We enlisted the help of five professional ski coaches to test these jackets.
Investing in a ski jacket is no small feat (nor a small price tag), so we take testing ski gear seriously at Travel + Leisure. We pride ourselves in using expert powder hound testers and editors to vet gear, but this season, we leveled up our testing by enlisting the help of five professional alpine ski racing coaches to test out men’s ski jackets. With a keen eye for the most minute features, they vetted each jacket based on what they would look for as skiers who are up on the hill as much as 60 days a season.
Keep reading to learn more about our jacket-testing coaches and see which outerwear they liked most. And trust us when we say, these are some particular skiers, so they provided us with in-depth notes on each jacket’s durability, design, and fit.
Our Top Picks
Best Overall: Black Diamond Men’s Recon Stretch Ski Shell at Backcountry $315 Jump to Review Best for Resorts: Helly Hansen Men’s Alpha Long Ski Shell at Amazon Jump to Review Best for Backcountry: Arc’teryx Sabre SV Jacket Men’s at Arcteryx.com Jump to Review Best Value: Patagonia Men’s Powder Town Jacket at Patagonia.com Jump to Review Best Insulated: The North Face Men’s Freedom Insulated Jacket at The North Face Jump to Review Best Pockets: Mammut Hooded Jacket at Mammut.com Jump to Review Most Durable: Stio Men’s Environ Jacket at Stio.com Jump to Review Most Versatile: Backcountry Shell Jacket at Backcountry $210 Jump to Review Best Lightweight: Outdoor Research Men’s Skytour AscentShell Jacket at Evo.com $180 Jump to Review Best Waterproof: Flylow Pro Shell at Flylowgear.com Jump to Review
Meet the Coaches
Our testers come from Mt. Bachelor Sports Education Foundation (better known as MBSEF) based in Bend, Oregon, with Olympic skiers like Tommy Ford and Laurenne Ross hailing from the club team. They are all lifelong skiers with decades of additional experience skiing professionally and more than 125 years of collective coaching experience. These alpine experts tried ski jackets from trusted brands like Helly Hansen, Arc’teryx, Stio, and more in their daily lives as coaches in the Pacific Northwest.
8 years of coaching experience
11 years of coaching experience
34 years of coaching experience
44 years of coaching experience
30 years of coaching experience
Video: Testing in Action
Best Overall
Black Diamond Men’s Recon Stretch Ski Shell
$315 at Backcountry $450 at Blackdiamondequipment.com Why We Love It
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The material is everything we want in a shell: thick yet lightweight and very flexible.
What to Consider
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It would be nice if the pass pocket was closer to the wrist rather than the bicep.
Finding the perfect ski jacket might be impossible, but this Black Diamond shell comes close. Made with three layers including the brand’s BD.Dry waterproof technology and four-way stretch fabric, this shell is flexible and lightweight, while still feeling thick and sturdy. Whether coach Mark Stapleton was downhill or cross-country skiing, he had a full range of motion thanks to the stretchiness and superb fit. It was easy to layer extra pieces underneath on cold days, but for Nordic skiing, the jacket was perfectly comfortable and breathable with a single layer.
And when it was snowing, sleeting, or raining, the jacket kept Stapleton completely dry and warm in the inclement weather thanks to the waterproof fabric and PU-coated zippers. Stapleton also favored the super functional features, especially the removable powder skirt. The jacket includes all the other bells and whistles we look for including arm vents, a helmet-compatible hood, and various pockets. Stapleton's only note to make the jacket even better would be to move the left arm pass pocket closer to the wrist, rather than on the bicep.
“Honestly, this is the best shell I have ever skied in. 10/10.” -Mark Stapleton
The Details: Sizes S to XL | Shell | BD.Dry nylon and elastane
Best for Resorts
Helly Hansen Men’s Alpha Long Ski Shell
View on Amazon View on Hellyhansen.com View on Bigweathergear.com Why We Love It
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It’s chock full of unique and premium features for an all-day ski sesh at any ski resort.
What to Consider
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You might not want to use this for backcountry or touring because of the heavier weight.
Whether skiing in Stowe, Aspen, or Park City, this shell from Helly Hansen is the best option. Upon first inspection coach Ben McLeod noted that it “feels heavier than the standard shell” but in a sturdy way. Hands down the best feature of this jacket is the Life Pocket, which is designed to keep phones at a full battery throughout the day — a feature any skier will appreciate since an empty battery at the end of a ski day is a common pet peeve. The pocket also has a phone leash to prevent phones from going overboard while riding the chair lift.
