12 Best Women’s Ski Jackets in 2024

Are you looking for a reliable ski jacket, but still haven't found the right model? We've got you covered with 12 of the best picks for women - picked and tested by our expert team.
Happy woman skiing wearing a helmet and red jacket in the snow
Best Overall
Arc'teryx Sentinel AR
Arc'teryx Sentinel AR
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Best Premium
Patagonia Primo Puff
Patagonia Primo Puff
Check best price
Best Value
Columbia Omni Heat
Columbia Omni Heat
Check best price
Table of Contents

Are you looking for the best women's ski jackets on the market?

Finding the right ski jacket can be a daunting task for any new customer to the sport. There are so many factors to consider, like whether you want to opt for an eco-friendly jacket made up of recycled materials or if your priority is insulation to keep you warm on the slopes.

Style, shape and whether you're a beginner customer or a pro are also going to affect your decision-making when purchasing ski gear. 

Top 12 Best Women’s Ski Jackets 

Luckily for you, we've done all the hard work in sifting through the best women's ski jackets on the market.

Below is a list of the best women's ski jackets on the market at the moment (as picked by our experts):

1. Sentinel AR Jacket by Arc'teryx

Best Overall
Arc'teryx Sentinel AR Jacket - Women's
Type: 3 layer shell
Insulation: No Insulation
Breathability: 20,000g
Waterproofing: 28,000mm

If you browsing for the best women's ski jackets, look no further than the Sentinel AR!

The Sentinel AR was designed for the pro skier who's looking to tour this winter. Whatever you encounter on the slopes, this elite jacket will have you covered. 

With superior quality materials and an optimized range of motion, breathability and waterproofing, this jacket will keep going as long as you do. 

The 3L Gore-Tex gives the Sentinel AR a lightweight feel but packs in a lot of protection. The flannel lining also provides a bit of extra warmth compared to a standard shell jacket. 

If you like to personalize your look, then you're in luck as the Arc'teryx Sentinel AR jacket comes in a wide range of different colors, from neutrals to bold primary colors. Sizes range from XS to XL. If you're on the taller side, you'll be pleased to hear they come with an extended cut too. 

Arcteryx is a Canadian clothing and sporting goods company. It is a highly reputable brand, and its products are known to be long-lasting and of high quality. 

However, the premium quality of the Arc'teryx Sentinel AR does come at a fairly hefty price, so it's more aimed at experienced, regular skiers. If you're a beginner, you might not want to splash out so much right away. 

2. Columbia Women's Omni Heat

Best Value
Columbia Women's Snowshoe Mountain Omni Heat Waterproof Hooded Ski Jacket
Type: Shell
Insulation: No insulation
Breathability: 10,000g
Waterproofing: 10,000mm

This jacket might be lower in the lower price range, but it still comes with some great features, making it one of the best women's ski jackets out there. 

Omni-Heat is a thermal reflective technology mastered by Columbia Sportswear. It's basically a collection of tiny silver dots on the inner layer of a garment which reflects and retains the warmth your body emits. 

It's the same principle as those silver survival bags you take with you camping in winter. 

The big plus of this thermal technology is that this ski jacket provides some additional warmth to the jacket without adding extra weight. 

This is a sought-after ski jacket trait as you want to remain lightweight and nimble when descending the slopes, but you still want to keep yourself warm. 

On top of the Omni-heat tech, this ski jacket also boasts a good waterproofing and breathability rating and comes with a removable hood.

The design and style have proved particularly popular as well. 

3. Patagonia Primo Puff GORE-TEX

Best Premium
Patagonia Primo Puff GORE-TEX Jacket - Women's
Type: 2 layer shell
Insulation: Synthetic Down
Breathability: 20,000g
Waterproofing: 28,000mm

If you love skiing but fear the cold, then look no further than the Patagonia Primo Puff insulated ski jacket. 

The Primo Puff comes with storm-proof GoreTex to keep you protected against the elements. It's also got a lot of synthetic down insulation quilted throughout the inner lining of the ski jacket to keep you extra cozy. 

The Patagonia Primo Puff insulated ski jacket has a Gore-Tex shell 2L membrane, making it durable, waterproof and windproof while still being highly breathable.

Needless to say, the Primo Puff provides reliable weather protection and max comfort no matter the snow conditions. 

The Patagonia Primo Puff comes with an adjustable hood that can be worn with a helmet or laminated visor, particularly in bad weather conditions. It also comes with watertight zippers, which are lightweight, durable and easy to use. 

Overall, the Primo Puff is a jacket where you genuinely get what you pay for -- I.e. the very best women's ski jacket!

