Best Ski & Snowboard Jackets for Men: The Definitive Guide

The temperature is starting to drop and winter will be here soon. If you’re like myself, then you know it’s time to look for the best ski and snowboard jackets for men.

There are a few things to consider when making your selection and I’ll show you what’s most important. You’ll see my top picks for the 2017-2018 season below:

Ready?

How To Pick The Perfect Jacket

A quality ski and snowboard jacket is essential to having a good day on the slopes. One year I cheaped out on the jacket and I ended up regretting my decision a lot. Every time I skied, I felt cold and it totally ruined my time. Eventually I had to scrap the coat and buy a better one; I learned a lot from that experience. 😉

Here’s what you should be considering when selecting your jacket:

• Your own skill level
• Determine the type of jacket you want and the type of fit that best suits you
• What type of insulation does the jacket have and what warmth does it provide
• How water proof and breathable it is
• Determine your personal preferences

The first thing you need to know is your own skill level, how much you are going to be skiing and where you are going to be skiing. If you are an advanced or elite level skier you need an appropriate ski jacket that’s going to perform well and not slow you down. If you are an absolute beginner, your needs will be a lot different.

After, you need to figure out the kind of jacket you want. There are several types and styles which include:

• 3 in 1 jackets: These type of coats have different layers consisting of an outer layer that protects your from the elements and an inner layer that provides warmth. You can zip off the layers and wear them separately depending on the weather.
• Insulated jackets: These are the most common and come with an outer shell and inner shell; you can’t unzip them from each other, though. Like the 3 in 1 jackets, the outer shell protects you against rain, snow and water while the inner shell is an insulator made of down, fleece, or synthetic materials.
• Insulator jacket: An insulator jacket is like the inner shells described in the 2 previous coat types. It’s lightweight, very warm and can be worn under an outer shell. They’re very popular to wear when spring skiing.
• Shell jacket: A shell is like the outer shell of the first two jackets mentioned. They protect against the rain, snow and all other elements but have no insulation. If you buy a shell and expect to ski in cold conditions, you should probably purchase an insulator jacket to go with it.
• Soft shell jackets: These are meant to be worn in the spring and fall and are made from soft, stretchy fabrics. This is another product you shouldn’t wear without more layers in the dead of winter

Also, there are different fits ranging from slim fit to loose fit; this just basically comes down to personal preference and whether or not you plan on wearing layers.

Next, you need to look at what type of insulation the jacket provides (if any). There are three different kinds including down, fleece and synthetic. Down provides a lot of warmth but can lead too bulkiness, fleece is light weight and synthetic is the most popular (it does a great job maintaining warmth even when damp or wet).

Another important element is how waterproof and breathable the product is. Skiing and snowboarding is a sport done in the elements and you need a jacket that can withstand that. Being cold and damp is a recipe for disaster.

Lastly, there are a bunch of tiny things to consider like what type of hood you want, venting, zipper pockets and things of that nature. Personal preference dictates these.

All the jackets on this list keep these criteria in mind. There’s one for every skill level and every type (most on the list are insulated). They also provide superior warmth and do a good job keeping all moisture out. Finally, they come from respected companies that are known for their durable, stylish and quality products.

Let’s take a look at some jackets now.

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Spyder Leader Men’s Insulated Jacket

Company: Spyder

Price: $$$$

Sizes: Small to Extra Large

Rating: 4.9/5

Spyder is an excellent company and you will see their equipment all over the mountain. Their Leader Men’s Insulated Jacket is very popular and high selling. That’s because it balances style, comfort, performance and warmth perfectly. Some of its best features are:

• 3M Thinsulate insulation that “traps insulating air, reflects radiant body heat and delivers warmth 2 times greater than down.” You won’t be cold wearing this jacket
• Xt.L technology that makes the Leader completely water proof
• Remove-able hood that’s compatible with helmets
• Comes in 9 different colors

This Spyder product is very durable and will last a lot of seasons. People that ski and snowboard a decent amount and can handle all kinds of weather conditions will love this jacket. There are a few more Spyder coats on this list and this is definitely one of the better ones.

