Best Tested Ski Clothes (2026): Shells, Jackets, Wool Socks

Oakley

Amazon (Men's)

Backcountry (Men's)

Amazon (Men's)

Whether you're a seasoned alpinist or a green trail aficionado, good ski clothes matter. The right outfit isn't just a matter of style—it's crucial for comfort, safety, and performance. From base layers and the ideal socks, to warm puffer jackets, innovative fleece, and the latest in shell jackets and pants, we have the best options for your style, budget, and ability.

The snow coverage across the US is falling by a staggering 2,083 square miles per year, but our dedication to the trails shows no sign of abating. The global ski gear industry expects to hit $2.45 billion by 2032. It's big business, with global players such as Arc'teryx and Patagonia slugging it out along with a refreshing number of smaller independent brands, not to mention major fashion houses like H&M also getting involved.

While we're guilty of being swayed by technical fabrics and high-performance materials—this is WIRED, after all—there's plenty of great ski clothes for all budgets and ages too. Check out our other outdoor buying guides and reviews, like the Best Ski Gloves and Mittens, the Best Ski Helmets, and the Best Action Cameras.

Updated February 2026: We added the The North Face Freedom Bibs, Columbia Coreshot Jacket, Fjallraven Bergtagen GTX Touring Jacket, Swany Calore Mitts, Stox Compression Socks, Oakley MOD1 Mips Aura, the Montec Doom, the Helly Hansen Emiko, and Mons Royale Yotei Merino Classic Long Sleeve base layer. We also checked links and prices.

Oakley

You watched enough of the Winter Olympics to know your Double Cork 1440 from a Cab Triple 1800 Indy, and you’re definitely going to be stomping them both next time you’re on the hill. But a much easier way to look like a medallist is to dress like one.

The Mod1 Mips is a classic Oakley helmet, offering a reassuring mix of low-profile skate styling and serious skull protection. You probably spotted American athletes, including silver medalist freestyle skier Mac Forehand, sporting a shimmery version in Italy. This is part of the Aura collection from Oakley, which includes goggles and glasses, and while these limited-edition drops usually come with a steep markup, the Mod1 helmet remains a bargain, especially as it has a Boa 360 dial system, and anti-fog venting. Just remember, the cool kids wear their goggles underneath.

Rab

Amazon (Men's)

Backcountry

Amazon (Women's)

Personally, I don't like the bulk associated with insulated ski jackets, and would prefer good layering under a shell, even in the coldest conditions. But with the Diffract, Rab has created a super technical jacket stuffed with toasty warm 100 percent recycled Primaloft Silver insulation. It's lightweight (24.7 ounces or 702 grams, size medium), and far from bulky.

Designed for backcountry adventures, but ideal for resort-bound fun too, the secret here is the use of Rab's own Proflex stretch nylon fabric. It's waterproof (20,000 HH) and impressively breathable (25,000g/m²). But it's also surprisingly soft, stretchy and quiet. The shell rustle is kept to an absolute minimum, and even if you do overheat after hiking up, there's large pit vents to dump any excess heat. I needed these during an unseasonably warm trip to the Alps, but I also enjoyed the freedom to just wear a base layer underneath.

With excellent weather protection, great comfort, and a superb amount of insulation, this is essentially a two-in-one ski jacket that doesn't compromise, and will even save you from carrying extra layers. It also has all the usual extras, including mitten-friendly zipper pulls, four external pockets, a great inside pocket for stashing gloves, and a removable powder skirt.

Swany

Backcountry (Men's)

Backcountry (Women's)

Swany (Men's)

Swany (Women's)

Swany makes highly impressive mittens and gloves. This season, I’ve been obsessed by the comfort and premium quality of the Calore mitts. The shell is 100 percent super supple full-grain leather that looks luxurious, feels even better, and smells great. Inside, a fleece liner with finger channels—like you’re wearing a glove, with mitten warmth—is stuffed with three different layers of Thermolite insulation. It’s thicker on the back, more flexible on the fingers, and thinner on the palm.