4. Burton AK GORE-TEX 3L Kimmy

Burton AK GORE-TEX 3L Kimmy Anorak Jacket - Women's
Type: 3 Layer
Insulation: No insulation
Breathability: 20,000g
Waterproofing: 28,000mm

Since it's not an insulated jacket, the Burton AK Kimmy Anorak jacket is lightweight, sturdy and features an eye-catching design, making it one of the best women's ski coats out there!

It comes with Gore-Tex shell three-layer fabric with fully taped seams, keeping you warm and protected throughout your ski trip -- not to mention mobile and comfortable. 

The lining material is Micro Grid Backer, an innovative woven lining that protects the jacket from abrasion from the inside. It also fits snug with any under layers you might be wearing, meaning you can move freely while staying toasty.

As we've already mentioned, the jacket comes with fully taped seams from Gore-Seam, which has a sealant tape to make the seams completely waterproof and resistant to liquids. 

This anorak also boasts a StormForm Full-time Contour Hood, which can protect your head from the elements and can be adjusted to fit perfectly. The contoured shape also allows room for goggles and helmets.

5. The North Face ThermoBall™ Eco-Snow

The North Face ThermoBall™ Eco Snow Triclimate® Jacket - Women's
Type: 2 Layer
Insulation: ThermoBall Eco Snow Triclimate
Breathability: 10,000g
Waterproofing: 10,000mm

As an insulated jacket, this ecological women's ski jacket comes with the considerable advantage of being adaptable to different seasons and weather conditions. 

It's made with a separate DryVent 2-Layer shell and an inner ThermoBall Eco insulated jacket for extra warmth. 

This inner insulated jacket can be removed on milder days and worn in harsher winter temperatures. If you want to be prepared for all types of ski trips, then the North Face thermoball Triclimate Jacket is a great option. 

Another plus is that the North Face Thermoball insulated jacket features a 2L DryVent fabric with a two-layer construction, chest pocket, and a fixed helmet-compatible hood. 

6. Outdoor Research Hemispheres

Outdoor Research Hemispheres Jacket - Women's
Type: 3 Layer
Insulation: No Insulation
Breathability: 20,000g
Waterproofing: 28,000mm

Whether you're doing backcountry or resort skiing, this jacket is for embracing everything the hill can throw at you. The design of the Outdoor Research Hemispheres jacket allows for extra mobility as the fabric can stretch as your body moves. 

A Gore-Tex shell keeps the Outdoor Research Hemisphere protected from the elements while allowing for optimal breathability and no extra bulk. There's a reason this jacket is a firm favorite among athletes and highly experienced skiers alike. 

7. The North Face Clementine Triclimate

The North Face Clementine Triclimate Jacket - Women's
Type: 2 Layer
Insulation: Synthetic
Breathability: 15,000g
Waterproofing: 15,000mm

The North Face Clementine Triclimate jacket is a versatile jacket that you can expect to use repeatedly in all seasons. The outer layer is a waterproof and breathable snow shell, while the inner layer is an insulated synthetic fleece that will keep you warm even on the coldest of days.

You can choose whether you wear them together or separately depending on the weather and the activity you're undertaking.

8. Patagonia Powder Bowl Jacket

Patagonia Powder Bowl Jacket - Women's
Type: Average
Insulation: Synthetic
Breathability: Over the cuff
Waterproofing: Polyester

The Patagonia brand is the highly respected giant of snow sportswear, and similar to the Primo Puff, the Patagonia Powder Bowl Jacket is one of the most highly sought-after jackets for seasoned skiers. 

Although it's not an insulated jacket, the Patagonia Powder Bowl is built with durability in mind, made of 150D recycled polyester, which provides a soft and comfortable inner mesh lining. This jacket is also optimized for comfort, breathability and weather resistance.  

The Gore-Tex 2L Membrane on this jacket from Patagonia is known to be highly waterproof and windproof while remaining lightweight and breathable, making it a close comparison to the Patagonia Primo Puff.

This Patagonia jacket also comes with an adjustable powder skinny, which can be cinched in for a tight seal or left to lie flat when it's not needed. 

9. Arc'teryx Sentinel LT Jacket

Arc'teryx Sentinel LT Jacket - Women's
Type: Average
Insulation: Synthetic
Breathability: Over the cuff
Waterproofing: Polyester

This is the second jacket on our category list from the reputable brand Arcteryx.

The Arc'teryx Sentinel LT jacket is another upmarket product from the company with a particularly pleasing design. 

The 3-layer Gore-Tex C-Knit shell is lightweight, waterproof and breathable, as you would expect. 

