hand-warmer pockets are a nice touch.
Zippered vents allow you to heat dump when necessary, and the cinch hood and adjustable cinch cuffs ensures the cold is locked out. With 2 large exterior front pockets, this jacket is functional as well as stylish - perfect for hitting the slopes in style and comfort.
What You Need to Know:
Shell: V-Science 2 layer fabric / 10k waterproof/10k breathable/DWR Coated
Insulation: 80g/60g synthetic fill
Vents: Yes
Powder Skirt: Yes
686 ATHENA INSULATED SNOWBOARDING JACKET:
What Works For Us:
Shred the slopes in style and stay warm and dry with the 686 Athena Insulated Snowboarding Jacket.
This superior insulated jacket features a thick layer of insulation throughout the body for maximum warmth, with a less dense layer on the arms and hood for easy movement. The low-bulk design and modern fit allows you to move freely on the slopes, while the Air-Flo vents help you dump heat when necessary.
The hood is helmet-compatible and features a draw cord for adjusting, and a tricot lined collar to protect your lower face. The pant-jacket connect system ensures that snow stays out, while the adjustable powder skirt and Death Grip velcro cuff keep the elements at bay.
Plenty of pockets provide ample storage for all your essentials, including an interior goggle pocket and exterior pass pocket with media outlet.
All in all, the Athena is one of our favorite for hitting the slopes in as it covers all the bases and is excellent value for the price.
What You Need to Know:
Shell: 2 layer InfiDry fabric / 10k waterproof/10k breathable/DWR Coated
Insulation: InfiLoft Insulation, 80g/60g/40g
Vents: Yes
Powder Skirt: Yes
ROXY JET SKI PREMIUM SNOWBOARDING JACKET:
What Works For Us:
The Roxi Jet Ski Premium Jacket is an excellent low-bulk choice for hitting the slopes in style.
With stretch fabric to allow maximum movement and 15K DryFlight Tech waterproof rating, this jacket takes care of the cold and wet. The snap-away powder skirt system and the jacket to pant interface means that the snow is locked out and the heat is kept in.
For added protection against the elements, all the critical seams have been taped and the soft brushed tricot and polyester taffeta lining add an extra layer of warmth. When it's gets too hot under the collar, release the mesh lined underarm vents to dump excess heat.
The hood is not only adjustable in 3 ways but you can also remove the faux fur hood. With plenty pockets including a pass pocket, and internal goggle pocket, this jacket has everything you need for a day on the slopes.
What You Need to Know:
Shell: 15K Roxy DryFlight / DWR coating
Insulation: PrimaLoft Insulation / 100g/80g/60g
Vents: Yes
Powder Skirt: Yes
BURTON KEELAN SNOWBOARD JACKET:
What Works For Us:
Looking for a stylish and functional snowboard jacket? Look no further than the Burton Keelan!
This slim-fit jacket is packed with features to keep you warm and dry on the slopes without restricting your movement. The synthetic fill insulation and Living Lining provide excellent warmth without bulk, while the 2-layer 10K DryRide fabric shell is waterproof and breathable. When you start to feel hot, the mesh-lined pit vents allow you to dump heat quickly.
There are also plenty of pockets, including an internal dump pocket, fleece-lined warmer pockets, and an essential pass pocket. The sleeves open wide with zippers to fit over your gloves, and the stretch wrist gaiters with thumb holes help keep the snow out.
Jacket to pant interface and a drawcord cinch at the hem of the jacket keeps the cold locked out while the contour hood, with front and rear adjustment, allows you keep your face and neck protected from the elements.
So when you're carving up the slopes, the Burton Keelan jacket has you covered and in style!
What You Need to Know:
Shell: 10K DryRide Waterproof Fabric
Insulation: Synthetic fill/ Living Lining
Vents: Yes
Powder Skirt: Yes
BUYERS GUIDE TO THE BEST SNOWBOARDING JACKETS - WHAT YOU NEED TO CONSIDER:
A snowboard jacket is a crucial piece of snowboarding gear for any snowboarder - on a par with choosing the right board and bindings. With so many different styles and varieties on the market, it can be difficult to know which snowboard jackets are right for you and which one is best for each environment - mountain, backcounty or park. It also depends largely on how much time you plan on wearing your snowboard jacket and what weather you are likely to face. Here are a few key elements to consider when choosing the best snowboard jacket for you:
WARMTH AND INSULATION:
Being warm on the slopes is a critical aspect of snowboarding and with loads of "idle" time, where you're not moving and generating heat such as on the ski lift, and down time, a snowboard jacket which insulates and retains your body heat means the difference between staying out longer or having to call it a day early!
Most snowboard jackets have a form of synthetic insulation such as PrimaLoft which traps more body heat and retains it better, even when wet, in comparison to traditional insulators like down. The thickness of the insulation also determines how much heat is retained so it's important to know where you will be snowboarding and in what conditions as you don't want a jacket that's too warm especially if you have layered underneath.
WATERPROOF, BREATHABILITY, AND VENTILATION:
When choosing the best snowboard jacket, you need to take into consideration how variable the weather can be - one minute the sun is splitting the sky to slushy rain 10 minutes later! With this is mind, it's essential to have a snowboard jacket that is waterproof and windproof but that is also breathable so you stay dry all day on the mountains.
The best snowboard jacket has a high waterproof rating, a DWR (Durable Water Repellant) coating, great breathability and ventilation built in as this allows your body heat or sweat to pass through the fabric of the snowboard jacket and keeps you dry on the interior. A general rule of thumb is that the higher the rating, the more waterproof the jacket is.
