8 best ski jackets to buy this winter

If you’re going to splash some hard-earned cash on a ski jacket, make it one that’s built to last. From reinforced Gore‑Tex and reflective layers that seal in heat, to ventilation and wicking that keeps you snug in the harshest of weather conditions and more sustainably minded materials, winter sports wear has reached new heights when it comes to tech innovations. We round up the best of this winter’s new offerings that combine high performance with some seriously slick silhouettes, many of which will serve as stylish outwear all season long, on the mountain or around town.

Arcteryx, Sentinel Jacket (women)

This is the kind of jacket you’d spot during whiteouts in Hokkaido’s mountains as well as hanging off the back of a barstool in Hackney. Yet the brand’s rise into the ‘quiet luxury’ hall of fame hasn’t diluted its obsession with high-performing materials. Built with N80p 3L Gore-Tex and a soft-brushed flannel backer, the Sentinel keeps things light while still protecting against foul weather. The cut moves well, the fabric stays breathable even when you’re working hard and the storm hood fits neatly over a helmet without feeling bulky. It’s the jacket you want if your ski days swing between sunny powder days and full-on storms — dependable, technical and sharp. £700. BK

Páramo, Velez Evolution Hybrid Smock (women)

Cult British brand Páramo, with its unconventional fabrics and designs, uses its own Nikwax Analogy® system (known as directional), which works to actively pump moisture away from the body using a combination of layers. It’s particularly suited to damp conditions but the waterproof and breathable qualities make it ideal for colder, snowy weather, too. This smock design has full-length two-way twin-front zips for ventilation and provides unmatched freedom of movement. £380.

Halti Gracer W DX Ski Jacket (women)

The Finns at Halti know how to make jackets for cold weather and have been doing so for almost 50 years. Its new Gracer ski jacket is made from bluesign® approved and 100% recycled polyester fabric with DryMaxX® technology and microtherm® dynamic wadding — that means warm, dry and comfortable to you and me. It comes complete with a snow gaiter, Lycra cuffs and a ski pass pocket, all for a very attractive price tag for a high-performing ski jacket. £250.

Salomon Brilliant Jacket 2.0 (men)

New updates to Salomon’s classic insulated ski jacket have added even more warmth. PrimaLoft® insulation sits neatly underneath the AdvancedSkin Dry 20K/20K outer fabric while inside there’s a HeiQ Xreflex layer that works to direct body heat inwards. That’s a lot of tech packed into a jacket that comes with a long heritage of keeping skiers warm and dry, ticking all the boxes for winter days both on and off the slopes. £400.

Picture Huron Gore-Tex 3L jacket (men)

Building on its core sustainability message, Picture Organic has launched a new Gore-Tex fabric three-layer shell (outer) jacket, with an ePE membrane to provide the ultimate protection in all weather. The sleek design is typical of the French brand’s simple and understated look, yet it’s packed full of features such as Teflon EcoElite™ PFC-free water-repellent treatment, a chest pocket with a waterproof YKK® zipper and two inner mesh pockets. £450.

Helly Hansen Atlas Infinity Stretch Jacket (men)

Ideal for skiers needing protection in the harshest mountain conditions, this new jacket combines professional-grade waterproof Lifa Infinity™ technology with stretch material along with Helly Hansen’s own PrimaLoft® Gold Cross Core insulation. Input from pro skiers helped the 150-year-old Norwegian brand to create the ultimate defence against the elements without compromising on eco-credentials or sleek styling. It’s packed full of extras including H2Flow™ ventilation, Life Pocket+™, helmet-compatible hood, Recco® reflector and a zip-away powder skirt. £700.

Rab Khroma Latok GTX Jacket (men and women)

This is a rugged ski shell jacket for all winter conditions. Built with Gore-Tex Pro material, it’s highly waterproof and breathable and is the sort of kit that adventurous skiers need when they’re spending days in remote locations, but want to look the part when cruising the ski resort trails, too. A helmet-compatible hood, fleece-lined chin guard and extended cuffs help keep out snow. £595.

Black Diamond, Recon Stretch Jacket (women)

Skiers looking for lightweight, technical outerwear that’s reliably weatherproof in all conditions, should look no further than the new Recon range from ski mountaineering behemoths Black Diamond. This shell jacket is packed with features including a helmet-compatible hood, removable powder skirt, ventilated pit zips and plenty of pockets for touring skins or an on-the-lift lunch. The BD.dry™ 3L stretch nylon fabric offers maximum protection for ski tourers and chairlift dwellers alike. £380.