There’s no better time to revamp your skiing wardrobe right before or just as the skiing season begins. And of them all, a ski jacket is the most important as it protects the most important part of your body – your chest, arms, and head. Notwithstanding whether you’re doing resort or backcountry skiing, picking a waterproof skiing jacket is a no brainer. After all, there’s no point in being covered from head to toe if the water is going to seep into your jacket and leave you freezing on the slopes. When it comes to the right women’s waterproof ski jacket, you have tons of great choices, with brands like Moerdeng, Burton, Columbia, and more. So much so, that it becomes difficult to decide what’s best.
While that answer largely depends on your personal choice, there are a couple of other aspects that you need to keep in mind too. We’ll discuss those below as well. In the end, getting the right ski jacket for women boils down to sifting through every jacket’s features to find what’s the right one for you. To save you the arduous legwork, we’ve compiled the best of the lot that includes everything from insulated jackets to shell ones. To that end, here are the 13 best women’s waterproof ski jackets that can make your search easier.
How To Choose The Best Women’s Waterproof Ski Jacket
Choosing a waterproof ski jacket is just like choosing a regular ski jacket, plus looking out for its waterproofness. So, what are the aspects you need to look at before buying such a ski jacket for women skiers?
Types
Ski jackets are largely divided into four kinds – lightwell shell, softshell, insulated, and 3-in-1 jackets. Lightweight shells are uninsulated jackets that are great for skiing in the summer when heat retention isn’t important. Softshells are non-waterproof, stretchy, and breathable, and are perfect if you’re skiing in dry snow like at the Best Skiing Resorts In Colorado. Insulated jackets, on the other hand, are very popular because they’re lightweight as well as comfortable. Finally, most budget skiers tend to be enamored by 3-in-1 jackets, which are not only waterproof but offer warmth as well.
Waterproofing
Generally, all ski jackets come with some basic amount of waterproofing capacities. So, it all boils down to whether you want to invest in a high-end Gore-Tex one or a budget waterproof jacket. So, if you’re going to be sticking to the bounds of your resort, then basic insulated jackets are perfect. However, backcountry and touring holidays will require you to invest in jackets with a waterproof membrane in a Gore-Tex shell. They’ll helps protect you against harsh wet elements. In addition, you need to look for jackets with a durable water repellant coating, which is known as DWR coating. It prevents wet snow and moisture for seeping through. The only jackets that aren’t waterproof are softshell ones, which work best for non-wet skiing in summer.
Additional Features
Besides its waterproofness, there are a plethora of other extra features a ski jacket has. For instance, if your head and neck both run cold, then look for one with a large and warm hood. A powder skirt which is connected to the jacket near the waist is another great feature. They help block the snow from sneaking up in times of a tumble and when you’re in deep snow. Wrist gaiters help keep the draft out of your sleeves and your arms and hands warm, while RECCO reflectors help find you quickly in cases of mishaps such as avalanches or accidents.
Wantdo Mountain Ski Jacket
13
It’s hard to find a great women’s waterproof ski jacket for less than $100, but the Wantdo Mountain Ski Jacket is one excellent choice. If you want to save money and are an occasional skier, then this jacket is a fabulous budget-friendly pick. What makes it so great is that it has all the specs of expensive jackets at a price that’s reasonable. It’s not just windproof and waterproof, but also breathable and yet warm at the same time. It’s also one of the Best Waterproof Jackets For Skiing overall, thanks to the water-repellent Polyester Shell and the PU membrane.
There are also plenty of tech details that you’ll find on pricier jackets, including an internal drawcord at the hem, a detachable, adjustable hood, and a spot to thread your earbuds through.
Pros:
- Excellent waterproofing levels due to the polyester shell and PU membrane.
- Retains heat very well.
- Windproof.
- Has a ton of pockets.
Cons:
- None, really.
The North Face Thermoball Triclimate
12
A bonus buy is always great, but with The Thermoball Triclimate Jacket from North Face, you get three jackets at the price of one! The jacket’s clever design allows you to add or subtract layers to make it into your ideal combination coat. To begin with, there’s the seam-sealed waterproof shell, which is stretchy enough so it doesn’t hinder your movement on the slopes. Next is the Thermoball liner, which can be zipped off and even worn separately. Moreover, it’s designed so that it keeps you cozy and toasty even when wet. The 3-in-1 comes in the form of two layers zipped and combined together to form one warm ski jacket that’s waterproof and keeps you warm. So, in a single purchase, you deftly end up getting both an insulating mid-layer and a waterproof shell.