Take A Closer Look At the Spyder Leader Men’s Insulated Jacket

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Rossignol Experience II STR Insulated Ski Jacket

Company: Rossignol

Price: $$

Sizes: Small to Extra Extra Large

Rating: 4.8/5

The Rossignol brand is a personal favorite of mine and I own a ton of their gear; this season I’ll be wearing a pair of their ski boots and skis. I like to purchase from them because their products are high quality, comfortable and very durable. They tend to be affordable too, which is the case with the Rossignol Experience Ski Jacket. You can find it for under $200. That’s a great value when you consider its features, like:

• Thinsulate insulation that protects your from freezing temperatures
• Goggle cleaner to keep your vision clear
• Lightweight design that won’t slow you down or interfere with performance

This products has a very high waterproof rating too. Also, it comes with a ventilation system to help cool you down on warmer spring days. If you want a nice looking jacket that performs well without spending too much, you should consider the Rossignol Experience.

Take A Closer Look At The Rossignol Experience Jacket

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Obermeyer Men’s Foundation Jacket 

Company: Obermeyer

Price: $$

Sizes: Medium to Extra Large

Rating: 4.8/5

Obermeyer is well respected and you’ll see a lot of their products on this list. Their Men’s Foundation Jacket is cost effective for an Obermeyer coat and you can find it for under $270. The Foundation has a lot to offer, including:

• Lightweight (80 grams) Primaloft insulation and built in wind-guard
• Ventilation system that allows you to air out fast
• Fleece liner for added comfort and warmth
• 5 different color options

It also features a water resistant powder skirt, RECCO rescue reflector (Learn More About RECCO) and roomy pockets. This isn’t the best Obermeyer jacket available but it’s a fairly priced one. It will keep you toasty and keep the elements from ruining your day.

Take A Closer Look At The Obermeyer Men’s Foundation Jacket

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The North Face Thermoball Full Zip Jacket

Company: The North Face

Price: $$

Sizes: Small to Extra Extra Large

Rating: 4.8/5

North Face is known for making very stylish clothes and the Thermoball Full Zip Jacket is exactly that; you won’t mind wearing it on and off the mountain. It does more than just look good too. This insulated jacket will keep you warm on cold days and keep you dry in the wettest conditions. Also, it comes with:

• A very lightweight design
• Synthetic insulation
• Lifetime gurantee

Although you may want another jacket down the line for a variety of purposes, you’ll never need another if you decide on the Thermoball. It’s built to protect your from winter’s worst.

Take A Closer Look At The North Face Thermoball Full Zip

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Obermeyer Spartan Men’s Insulated Jacket

Company: Obermeyer

Price: $$$$

Sizes: Small to Extra Large

Rating: 4.9/5

The Obermeyer Spartan Insulated Jacket is a very high quality product that should be considered by any person that endures winter weather often. This coat excels at everything and provides:

• A high performing design and athletic fit
• CZV Control Zone Ventilation for warm weather skiing
• Recco Rescue reflector
• Snap to pant system
• Removable helmet hood
• Lifetime warranty

Beginners and people who hate the snow should look elsewhere; this is a snow lover’s dream and is meant to be worn outside for hours.

Here’s a video that goes deeper:

Take A Closer Look At The Obermeyer Spartan Men’s Jacket

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Obermeyer Men’s Supernova Shell

Company: Obermeyer

Price: $$$$

Sizes: Medium to Extra Extra Large

Rating: 4.9/5

This jacket is the type you go off trail through glades with. The Obermeyer Supernova Shell can resist trees and branches scraping it without tearing or being damaged. This isn’t the cheapest jacket on the list (will cost you over $400) but it’s one of the best. Some awesome features are:

• Full seam sealed 3 layer shell that keeps all water and moisture out
• The same RECCO rescue reflector and CZV Control Zone Ventilation System as the other Obermeyer jackets
• Removable and adjustable hood that works with helmets

It comes with an electric port on the inside too. While the Supernova Shell will keep you warm, keep in mind this is a shell jacket and you may need an extra layer on very frigid days.

