Best Snowboarding Jackets & Shells

Firstly, you have to figure out what kind of snowboarding you’re going to be doing. Are you going to be riding at the snow park or in the backcountry? If you plan on climbing with a splitboard, a lightweight, breathable jacket designed to be worn in layers is your best bet. If you’re going to board at the resort or the snow park, you’ll want an insulated jacket that can keep you warm on the chair lift.

1. Types of Jackets

Whatever your requirements, snowboard jackets usually have a relaxed fit to give you plenty of room to move when showing off your airborne style.

• Insulated Jackets & Shells

The choice of an insulated jacket or a shell (with an insulating layer) depends on the type of sport you wish to practice. If you intend to ride only in the resort, an insulated jacket will do the trick to keep you warm. Plus, you’ll feel less cluttered by wearing only one layer.

For backcountry ascents on a splitboard, you’ll want a multi-layer suit that allows you to adapt to all conditions. This is where the shell is an interesting choice. But you’ll also need an intermediate layer to keep you warm on the way down. 

2. Types of Insulation

• Down

Because we traditionally tend to move more when snowboarding than when skiing (think of the snow park) – and therefore sweat more – down is more rarely used in snowboarding jackets because it loses its insulating properties when wet. However, not all snowboarders are park riders, and down can be a good option for staying warm on the slopes and in the backcountry.

• Synthetic

Synthetic insulation is becoming more and more effective and widespread. In addition to being warm and breathable, they wick away moisture easily and generally retain their insulating properties even when wet. Therefore, they are good choices for riders who like to challenge themselves.

3. GORE-TEX, DWR and other technologies

GORE-TEX is the most well-known membrane when it comes to waterproofing, but these days most brands have their own technologies that are just as efficient. When it comes to water resistance, keep in mind that you will be riding most of the time in the snow and not in the rain. So your coat doesn’t need to be highly waterproof and a durable water repellent coating (DWR) will keep you dry. Look for features like sealed seams to keep small items like your phone well protected from moisture.

4. Other Features

• Hoods

Whether you’re skiing or snowboarding, most jackets are designed with a helmet-compatible hood for better weather protection. 

• Pockets

Jackets designed to be worn at the resort often have a pocket on the sleeve, which is handy to store your lift ticket away from other items in your pockets. Alternatively, many brands make jackets with specially insulated pockets to prevent your phone battery from running down due to the cold.

No matter how many pockets you have, make sure they are all zippered – you’ll avoid a lot of unpleasant surprises.

• Snow Skirts

The snow skirt is an insignificant and yet essential characteristic. This simple extensible belt inside the coat prevents the snow from penetrating inside during a good fall or when the powder is deep. Some brands have developed compatibility systems that allow the jacket to be attached to the pants with snaps on the snow skirt for more protection.