While skiing, the jacket offered plenty of protection and warmth against freezing temperatures. With fully sealed seams, three layers of synthetic fabric with two-way stretch, a fleece chin lining, and a helmet-compatible hood, this sturdy jacket is built for all kinds of harsh conditions. McLeod also noted that he could easily reach for the armpit vents while skiing if he was starting to overheat. The slightly oversized fit makes it easy to layer up under the shell without compromising the fit and flexibility of the jacket. One thing to note is that the jacket is on the heavier side, so it’s not the best for backcountry or touring. McLeod also wondered if the Life Pocket could interfere with a beacon, which is something to consider.
“The Life Pocket is the real deal. It kept my old phone’s battery at almost 90 percent all day. The integrated phone leash is pretty sweet as well.” -Ben McLeod
The Details: Sizes S to 2XL | Shell | Polyamide, elastane, and polyester
Best for Backcountry
Arc’teryx Sabre SV Jacket Men’s
View on Arcteryx.com Why We Love It
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This jacket is built for harsh weather conditions yet it’s also featherlight.
What to Consider
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McLeod didn’t love how stiff and “crispy” the material was at first.
Referring to this jacket as a “minimalist’s dream,” McLeod thinks this jacket is best for those for backcountry skiing. While the jacket has a fairly basic design, it’s actually a strength for those looking for an uber-versatile jacket since it can be what makes it. For backcountry skiing specifically, it’s extremely lightweight and has ventilation, which is ideal for skinning. It also has built-in Recco reflectors to help strengthen signals in emergencies — a must-have feature for heading out of bounds. According to Arc’teryx, this is their “most durable” shell for backcountry or resort skiing with Gore-text Pro fabric and recycled N100D face fabric to make it ready to ensure the toughest of conditions. “It's extremely waterproof and breathable. I spent the misty morning setting up B-netting for a ski race. I didn't get wet from the mist and rain and I didn't overheat,” McLeod raved.
The only note McLeod had is that the material is stiffer than expected and has a crunchy feel. As we do with all ski jackets, we’ll continue to keep an eye on this one to see how it holds up with prolonged use and update our notes as necessary.
«I think this would make a great hut trip or backcountry ski jacket. In those situations, you need to trust your life with your gear. I think this is one of those pieces of gear.” -Ben McLeod
The Details: Sizes XS to 2XL | Shell | Gore-tex Pro with Recycled Face and nylon
The Best Ski Gear of 2025, Tested and Reviewed
Best Value
Patagonia Men’s Powder Town Jacket
View on Patagonia.com Why We Love It
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It’s one of the most comfortable jackets tested, and the price tag is more than fair for what you get.
What to Consider
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It has two layers of fabric so you may want to wear extra thermal underwear on chilly days.
If you’re investing in a high-quality ski jacket, you’re likely going to have to spend at least a few hundred dollars, if not more depending on what you’re looking for. This Patagonia jacket earned high praise from coach Casey O’Brien thanks to its ample features, durable material, and of course, the fair price tag for what you get. Offering some of the best range of motion and flexibility of any of the shells we tested, this two-layered jacket is comfortable to wear on and off the slopes. The jacket proved to be fully waterproof and warm in rainy conditions, and O’Brien also noted it was pleasant to wear in milder weather, too. It boasts all the features of a splurge-worthy jacket for less, including a helmet-compatible hood, a powder skirt, adjustable cuffs, various pockets for phones and lift tickets, and it also has built-in Recco reflectors as an extra touch.
“It’s reasonably priced at $395 since most jackets of this caliber would be closer to $595-plus.” -Casey O’Brien
The Details: Sizes 2XS to 3XL | Shell | Postconsumer recycled polyester with DWR finish
Best Insulated
The North Face Men’s Freedom Insulated Jacket
View on The North Face Why We Love It
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With 80 grams of insulation, it’s a warm jacket without feeling too heavy or bulky.
What to Consider
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The longer length might not be best for technical skiers.
Insulated jackets are great options for beginner or resort skiers who don’t want a shell. This one from The North Face offers 80 grams of insulation, which is the perfect amount according to coach Brad Westphal. It’s plenty warm for sitting on a windy chair lift, but it won’t make you sweat buckets in more mild temperatures. If you do start to overheat, you can use the armpit vents to get a nice breeze flowing. The zippers and fabric feel high-quality, and there are various pockets for phones, lift tickets, keys, and more. It also includes a helmet-compatible hood and powder skirt for stormy days. Westphal, who is 6 foot 4 inches, noted that the jacket did fit true to size but it was quite long, which got in the way of technical skiing.
