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Integrated powder skirts, pass access, adjustable hoods and hems, and a plethora of pockets — all features can make or break a jacket. Read on for our favorite snowboard jackets of 2022.
Getting ready to gear up for the winter season? Already dreaming of snow? Make sure you’re prepared. Namely, with the right snowboard jacket that will keep you protected, dry, and warm — wherever your board takes you.
Scroll through to find out which jackets and shells made the list or jump to a category below:
The Best Snowboard Jackets of 2022
Best Overall: Patagonia Powder Bowl — Men’s & Women’s
Patagonia’s Powder Bowl Jacket works for snowboarders and skiers alike. (In fact, it made our best ski jackets list for women, too.) The Powder Bowl ($399) combines a trusted GORE-TEX shell with features like watertight zippers, pit zips for ventilation, a helmet-compatible two-way-adjustable hood, and a whopping six pockets.
Patagonia calls it its most “versatile waterproof-breathable hard shell.” On top of that, 68% of the fabrics in this jacket are recycled materials, and the jacket is Bluesign-approved and Fair Trade.
For snowboarding especially, this shell rocks. It’s roomy enough to layer underneath, it has a RECCO reflector for safety when traveling in the backcountry, and the GORE-TEX fabric is durable enough to stand up to wear for several seasons. (This is one of the only top jackets that has a RECCO reflector.)
This shell isn’t the lowest-priced jacket on our list, but it also isn’t the steepest. Simply put, it’s a great middle-priced, well-fitting shell. What you get with the Powder Bowl is great quality — quality of the materials, the features like GORE-TEX fabric, watertight zippers, jacket-to-pant integration, a RECCO reflector, and more.
Specs:
- Shell: 2-layer GORE-TEX
- Insulated: no
- Recycled content: 100% recycled face fabric
- Waterproof/breathability rating: N/A
- Seams: fully taped
- RECCO reflector: yes
- Number of pockets: 6
- Weight: 33 oz.
Check Men’s Price at evoCheck Women’s Price at evo
Runner-Up: Mountain Hardwear Exposure/2 GORE-TEX Pro Shell — Men’s & Women’s
This Mountain Hardwear shell not only stood out in testing, but we also noticed it’s a really popular option on the slopes. Maybe one of the best shells out there, the Exposure/2 Jacket ($650) uses GORE-TEX’s Pro three-layer waterproof breathable membrane with a nylon face with a DWR coating.
In terms of adjustability and fit, this jacket rocks on that front as well. The Mountain Hardwear Exposure/2 has slightly longer coverage in the back (great for snowboarders), an adjustable hood, adjustable cuffs, and an adjustable hem.
Its three-layer GORE-TEX Pro waterproof breathable membrane is also top-notch. If you’re looking for a no-fuss, high-performance, breathable shell, consider this one.
Top it all off with long pit zips, an interior drop pocket, fully sealed seams, and an amazingly packable light weight of just 14 ounces. Looking for a good go-to hardshell for snowboarding and other uses this winter? This jacket should top your list.
The reason it’s our runner-up and not the top choice? It runs slightly large (even factoring in layering). And the chest pocket placement didn’t thrill some of our female testers. (Also, it’s on the pricier side.)
Specs:
- Shell: 3-layer GORE-TEX Pro
- Insulated: no
- Recycled content: 100% recycled nylon face fabric
- Waterproof/breathability rating: 28,000/20,000
- Seams: fully sealed
- RECCO reflector: no
- Number of pockets: 4
- Weight: 14 oz.
Check Men’s Price at BackcountryCheck Women’s Price at evo
Best Budget: REI Co-op Powderbound Jacket — Men’s & Women’s
This REI shell jacket is the perfect size and length (relaxed fit, on the longer side) for snowboarders. The Powderbound Jacket ($199) has a two-layer waterproof-breathable shell material made by REI. It’s Fair Trade sewn and Bluesign-approved. More importantly, it’s a good balance of waterproof and warm, though REI doesn’t disclose its ratings here.