Take A Closer Look At The Obermeyer Supernova Shell

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Descente Glade Men’s Insulated Jacket

Company: Descente

Price: $$$

Sizes: Medium to Extra Extra Large

Rating: 4.7/5

The Descente Glade is a ski jacket that can be worn by people that live and breathe fresh powder and by those who ski and snowboard as a hobby. It will give the first group the performance they need and the second group will get the protection they need. This jacket works because of its:

• Heatflex insulation that keeps you nice and toasty
• Breathable fabrics and design so you don’t suffocate
• Helmet friendly hood

If you purchase the Glade, you get put into their Passport program. That gives you free lift tickets to various mountains around America and Canada. It includes places I’ve been to in California, Colorado, New York , Vermont, New Hampshire, Utah, British Columbia, and lot more. This jacket has the potential to pay for itself.

Take A Closer Look At The Descente Glade Insulated Jacket

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Spyder Chambers Men’s Insulated Ski Jacket 

Company: Spyder

Price: $$$

Sizes: Medium to Extra Extra Large

Rating: 4.8/5

If you are looking for a stylish and high performing coat, you definitely should consider the Spyder Chambers Men’s Insulated Ski Jacket. There are a couple products on this list you’ll want to wear during everyday life and this is one of them. You’ll be satisfied with it while skiing and snowboarding too. That’s because:

• It comes with lightweight 3M Thinsulate insulation
• Many pockets for your goggles, phone and wallet
• It’s 100% polyester

It’s pretty affordable too, and you can find it for under $300. When you factor in that some jackets cost way more than that and everything you get with the Chamber, you can see why it’s such a great value.

Take A Closer Look At Spyder Chambers Men’s Insulated Jacket

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Obermeyer Proton Men’s Insulated Ski Jacket

Company: Obermeyer

Price: $$$$

Sizes: Small to Extra Extra Large

Rating: 5/5

The Obermeyer Proton Ski Jacket is tremendously warm and can be worn in the coldest temperatures imaginable; it has one of the highest warmth ratings on Skis.com. Many high quality coats come with a RECCO Rescue reflector and that’s the case with the Proton. Here are a few more features:

• It comes with a full motion stretch core lining that caters to movement and helps performance
• One of the most water resistant products on the market
• Lifetime warranty

You’ll love the way this jacket fits too. It gives you a ton of mobility and looks very stylish. This is another product you’ll want to wear on and off the slopes.

Take A Closer Look At The Obermeyer Proton Men’s Ski Jacket

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Spyder Men’s Squaw Valley Jacket

Company: Spyder

Price: $$

Sizes: Small to Extra Large

Rating: 4.9/5

This is another Sypder jacket and a very affordable option from them; you can find the Squaw Valley Jacket for a little more than $200. Even though it’s one of Spyder’s cheaper products it still comes with a life time warranty and provides excellent warmth. Some awesome features include:

• 3M Thinsulate insulation
• Core ventilation system to help you cool down on warmer days
• Seams and zippers are high quality and won’t let moisture or snow in

This is a very nice jacket for the price and one you know will last through the season and many more after. Definitely one of the best values on this list.

Take A Closer Look At The Spyder Squaw Valley Jacket

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Burton Men’s Encore Jacket

Company: Burton

Price: $$

Sizes: Extra Small to Extra Large

Rating: 4.7/5

This jacket is a favorite of snowboarders (the Burton brand is too). The Encore is a combination of lightweight design and a comfortable, non-constricting fit; it’s perfect for anyone looking for mobility. Some other awesome features include:

• Media stash pocket to keep your valuables protected
• Venting Pit Zips to help you cool off when needed
• Very affordable (under $150)

If you are someone that needs a lot of warmth, you may want to pick a different product or wear layers with this jacket. Anyone else, especially snowboarders, will love this coat.