The Calore also benefits from a Gore-Tex membrane, making them completely waterproof, and they are also the warmest gloves I’ve tried this season. They're arguably too warm for spring skiing conditions. On that note, please be aware that if you are hot, the liners can’t be removed. If you’re sweaty, they take a long time to dry out.

Columbia

Amazon (Men's)

REI (Men's)

REI (Women's Anorak)

I am a bit of a jacket snob, and I love my technical shells. They are brilliant for changeable conditions and ski touring, but overkill for resort riding when the weather is fine. However, I've been impressed by the Coreshot, which performed brilliantly, has loads of features, and costs less than my gloves did. Seams are fully taped, and the waterproof-breathable membrane didn’t let me down on a deep powder day. It has a generous amount of insulation, providing warmth without bulk. I run hot, but I didn’t need a puffer midlayer even in the low 20s Fahrenheit.

It has everything else most skiers will need, including a good helmet-compatible hood, powder skirt, and adjustable cuffs. Two-way front- and under-arm zips provide ventilation. It has a relaxed, fashion-focused fit that I wouldn’t naturally choose, and you won't catch me in the camo-print version, but if your budget is tight, this is a sensible choice.

The North Face

REI (Men's)

REI (Women's)

Backcountry (Men's)

Backcountry (Women's)

Aside from a few more logistics during bathroom breaks, I’m a huge fan of bib pants. The Freedom Bib from the North Face offers most resort riders everything they will need, without costing more than your Epic Pass. Made from seam-sealed DryVent two-layer recycled nylon and finished with a non-PFC DWR treatment, they’re waterproof, windproof, and fairly breathable. It’s more than most resort-only skiers and riders will need, but don’t confuse them with the long-term protection and durability you’d find from Gore-Tex Pro backcountry-ready gear.

Unlike most of those performance shells, there’s 60 grams of insulation here for added warmth—but don’t worry, they don’t give you a Michelin Man silhouette. I did still need base layers on very cold January days, but they’re ideal as is for spring laps. Comfort is the real winner here, as the suspenders are easily adjusted, the gaiters really nice and stretchy, and there’s so many pockets for gloves, layers, and snacks. The bib front also adds extra warmth and snow protection, and the fit is generous enough to look fashionably relaxed without making me feel like a teenager.

Osprey x Houdini

Osprey

Houdini

Named after the Swedish word for “everything”, this gorgeous collaboration between Osprey and Houdini has been designed for year-round use, which should help to take the sting out the searingly high price. It is also made from 100 percent polyester to make end-of-life recycling—both brands will take it back—easier, and also improve its repairability.

The adjustable back panel fits snugly and I really appreciated the comfort of the shoulder and hip straps. It's a welcome change from the minimalist mesh designs on many performance bags. 20 liters isn’t huge for a backcountry pack, and 3.12 pounds is quite heavy, but the clever storage arrangement and weight distribution made it easy to forget about, even when loaded with layers, water and snacks. Despite having all the bells and whistles of a backcountry pack, I actually think this is better for resort use in winter, especially as it lacks quick-access to the avalanche tool storage. With great rope clips, comfort, durability, and style, I can see myself using it regularly away from the mountains.

Fjällräven

REI (Men's)

Fjӓllrӓven

Be quick! This phenomenally durable ski touring and mountaineering jacket from Swedish outdoor specialists Fjallraven is currently on sale at REI. It’s still expensive, but even at full price I’m happy to recommend it. With only black and deep green colorways, it’s fairly boring from a fashion POV, but it should be the jacket you buy and trust for years. It’s the skiing equivalent of the Carhartt Detroit jacket.

