Guide: Finding the right ski jacket for you

A ski jacket is so much more than just a jacket you wear while skiing. Depending on where you are on the mountain, you should look for different details and models. Here's everything you need to know about ski jackets!

When looking for a new ski jacket, the main focus is on what, when and how you will use it. You shouldn't use the same type of ski jacket on the slopes as you would on a ski tour. It's about looking for details that are suitable for the type of skiing you do.

- When choosing the model of your ski jacket, you can think in the same way as choosing a shell jacket when hiking. The less intense you are on the mountain, the more important it is that the jacket is spacious so that you can build up with several layers under the jacket, says product expert Daniel Cohn from Haglöfs and continues:

- "The more intense you are, like when you do summit tours where you go up and go down, the jacket doesn't need to be as roomy because you will get very hot. Rather, the jacket needs to be breathable and lightweight.

What details should I look for on my ski jacket?

- The hood should be compatible with a ski or snowboard helmet. The jacket should have a pocket for a lift pass, high ventilation that releases excess heat when you get hot, and snow locks for those powder days everyone dreams of. The adjustable cuffs should be large so you can easily change the fit without having to take off your ski gloves.

Are there any safety aspects I should keep in mind?

- If possible, the jacket should be equipped with a Recco reflector. This is a Swedish invention that is a way for mountain rescue, ski patrols or similar organizations around the world to find you more easily if you are caught in an avalanche. This is very important for those who go off-piste or are in avalanche-prone terrain. It is a reflector that is usually placedras in the hood of the ski jacket, as it is the head you want to get up first if you are caught in an avalanche.

How should I think about material and color?

- The jacket should of course be durable and hard-wearing, so look for a durable material, such as nylon, in the product descriptions. It is also fun if you dare to buy a jacket in color. In addition to making for more fun pictures, it's also good from a safety perspective. If you are skiing off-piste, you will be more visible if you wear a jacket in a strong color.

If you're off-piste or summiting, look for a jacket with the Recco reflector safety feature so that mountain rescue, ski patrol or similar organizations can find you more easily.

How warm should my ski jacket be?

- It all comes down to the consumer and whether you are cold or warm. Is it the parent just watching the kids at ski school or the skier pumping powder? Dress according to activity and purpose. Our women's padded jackets are perfect for women who are often more cold than others. Otherwise, it's always smart to dress in layers so you can adjust your warmth as you go. Therefore, always bring a thin down jacket or synthetic jacket in a bag, which you can wear under your ski jacket if it gets very cold.

Should my ski jacket be waterproof?

- As long as the temperature is below zero, the risk of melting the snowflakes on your jacket or pants is reduced. But most ski jackets are still equipped with water columns of 10,000 and above, says Daniel Cohn and continues:

- "If you know, for example, that you will be doing some spring skiing where there may be wet snow or rain, this is of greater importance. It can also happen that snow gets stuck between the shoulder straps of your backpack and your jacket. The weight of the bag can push the snow through the outer material. If you ski a lot in loose snow and have a backpack, a tip is to stop and brush off the snow from time to time.

SHOP HERE: Our wide range of ski jackets

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