The hiking jacket: all the qualities you need for skiing
While good kit is essential for taking on the mountains, the quality of your ski outfit matters just as much. If you're a passionate mountain explorer and are thinking about wearing your hiking jacket for skiing, this article is for you.
Built to face the cold and stand up to the wind
- The primary function of ski clothing is to create a kind of protective shield against the cold. Because it is 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, your jacket must provide optimum resistance to cold and wind penetration. To insulate your body from the harshness of the elements on the slopes, your hiking jacket is perfectly suited — provided it is fully enveloping and made from a specialist windproof fabric.
- A "3-layer" fabric, in which the waterproof membrane is laminated between 2 layers of fabric, is the ultimate choice for keeping every discomfort at bay. These fabrics deliver significantly better waterproofing and breathability performance than 2-layer or 2.5-layer fabrics. The jacket acts like a thermal bubble, protecting the entire torso, neck and arms. This membrane, combined with sealed seams, locks in all the body heat generated inside your jacket for lasting warmth.
- Choose a jacket with a hood as protective as a balaclava, fitted with well-cinched wrist cuffs. This will minimise heat loss through the extremities. Pair your jacket with thermal base layers, a fleece and a good pair of windproof gloves, and you're set for a full day on the slopes without the 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 optimum weatherproofing. It is specifically designed to prevent any water infiltration, forming an impenetrable barrier against rain and snow. Wrapping yourself in a fully waterproof jacket means treating yourself to the pleasure of experiencing the mountains in all their forms. You'll carve confidently through the snowflakes and take in the beauty of the landscape at your own pace, even in heavy rain.
- If you enjoy high-mountain walking and already own a jacket for your excursions, make sure to check its waterproof 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 out moisture. A rating of 10,000 mm or above guarantees you'll stay dry in the most extreme conditions.
- Sealed seams enhance the waterproof qualities of your jacket — and they're also extremely robust and resistant to abrasion. Make sure your garment also benefits from a waterproof DWR treatment, not just a water-repellent finish. This detail might seem minor to beginner skiers, yet it is crucial: heading out at altitude means facing weather conditions that can vary considerably and change throughout the day.
Breathable, like a second skin
- Because the sensation of cold and discomfort often sets in alongside moisture, sweat must be expelled quickly. The ethos of a "waterproof-breathable" jacket is to deliver, as the name suggests, a dual beneficial action. A ski jacket must be capable of effectively blocking out external moisture, while still allowing the skin to breathe.
- Let's highlight once more the qualities of "3-layer" technology — specifically its ability to ventilation the body evenly. The microporosity of the membrane enables constant moisture regulation inside the jacket. When you ski, 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 an indispensable asset for skiing. If your jacket features an integrated underarm ventilation system, even better. The armpits are an area of the body prone to heavy sweating during intense effort. Strategically placed, these vents are ideal for channelling sweat before it spreads across the body.
Comfortable whatever the challenge
- Wearing a waterproof jacket for skiing doesn't mean sacrificing comfort or style. You can absolutely choose a ski outfit that is as pleasant to wear as it is great to look at.
- Your jacket should be engineered to give you total freedom of movement. For the ultimate in comfort, go for an outdoor jacket that combines lightweight materials with the ergonomics of a preformed cut. Skiing is a sensation sport — it doesn't mix well with an overly padded coat that constricts your body. Ideally, the outer face of your jacket should be made from a thin, stretch fabric. If the inner lining is also soft and lightweight, don't hesitate.
- The cut and construction of a jacket are important criteria to consider before heading to the slopes. Choose a jacket that comes down well at the back, as this is an area of the body particularly vulnerable to the cold. Pay close attention to the finishing details. Double-slider zips and magnetic fasteners at the top of the collar help prevent cold air getting in and give your jacket a premium feel. Go for a model with interior pockets and a hood compatible with MP3 cable routing and headphone use.
As you'll have gathered, your waterproof hiking jacket offers a host of advantages for skiing. First, its technical performance, waterproofing and breathability — generally superior to those of a ski jacket — mean you can ski in any weather, including tough conditions. It also offers outstanding versatility: this jacket will serve you just as well for hiking, trekking, ski touring, snowshoeing and even cross-country skiing — what better than one great jacket for all your favourite activities. Finally, this type of jacket offers the greatest adaptability to outdoor temperatures: simply adjust your mid-layers to stay just warm enough, dialling in the right amount of insulation to match your effort level and the temperature.
Convinced? Ready to hit the slopes in your favourite hiking jacket?