It has 3L Gore-Tex ePE-free laminate for waterproofing, and the 70D polyester shell is 59 percent recycled, and brilliantly durable compared to a basic ski shell. It’s not a jacket offering cuddle levels of comfort, but it will stoically keep you protected in the worst possible conditions. 20.4 ounces (size M) is surprisingly light for such a burly shell, and while it lacks the stretch of some new fabrics, there’s plenty of room for layers and movement. If anything, I could have sized down, so do check the measurements. Special mention to the large helmet-compatible storm hood and two-way front zip that makes cooling off and accessing bib pant pockets much easier. There’s six pockets too, with the large chest designs specifically for keeping touring skins safe and warm, although on a family trip they held plenty of spare layers. —Jeremy White

Montec

Montec offers affordable ski and snowboard kits in a wide range of colors and patterns, and I was impressed with the quality of the Doom shell jacket. The Doom, which comes in an insulated option as well, has a 20,000-mm waterproof rating, fully-taped seams, and 20,000 g/m² breathability rating. The real magic is in the design and fit. I’m typically not a fan of anorak jackets—I want to be able to zip in and out easily and not pull anything over my head. The Doom solves this problem. You get the look and convenient pocket placement of an anorak, but there's also a full front zipper that’s placed off to the left and provides two-way zipping. A zipper on the right stops halfway down your body, so you can adjust the collar fit, dump heat from your chest, or take the jacket off over your head if that’s your thing. It’s not the thinnest, lightest, or most packable shell, which means it isn’t the best backcountry choice.

The Doom also has pockets galore. I keep my pass in the main kangaroo pouch, which has pockets within pockets so you can still warm your hands without anything falling out. A higher mid-chest pocket is perfect for a phone. Two large, mesh internal pockets are great for sandwiches and goggles. You also get pit zips, a powder skirt, adjustable cuffs, wrist gaiters, a fleece-lined collar, and an adjustable hood. The slightly oversized fit makes it easy to move in, and it’s proved to be shockingly durable against tree branches and board edges. The color-blocking always gets compliments, too. There’s not much the Doom is missing, which makes it hard to beat for the price. —Kristin Canning

Helly Hansen

Amazon

REI

Helly Hansen is the official gear partner of more than 55,000 professional skiers, sailors, ski patrollers, rescue service providers, and mountain guides, and the brand designs its gear based on those pros’ feedback. You can see that innovation in the Emiko, a lightweight, fully-seam-sealed, three-layer shell jacket with a 20,000-mm waterproof rating and 20,000 g/m² breathability rating. The 630-gram jacket comes with RECCO in the hood, a passive reflector that can help search and rescue find you if you’re lost in the mountains or in an avalanche. High-visibility neon hits on the two-way adjustable, helmet-compatible hood, and logos aren’t just a nice design touch; they make it easier to be seen in white-out conditions too.

The fit sets it apart from most comparable shell jackets—the boxy silhouette and slightly cropped hem is inspired by the design of Japanese snow gear, which is particularly flattering on more petite builds. The articulated sleeves make it easy to move without anything riding up, and the back is cinchable if you want to add a waistline. A bulky front zipper tab helps you dump heat without taking your mittens off. It comes with three pockets, one vertical entry on the left chest and two horizontal entries on the bottom front, one containing an attached goggle wipe. The flaps over the bottom pockets are sewed down on the outer side, making them a little annoying to get into. You’ll also get a power skirt, adjustable cuffs, wrist gaiters, a fleece-lined collar, and a pass pocket on the sleeve. The Emiko is truly minimalist and thin, making it a good pick for adventures outside the resort too. Be careful with your edges, though: The outer fabric started to fray and wear through where it made contact with my snowboard. —Kristin Canning

Halfdays

Nordstrom

Halfdays

The fleece-lined mid/high-rise Alessandra Pant has a fitted, flared yoga pant silhouette, with an adjustable waist, thigh vents, gaiters, and a 20,000-mm waterproof rating. I’ve worn these consistently for two seasons, and I’ve never suffered from a wet butt (no matter how many chatty breaks I took). There are two zippered pockets on the sides, and the flares at the bottom are adjustable with zippers. I’m a snowboarder, so my boots are wide, and these fit over the top just fine when they’re unzipped. They’re super stretchy and easy to move in, especially for a more fitted pair of snowpants.

