Choosing the right ski jacket can make or break your winter adventures. With so many options on the market, navigating the features, price points, and technical jargon can be overwhelming. This review cuts through the noise, providing an in-depth look at five top-performing ski jackets for 2020, catering to a variety of budgets and skiing styles. Whether you're a seasoned backcountry explorer or a weekend resort skier, we've got you covered.From high-end, premium performance to budget-friendly options that don't compromise on quality, we’ve analyzed each jacket's strengths and weaknesses. We'll explore waterproofing, breathability, insulation, features, and overall value to help you find the perfect outerwear to keep you warm, dry, and comfortable on the slopes. This detailed review will equip you with the knowledge to make an informed decision and invest in a ski jacket that will last for seasons to come.
Pros And Cons
- Nicely fitted
- Premium features like pit zips
- Thermoball Eco synthetic insulation performs well, even when wet
- Relatively expensive for a three-in-one jacket
- Extra zippers and layers make it less comfortable and restrict movement
- Requires sticking with the North Face ecosystem for interchangeable layers
- Waterproof build
- 100 gram synthetic insulation
- Omni-heat reflective liner
- Storm hood and powder skirt
- Sleek design and lack of bulk
- Can be worn for skiing and everyday winter use
- Built-in insulation means no option to strip down for warmer days
- Waterproofing tech not up to Gore-Tex standards
- Build quality not comparable to Patagonia or Arc'teryx
- Moderate level of Primaloft Black insulation
- Nice movement with four-way stretch fabric
- Clean styling
- Offered in a variety of colors
- Good price point
- Breathability lags behind backcountry shells
- Most at home inside the ropes
- Fabric stretches like a soft shell
- Extremely breathable
- Fully waterproof
- Plenty of interior and exterior pockets
- Unique side zip
- Build quality is a step down from Arc'teryx or Patagonia
- Main zippers sometimes catch
- Essential fabric doesn't have the same feel as Gore-Tex
Read more: 5 Best Insulated Ski Jackets to Conquer the Slopes
Arc'teryx Sabre AR: The Premium Choice
The Arc'teryx Sabre AR reigns supreme in the high-end ski jacket market. Its three-layer Gore-Tex construction provides exceptional weather protection, shielding you from even the harshest Arctic blasts. The soft flannel backer adds a touch of warmth and comfort, making it a luxurious choice for both resort and backcountry skiing.
This jacket boasts practical features like easy-to-use pit zips for ventilation, a highly adjustable and helmet-compatible hood, and five cleverly designed pockets. Its modernized fit enhances its overall appeal, while maintaining the proven design elements that have made it a favorite.
However, its weight (1.5 pounds) makes it less ideal for extended backcountry trips where weight is crucial. The liner also slightly reduces breathability, even with the pit zips open. For pure backcountry adventures, a lighter option like the Arc'teryx Alpha SV might be preferred.
Columbia Alpine Action Jacket: Budget-Friendly Warmth
For budget-conscious skiers, the Columbia Alpine Action jacket offers excellent value. At around $170, it delivers impressive waterproof protection with 100 grams of synthetic insulation and an Omni-Heat reflective liner for added warmth.
The sleek design and lack of bulk are unexpected bonuses in a Columbia jacket. Its versatile design makes it suitable for both skiing and everyday winter wear, increasing its practicality.
The lack of a removable liner limits its versatility for spring skiing or warmer days. Also, its waterproofing technology doesn't match the performance of Gore-Tex, and the overall build quality is not comparable to higher-end brands like Arc'teryx or Patagonia.
Helly Hansen Alpha 3.0: Balance of Warmth and Movement
The Helly Hansen Alpha 3.0 strikes a balance between warmth and mobility. Primaloft Black insulation provides ample warmth without excessive bulk, making it ideal for resort skiing. The four-way stretch fabric allows for unrestricted movement.
Its clean, stylish design is suitable for people of all ages and comes in various colors. The jacket offers a good level of comfort and functionality.
However, breathability isn't as good as more backcountry-focused shells due to its two-layer construction and focus on warmth. It's best suited for resort use.
Outdoor Research Skyward: Breathable Backcountry Performer
The Outdoor Research Skyward stands out with its innovative Ascend Shell fabric. This fabric offers excellent breathability, comparable to a soft shell, while maintaining full waterproofness. Its unique side zip opens poncho-style, improving ventilation.
The jacket is well-equipped with ample pockets both inside and out. It performed exceptionally well during testing in both backcountry and resort settings.
The build quality is a step down from higher-end brands, and minor inconveniences like the main zippers sometimes catching on the hem exist. The fabric also lacks the robust feel of Gore-Tex.
The North Face Thermoball Eco Snow Triclimate: Versatile Three-in-One
The North Face Thermoball Eco Snow Triclimate is a well-designed three-in-one jacket that avoids the bulkiness typical of such designs. Its premium features include pit zips for temperature regulation and a nicely fitted form.
The Thermoball Eco synthetic insulation is surprisingly effective and maintains its insulating properties even when wet. It effectively mimics the warmth of down without the drawbacks.
While a solid three-in-one option, the added zippers and layers may reduce comfort and freedom of movement compared to a single-layer shell. Also, you're limited to the North Face's ecosystem if you want to swap out the insulating layer for different levels of warmth.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Ski Jacket
The best ski jacket depends on individual needs and preferences. The Arc'teryx Sabre AR is a top-tier choice for its all-around performance, but its weight may be a drawback for backcountry skiers. Columbia Alpine Action offers excellent value for resort skiers on a budget.
Helly Hansen Alpha 3.0 provides a good balance of warmth and movement, ideal for resort use. The Outdoor Research Skyward excels in breathability and backcountry performance, although build quality isn't as high as premium brands. Finally, The North Face Thermoball Eco Snow Triclimate delivers a versatile three-in-one solution.
Consider your budget, preferred skiing style (resort vs. backcountry), and desired level of features when making your decision. Each jacket offers unique advantages and trade-offs, making it essential to assess your priorities.