For those who mainly ride at resorts or side country and don’t do much backcountry travel, this jacket is a must-have, especially if you’re looking at a budget of just $200.
The length is great, and so is the pocket placement (this jacket has a pass pocket, goggle pocket, hand pockets, and more). The adjustable cuffs are wide and did a great job of keeping snow out — same with the snow skirt. And for $199, REI gives you some pretty clutch jacket features — articulated elbows, pit zips, and insulation in both the arms and core.
Our only con? The hood isn’t quite helmet-compatible. And if you ski more than 50 days, you may want to invest in something with stronger waterproofing powers.
Specs:
- Shell: 2-layer laminate
- Insulated: 80 g in core, 60 g in sleeves
- Recycled content: no
- Waterproof/breathability rating: N/A
- Seams: not specified
- RECCO reflector: no
- Number of pockets: 6
- Weight: 27 oz.
Check Men’s Price at REICheck Women’s Price at REI
Best Women’s-Specific: Volcom Aris GORE-TEX Insulated Jacket
The Volcom Aris ($280) is a well-fitting (standard fit), flattering, well-equipped insulated jacket we found perfect for snowboarding.
The Aris uses maybe the most popular fabric out there — a two-layer GORE-TEX shell with a PFC-free DWR. It also has toasty warm 80g low-loft synthetic insulation.
And this jacket won us over with all the other little details: YKK AquaGuard zippers, a jacket-to-pant interface, long pit zips, a taffeta-lined interior and brushed tricot-lined pockets, and a hood adjustable in two places.
This is one of those jackets that’s designed so well that it feels familiar from the first day you put it on. Its fit features also make the jacket accessible to women of different heights and sizes — adjustable cuffs, hem, and hood.
Whether you aim for a more urban-style jacket or a more modern-style jacket, the Aris caters to both. Style isn’t high up on our list as a testing criterion, but let’s face it, most of us do want a jacket that feels and looks good.
Specs:
- Shell: 2-layer GORE-TEX
- Insulated: 80 g in core, 60 g in sleeves
- Recycled content: no
- Waterproof/breathability rating: 28,000/20,000
- Seams: fully taped
- RECCO reflector: no
- Number of pockets: 4
- Weight: not specified
Check Price at evoCheck Price at Amazon
Best for Backcountry — Men’s: Arc’teryx Rush GORE-TEX Jacket
One of the most waterproof/breathable shells on this list, the Arc’teryx Rush was built to protect and impress. The Rush Jacket ($749) uses top materials, like a sturdy three-layer GORE-TEX shell with the highest waterproof rating money can buy. It definitely caters to those who need a shell that can perform for several seasons over.
“Really solid” and “rad” were two adjectives used by our staff to describe this shell jacket. If your routine is to dress in a baselayer, midlayer, and then shell, this shell is a great one for that application. If you prefer layering over an insulated snowboard jacket, consider the Rush.
“The shell I used last year for resort and backcountry riding was the Arc’teryx Rush Jacket,” said our staff tester Jake Ferguson. “I plan to use it again this year since it’s rad.”
What makes it rad? Well, the top-shelf GORE-TEX membrane for one, combined with a helmet-compatible quality hood, articulated design and gusseted underarms for better range of movement, relaxed cuffs that fit easily over gloves or mitts, hidden RECCO reflector, powder skirt, and drop hem.
Top it off with a new sustainable color scheme — Arc’teryx makes one model of this jacket with “dope dyed fabric.” (Dope dyed refers to fabrics that are pre-dyed, which requires no water and uses reduced energy and chemicals in the process.)
A top-quality shell and top-quality durability also mean a top price. But, if you snowboard a lot and want a jacket that can stand up to high use, the Rush is worth the big bucks.
Specs:
- Shell: 3-layer GORE-TEX Pro
- Insulated: no
- Recycled content: N/A
- Waterproof/breathability rating: 28,000/RET value of 6
- Seams: fully taped
- RECCO reflector: yes
- Number of pockets: 5
- Weight: 19 oz.