The Alessandra Pant is available in a short inseam option—which is a major game changer for me. They don’t bunch up on top of my boots like so many snow pants do when you’re on the shorter side. FYI: The pants’ snap closure at the top sometimes likes to pop open. —Kristin Canning

Patagonia

Rei

Patagonia

With the R1 Thermal hoody, I wanted to know if a relatively thin fleece could replace a traditional puffer jacket in the mountains. When temperatures aren't Arctic low, the answer is an unequivocal yes. I love the versatility of this jacket, and since testing in early season conditions, it has become a mainstay of my skiing, walking, climbing, and general weekend chores wardrobe.

The microgrid fleece backing is super soft, the face fabric is impressively wind resistant, and the cut is comfortably fitted, without feeling like I'm trapped in a sausage casing. Pair it with a shell jacket and a merino base layer, and if you're working reasonably hard, you shouldn't get cold. Made from 91 percent recycled polyester and 9 percent elastane, there's a generous stretch too, and the hood is designed to be worn comfortably under a helmet, which does take some getting used to.

There's thumb loops in the extended-length sleeves too, which can help keep your hands warm, although I've yet to find an example that doesn't cause me some palm discomfort.

Arc'teryx

evo

Rei

My all-time favorite ski shell is an Arc’teryx Beta SV from around 2017/18. It remains bombproof, albeit with the help of regular DWR treatments, but you can’t buy it anymore, unless you make me a very generous offer. But you can buy the new Arc’teryx Sabre, which is arguably as good, and a whole lot better for the planet.

This superb three-layer jacket is made from 80D ePE Gore-Tex, meaning it’s free of intentionally added PFAS chemicals. It’s not as thick as the 100D Gore-Tex Pro $900 Sabre SV, but most people simply don’t need that level of protection, or investment. The Sabre has an adjustable hood that swallows up your helmet comfortably, and even lets you turn your head, while the addition of a micro fleece style flannel backing gives it a softer and warmer feel to a basic shell. It does trap heat better as a result, and I appreciated the pit-vents when the sun shone.

At 5-foot 9-inches and 170 (ish) pounds the medium fits me well. The sleeves are slightly long, but offer great protection and the cuff can go over or under gloves. There’s plenty of room to move and it does look suitably pro, even in bright orange. The matching Sabre Pants are a little ski-slim for my snowboarding tastes, but there is a relaxed fit too.The meticulous construction, the reinforced taped seams and attention to the smallest detail help stand this jacket out from the pack, and if it’s anything like my OG favourite, will protect you for many years, which is just as well given the price.

Nivis

You'll pay a lot of money for a lift ticket in North America, and if you want to make sure you spend none of that time in chilled misery, this Nivis Protego shell is a wise investment. This jacket moves with you, thanks to four-way stretch fabric that's 12 percent Spandex, but still sports an extremely impressive 25,000-mm waterproof rating while remaining extremely breathable.

With a little help from the pit zips, I wasn't either chilly or sweaty at any point during three days of testing on the slopes in New Mexico. The jacket has thoughtful design touches like a plastic sleeve for your lift pass in the forearm pocket and a hook and loop patch space (it comes with an American flag patch, which I hung upside down until confronted). The pockets are roomy but don't detract from the sleek design, and there's even an aerogel-lined phone pocket, which uses a material known for having extremely low thermal conductivity. That means your mobile phone battery won't get zapped by frigid temperatures. —Martin Cizmar

Woolf Merino

Woolf Merino (Pants)

Woolf Merino (Top)

Woolf Merino is a brand from Norway that make suburb quality, highly sustainable base layers and socks. Their factory was the world’s first Greenpeace-certified textile production facility in Europe. While I know that conjures up visions of hair shirts, trust me, the 100 percent merino layers are luxuriously soft and decadently thick.

I’ve been wearing their gear for a couple of ski seasons now, and they’re fantastically comfortable and my go-to when it’s really cold out. The long-sleeve top has a generous T-shirt cut instead of being overly tight, with a raglan shape and long elasticated cuffs that just feel good to wear. The thermal tights have a tighter fit, which fit perfectly for me, with no irritating seams, so I have no issues pulling my ski socks over them. Yes, I’m afraid that super-thick, sustainably-made 100 percent merino base layers are expensive, but you won't be disappointed if you invest.

