Top 5 Ski and Snowboard Jackets

For many, skiing and snowboarding can be both seasonal pastimes and favorite vacation activities. Being both therapeutic, yet adrenaline-inducing, they are some of the best ways to have fun in the snow. However, having fun in the snow means it is important to stay warm to avoid getting sick. Wearing the most suitable clothing is always the best idea in the cold, but flexibility is also important when performing either of the above activities. Because of this, it is important to find clothes that are warm enough, while maintaining flexibility to avoid hindering movement. Personal preference also plays a large part in style, both in design and in functionality. Some people may naturally want lighter jackets that do not keep them as warm as this is already achieved through the physical activity involved in both skiing and snowboarding.

About Ski and Snowboard Jackets

Some may wonder what the difference is between a normal winter coat and a ski or snowboard jacket. Usually, traditional winter coats are much bulkier, warmer, and worn during the cold months of winter, whereas ski and snowboard jackets are lighter, more flexible, not as warm, and have special features built into them. They are optimal for these snow sports, as they often require a lot of movement, and in turn induce higher amounts of perspiration. This can be bad in the cold weather, as a rapid change in body temperature from warm to cold can lower the immune system, causing a greater chance of sickness.
Also, with having the proper flexibility, participants of these snow sports are less susceptible to injuries caused by accidents that may be the result of unexpected environmental hazards. Having the freedom of movement can be the difference between, for example, running into or dodging a tree or other hazardous obstacle.

The Most Effective Ski and Snowboard Jackets

To find the most effective ski and snowboard jackets, it comes down to the desired style, weight, and features. While the final decision to buy the right jacket for each person comes down to preference, budget, and projected usage, there are some jackets that outperform the rest of the competition.

1	Mountain Hardwear Frenetic Ski Jacket

The Frenetic Ski jacket from Mountain Hardwear is made of 100 percent nylon, weighs about one pound, and comes in one color: sapphire. It also features what is known as "Dry.Q Elite" technology, which means that the jacket is 100 percent waterproof and is air-permeable, allowing for maximum sweat vapor transmission, as well as making it highly breathable.

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2	Patagonia Primo Down Jacket

The Primo Down jacket by Patagonia, one of the lightest ski and snowboard jackets on the market, is made of 100 percent recycled nylon, coated with a waterproof material, and is available in solid, bright colors. The jacket comes equipped with a non-removable hood, features down insulation, and has ventilation areas in the chest and underarms, both of which are easily accessible by a zipper. The only apparent downside of the jacket, aside from the price, is that because of the down insulation, it can be weighed down when wet, but is heavily protected by the waterproof material the outer shell of the jacket is made from.

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3	Mammut Felstrum Half-Zip Jacket

The Felstrum from Mammut is a hiking jacket that is nearly identical to a ski or snowboard jacket. Featuring "GORE-TEX" technology, made of recycled nylon, it offers great moisture protection and is highly breathable, allowing sweat vapors out, as well as a non-removable hood. It is lightweight and also features zippers on the chest and underarms to provide ventilation when it gets too warm.

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4	Grenade Young & Reckless Snowboard Jacket

The Young and Reckless snowboard jacket by Grenade is another jacket made of nylon, is waterproof, and is highly breathable. It features belt-loop hooks, an iPod pocket, and headphone loops for the ability to listen to music safely while snowboarding. It weighs in at about 3 lbs, making it a lightweight and optimal choice.

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5	Grenade Matrix Jacket

Another choice from the company Grenade, the Matrix jacket is 90 percent nylon, 10 percent polyester, and is imported from China. The jacket comes in three different colors: blue, gray, and slime green. The jacket is both highly breathable and waterproof, making it an optimal choice for the snow. It only comes with two pockets, both located on the front of the jacket, meaning no inside pocket for an MP3 player or phone.