Check Price at evoCheck Price at Arc’teryx
Best for Backcountry — Women’s: Outdoor Research Skytour AscentShell Jacket
Our best shell and backcountry-performance jacket for female shredders is Outdoor Research’s Skytour Jacket ($349). New for fall 2021, the Skytour is made with Outdoor Research’s AscentShell technology.
Of all the shells we tested, this one was our female staff favorite in terms of waterproofness, breathability, and stretch. It performs super well in the backcountry, the fit and sizing are accurate, and it’s equipped with lots of features — namely a RECCO reflector, long pit zips, and quality pockets (both in terms of size and placement).
If we had to pick only a few favorite things to brag on about this jacket, it’d be the combo comfort and durability of the shell, and the adjustable hood (which fits over a variety of helmets). All in all, if you haven’t upgraded your shell in a while, the OR AscentShell should definitely go on your list.
Note: This jacket also made our list for Best Ski Jackets.
Specs:
- Shell: 3-layer electrospun AscentShell membrane
- Insulated: no
- Recycled content: no
- Waterproof/breathability rating: 10,000mm/20,000g (and 0.5CFM air permeable)
- Seams: fully taped
- RECCO reflector: yes
- Number of pockets: 7
- Weight: 20 oz.
Check Price at BackcountryCheck Price at Amazon
Best for Resort: Burton Covert Jacket
Perfectly insulated, tons of features, great pockets, and overall style all contribute to why the Burton Covert Jacket ($220) is a great choice for resort-oriented snowboarders.
It’s not the most waterproof or breathable, but this jacket has a lot to offer. First, it’s a super great price. Second, it does have a lot of features, including ample pockets (one for media access), pit zips for venting, a removable powder gaiter, and a helmet-compatible, one-hand adjustable hood.
This was one of the warmest jackets we tested, and a few testers of different sizes and heights all liked the fit. These are the main reasons it made it as our resort choice.
Burton also made a big effort with the sustainability of this jacket, using 40% recycled content insulation and ensuring that all the fabrics are Bluesign-approved.
Specs:
- Shell: 2-layer Burton DryRide membrane
- Insulated: 80 g in core, 60 g in sleeves
- Recycled content: no
- Waterproof/breathability rating: 10,000/5,000
- Seams: critically sealed
- RECCO reflector: no
- Number of pockets: 6
- Weight: 35 oz.
Check Price at evoCheck Price at REI
Best for Park: Armada Baxter
This jacket is basically a hoodie with a waterproof membrane. Perfect for park or resort? We think so. The Baxter offers only the essential features (read: minimalist), but also quality features at a really low price.
The Armada Baxter ($170) has a 10,000mm/10,000g waterproof/ breathable rating, which is standard but fairly ample if you ski in drier climates. (This is not the jacket for you if you frequently find yourself in wet weather or buckets of pow.)
Whether you’re hitting up the park for just a lap or are hanging there all day, the Baxter keeps comfort, dexterity, and style front of mind. This jacket is a longer length compared to others on the list, making it a better choice if more coverage is something you seek.
And despite not having a true shell membrane, it has fully sealed seams and does keep moisture at bay. It also has some pretty nice details like adjustable cuffs, insulation in the core and hood, and a laminated brim on the helmet-compatible hood.
Our final feedback: This is a pretty sweet jacket overall, though it’s lacking pockets.
For those who appreciate simplicity but are still after a jacket that performs well and is comfortable, the Baxter is a great choice. And the low price is pretty hard to beat.
Specs:
- Shell: 100% polyester with C6 DWR finish (water-resistant, not waterproof)
- Insulated: 80 g in core, 60 g in sleeves and hood
- Recycled content: 90% recycled insulation
- Waterproof/breathability rating: 10,000/10,000
- Seams: fully sealed
- RECCO reflector: no
- Number of pockets: 2
- Weight: not specified
Check Price at evoCheck Price at Backcountry
Best One-Jacket-Quiver: Jones Mountain Surf Parka
Where other items in the all-new Jones Outerwear collection are geared specifically for performance on the uphill, the Mountain Surf Parka ($390) is an everyday jacket that works as well on bluebird park days as it does on a blustery skin track. This baby is supremely accommodating in all conditions — the most comfortable and versatile jacket our tester has ever tried.