Some of the best snowboard jackets, which offer superior waterproof rating, are made from gore tex. Gore tex is an incredibly durable fabric which is waterproof, windproof and highly breathable. It's also extremely lightweight considering the superior protection it offers against the elements. Lots of brands offer their own in-house design version of gore tex which are windproof and waterproof such as Roxi, Volcom, QuikSilver and Burton.
Many of the best snowboard jackets feature underarm zippers which allow you to regulate your body heat and dump heat when needed. Another important feature are sealed seams as these add another layer of protection against the elements.
POCKETS, HOODS AND POWDER SKIRTS:
Pockets are an important feature of any snowboard jacket and there is now a real trend to accommodate as much tech or media as possible from media outlet pockets which allow you to listen to your favorite tunes while shredding some powder to heat warmer pockets which keep your devices warm and conserve battery life.
Internal dump pockets are great for throwing extras into and a zippered pocket ensures you keep your keys or valuables safe. A lift-pass pocket on the forearm is really handy and an extra fleece lined pocket to cosy your hands in is an added bonus.
An adjustable hood, rear and front, makes a huge difference in protecting your face against the elements and cinches or drawcords help keep them in place. Most of the best snowboard jackets out there offer hoods which are helmet compatible but always worth checking! A lined collar is a great addition as it can stop chaffing.
Most snowboard jackets come with adjustable or removable powder skirts. A powder skirt is essential in blocking snow from creeping in your jacket when you take a tumble, are riding low, or sitting putting your bindings on.
HANDY HINTS:
What type of jacket is best for snowboarding?
There are a few different types of jackets you can wear while snowboarding - a down jacket, a synthetic insulated jacket, or a waterproof and breathable shell.
Down jackets are very warm and lightweight, but they're not very water resistant so they're not ideal for snowboarding. Synthetic insulated jackets are more water resistant than down jackets, but they're also not as warm or lightweight. Shells are the most water resistant and breathable type of jacket, but they don't provide as much insulation so they're not as warm as down or synthetic insulated jackets.
So, if you're looking for the best all-around jacket for snowboarding, a synthetic insulated jacket would be the best bet.
Why are snowboard jackets long?
Snowboard jackets are typically longer than a ski jacket, in order to provide more protection from the cold and wind. Snowboarders often take spills, and the longer jacket helps to keep them warm and protected. Additionally, many snowboard jackets are designed with features that make it easier to move around and perform tricks. For instance, they may have a looser fit or be made of stretchier materials.
Why are snowboard jackets baggy?
Snowboard jackets are typically baggy because they provide more freedom of movement when riding. The extra fabric also helps to keep you warm by trapping air between the jacket and your body.
Many snowboarding jackets also come with a hood that can be zipped up to protect your head from the wind and snow. Some jackets also have a built-in powder skirt to keep out the snow when skiing or boarding in deep powder.
How thick should snowboard jackets be?
Snowboard jackets should be thick enough to protect you from the cold and wet weather, while also being breathable so that you don't get too hot while riding. Look for a snowboard jacket with a waterproof and breathable membrane like Gore Tex, which will keep you warm and dry even in the worst conditions.
A good rule of thumb is to buy a snowboard jacket that is one size larger than what you would normally wear, so that it has plenty of room to accommodate bulky winter clothing.
How many layers should you wear snowboarding?
It depends on the conditions. A good rule of thumb is to add an extra layer each time the temperature decreases by 10 degrees Fahrenheit. So if it's 30 degrees outside, you'd wear three layers (a base layer, insulation layer, and a jacket). If it's 0 degrees outside, you'd wear six layers (two base layers, two insulation layers, and a jacket).
When choosing your layers, make sure to choose materials that will keep you warm and dry. Your base layer should be made of moisture-wicking material so that it pulls sweat away from your skin. Your insulation layer should be made of fleece or down so that it traps heat close to your body. And your outerwear should be waterproof and windproof. The best snowboard jacket will offer insulation and protection from the wet and the cold but also have enough room for you to layer underneath.
Is Gore Tex worth it snowboarding?
Yes! Snowboard jackets made with Gore Tex fabric will definitely keep you warmer and drier than one without. The Gore-Tex membrane is highly water repellent and breathable, so it allows moisture to escape from the inside of the jacket while preventing water from penetrating the fabric. This effectively prevents the insulation layer from getting wet and losing its ability to keep you warm.
Is there a difference between ski jackets and snowboard jackets?
Yes. Ski jackets are designed to keep you warm while you're skiing. Most ski jackets have a higher insulation rating and usually a fur or faux-fur lining around the hood to keep your head and neck warm.
A snowboard jacket, on the other hand, is designed to keep you warm while you're snowboarding. It has a waterproof and breathable membrane to stop moisture getting in, as well as pit zips (underarm zips) to allow heat and sweat to escape. Some of the best snowboard jackets It also has extra reinforcements around the shoulders and elbows to protect you from falls.
What is the best snowboard jacket for backcountry?
The best snowboard jacket for backcountry should be waterproof and windproof. It is also important that the jacket is breathable so that you do not get too hot when you are skiing or snowboarding.
Some good features to look for in the best snowboard jacket for backcountry include pit zips, a powder skirt, and a helmet-compatible hood. You should also make sure that the jacket has plenty of pockets so that you can store your belongings safely while you are out on the slopes.
Thank you for following along on our journey to find the best snowboard jackets of this winter season. We hope that by providing this in-depth look at the different types of snowboard jackets available, as well as what to consider when making your purchase, you feel confident in selecting the best snowboard jacket for your needs. Be sure to check out the price of jackets you select by tapping the green button below.
Go hit the slopes!
