Snowboard Jacket Buying Guide

Since snowboarding requires athletes to perform in very cold temperatures, it's imperative to have the proper gear. it's highly important for snowboarders to keep their bodies warm and protected while snowboarding, and this starts with wearing the right jacket. As snowboarding has become more popular, a large number or sports clothing manufacturers have come out with their own lines of snowboarding gear. Snowboarders can find all kinds of options, from inexpensive jackets to very expensive jackets in a wide range of colors, styles, and brands. These jackets can be found in both men's and women's sizes with a variety of different features.

How to Choose a Snowboard Jacket
When choosing a snowboarding jacket, there are a number of different considerations to be aware of. Snowboarders should keep their personal style and skill level in mind, as well as what type of snowboarding they do and where they most often do it. Those who are planning to snowboard in extremely cold temperatures will require a different type of jacket than milder climates. Likewise, those who are planning to perform many jumps and tricks will need to look for a different type of jacket than those who are beginners.

Features
Snowboarding jackets come with a variety of different features. Some are made with layers of insulating fabric to keep the wearer warmer, while others are made of thin, waterproof material. Certain jackets have holes for headphones, so the wearer can listen to music while riding, and some jackets have extra storage areas for storing money, keys, a camera, etc.

Style
Some jackets are made for snowboarders who do a lot of jumps and tricks and need a roomy jacket that allows them to twist and move easily. Backcountry snowboarders tend to prefer jackets with features that can help them in case of an emergency, like built-in whistles and plenty of storage areas.

Style of Pants
Depending on what type of pants a snowboarder wears, they'll want to make sure they get a jacket that keeps them warm and dry. Bib-style pants fully cover the waist area, so it's ok for them to wear a jacket that is open and loose at the bottom. However, those who wear low pants will want a jacket that has a snow skirt to keep the snow and cold out.

Skill Level
A snowboarder's skill level is another factor to consider. Beginners will want a warmer jacket because they spend a lot of time in the snow while they're learning. Experts often prefer jackets that aren't as bulky so they have maximum control over their movement.