Take A Closer Look At the Burton Men’s Encore Jacket

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Karbon Men’s Chromium Jacket

Company: Karbon

Price: $$$

Sizes: Small to Large

Rating: 4.8/5

I really like the look of the Karbon Men’s Chromium Jacket and the colors really pop. It has one of the highest warmth ratings possible too, and that’s because of its Thermore insulation. It’s also one of the most breathable and water proof jackets on the market. A few more features include:

• Removable hood
• Ergonomic stretch panels that cater to mobility
• Comfortable, regular fit

This jacket is for those who get out there and ski aggressively. You will be protected wearing the Karbon Chromium.

Take A Closer Look At The Karbon Chromium Jacket

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Bogner Nair T Men’s Insulated Men’s Jacket (Limited Amount)

Company: Bogner

Price:$$$$$

Sizes: Limited

Rating: 5/5

This is the most expensive jacket on the list. By a lot. If you want to rock the ultra stylish and manly looking Bogner Nair T, it’s going to cost you around $1750. In my mind, this is by far the best looking product on the list and it’s going to turn heads and get you attention; maybe even a date or two. The Nair T has a certain air to it, that’s for sure.

It’s also great for skiing too. This jacket receives the highest warmth rating on Skiis.com and is insulated with natural down. Some additional features include:

• High waterproof rating and will protect you from heavy, wet snow
• Maximum breathability which leaves you dry and comfortable all over
• Made from high quality materials

It basically comes down to whether or not you can afford the price tag. Most people can’t and some can. It has the type of look that projects that.

Take A Closer Look At The Bogner Nair T

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Columbia Men’s Carvin Jacket

Company: Columbia

Price: $$

Sizes: Small to Extra Extra Large

Rating: 4.7/5

I’ve worn Columbia before and they’re one of my favorite winter gear brands. Their products are fairly priced and are very durable; it’s no surprise you always see people wearing their jackets in the lift line. The Columbia Men’s Carvin Jacket comes with:

• Omni-Heat insulation
• Several different pockets for your needs (media pocket, google pocket, interior security pocket, etc.)
• Guaranteed waterproofing

If you are a hardcore skier or snowboarder you may want a different product. But, if you like to ski on the weekends, in your leisure time or maybe want a jacket you can wear on and off the mountain, this is a jacket you should consider.

Take A Closer Columbia Men’s Carvin

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Descente Vertex Men’s Insulated Ski Jacket

Company: Vertex

Price: $$$$

Sizes: Medium to Extra Large

Rating: 4.9/5

If you have a problem staying warm or know you are going to be skiing or snowboarding in freezing weather, the Descente Vertex Men’s Insulated Ski Jacket will service you well. It has one of the highest warmth, waterproofing and breathability ratings on the market. Also, it comes with:

• Stretchable material that moves with your body and helps performance
• Pit Zips to let out extra heat quickly
• Media pocket to protect expensive electronics

This is definitely a high end jacket and will cost a little more than $400. If you get out into the winter a lot, consider this product.

Here’s a video that goes a little more in depth:

Take A Closer Look At The Descente Vertex Men’s Jacket

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Spyder Men’s Pinnacle Jacket 

Company: Spyder

Price: $$$$$

Sizes: Small to Extra Extra Large

Rating: 5/5

You’ve seen a lot of Spyder jackets on this list and now it’s time for you to see their “Pinnacle” product. This beautiful jacket is one of the highest performing coats available and is a must have for all experienced skiers and snowboarders.

