aussieskier’s expert team is made up of passionate skiers who have spent years exploring mountains across the globe. From carving groomers in Europe’s top resorts to tackling deep powder in Japan’s backcountry and navigating the rugged terrain of North America, our experience covers every aspect of the sport. We have spent countless hours in all sorts of different gear exposed to the elements, and we know a thing or two about how to stay comfortable, warm, and dry.
Layering is key when dressing for skiing and snow sports, especially in variable weather. A proper layering system typically consists of a moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating mid-layer, and a protective outer (read "jacket). The base layer helps regulate body temperature by pulling sweat away from the skin, while the mid-layer provides added warmth with materials like fleece or synthetic insulation. The outer ski jacket acts as a barrier against wind, snow, and moisture. By layering effectively, skiers can adapt to changing temperatures and conditions throughout the day, ensuring comfort and flexibility on the slopes. Your choice of jacket style usually comes down to either an insulated jacket, or a shell with no insulation.
Choosing the right ski jacket depends on your destination and the conditions you’ll face. For colder climates like Japan, North America or Europe, an insulated jacket offers superior warmth, keeping things simple when you desire superior warmth. Its important to remember that a warm jacket can become a hot jacket when you being active. Over heating when skiing will cause you to sweat, so make sure you pair an insulated jacket with a reliable moisture wicking base layer. Managing moisture inside your jacket is key to ensure you stay comfortably warm, and your excess sweat doesn't lead you to cooling down when you stop moving.
When skiing in more variable conditions, or looking for superior breathability and overall improved performance, a shell jacket paired with appropriate layers provides the versatility needed to handle everything from sunny groomers, endless powder, and high exertion backcountry adventures. If you plan on skiing in warmer spring conditions or prefer a more active style of skiing, a shell jacket is also ideal for its breathability and flexibility. A shell jacket will always provide the maximum amount of versatility, allowing you to choose the right amount of warmth/insulation depending on the conditions.
Have a read through of our Outerwear - Buyers Guide for a detailed breakdown of everything you need to know when shopping for your next piece of winter gear. If you are unsure about sizing, features, or what might suit you best for your next snow seeking mission, feel free to reach our to our team of seasoned skiers with any questions you might have.