Lined with 100% recycled 40g PrimaLoft insulation, the predominant characteristic of the Mountain Surf Parka is warmth, but not at the sacrifice of movement or breathability. Its tough, body-mapped shell features two types of PFC-free fabric — a two-layer, waterproof, ripstop, recycled polyester in the hood and shoulders, and a more breathable, two-layer, four-way-stretch recycled polyester around the torso.
This pairing means protection where you get wet, and breathability where you sweat, enhanced by zippered pit vents that make dumping heat a breeze. We generally keep them open for the downhill, and zipped for the lift.
Another favorite trait of this parka is the hood, which fits easily over a helmet, can cinch down in a flurry, and moves with the head as it turns, so vision is never compromised. For storage, each of the parka’s nine pockets are designed for a different use, with a pass pocket in the left forearm and a cellphone stash tucked into the chest, where it stays warm and holds battery life longer.
To cover your bottom half, pair the Parka with the Mountain Surf Bib for a killer all-mountain outfit that works in any conditions and will last multiple seasons.
Specs:
- Shell: 2-layer body-mapped 4-way stretch polyester
- Recycled content: 100% recycled face fabric
- Insulated: yes (PrimaLoft Bio)
- Waterproof/breathability rating: 20K/20K
- Seams: fully taped
- RECCO reflector: yes
- Number of pockets: 9
- Weight: 950g/33.5 oz. (size medium)
Check Price at REICheck Price at evo
Best for Splitboarding: Ortovox 3L Guardian Shell Jacket — Men’s & Women’s
Looking for a decked-out hardshell that can perform on the uphill or when touring? We’re looking at you, splitboarders. The Ortovox Guardian ($750) is a fan favorite for our staff (skiers, splitboarders, and snowboarders alike).
Unlike some other Ortovox jackets, this one has a looser fit — making it great for those on boards. It also has offers a great range of movement, with four-way stretch and a two-way adjustable hood. More features we like include the removable powder skirt, wider cuff adjustments, and long zipper pulls on the pit zips and pockets.
And we can’t review this jacket without mentioning the delicious “merino on skin” backing that Ortovox built in. Cuddly but capable and bonus points for wicking power? Yes! Unique, functional, and comfortable — this feature is a solid one.
This shell is also one of the lightest on our list, behind our best picks for backcountry and the Mountain Hardwear Exposure/2 GORE-TEX Pro. But it’s also the most expensive.
Specs:
- Shell: 3-layer with DWR treatment
- Insulated: yes
- Recycled content: no
- Waterproof/breathability rating: 20,000/20,000
- Seams: fully sealed
- RECCO reflector: no
- Number of pockets: 4
- Weight: 25 oz.
Check Men’s Price at OrtovoxCheck Women’s Price at Ortovox
Most Sustainable: Picture Organic — Men’s Object Jacket & Women’s Seen Jacket
Picture’s ski shells are about as sustainable as ski shells can get. The men’s Object ($299) and women’s Seen jackets ($299) are very similar — both are made with a two-layer 20,000mm water column rated material with a PFC-free DWR treatment.
In addition to the sustainable outer, the Picture Object shell is also made with a 64% recycled polyester with DRYPLAY membrane, while the women’s Seen is a touch even more eco-friendly, made with a bio-sourced fabric (64% bio-sourced polyester and 36% recycled polyester).
Both jackets have fully taped seams, YKK waterproof zippers, underarm vents, powder skirts, a designated pass pocket, and a pretty good warmth level, thanks to Picture’s body-mapped Thermal STD insulation in the body, hood, and sleeves.
In terms of differences, most are only in terms of style, color, and fit. The women’s is a slim fit, while the men’s is standard. The women’s jacket keeps the 60g insulation in the hood for warmth up top, while the men’s Object drops the hood insulation to 40g.
