The hiking jacket: everything you need for skiing
There's no question that tackling the mountain requires the right gear — and that includes paying close attention to the quality of your ski outfit. If you love mountain exploration and are thinking of wearing your hiking jacket for skiing, this article is for you.
Perfect for facing bitter cold and braving the wind
- The primary function of ski clothing is to act as a kind of protective shield against the cold. Because it's in direct contact with the elements, your jacket deserves particular attention and should be chosen according to specific criteria suited to skiing with complete peace of mind.
- Above all, the jacket must provide optimal resistance to cold and wind penetration. To shield your body from the harshness of the elements on the slopes, your hiking jacket is perfectly suited — provided it offers full coverage and is made from a specialist windproof fabric.
- A "3-layer" fabric, in which the waterproof membrane is laminated between two layers of fabric, is the gold standard for keeping discomfort at bay. These fabrics deliver far superior waterproofing and breathability performance compared to 2-layer or 2.5-layer constructions. The jacket acts like a thermal shell, protecting the entire torso, neck and arms. This membrane, combined with sealed seams, locks in the warmth your body generates and keeps it there for the long haul.
- Go for a jacket with a visor hood that covers as fully as a balaclava, and sleeves with snug wrist cuffs. This will minimise heat loss through the extremities. Pair your jacket with thermal base layers, a fleece mid-layer and well-sealed gloves, and you're set for a full day on the slopes without any risk of getting cold.
Waterproofing champion
- Thanks to the versatility of the membrane and its microporous texture, the waterproof jacket combines technical expertise and performance to deliver optimal weatherproofing. It is specifically designed to prevent any water ingress, forming an impenetrable barrier against rain and snow. Wrapping yourself in a fully waterproof jacket means giving yourself the luxury of enjoying the mountain in all its forms. You'll carve through the snow with total confidence and take in the breathtaking scenery at your own pace, even in driving rain.
- If you're a fan of high-mountain walks and already own a jacket for excursions, check its waterproofing rating. Waterproofness is measured in mm Schmerber and is listed on the garment's label. The higher the number, the more effective the jacket is at keeping moisture at bay. A rating of 10,000 mm or above guarantees you'll stay dry in even the most extreme conditions.
- Sealed seams enhance the waterproof qualities of your jacket — and they're extremely robust and resistant to abrasion. Make sure your garment has a full waterproof treatment, not just a water-repellent finish. This might seem like a minor detail to beginner skiers, yet it's essential: heading out at altitude means facing weather conditions that can be unpredictable and change rapidly throughout the day.
Breathable, like a second skin
- Because cold and discomfort so often go hand in hand with moisture, sweat needs to be drawn away quickly. The whole point of a "waterproof-breathable jacket" is to deliver, as the name suggests, two key benefits in one. A ski jacket must be able to effectively block external moisture while still allowing the skin to breathe.
- Let's give the "3-layer" technology another nod here — specifically its ability to ventilate the body evenly. The microporosity of the membrane enables constant moisture regulation inside the jacket. When you're skiing, sweat is rapidly expelled through the micropores to prevent the "sauna effect". Before and after exertion, the membrane keeps the body thoroughly dry, with no risk of chilling.
- A breathable, waterproof jacket is therefore a non-negotiable for skiing. If your jacket features an integrated underarm ventilation system, even better. The underarms are one of the body's highest-sweat zones during intense effort. Strategically placed, these ventilation vents are ideal for channelling sweat before it spreads across the rest of your body.
Comfortable whatever the conditions
- Wearing a waterproof jacket on the slopes doesn't mean sacrificing comfort or style. You can absolutely choose a ski outfit that's as comfortable to wear as it is great to look at.
- Your jacket should be designed to give you complete freedom of movement. For the ultimate in comfort, go for an outdoor jacket that combines lightweight materials with the ergonomics of a pre-shaped cut. Skiing is a sensation sport — it doesn't mix well with a bulky, over-padded coat that restricts the body. Ideally, the outer shell should be made from a fine, stretch fabric. If the inner lining is also soft and lightweight, don't hesitate.
- Cut and construction are important criteria to consider before hitting the slopes. Choose a jacket with a long back hem — your lower back is particularly vulnerable to the cold. Don't skimp on the details. Double-pull zips and magnetic collar closures keep out draughts and give your jacket a premium feel. Look for a model with internal pockets and a hood compatible with earphone routing and helmet wear.
As you've probably gathered, your waterproof hiking jacket has a lot going for it on the slopes. First, its technical performance — its waterproofing and breathability, generally superior to a dedicated ski jacket — means you can ski in any weather, even in the toughest conditions. It also offers outstanding versatility: this jacket will go the distance with you on hiking trips, trekking, ski touring, snowshoeing and even cross-country skiing — because nothing beats one great jacket for all your favourite pursuits. Finally, this type of jacket gives you the greatest adaptability to outdoor temperatures: simply adjust the mid-layers underneath to dial in exactly the right amount of warmth based on your effort level and the conditions.
So, convinced? Ready to hit the slopes in your favourite hiking jacket?
