Snow

The Best Men’s Ski & Snowboard Jackets of 2024

Feb 27, 2024

By: Paul Mcmillan

As the slopes beckon, it's essential to know what to wear snowboarding to fully embrace the experience, and this season’s men’s ski and snowboard jackets are here to answer the call with a resounding roar. Say goodbye to bulky shapes and uninspiring features. 2024 is all about state-of-the-art technology, eco-friendly materials, and stylish designs that redefine both performance and fashion. When planning your trip, consider when does ski season start in your desired location. Don't forget to consult the snowboarding gear checklist to make sure you have everything you need for a successful ride. Get ready for incredible adventures with our handpicked selection of the 6 top jackets, guaranteeing that you conquer the mountain with comfort and confidence. Embrace the slopes, be well-prepared, and enjoy the exhilarating experience of snowboarding!

Ortovox Mesola Jacket

Ditch the debate between hardshell and softshell with Mesola’s revolutionary hybrid design. Hardshell shoulders, sleeves, front, and hood shrug off heavy snowfall, while the softshell back, armpits, and sides offer exceptional breathability and freedom of movement. Merino wool lining adds natural warmth and odor control, while the RECCO® reflector and avalanche pocket prioritize safety.

The Best Men’s Ski & Snowboard Jackets

Pros:

A hybrid design combining hardshell protection and softshell breathability
Merino wool lining for natural warmth and odor control
RECCO® reflector and avalanche pocket for safety
Helmet-compatible hood and removable powder skirt for comfort and versatility

Cons:

Pricey compared to some competitors
Slightly heavier than pure hardshell options

Men’s Alpha LIFALOFT Insulated Ski Jacket

Embrace toasty comfort without sacrificing agility with the Alpha LifaLoft. Its synthetic insulation delivers an exceptional warmth-to-weight ratio, while the proprietary HELLY TECH® Performance 2.0 fabric keeps you dry in any weather. The articulated fit moves with you, while the pre-bent elbows and ventilation zips maximize comfort and flexibility.

Pros:

Lightweight LifaLoft insulation for exceptional warmth and breathability
HELLY TECH® Performance 2.0 fabric for waterproof protection
Articulated fit and pre-bent elbows for freedom of movement
Helmet-compatible hood and Recco® Advanced Rescue System for safety and convenience

Cons:

Not the most budget-friendly option
Might not be ideal for skiers prioritizing extreme breathability

Vector Dermizax™ 3L Snowshell Long Full-Zip Jacket

Conquer the slopes in style with the Vector Men's Dermizax™ 3L Snowshell Nat. Edition Jacket. This sleek beauty boasts Dermizax™ technology and fully taped seams. It can maintain its initial softness and elasticity even at extremely low temperatures of -30 degrees. Plus, the concealed adjustment system allows for smooth single-handed adjustment even while gliding.

Pros:

Dermizax™ 3L Technology Shell
20,000mm waterproof rating and breathable membrane keep you dry and comfortable.
Lightweight, and form-fitting, it seamlessly combines comfort with high performance.
The TRICOT reinforcement layer provides additional waterproof taped seams.
Hand-warming pockets, goggle pockets, and internal media pockets keep essentials handy.
Cohaesive™ Hood Adjustment System

Cons:

For extreme cold conditions, additional layering might be needed.

REI Co-op Powderbound Insulated Jacket

Conquer the mountain without breaking the bank with the Powderbound Insulated. This REI-exclusive jacket boasts a waterproof and breathable Pertex Shield+ 2L shell and 100g of synthetic insulation, keeping you dry and warm at a remarkable price point. The Rei Co-op comes in at just $139 with their current sale, its a bargain!

Pros:

Affordable price points for high-quality materials and performance
Waterproof and breathable Pertex Shield+ 2L shell
100g of synthetic insulation for comfortable warmth
Relaxed fit and articulated design for comfort and movement
Integrated gaiter for added protection

Cons:

Not the most feature-packed option
Slightly heavier than some premium competitors

Patagonia Powder Town Jacket

Crave versatility? Look no further than the Powder Town 3L. This adaptable masterpiece features a waterproof and breathable 3L shell, while the removable insulated liner offers customizable warmth. Layer up for frigid mornings, shed the liner for sunny runs, and face any weather with confidence.

Pros:

The 3-in-1 design adapts to changing conditions, allowing you to shed the liner for sunny runs or layer up for frigid mornings.
3L shell with H2No Performance Standard provides reliable protection against snow and moisture while letting your body breathe.
80g Thermogreen insulation in the body and 40g in the sleeves offer comfortable warmth on cold days.

Cons:

This is a high-end jacket with a price tag to match.
Not the most lightweight option, especially with the liner attached, which might be uncomfortable on warmer days.
Available in a few muted colors, those seeking brighter options might be disappointed.

Arc’teryx Sabre Jacket – Men’s

The Arc’teryx Sabre Jacket is a durable and versatile freeride shell built to handle the harshest winter conditions. Featuring N80p-X 3L GORE-TEX® fabric, it delivers exceptional waterproofness, breathability, and wind protection. An articulated fit and StormHood™ maximize freedom of movement and visibility, while features like pit zips, a RECCO® reflector, and internal mesh dump pockets enhance performance and convenience.

Pros:

GORE-TEX® guarantees dryness and breathability against snow, wind, and rain.
N80p-X fabric resists abrasions and tears, ideal for rugged backcountry terrain.
Aids rescuers in locating you in case of emergencies.
Stash essentials or gloves with easy access.

Cons:

This is a top-of-the-line jacket with a price tag to match. The price may be out of budget for most.
May require additional layering in extreme cold conditions.
The robust construction provides exceptional protection but might feel heavier than some competitors.
Primarily available in neutral tones, those seeking vibrant colors might be disappointed.

Best Overall: Vector Dermizax™ 3L Snowshell Long Full-Zip Jacket

The Vector Dermizax 3L Snowshell Jacket wins Best Overall Jacket for 2024. This Jacket offers exceptional waterproofing, breathability, pressure resistance, and low condensation. It is particularly suitable for sports activities conducted in harsh weather conditions.

Summary

From conquering icy peaks to carving fresh powder lines, the perfect ski jacket should be an extension of your confidence, amplifying your skills and safeguarding your comfort. Whether you crave cutting-edge tech, sustainable materials, or classic versatility, this curated list has unveiled the champions of 2024. Remember, the ideal choice hinges on your skiing style, budget, and preferred weather conditions. Ready for more ski tips? Check out our other blogs for expert advice on gear, techniques, and the best destinations. Happy skiing!

FAQ:

Q: What kind of jacket is best for snowboarding?

A: The best goggle lenses for snowy days are typically ones with a high VLT (Visible Light Transmission) percentage, allowing more light to filter through, and enhancing visibility in low-light conditions. Goggle lenses with yellow rose or amber tints are often recommended for snowy and overcast days as they improve contrast and depth perception.

Q: What is the difference between a ski jacket and a snowboard jacket?

A: To prevent snow blindness, it's essential to use goggles with lenses that offer 100% UV protection. Goggles with polarized or mirrored lenses are also effective in reducing glare and protecting against the intense reflection of sunlight on snow, helping to prevent snow blindness.

Q: What is the warmest type of ski jacket?

A: When it comes to glasses for snow, consider sunglasses with wraparound frames and lenses that offer 100% UV protection. Polarized lenses can help reduce glare from snow and ice, while photochromic lenses are designed to adjust to changing light conditions, making them a versatile choice for different snow conditions. Additionally, wearing glasses with anti-fog coatings can help prevent moisture buildup while out in the snow.