Specs:
- Shell: 2-layer recycled and bio-sourced waterproof/breathable fabric
- Insulated: 40/60 g in the body and sleeves
- Recycled content: 64% recycled content
- Waterproof/breathability rating: 20,000/20,000
- Seams: fully taped
- RECCO reflector: no
- Number of pockets: 6
- Weight: 34-45 oz.
Shop Men’s at evoShop Women’s at Backcountry
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Best of the Rest
686 GLCR GORE-TEX Jacket — Men’s & Women’s
If you’re looking for a quality GORE-TEX jacket with a longer length designed for snowboarders, 686’s Core Shell ($280) and women’s Willow Insulated jacket ($320) are both fantastic options.
One of the best and only longer-coverage GORE-TEX jackets on this list, the men’s Core and women’s Willow both feature a two-layer, Bluesign-approved GORE-TEX poly fabric with a DWR treatment and fully taped GORE-TEX seams.
Both men’s and women’s styles have helmet-compatible hoods, attached powder skirts, Lycra wrist gaiters and adjustable cuffs, and five total pockets (two hand pockets, one pass pocket, one goggle pocket, and one media access zippered pocket). And best of all, both include a lifetime warranty.
The only difference between the men’s and women’s styles is that the women’s version has an added 40 g of 70% recycled infiLOFT insulation. We found it provides nice warmth while not being so much that you can’t use this jacket for touring or uphill pursuits.
The other difference is the men’s has unique venting at the chest with a water-resistant zipper, while the women’s Willow has standard pit zip venting. For less than $350, this all adds up to a great deal.
Specs:
- Shell: 2-layer GORE-TEX
- Insulated: 40 g
- Recycled content: yes (women’s)
- Waterproof/breathability rating: 10,000/10,000
- Seams: fully taped
- RECCO reflector: no
- Number of pockets: 5
- Weight: not specified
Check Men’s Price at evoCheck Women’s Price at evo
Burton Dunmore
With a 4.8-star rating on Burton, this 2020 jacket was (and is for another season) a great choice if you’re looking for a workwear/street-style snowboard jacket. The Burton Dunmore ($250) is a great-priced, versatile snowboard jacket that can stand up to a fair amount of moisture and use. And it retains that classic, relaxed-fit shredder style.
Unlike our top favorite for riding park from Armada, the Dunmore does have a waterproof/breathable laminate (Burton’s two-layer DryRide). It also has a powder skirt to keep out powder on deep days, ensuring that you stay dry.
More added features? Pit zips and a removable hood. Bonus points to Burton for unique, nontraditional color choices too.
Similar to the Armada Baxter, it also has insulation made with recycled content, as well as a 10,000/10,000 waterproof/breathable rating, and this one’s fabrics are Bluesign-approved.
Specs:
- Shell: 2-layer with PFC-free DWR
- Insulated: 40 g
- Recycled content: 40% recycled
- Waterproof/breathability rating: 10,000/10,000
- Seams: critically taped
- RECCO reflector: no
- Number of pockets: 5
- Weight: not specified
Check Price at evoCheck Price at REI
Volcom Ten GORE-TEX Jacket
Another staff favorite that didn’t quite make our top picks is the Volcom Ten Jacket for men ($320). This Volcom Jacket shares similarities with the Volcom Aris — it’s a middle-of-the-pack, standard-to-relaxed fit two-layer GORE-TEX shell.
The men’s Ten Jacket, while not our best pick, is still a great product. It’s waterproof and windproof, has many pockets with good placement, and works great for snowboarding. It also has fully taped seams, a two-way adjustable hood, mesh-backed pit zips, and solid waterproofing.
Top it off with six pockets (our testers really like the double chest pockets and overall style) and an eco-friendly PFC-free DWR coating. Right now, the 2020 version of this jacket is on sale.