The Sentinel LT jacket is also tailored to freeride style, with features that will assist you in the backcountry. 

The elongated, two-toned design gives the Sentinel LT a flair and unique look to make you stand out on the ski lift. It also comes with extra features like pit zips, which are easily accessible even when you're wearing a pack. 

These kinds of touches make it clear that the design was tested on real women skiers and adapted to their needs. 

But even with all these extra style features, the jacket remains one of the best performing and functioning jackets for virtually any skier!

The StormHood is another excellent feature of the jacket. It's been designed for complete weather protection and can be cinched in with drawcords meaning you can easily move your head from side to side without having your vision obscured by the hood's fabric. 

In other words, this jacket is definitely one of the best women's ski jackets out there!

10. Burton Jet Set

Burton Women's Jet Set Ski/Snowboard Jacket
Type: 2 Layer
Insulation: No insulation
Breathability: 10,000g
Waterproofing: 10,000mm

If you want to ride the mountain in style, then look no further than Burton's top-performing, best-selling Women's Jet Set Jacket. 

This garment comes with several bonus features and still maintains high waterproofing and breathability even on wildly snowy days when the wind is howling.  

The DryRide 2-layer membrane is what keeps the jacket waterproof and also lightweight and breathable. The critically taped seams meanwhile keep damp and sogginess at bay. The Thermolite insulation can be credited for keeping you extra warm when the temperature drops. 

The removable powder skirt means you can keep snow out even if you find yourself waist-deep in snow, while the adjustable hem cinch and jacket-to-pant interface prevent cold air from seeping in and causing you discomfort. 

The jacket comes with two secure hand pockets where you can keep your essentials and snacks and two inside pockets for keeping more valuable items. 

Finally, the jacket has an impeccable design with a slim fit, meaning you can wear the jacket around the ski resort and still look great.

In the end, the Burton Jet Set is still one of the women's best ski jackets for this season

11. Volcom Women's Shadow Insulated

Volcom Women's Shadow Insulated Snowboard Ski Winter Hooded Jacket
Type: 2 Layer
Insulation: No insulation
Breathability: 10,000g
Waterproofing: 10,000mm

The faux-fur collar on this jacket isn't the only alluring aspect of this insulated garment.

The warmth-optimized jacket also comes with unique low-loft insulation for extra warmth and comfort. The jacket's design is also a winner for any female customer, with a flattering length that provides plenty of coverage from the snow. 

The 2-layer shell keeps out the elements of your jacket, and the breathable jacket lining system helps you maintain an ideal temperature throughout your day on the slopes. 

Volcom also has the officially patented Zip Tech, providing an optimal jacket-to-pant interface.

Zip Tech allows you to zip the powder skirt onto almost all available Volcom snow jackets and Volcom snow pants, meaning you can keep out the snow and trap in the heat without restricting your freedom of movement.

12. ROXY Women's Roxy Jetty

Roxy Jet Ski Premium Snow Jacket
Type: 2 Layer
Insulation: No insulation
Breathability: 5,000g
Waterproofing: 10,000mm

Constructed with a 10K Roxy Dry Flight Technology for superb waterproofing and designed in a polyester plain weave and polyester twill fabric, this snow jacket is the perfect finale to this top 12 list of snow jackets. 

This jacket is particularly notable for its lightweight, making it perfect for riders who aren't fans of the bulky look. The jacket is also taped at critical zones and comes with Warm Flight x2 technology to help keep you toasty throughout your skiing venture. 

Additional features include an adjustable and removable helmet-compatible hood, a fixed powder skirt that can be tucked away, and pit zips!

This jacket is an excellent option for beginners or more casual skiers. While it has waterproofing and is stylish, it is relatively low on the breathability scale, which means you might get a little sweaty if you're doing intensive work on the slopes. 

Things to Consider When Buying Women's Ski Jackets

Winter ski sports jacket on hanger in store

When it comes to deciding which ski jacket is best for you, you need to be familiar with the terminology used to describe ski gear and be in the know about which features to look out for.

So now that we've concluded our list, let's take a look at our quick guide for identifying the most important aspects of a ski jacket.

Waterproof Rating

Waterproof RatingPerformance & Protection
0 - 5,000 mmLittle to no protection against moisture
Drizzle and light dry snow
5,000 - 10,000 mmRain- and waterproof under light pressure
Light rain and normal snowfall
10,000 - 15,000 mmRain- and waterproof under medium pressure
Average rain and normal snowfall
16,000 - 20,000 mmRain- and waterproof under high pressure
Heavy rain and wet snow
> 20,000 mmRain- and waterproof under very high pressure
Very heavy rain and wet snow

Waterproofing is highly essential in snow sports gear, especially your ski jacket since descending the slopes in a damp and soggy jacket is far from ideal.