Kari Traa

Evo (Top)

Eco (Bottoms)

Kari Traa is a women's-only outdoor brand founded by Norwegian Olympic skier Kari Traa, and many of the pieces feature beautiful Nordic patterning. I adore my merino wool base layer top and bottom from the brand, with their flattering color blocking. The Rose Half-Zip and High-Waisted Pants are some of their thicker offerings, and they’re soft, fitted without being restrictive, not see-through, stretchy, and don’t hold on to any odors. I’ve taken these on multi-day ski trips, and I can wear them repeatedly without any stink. I honestly forget about them when I’m on the mountain (they sit so comfortably), and I love how warm and cozy they feel for apres. These are the type of super-soft, smooth legging you can’t stop running your hands over—they just feel so good! —Kristin Canning

Mountain Warehouse

Mountain Warehouse has been a budget outdoor brand in the United Kingdom for years, but I admit I always considered them too cheap and cheerful to be worth investigating. Then I had kids and realized just how expensive ski wear is in little sizes.

The brand has since launched in the United States, and it is frankly absurd value for money, even at full price (which is rare, as there's always a deal on). For $125 ($60 in the current sale), you get a well-designed snow-proof ski jacket with plenty of padding, soft fleece liner, snow skirt, hood, and lift pass pocket, and a pair of insulated snow pants with elasticated cuffs, ankle-zip suspenders to keep them on, and reinforced knees.

The set is available in seven sizes to suit toddlers to early teens, and in a host of bold, kid-friendly designs. While there's no Gore-Tex or fancy insulation technology on show, the waterproof coating works perfectly well. If you're sadistic enough to be taking your kids out in minus Fahrenheit conditions, then maybe look elsewhere, but for parents who want to keep costs down without compromising on comfort, it's well worth a look.

Burton

Rei

Burton

Regardless of whether your kids are skiing or snowboarding, mittens keep their hands warm and dry for longer. The warmer your kids remain, the longer you get to be on the hill. These mid-priced Burton mittens (for ages 8 to 16) have so much going for them. They're waterproof, thanks to the Dryride membrane and a PFC-free DWR coating. There's a good amount of recycled polyester insulation too.

They're roomy, without swamping their hands—my 10-year-old daughter wore the large without issue, although she could have managed in the medium—and the super-long cuff is easier than most to wrestle over coat sleeves and keep out the snow. But my favorite feature with these gloves is the waterproof zipper on the back of the hand that can be used to dump excess heat (hence the Vent name). It's equally good for stashing a teabag-style hand warmer. This is close to genius-level innovation, as it provides radiant heat without the hand warmer being in contact with skin, and without any chance of bunching in the palm or falling out in the snow.

Darn Tough

evo

Nothing spoils a day on the snow quicker than cold, uncomfortable feet. Having tested over a dozen pairs, these 59 percent merino wool, 38 percent nylon, and 3 percent spandex options from Darn Tough will delight the majority of skiers and riders.

They're fantastically comfortable, with a mid-weight cushioning that never feels bulky in my boots. Designed for skiing and snowboarding, the terry loop structure underfoot and along the shins soaks up pressure, while the generous 17-inch length is a blessing on colder days. There's a welcome X-shaped reinforcement across the top of the foot too, which pulls the sock onto the heel.

But most importantly, they've never once bunched, sagged, or irritated with protruding seams, and the merino wool keeps my feet warm in all conditions. Add in the fact they're still made in Vermont and have an industry leading no-quibble guarantee, and you've got a great pair of socks for life. If you do want a more performance-oriented ski sock however, the Le Bent Cody Townsend Pro Series ($40) feel more like a technical running sock, rather than a traditional ski sock. Bonded silicone strips prevent slipping, while impressive ventilation and compression zones reduce fatigue.