“I find [this] medium level of insulation best because you can layer up if it is really cold. You are not stuck with a bulky, over-insulated jacket that is, for me, too hot when it is near 30 degrees.” -Brad Westphal
The Details: Sizes S to 2XL | Insulated | 80 grams Heatseeker, recycled Polyester, and recycled nylon
Best Pockets
Mammut Men’s Stoney HS Hooded Jacket
View on Mammut.com Why We Love It
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It has a whopping seven pockets, which is helpful if you’re skiing with a family or have extra accessories to store.
What to Consider
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A removable hood would be a nice addition to the jacket.
This Mammut jacket has a lot of design features that make it a worthy investment, according to coach Corey Popp. While it has the usual things we look for in a jacket, Popp’s favorite part is the numerous pockets for storing everything you need on the hill. Bringing snacks? There are two large side pockets. Looking to keep your phone safe? That can go in the chest pocket, which also depicts safety instructions on the outside. There are also two water-resistant chest pockets and a lift pass pocket on the arm. Whether you’re skiing with kids and need to store extra items or if you like to bring extra gear on a rainy day, this jacket has more than enough spots to store belongings discreetly. In addition, the material feels high-quality and fully waterproof (Popp wore it in the rain several times without any issues) and it’s easy to layer underneath on cold days. The only thing he’d add is a detachable hood for spring skiing when it’s not needed.
“I carry a lot of small items when I am coaching, including a radio, cell phone, pen, and pad, and I like having everything separated in different pockets.” -Corey Popp
The Details: Sizes S to 2XL | Shell | Polyester, polyamide, recycled polyester
The 10 Best Ski Jackets of 2025, Tested and Reviewed
Most Durable
Stio Men’s Environ Jacket
View on Stio.com Why We Love It
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Design features like a removable hood and thicker material than the average shell make this an excellent jacket for all seasons.
What to Consider
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The material is a bit stiff at first but it loosens up as you wear it.
If you’re looking for a jacket that can be used throughout the season — no matter the weather — this sturdy Stio Environ jacket is a great option. Made with three layers of polyester and the brand’s PeakProof plain weave with a DWR finish, this fully waterproof jacket is on the thicker side of shells, according to Popp. From intense downpours to above-freezing temperatures, Popp noted that the jacket kept him warm and dry, yet he never felt too warm thanks to the breathable fabric and armpit vents. Another feature he loves for versatility throughout the season is the detachable helmet-compatible hood, which is a game changer for staying warm in snow storms, but not necessary for warmer weather. Additionally, Popp raved about the durable and high-quality build of the fabric and stitching that feels like it will last for plenty of seasons, making it worth the investment.
“It’s another well-thought-out coat that is designed for a person who spends a lot of days in harsh weather conditions. I tried to come up with something I would change, but this coat to me is the top of the industry standard for an outdoor shell.” -Corey Popp
The Details: Sizes XS to 3XL | Shell | PeakProof plain weave and polyester with DWR finish
Most Versatile
Backcountry CrestCarver Gore-tex Shell Jacket
$210 at Backcountry Why We Love It
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From skiing out of bounds to bombing down groomers, this jacket can do it all.
What to Consider
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It runs a bit large.
Whether skinning, touring, or skiing downhill at a resort, this Backcountry jacket is ready for the adventure. It’s an extremely lightweight shell made with Gore-tex ePE, so you can rest easy knowing you’re fully protected from any damp weather conditions. The jacket runs a bit large, which helps add extra layers on cold days, but it’s also comfortable to wear with fewer layers for warmer weather, too. It also has armpit vents and Recco reflectors that come in handy for resort or backcountry skiing. Popp’s favorite feature is the sturdy Velcro cuffs that can be adjusted with gloves on to get a secure kit, meaning no snow, rain, or wind can get through. Popp also appreciated the cinching hood to get a secure fit over a helmet for protection against the elements. The jacket isn’t too stiff or too flimsy, and it’s extremely comfortable for rigorous or leisurely skiing, which is why it’s a perfect investment for the skier who does it all.
“You could use this coat for the worst of conditions and also warmer spring days. Of the three coats I tested, this coat is probably the most versatile for multiple weather conditions.” -Corey Popp
The Details: Sizes S to 2XL | Shell | Gore-tex ePE, recycled polyester plain weave, and recycled polyester
Best Lightweight
Outdoor Research Men’s Skytour AscentShell Jacket
$180 at Evo.com View on Outdoorresearch.com Why We Love It
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Featherlight yet incredibly sturdy, this lightweight jacket offers superb flexibility and mobility.
What to Consider
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It’s difficult to pull and unzip the armpit vents with gloves on.