There’s a lot more to like about this jacket, which includes pit zips, lots of internal and external pockets, and comes in a large range of sizes – XS to XXL. So, if you’re looking for a versatile jacket for the slopes, then this is it.
Pros:
- 3-in-1 versatility.
- Value-for-money offering.
- Insulates well even when it’s wet.
- Excellent quality.
Cons:
- It’s on the heavier and bulkier side.
Columbia Whirlibird Interchange Jacket
11
A favorite women’s waterproof ski jacket with skiers is the Whirlibird Interchange Jacket from Columbia. Famous for making high-quality ski jackets, Canada Goose doesn’t compromise on style either. That is evident in this gorgeous and stunning down jacket, which is perfect for zipping down the slopes as well as for apres-ski afterward. It comes in a stunning array of colors, including two choices where it comes in double shades. So if you’re looking for a dose of style with functionality, then this jacket is ideal. It features the brand’s signature ‘Omni Tech’ shell that is both windproof and waterproof, as the liner reflects body heat and keeps you toasty. Despite only the critical seams being taped for water resistance, the jacket works like a charm in wet conditions too.
What’s more, it boasts a hood that folds all the way back. Plus, the 3-point and zip-in interchange system make it easy to be worn in different winter weather conditions. Plus, it even has underarm venting. For so many features available at a reasonable price, this jacket is a real bargain.
Pros:
- Available in many colors.
- Zipped-in, 3-point interchange system is versatile.
- Waterproof.
- Stylish.
Cons:
- None, really.
Burton Jet Set
10
Besides being an excellent ski jacket, the Burton Jet Set also ranks amongst the Best Burton Women’s Snowboard Jackets. And, it’s easy to see why. The jacket combines warmth and coziness with a functional yet extremely flattering slim fit look. So, for all those ladies who feel that ski jackets are unflattering, the Burton Jet Set breaks quite a few myths. Moreover, the jacket pairs well with anything, as it’s available in a whopping 31 colors and designs! Right from floral to camo and from teal to white, you’ll find a whole range of colors to suit your likes and preferences.
What makes the Jet Set such a great jacket is that it’s designed from 40% recycled content. So, all you eco-conscious people out there, consider the Jet Set before any other jacket. The Living Lining combined with the Thermolite insulation helps regulate body temperature. On the other hand, the two-layered and breathable Dryride fabric keeps the moisture and water out. Plus, the jacket comes with other great features such as tons of snag-free pockets including zippered microfleece handwarmer ones, and a removable waist gaiter.
Pros:
- Comes with a ton of features.
- Available in lots of colors.
- Excellent slim-fit look and design.
- Made from 40% recycled content.
- Waterproof.
Cons:
- If you run cold, then you might have to add another layer beneath the jacket.
Moerdeng Women’s Waterproof Ski Jacket
9
If you’re looking for a nice ski jacket below $100, then the Moerdeng Waterproof Ski Jacket is another excellent budget women’s waterproof ski jacket. For a price of $65-80, the ski jacket sure packs a punch with its style and feature set. Firstly, it comes in a dazzling array of colors, right from neon green and denim blue to even a camo design in a rose-red shade. The jacket is coated with a water-repelling fabric that’s also durable and fluff-lined that keeps water completely at bay. Moreover, it’s windproof too, so you can wear this jacket in any weather imaginable. Plus, the jacket retains heat and keeps you warm and toasty, while the outer, quick-drying material keeps moisture at bay.
Besides a zippered closure, the Moerdeng women’s waterproof ski jacket also features an adjustable and large storm hood that keeps the wind away from your head. What’s more, the stretchable glove holes and adjustable cuffs help seal in the warmth. So, whether you’re snowboarding or downhill skiing, this jacket which comes in a range of sizes, is perfect.
Pros:
- Comes in five sizes.
- Available in an array of colors.
- Extremely warm.