Stox

Treat getting these ultra-snug compression sock on as a warmup, and you’ll be set for a great day on the mountain. The merino/synthetic/elastane mix ensures soft, wicking comfort and a vice-like grip really does help keep twitchy, tired feet and calves at bay.

They’re tight, but not as tight as some, thanks to the graded compression from heel to calf, designed to stimulate blood circulation to keep your feet warm and reduce muscle soreness. Over a week, I really enjoyed wearing these socks, and there was no wrinkle, kink, or discomfort at all. Highly recommended, I just wish they were a little cheaper. —Jeremy White

During the winter, a whole WIRED crew tests ski clothes almost constantly. Here are a few other items that we like.

Hestra Fall Line 3-Finger Gloves for $190: I've long admired Hestra gloves from across the lift line, impressed by the Swedish company's elegant stitchwork and thoughtful design touches. This was the year I finally got to try a pair for myself, and the Fall Line are exactly what they look like. There are six sizes available so you can get the perfect fit in this glove. The cowhide is buttery smooth and has already broken in a bit with five days' use. The wrist strap means you never have to fret about dropping your glove from the lift when checking your phone, and they're very warm without making me sweat. If you do sweat, the lining is removable so you can wash it without damaging the leather. —Martin Cizmar

Crab Grab Snuggler Mitts for $89: These mini sleeping bags for your fingers are packed full of Primaloft insulation and benefitting from a sherpa fleece lining, they are toasty warm, and with a 15K membrane, impressively waterproof too. All-season mittens with durable construction for under $100? Yes Please!

Mons Royale Yotei Merino Classic Long Sleeve for $98: As I type this, I’m nowhere near a mountain, but I’m still wearing the Mons Royale Yotei long sleeve top. It is ridiculously comfortable, made from 190-gsm-weight, 100 percent merino wool, and has a mercifully relaxed cut, so I remain warm, but don’t feel like a sausage. On the mountain however, the merino wool works its magic, wicking away sweat—especially on a hike up to some fresh powder—and keeping me comfortable. Paired with a shell and the Patagonia R1 Thermal Hoodie, I’m warm enough during a bitter arctic blast.

Seniq Powder Puff Down Jacket and Bib

Seniq Powder Puff Down Jacket for $498 and Bib for $398: Seniq is another all-women’s outdoor brand that launched in 2024. It's styled a little more Gen Z, leaning into fun color blocking over the monochromatic look. The Seniq Powder Puff Down Jacket has a dry-touch finish. It’s meant for drier days on the mountain, but a PFC-free DWR coating and YKK AquaGuard zippers do provide water resistance. The asymmetric front zipper helps you avoid chin rub when you have the jacket fully zipped. It also features cool asymmetrical quilting lines, side pockets-in-pockets that provide access to your bib (their bibs have a pocket on the front, so you can get in there without unzipping your jacket), an oversized removable hood, a forearm pass pocket, soft and stretchy wrist gaiters, and a large internal pocket that can absolutely handle a sandwich. This jacket was warm, pillowy, and comforting, like a super-soft hug.

The silky shell bibs are slightly barrel cut, which gives them a flattering shape without being fitted. The adjustable racer back-style straps and low back (with a stretchy waist) also provide a nice shape and breathability. There are two pockets on the front chest, pockets on either leg, two-way zip thigh vents, and a butt zipper for bathroom breaks. These fit easily over my boots, and the instep guards were a nice touch. With a durable three-layer membrane and a 20,000-mm waterproof rating, these will hold up against any and all weather the mountain throws at you. When I wore them on a wet snowy day, they beaded and sloughed off moisture well. —Kristin Canning

Mammut Sender In Hooded Jacket

Mammut Sender In Hooded Jacket for $259: This puffy hoodie is a great mid-layer for under a shell jacket. The insulation is made from recycled rope scraps, and the outer is coated in wind-resistant PFC-free DWR coating. The hem falls at the hips, and the high collar and tight hood keep most of the face covered. I like wearing this piece under shells for snowboarding, but I know it’ll pull double duty as a comfy hiking and camping jacket, too, so it’s a solid multipurpose investment. It’s exceptionally lightweight and warm, though from a volume standpoint, it is on the bulkier side for a mid-layer and isn’t the most packable piece. —Kristin Canning

