Ski season booked… Treating yourself to a new jacket? The Winter Sports Company have all you need to know when buying and looking after your new clothing!
Whether you are heading to Canada, New Zealand or the Swiss Alps, chances are, you will treat yourself to a swanky new jacket for your instructor course. This article takes you through the technical jargon and what to look out for to make sure you choose the perfect ski or snowboard jacket.
This is important! The climates of resorts vary wildly across the world. A ski jacket that keeps you warm and dry in Europe during April will probably not do the job in Canada. During the chilly January mornings where temperatures can drop below -20 degrees Celsius.
Most of our instructor courses are over 10 weeks long. So we recommend planning for cold weather – but having a contingency plan for the beautifully warm bluebird days. Purchasing your perfect jacket is all about balance. It needs to protect you from the outside elements and allow you not to be so warm your own body heat becomes the enemy, and you are damp from your own sweat.
Unless you start skiing in a rubber mac, no jacket will ever be 100% waterproof (which will earn you the nickname ‘Sweaty McSweatSweat).
Water-resistance is measured in mm, and for an instructor course, you should aim high – a minimum of 10,000mm. The more water-resistant, the better, and so for the best performance, look for waterproof jackets to 20,000+.
Breathability is measured in grams, the lower the number, the less breathable the material.
The amount of breathability you need depends very much on your activity. On your instructor course, you will be active, so we recommend breathability of 10,000 – 15,000gm. However, if you’re a hardcore powder hound and often break a sweat on the slopes. If you’re quick to unclip your bindings to hike for fresh powder, look for a jacket with a breathability of 20,000+ grams.
Tip: For breathability and water resistance, GORE-TEX is the most trusted fabric used by most outdoor brands. There are brands which use alternatives, such as Polartec NeoShell, Pertex Shield+ and eVent.
Having fully taped seams is essential when you’re spending day after day in the snow. This means all seams on the jacket have been coated after the stitching process, preventing any leaks.
Look for a jacket with a moisture-wicking lining to transport sweat away from your body to help keep you dry.
Tip: it is worth investing in moisture-wicking base layers. Having the technology on your jacket lining is pointless unless you’re wearing layers that are doing the same job.
Most ski jackets are insulated, which is excellent for the cold and snowy conditions. However, wear an insulated jacket on sunny days, and you may begin to melt.
As technology has advanced, we notice more and more people wearing shell jackets on the slopes. A shell is a thin, waterproof, and breathable layer. A high-quality shell will protect you against the elements. In addition, you can use base layers, thermals, and micro fleeces to control your temperature.
Sometimes, these can seal the deal as to whether a snowboard jacket is right for you, we all have our preferences. For some, a jacket without snow cuffs and thumb loops is a no-go, whereas others may decide based on a jacket having a headphone insert. Things to consider and look for are:
WSC Tip: Our instructors often say that the right pockets and ventilation zips become lifesavers over a 10-week course, don’t underestimate the details.
It might sound obvious, but fit is everything. A jacket can have all the right features, but if it doesn’t sit comfortably, it won’t perform well over long days on the slopes. Everyone’s body shape is different, so it’s worth trying on several styles before committing.
Look for a jacket that allows:
Freedom of movement: you’ll be bending, teaching, and reaching all day.
Layering space: room for thermals or a fleece underneath.
Comfort: no tight spots that rub after hours of wear.
WSC Tip: Our instructors always test their jackets with a full kit underneath (base layers, fleece, gloves) to make sure it feels right for a 10-week season, not just for a quick fitting in the shop.
But equally, don’t be a bargain Bob!
End-of-season sales are a brilliant time to grab a quality jacket at a reduced price. But don’t settle for something that doesn’t meet your needs just because it’s cheap. Your jacket will likely be the most expensive piece of kit you buy and for good reason.
A solid investment usually means better waterproofing and durability.
Spending a little more upfront often saves you from replacing gear mid-season.
Expect to pay more than budgeted for a jacket that truly lasts.
WSC Note: Most of our instructors agree that a good jacket easily outlives a single season, making it one of the smartest long-term purchases you’ll make.
Ok, maybe this is an exaggeration, but if you’ve spent hundreds of pounds on a jacket and expect it to last a long time, you’ll need to look after it.
Think of your jacket as an investment. If you want it to last for years, it needs a little TLC. Start by reading the care label and following the wash instructions. A quick spin in the wrong setting can undo a lot of tech.
Most jackets are treated with a durable water repellent (DWR) finish, which helps water bead off. Over time, this coating wears down, especially after heavy use or frequent washing. To keep your jacket performing:
Use a spray-on or wash-in DWR treatment each season.
Avoid harsh detergents – opt for cleaners designed for technical fabrics.
Dry your jacket properly to reactivate the waterproof coating.
WSC Tip: A little maintenance between seasons can add years to your jacket’s life, making that initial investment well worth it.