- Waterproof and keeps moisture out.
Cons:
- Some users who run cold reported that it isn’t warm enough.
Spyder Women’s Amp Ski Jacket
8
You can’t go wrong with a jacket from Spyder, which is one of the official suppliers to the US Olympic team! The Spyder Women’s AMP Ski Jacket is one of their best waterproof jackets, thanks to the 3M 100g Thinsulate insulation in the liner. So, it not only retains warmth but also keeps moisture out. All this while being thin and lightweight, and yet providing oodles of flexibility. Since it’s a 3-layered jacket, the AMP has a waterproof membrane that provides an additional layer of breathability and waterproofing. To top that, the jacket features the brand’s ‘Spylon’ water-repellent finish that beads water up so it’ll just roll off the shell.
This layer not only keeps water off, but also provides resistance to stains and dirt. Aside from the critical seams being taped for good measure, the jacket also boasts zippered hand pockets for tucking your hands in for warmth. Plus, you can also use it to stash quick-access stuff.
Pros:
- Removable hood.
- Coated with a 100% waterproof polyester DWR coating.
- Thinsulate insulation keeps you warm.
Cons:
- Slightly on the expensive side.
Helly Hansen Women’s Alphelia Lifaloft Jacket
7
The Helly Hansen Alphelia Lifaloft Ski Jacket is not just a great women’s waterproof ski jacket but is also one of the most comfortable ski jackets on this list. Despite being ridiculously form-fitting, the jacket is made from four-way stretch fabric that doesn’t deter mobility at all. Moreover, the stretch lining and articulated elbows add to the all-day comfort factor. Since it’s a Helly Hansen product, the jacket is completely waterproof, along with full seam taping for added measure. It’s also breathable and windproof, and one of the warmest in the market, thanks to the Lifaloft insulation.
However, that’s not all. You’ll also find venting on the jacket, so it doesn’t feel warm on hot days on the slopes. Plus, it comes with a plethora of features such as a detachable hood and a powder skirt, and even electronics and a ski pass pocket!
Pros:
- Lots of usable pockets.
- 100% waterproof with fully taped seams.
- Four-way stretch fabric makes it easy to move around in.
Cons:
- Quite expensive.
Columbia Bugaboo II Fleece Interchange Jacket
6
There’s nothing about the Columbia Bugaboo II Fleece Interchange Jacket that you won’t love. Not only is it an excellent waterproof jacket, but it’s also counted amongst The Best Women’s Fleece Jackets from Columbia. To begin with, it comes with two layers of fabrics. So, whether you’re summer skiing or zipping down the slopes in the very heart of winter, this jacket is perfect. During summer, all you need to do is wear the outer waterproof layer, and you’re safe from both the powder and unexpected rain too.
Apart from a ton of pockets, the jacket is so popular because it’s interchangeable and can be worn inside out. So, you can travel without worrying about bringing the wrong jacket. Finally, the outer waterproof layer is not only breathable but also reflective and comfortable, making this an all-around jacket.
Pros:
- Very comfortable.
- Keeps you warm and toasty.
- t’s waterproof as well as heat reflective.
Cons:
- Slightly bulky.
Arc’teryx Sentinel AR Jacket
5
One of the best women’s waterproof ski jackets for 2020 is the Arc’teryx Sentinel AR. This jacket’s standout feature is the weather-resistant, durable, and high-tech resort shell that outperforms the competition. So, it’s no surprise that ‘AR’ stands for ‘all-round,’ which accurately sums up this jacket. To begin with, the hefty Gore-Tex 70D shell build is impenetrable to moisture and wind. So, no matter how cold it is, this jacket keeps you toasty. Moreover, the watertight zippers and completely taped seams leave very little room for error and make sure no moisture seeps in.
There’s a lot more to like about this jacket. The oversized ski helmet-compatible hood along with exterior drawcords keeps wind and moisture out of your face. Moreover, the adjustable, snug-fitting powder skirt at the base keeps both the wind and snow out, especially in case of a tumble. However, what you’ll like most about the jacket is its longer hemline and tapered cut, which looks sleek when compared against other boxy ski jackets. So, if you’re looking for a great women’s resort jacket, then this definitely sits atop the list.