Specs:
- Shell: 2-layer GORE-TEX with PFC-free DWR
- Insulated: no
- Recycled content: no
- Waterproof/breathability rating: 28,000/20,000
- Seams: fully taped
- RECCO reflector: no
- Number of pockets: 6
- Weight: not specified
Eddie Bauer Powder Search 3-in-1 Jacket
Looking for an all-in-one jacket system? This one from Eddie Bauer has you covered. The popular Powder Search 3-in-1 ($215-360) offers a fully seam-sealed, 10,000/10,000 waterproof/breathable shell with the brand’s “Super DWR” plus an integrated zip-in down liner. Wear just the shell or ideally both — this system is Eddie Bauer’s warmest and (we think) most versatile ski shell.
In terms of versatile features, the Powder Search 3-in-1 has a detachable helmet-compatible hood and a removable powder skirt. Add that to its standard features like adjustable cuffs and hem, venting, and five pockets (including a designated pass pocket), and it’s easy to see why this jacket is a comfortable choice for those who spend lots of time on snow. Eddie Bauer’s down liner uses RDS-certified 650-fill-power down — plenty to ensure you stay warm.
Why consider this one, aside from the 3-in-1 perks? The waterproof zippers are quality, the hand pockets are larger than average, and the jacket length is just right. And, this jacket also comes in tall sizing.
Specs:
- Shell: 2-layer
- Insulated: 650-fill down
- Recycled content: no
- Waterproof/breathability rating: 10,000/10,000
- Seams: fully taped
- RECCO reflector: no
- Number of pockets: 6
- Weight: 2 lb. 12 oz.
Check Price at AmazonCheck Price at Eddie Bauer
Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose a Snowboard Jacket
Choosing a Jacket: Shell or Insulated?
The first thing you’ll want to decide when it comes to buying a snowboard jacket is if you want just a shell or a waterproof shell with an insulated liner. Some jackets have added insulation in the core, sleeves, and hood for warmth.
A shell is what keeps you protected from wind, cold, and moisture — and is really all you need. Choosing a shell versus insulated jacket depends on where you’ll be snowboarding (backcountry or resort, wet versus dry climates, and personal preference).
You’ll also want to look at the type of shell: a two-layer, 2.5-layer, or three-layer material. A two-layer shell has a face fabric bonded to the waterproof/breathable laminate with a liner, though the liner isn’t bonded to the membrane.
A two-layer shell is probably the most common of what’s on the market. A 2.5-layer (the most common one we know is made by GORE-TEX) has a face fabric and a waterproof/breathable membrane with a partially bonded inner liner.
Finally, a three-layer shell will have an outer layer fabric, membrane, and a fully bonded inner liner. These types of shells tend to be the most durable but also more expensive.
In addition to a waterproof/breathable membrane, some shells also have extra waterproofing — a DWR coating or treatment on the face fabric.
Waterproofing and Breathability
Waterproof and breathability ratings are an important factor to consider when looking at any snowboard jacket — be it a $200 jacket or a $600 shell. Waterproof ratings are measured in mm and range from 5,000-30,000 mm, while breathability ratings are measured in g/m2 and range from 5,000 to 20,000+. The higher the number, the better the waterproofing.
Breathability is sometimes also measured on an RET (Resistance to Evaporative Heat Transfer) scale from 0-20, with most jacket garments in the 0-6 or 6-13 range. Here, a lower number translates to better breathability.
Most jackets with GORE-TEX membranes sit in the 15,000-20,000 waterproof rating range. Higher quality shells (most that we tested) usually ring in at 28,000/20,000. This means it’s waterproof against very wet or heavy snow and will remain waterproof under higher pressure, and it’s also more breathable.
If you’ll be using your snowboard jacket or shell for touring or backcountry travel, the breathability of the garment is important. If you’re mainly a resort goer or don’t snowboard very often, you can get away with a lower breathability rating.
Features
Buying a snowboard jacket is an investment and, of course, you want one that has everything you need. Features like pit zips or venting (great for uphill travel), exterior and interior pockets, a powder skirt for keeping snow out on high-pow days, and more are important to consider. Some people also like a removable powder skirt or removable hood, which can make a jacket more versatile.
We recommend you first look for a jacket in your price range and sizing, decide which type of shell or jacket is best for you, and then consider all the extras. With any of the snowboard jackets we’ve listed here, you really can’t go wrong.