Different jackets come with different waterproof ratings. 

If you're an experienced skier who likes spending all day on the slopes, then you're much better off opting for a jacket with a high waterproof rating. If you're more of a debutant who plans on sticking around the resort, then you can easily get away with a lower waterproof rating. 

The waterproof rating lets you know how much water a fabric can handle before it starts to get wet. It's shown in millimeters (mm). 

The rating is calculated by placing a tube on the shell material and filling it with water. The point at which the water starts to seep through the fabric then determines the rating. The higher the rating, the more waterproof the shell material is. 

For jackets to be considered waterproof, it has to have a rating of at least 1,500. Gore-Tex, for example, has a rating far superior to this, but this is just the minimum. 

Gore-Tex is waterproof because it has pores precisely the right size to release sweat but too narrow to allow water to seep in. This means the outer shell material remains highly breathable even while being extremely waterproof.

Generally speaking, the higher the waterproof rating, the higher the price. 

But if you plan on skiing a lot, it's certainly worth the investment to keep dry throughout your trip.

Breathability

Breathability RatingBreathability Level & Use
0 - 5,000 gramsLow breathability
Useful for wearing around town and low-intensity activity
5,000 - 10,000 gramsMedium breathability
Good for medium intensity activities like hiking or biking
10,000 - 15,000 gramsHigh breathability
Ideal for demanding activities like skiing or snowboarding
> 15,000 gramsExtra high breathability
Excellent for long periods of high-intensity work with no breaks
Breathability is measured in gr/m2/day but is commonly just referred to in grams (g) by most manufacturers.

Breathability is equally as important as waterproofing when it comes to ski jackets. 

Breathability refers to how efficiently an outer shell material releases sweat molecules to stop you from overheating or getting soaked in sweat.

Breathability is shown in grams (g). The rating is measured by calculating the Moisture Vapour Transmission Rate (MVTR). This tells you how many grams of sweat per square meter of outer shell material is released.  

Less breathable outer shell materials have MVTR ratings within the range of 2,000-3,000g. Pricier, highly breathable fabrics have an MVTR of 25,000g+.

In addition to the breathability of the fabrics, some ski jackets have pit zips, or other vents, which allow the garment to breathe as needed.

Seams

Fully Taped

As you might expect from the name, fully taped refers to garments with all of the seams taped, making the garment extra waterproof. 

This is achieved by placing waterproof taping material on both the inner and outer parts of the seams. If you require thorough and complete water protection, then fully taped is always recommended. 

However, this will inevitably drive up a ski jacket price as it requires greater attention to detail. 

Critically Taped

Critically taped seams tend to be the cheaper, less premium option. 

In this case, jackets are only taped at the most critical areas to ensure you stay dry in the areas that matter.

When skiing, you are very exposed to the elements. For this reason, fully taped is usually the better option. 

However, if you're on a lower budget or a more casual skier, then critically taped will suffice without a problem. 

Insulation

When it comes to ski jackets, you can choose between uninsulated synthetic insulation built into the jacket's interior. 

In the case of The North Face Clementine Triclimate Jacket, for example, you can choose whether or not you wear the insulation and can adapt your decision according to the climate and weather. 

As long as you don't choose a jacket with a tight fit, you will have room to layer underneath for extra warmth on days that you need it. 

Insulation is represented in grams. The higher the number in grams, the more insulation the garment provides. 

You can check with the manufacturer to see how much insulation your chosen jacket can provide you with. 

Fit

The shape of the jacket determines the fit. Manufacturers will usually describe it in one of three ways: slim, regular or relaxed. The fit you prefer will depend on your style and body shape. 

As you would expect, a slim fit is tight and form-fitting and will cinch in at the waist. These garments often allow for more freedom of movement and can be flattering too, as they reflect your body's natural shape. 

A regular fit will come tailored just below the waist. They are often flattering, not too tight and don't constrict movement.  

A relaxed fit will come larger and looser with hardly any tailoring and significantly more room around the shoulders and chest area. These jackets are a good option if you want to wear layers underneath for extra warmth. 

Fabric Durability

Women's ski jackets are vastly different from your everyday winter jacket. 

While a ski jacket will often do for a typical winter jacket, the reverse is not true, and you will need to purchase a jacket specifically designed for skiing to stay protected, dry and insulated on the slopes. 

The principal reason for this is durability. Ski jackets are made to withstand more extreme weather conditions and are built to last.