Pros:
- Refined design.
- Breathable and stylish.
- Weather-resistant.
- Durable.
Cons:
- Powder skirt cannot be removed.
Columbia Women’s Alpine Action Omni-Heat Jacket
4
If you’re looking for a reasonably priced high-performing ski jacket sans sacrificing style, then look no further than the Columbia Women’s Alpine Action Omni-Heat Jacket. If you’re a budget skier who doesn’t want to manage layers, then this jacket is it. Firstly, it’s available in a range of solid colors that stand out on the mountain – think fire engine red, gray, black, etc. What’s more, it’s relatively soft and with a smooth mesh, reflective Omni-Heat interior that makes it all the comfier.
Despite not being a thick, layered jacket, the Alpine Action boasts an insulated shell that will keep you warm even on the rainiest and windiest of days. Rounding up the features is the all-important Omni-Tech coating that keeps all water out while allowing your jacket to breathe when it’s hot. The best part? It’s machine washable.
Pros:
- Waterproof.
- Warm.
- Affordable.
- Machine washable.
Cons:
- Some users found it a tad too warm.
- No pit zips.
Columbia Women’s Mount Bindo Insulated Jacket
3
The Columbia Mount Bindo Insulated Jacket is an excellent women’s waterproof ski jacket, packing in a ton of great ski-specific features at an excellent price. If you’re a new skier, then Mount Bindo is particularly good for you. The Bindo features everything from a helmet-compatible hood and goggle pockets to ski pass pockets and even a powder skirt. What you’ll also like about the jacket is the lack of a longer hem, leaving it just stylish enough for the slopes. Besides coming in sizes XS to XXL, the Mount Bindo also comes in a gamut of colors, including a really nice dusty pink.
However, what we liked most about Mount Bindo is its waterproof shell fabric with 60 grams of insulation as well as its two-way stretch construction. So, the insulation is enough to keep you warm on the slopes of the resort. Plus, it doesn’t deter your mobility and movement either.
Pros:
- Classic parka style with a shorter hem.
- Available in a range of sizes and colors.
- Waterproof shell fabric.
Cons:
- Some users reported that you might feel slightly chilly in this.
Arc’teryx Sentinel LT
2
There’s no better high-end shell jacket than the Arc’teryx Sentinel LT that’s ideal for avid skiers looking to upgrade their ski gear. To begin with, the Gore-Tex shell with C-Knit backer is the Sentinel LT’s standout feature. It’s completely windproof and waterproof and can withstand the harshest of wet weather elements while being breathable at the same time. What’s more, the jacket comes with features that suit both freeride touring in backcountry and downhill skiing. these include adjustable cuffs, a helmet-compatible hood, and a powder skirt. Plus, an interior mesh pocket, a zippered inner pocket, and two hand and two chest pockets are easily accessible.
Besides the excellent longer cut of the jacket, the jacket allows you to layer separately and tailor your insulation needs according to the weather. On the whole, the Sentinel LT is a standout ski jacket for both waterproofness and durability.
Pros:
- Presence of pit zips.
- Lots of features.
- A ton of interior and exterior pockets.
- Extremely waterproof and durable.
Cons:
- No insulation, but that’s standard for backcountry softshells.
Outdoor Research Hemispheres
1
Topping the list of women’s waterproof ski jackets is the Outdoor Research Hemispheres. It comes from the able stable of Outdoor Research, which offers the most bang for your buck. That said, the jacket offers a slew of features, starting with the superb waterproof Gore-Tex C-Knit backer fabric, which is also more breathable and has more softness and stretch than many other waterproof shell fabrics. Moreover, the Gore-Tex with Stretch technology fabric is completely waterproof and windproof, while not deterring mobility even a little bit.
Additionally, the jacket features large TorsoFlo side vents from the hem to the armpit for dissipating heat quickly. Since the Gore-Tex shell doesn’t have insulation, you have the choice of layering up any way you want. Rounding up the feature set is a great number of ski-specific features, including adjustable cuffs, pit zips, and a helmet-compatible hood.
Pros:
- Offers ease of mobility while keeping you warm.
- Excellent ventilation.
- It’s both waterproof and windproof.
Cons:
- Practically none.