FAQ
What Is the Difference Between a Ski Jacket and Snowboard Jacket?
Ski jackets tend to have a more athletic or slimmer fit and are lighter weight, while snowboard jackets tend to be baggier, longer at the hem, and heavier. They all have features like waterproofing, helmet-compatible hoods, adjustable cuffs, pockets, and snow skirts to keep loose snow out.
Many of the jackets we’ve listed here are either well-equipped insulated jackets or shells that can work for either sport.
How Do I Choose a Snowboard Jacket?
Our buyer’s guide is a great place to start! Do you research, figure out what features you want in a jacket, what style jacket you want, and which ones are in your price range. We’d also recommend trying a few on if possible, especially if you’re taller or shorter than average or in between sizes.
We’ve tested and recommended a variety of jackets so everyone has options!
Should I Size Up in a Snowboard Jacket?
If you fall in between sizes, we do recommend sizing up. For outerwear and snowboard jackets especially, some roominess is usually factored in.
Each manufacturer will have its own size charts for male or female categories. Match up your personal measurements to the size charts and check the return or exchange policy before purchase.
Pro tip: If you see a jacket on this list from a brand you already own, try on the jacket or item you have and see how it fits. You can always go into your local retailer as well if you want to try on a particular size in person — just make sure they have it in stock.
Should a Snowboard Jacket Fit Loose or Tight?
A snowboard jacket should be slightly loose (but not too loose) in the shoulders and waist so your range of motion when snowboarding isn’t affected. It should fit like a standard jacket everywhere else.
If you have a snowboard jacket that is insulated, you may only need a baselayer or a light midlayer underneath. If you have a shell, you’ll most likely wear more layers and something insulating like a puffy as well. Shell jackets are sized larger for this purpose to accommodate layering. That being said, it’s always a safer choice to have a jacket fit slightly loose than too tight.
Too tight, and your motion will be restricted, you won’t be comfortable, and even accessing pockets might be harder. We’ll also call out here that fit is based on preference — some of us like our jackets baggy, some don’t. As long as you’re happy with the fit and the jacket keeps you warm and dry, that’s all that matters.
What’s the Warmest Snowboard Jacket?
Many of the jackets that made our list are insulated from the cold, some even with a different weight of insulation in the core versus the extremities. The warmest on our list in terms of insulation are the Volcom Aris, Armada Baxter, REI Powderbound, and Burton Covert. And if you are worried about your noggin, both the Volcom Aris and Armada Baxter call out an insulated hood as well.
If you’re looking to buy a full jacket system, the Eddie Bauer 3-in-1 Powder Search jacket is insulated with 650-fill down — a great high-warmth option as well.
What’s the Best Snowboard Jacket for Women?
What’s a Good Price for a Snowboard Jacket?
Snowboard jackets — whether insulated or shells — are a long-term investment and worth the money for the protection and comfort they provide in a winter environment. The most economic options usually range from $200 to $300, and the average cost is $300 to $400. The most robust designs, which can be best for long days in variable conditions, can reach up to $700.
Usually, a higher price tag denotes higher-quality materials (things like RECCO reflectors can up the price) or a more time-intensive design and manufacturing process.
Pro tip: Our staff has found some great off-season deals on jackets over the years. If you buy in early fall or can wait until late spring/summer, you may find some of the jackets here as much as $100 to $150 off!
How Long Should a Snowboard Jacket Last?
A jacket can break down for a multitude of reasons, including exposure to sunshine, rain, and snow — and most of all, wear. If you want to get a lot of life out of your snowboard jacket, remember to treat it well.
This means avoiding contact with sharp objects to prevent tears and snags, keeping it clean, and hanging up/hanging out to dry. After a few years of use, you may find yourself doing some extra care on the jacket’s zippers or waterproofing. And be sure to follow the care instructions, which are unique for each jacket.
We typically find ourselves using our favorite ski and snowboard jackets for 5 to 6 years, but that number is often lower for backcountry gear. If you only ride inbounds a couple of weeks each season and take good care of your jacket, its lifespan will be longer — maybe even a decade.
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