Women's ski jackets are usually made of tightly woven nylon or polyester. These materials are designed to perform well against the elements. Ensure you opt for high-quality materials on your ski jacket to ensure it will do everything it's supposed to do as you hit the slopes.

Cut/Length

Women's ski jackets come in different lengths and cuts for various purposes. 

For example, a shorter, athletic cut is ideal for handpicked and groomed skiing. It gives you a flattering look while managing to keep you amply warm. Longer lengths are much better for backcountry and powder skiing and also for damper conditions. 

This is because it will provide you with more coverage and protection from the wet snow. 

The length refers to the length of the whole jacket. What works best for you will depend on the style of skiing you intend on doing, as well as which fit and style you think suits you best.

Cropped refers to having a hem that sits at the waist or above. This can be flattering as it accentuates the waist.

The hip length refers to a hem that sits on the hipbone or a few inches below. This provides an athletic, tailored fit and look.

Thigh-length refers to ahem that sits several inches below the hip and provides full bottom coverage for extra protection when needed.

With knee-length jackets, the hem sits right above the knee or on the knee. Again this provides coverage for the bottom and also the thighs. This can create a tailored, flattering shape.

Full-length jackets have a hem that goes below the knee, even to the ankles sometimes. This provides for coverage and, when tailored, will create a nice, flattering look.

Extra Features

On top of all this, some jackets come with extra features such as being a 3 in 1 jacket, or having pit zips, a pass pocket, chest pockets, wrist gaiters, a media pocket, a stash pocket, or more!

The most important things to look for are being waterproof, breathable, and comfortable.

So most of these features like a media pocket aren't necessary, however, they can make a huge difference in how much you'll like wearing your new jacket along with your ski pants and ski boots.

Price

The prices of jackets can vary from being highly affordable to extremely expensive.

But since they're different from basic winter jackets, it's vital that you add a proper ski jacket to your collection of winter gear.

Jackets with prices on the are going to obviously offer more features, better quality materials, and longer-lasting lifespans. Whereas jackets with more affordable prices are generally only going to offers the basics.

Therefore, whether you're looking for a backcountry ski jacket or any other type, make sure to shop around, check out jackets at different prices, and choose something that suits your personal budget.

Frequently Asked Questions

Whether you're looking for high-end, best overall, or best value, it helps to know what questions other skiers are asking about their ski jackets.

Should a woman's ski jacket be tight or loose?

More importantly, your jacket should fit you properly. In other words, you want to find a jacket that is warm enough, has enough room for wearing extra layers, and still allows for plenty of freedom of motion.

What kind of jacket is best for skiing?

The best jacket for skiing really boils down to your own personal style, budget, and preferences. You want something that is warm since you'll frequently experience high wind chills while descending downhill. But in the end, you need your jacket to be waterproof, breathable, and comfortable to wear!

How much should you spend on a women's ski jacket?

The prices of ski jackets can vary wildly depending on the brand name, the materials used, and the features offered. More affordable jackets can be found from brands like Mountain Warehouse for as low as $50 to $75, however, these won't offer nearly as much warmth or durability. On the other hand, jackets from brands like Helly Hansen can run anywhere between $300 to $500.

What do you wear under a ski jacket?

If you're wearing a non-insulated jacket, you're likely going to want to wear a few layers of long underwear beneath your jacket. Preferably, you'll want to wear layers that are warm, but breathable, and that can easily be added or removed as necessary.

Conclusion

Happy woman skiing wearing a helmet and red jacket in the snow

Choosing a ski jacket is a tricky business. 

Hopefully, after reading this post, you have a clearer idea of what features you're looking for in your ski gear, as well as exactly what style of jacket is best suited to you and your needs. 

With all the options listed above, you are sure to find something which has the right combination of waterproofing, breathability and insulation for you. 

If you know what kind of cut, length, style and color you want as well as what features like extra pockets you want, then you're certainly informed enough to make a perfect choice. 

Make sure you read the manufacturer's product description thoroughly and check out reviews of the jackets you're interested in. This way, you can be sure you're not going to be disappointed with your purchase. 

Don't forget to try it in-store too, or be sure to know your measurements precisely when ordering online. 

This will ensure the jacket will fit perfectly, and you'll be ready to hit the slopes without delay!

Don't forget to check the best ski bottoms for women to match with your jacket.

Christa Burkett

Christa Burkett

Christa is an avid skier who loves to explore the world. She has a particular love for speed and snow which she first found in her adulthood but since then she's made up for it by volunteering at ski resorts and learning from the best.
Published November 1, 2021
Last updated March 9, 2024

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