Wearing ski gear can feel restrictive with all the interior and exterior layers, which is why this lightweight option from Outdoor Research makes layering feel effortless. It’s made with three layers of fabric, including a waterproof exterior, and despite the multiple layers, it hardly feels like you’re wearing a jacket. O’Brien appreciated how breathable the jacket was, but it still offered the perfect amount of warmth and protection from the elements. For stormy conditions, the seam-taped fabric and water-resistant YKK Aquaguard zippers keep moisture from creeping inside the jacket. O’Brien noted that the only thing he would change is making the armpit vent zippers easier to grab and pull since it required a bit of effort.
“This jacket has great breathability: it heated well with second layering, and it was nice that more or less could be added depending on the weather.” -Casey O’Brien
The Details: Sizes S to 2XL | Shell | Stretch plain weave and polyester
Best Waterproof
Flylow Quantum Pro Shell
View on Flylowgear.com Why We Love It
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This jacket has plenty of features that work together to ensure water and moisture can’t find a way inside.
What to Consider
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It has an oversized fit and the arms were a bit short for our tester.
It’s one thing to be cold while skiing, but being cold and wet will certainly affect your ski trip. This shell from Flylow is our favorite option for waterproofing after Stapleton tested it in various damp conditions from ski resorts in Canada down to ones in Oregon. It has three layers of thick polyester fabric, including an exterior layer with a PFAS-free DWR finish that boasts a waterproof rating of 20,000 — the highest a piece of clothing can have. In addition to the waterproof fabric, the YKK waterproof zippers and seam-taped construction double down on the jacket’s ability to keep moisture at bay. Stapleton noted that the jacket also does an excellent job of insulating the upper body and keeping it warm throughout a day of skiing, whether touring or downhill. Stapleton’s only gripe with the jacket is that the fit was quite bulky in the body of the coat and the arms were a bit short, so we recommend double-checking the size chart to get the best fit.
“I love that it’s waterproof enough for this December in Oregon which has been very wet…The robust fabric seemed to block the frigid Canadian wind very well, plenty of breathability for alpine and a short backcountry tour.” -Mark Stapleton
The Details: Sizes XS to 2XL | Shell | polyester and PFAS-free DWR finish
Tips for Buying a Ski Jacket
Consider the fit
Regular or standard, loose, active, and slim are all different styles of jackets and shells for snow sports athletes. For aerodynamics, a skier will likely find a regular or slim fit best, and snowboarders will likely enjoy loose or active fits better, as those are more closely in line with the more “freerider” style.
Know the difference between shells and insulated jackets
Every skier has their outdoor gear preferences, but the biggest difference between shells and insulated jackets is the amount of warmth provided by each coat. Shells are generally very lightweight and are designed with versatility top of mind, and insulated jackets have the purpose of keeping skiers warm and toasty. Backcountry skiers may lean toward shells, and resort skiers might like an insulated jacket, but it’s ultimately a personal choice.
Waterproofing is key
Waterproofing and breathability are two key specs you want to look out for in a ski jacket. The best shells and insulated jackets for waterproofing and breathability will list the material as 20K/20K, which means the fabric can withstand 20,000 millimeters of water before you should feel any type of dampness seep through
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of jacket is best for skiing?
The two key specifications you want to keep in mind for ski jackets are waterproofing and breathability. Most waterproof jackets will be made out of polyester or nylon constructed with taped or sealed seams, a DWR finish, and watertight zippers. As previously noted, the best jackets for waterproofing and breathability will have a score of 20,000 or more, which is often listed at 20K/20K.
You'll also want to look at measurements for insulation weight. Insulation is measured in grams, so you will need to consider the amount of insulation for warmth and breathability. Other technical features to look out for include powder skirts, adjustable hems and hoods, wrist gaiters, goggle shammies, RFID pockets, and Recco reflectors.
How do I clean a ski jacket?
Before cleaning a ski jacket, it’s always smart to check the care label and note any instructions specific to the jacket. Unless noted otherwise, you can proceed with cleaning your jacket by turning it inside out and placing it in the washing machine with similar items (like your ski pants). Add a gentle detergent or one designed for waterproof/technical clothing and run the machine with cold or lukewarm water. Once the wash cycle has finished, you can hang your jacket to dry or tumble dry it on low in the dryer. It’s important to avoid using too much heat on ski jackets, as this can damage the waterproof coating.
Why Trust Travel + Leisure
Anna Popp is an associate editor at Travel + Leisure, where she covers everything from ski gear to luxury luggage. The daughter of ski coach Corey Popp, Anna spent nearly nine years skiing at MBSEF. Though she didn’t fall into the Olympian category, she now spends her winter testing ski gear for T+L and leisurely skiing around the globe. Anna worked directly with the ski coaches to put together this list of the best ski jackets for men, according to the pros.
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