Helly Hansen Evolved Air Half Zip for $112: This fleece pullover has a waffle-like texture that traps heat and wicks moisture. With a high zippered collar and cinchable hem, you can adjust the fit to make it more air-tight or breathable. This mid-layer felt wonderfully lightweight while still keeping my toasty. It’s not bulky at all, only a little thicker than a base layer, laid comfortably under my jackets, and moved with me on the mountain. —Kristin Canning

Helly Hansen Lifa Base Layer Long-Sleeve Crew for $115 and Pants for $115: These base layers hit the weight sweet spot; they’re not too thick or thin, but just right. They’re slightly looser than other options on this list, so if you prefer something that isn’t so fitted, these are a great pick (but note that they run long too). These combine merino wool with Helly Hansen’s LIFA fibers, which add more moisture-wicking capabilities. They’re soft, lightweight, warm, and don’t hold onto smells. I love the cute designs and how well they regulate my temperature under insulated jackets and pants. The waist digs in a bit but doesn’t roll, and they stay in place and move well. —Kristin Canning

How to Layer

We have a full guide on how to layer, but here are your essentials.

Base layer: A good set of thermals is essential in the fight against cold, especially when you’re working hard. The best fabrics wick away sweat as you heat up, which helps regulate your temperature. Merino wool is the best at this, but also the most expensive. Synthetic fabrics are getting better, though, and please avoid cotton at all costs, as it gets wet and stays that way, making you cold and uncomfortable.

Mid layer: Whether you choose a hooded fleece or puffer-style jacket, this layer does the bulk of the work in cold conditions. Combined with the base layer, it traps warm air in, while also allowing moisture to be expelled. Synthetic insulation such as Primaloft Gold is brilliant and doesn’t lose its properties if it gets wet. Down jackets offer the best warmth-to-weight ratio, but they don’t pack down as small, and should never get wet. A fleece with an insulated vest is a great option if you really feel the cold.

Jacket: While ski jackets with insulation offer bonus warmth in Arctic-like conditions, for most people a waterproof shell will be enough, as it offers protection from both the snow and the wind. A cold wind will chill you to your bones faster than a bit of wet snow. Ideally choose a jacket with a waterproof membrane such as Gore-Tex (make sure it is free from PFAS, or forever chemicals), but also check for taped seams for added waterproofing, plus plenty of pockets for snacks and lift passes, and wrist cuffs and ski skirts to help keep out the snow.

Socks: As with your base layer, socks keep you warm and maintain your temperature when you’re building up a sweat. Natural fabrics work well, but a blend of merino wool with synthetic stretchy fibers is the way to go, as they stay up better and can be used for more than a day. Avoid cotton again, and never wear two pairs, as you’ll almost certainly get colder feet.

Gloves: You’ll be surprised by how wet ski gloves get when it’s snowing, even if you don’t fall very often. As a result, waterproof options work best in most cases, although well-made leather designs can be almost as waterproof as a pair with Gore-Tex. Mittens are generally warmer than gloves, but what you gain in toasty fingers you lose in dexterity. Check out our Best Ski Gloves and Mittens guide for more information.

Waterproofing and breathability ratings: Waterproofing is measured with a hydrostatic head rating, or HH. That means if you put a 1-inch, endlessly long square tube on top of the fabric, you could pour 20,000 millimeters of water before it would seep through. Breathability is rated in how many grams of vapor per square meter can can pass through the fabric in 24 hours.

How We Tested

I've been reviewing winter sports gear for more than 15 years. In that time, I have worn an untold number of jackets, pants, mid-layers, thermals, gloves, and mittens. I called on industry experts and professional skiers, and solicited opinions from fellow winter sport enthusiasts on the WIRED team. While a basic fit check can be done in the office, nothing replaces on-mountain testing in variable conditions. We put in the time on various trips to the French Alps, as well as in resorts in Vermont, Colorado, Arizona, and Oregon.

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