The Pinnacle will catch eyes and leave you feeling comfortable all day. In fact, it has the highest breathability rating possible and evaporates moisture, leaving you dry and fresh all day. Additionally, it features:

• Primaloft Gold Insulation that will shelter you from the coldest weather imaginable
• Core ventilation system that keeps you cool on warmer days
• RECCO Avalanche Rescue System
• Goggle wipe system

If you are interested in a more in depth look, check out the video below:

Take A Closer Look At The Spyder Pinnacle Ski Jacket

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Columbia Men’s CSC Mogul Jacket

Company: Columbia

Price: $$

Sizes: Medium to Extra Large

Rating: 4.8/5

This is another excellent Columbia product that won’t break the bank; you can find it for under $200. Like I said before, Columbia is a very safe pick and you know you’ll be satisfied if you purchase from them. Will you get the performance of the $600+ jackets mentioned before? Probably not, which is fine for a lot of people.

If you need a coat that you can break out on the weekends or to go to your favorite local mountain with, the Columbia Mogul will work for you. You can wear it during any other winter activity too.

Some of its best features are:

• Omni-Heat thermal reflective technology to keep you warm
• Many zippered pockets for all your stuff (including one for your goggles and one for your phone)
• Adjustable, snap back powder skirt

It has a nice design too.

Take A Closer Look At The Columbia Mogul Jacket

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Helly Hansen Alpha 2.0

Company: Helly Hansen

Price: $$$$

Sizes: Small to Extra Extra Large

Rating: 4.9/5

I really like the Helly Hansen Alpha 2.0 because it’s very durable and lightweight. You won’t have to worry about being slowed down or limited mobility with this jacket. It’s design is meant to endure long days in the coldest and wettest conditions too. Additionally, it comes with:

• Primaloft Black Insulation
• H2Flow Vent System to dump heat quickly
• Articulated arms and elbows that allow for movement and freedom

This is a pricey product at around $450 but worth it if you can afford it; definitely a jacket you won’t mind wearing.

Take A Closer Look At The Helly Hansen Alpha 2.0

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FlyLow Gear Lab Coat

Company: FlyLow Gear

Price: $$$$

Sizes: Small to Extra Large

Rating: 4.9/5

The Flylow Gear Lab is a sharp looking jacket that will protect you from the wettest conditions imaginable. The shell of this jacket is as waterproof as you can get and it’s designed to not constrict you in any way. Also, it features a:

• Helmet compatible hood
• 6 pockets for all your maps, phone, snacks and anything else
• Removable powder skirt

This is a high performing jacket that should be worn by snow junkies.

Take A Closer Look At The Flylow Gear Lab Jacket

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Black Diamond Mission Shell Jacket

Company: Black Diamond

Price: $$$$

Sizes: Small to Large

Rating: 4.9/5

The Black Diamond Mission is a product for serious skiers and snowboarders. It’s designed to withstand all weather conditions with its Gore-Tex outer fabric. Plus, this jacket is made so you can layer underneath it without feeling too bulky. Some nice features include:

• Soft interior that gives it a very comfortable feel
• Helmet compatible hood
• Easy to use vents to let out heat as fast as possible

This product comes with a 100 percent satisfaction guarantee too. On their website they assure potential customers that “if for any reason you’re not 100% satisfied with your Black Diamond apparel, we’ll repair it, replace, or refund it. No charge. No fine print. No debate. Guaranteed.”

I always love when companies stand behind their craftsmanship like this. For me, it takes away any skepticism I might have.

Take A Closer Look At The Black Diamond Mission Shell Jacket

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Make Sure To Ski In Complete Comfort This Year

No matter your situation or skill level, there is a product here that will fit you perfectly. If you are obsessed with snow and spend all your free time out on the slopes, there are high performing jackets for you. And if you are someone who skis and snowboards for fun and for leisure, there are coats that cater to your needs as well.

Also, if you are in the market for ski pants, I just wrote an entire guide on the best for men. You can read it by clicking below:

Check Out My Top Picks For Ski Pants

If you have any questions about the jackets on this list, comment below and I’ll respond as fast as possible. Also, if you’d like your friends and family to see, share on social media.

Are you ready to have the most enjoyable ski and snowboard season possible?