Ski jacket categories
| Category | Build | Typical customer |
|---|---|---|
| Resort shell | Waterproof 2L or 3L shell, uninsulated, worn over layers | Resort skiers and snowboarders who like to layer |
| Insulated jacket | Shell fabric with synthetic fill or insulating fabric | Cold-climate and casual resort riders |
| Backcountry shell | Light 3L shell with big vents and helmet hood | Ski touring and freeride |
| Softshell touring jacket | Stretch softshell, sometimes with Alpha-type insulation | High-output touring in cold, dry conditions |
Snow-specific features
- Powder skirt with snaps or zip-in connection to pants
- Helmet-compatible hood with a stiffened brim
- Lift-pass, goggle and media pockets
- Pit zips and mesh-lined vents
- Wrist gaiters with thumb holes
- Reinforced shoulders and cuffs for edges and carrying skis
- Pants and bibs with boot gaiters, scuff guards and zip vents. See hard shell pants
Insulation and warmth
For insulated ski jackets we agree the insulation type, weight and baffle layout in the tech pack. Active insulations such as Polartec® Alpha suit touring; synthetic fills of different weights suit resort wear. We test warmth against your climate and price targets rather than quoting fill weights alone.
Typical spec ranges
| Item | Typical range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Shell waterproofness | Commonly 10,000 to 20,000 mm or higher | Method and rating set in the tech pack |
| Breathability | Commonly 10,000 to 20,000 g/m²/24h or higher | Match the method to the claim |
| Seams | Fully taped on waterproof styles | See seam-sealed construction |
| Insulation | Set by use: none, light, mid or heavy | Confirmed with layering tests |
Industry-typical ranges for orientation; actual values are confirmed per program.
What to send for a quote
- Tech pack, sketch or a reference garment (photos and measurements are fine to start)
- Size range, sizing market and quantity per style and colour
- Fabric direction: hard shell, softshell or a named Polartec® platform, plus target price
- Required features: hood type, pockets, vents, zippers, insulation, reflective details
- Testing needs (for example hydrostatic head, breathability, seam strength, wash tests)
- Sample timeline and bulk delivery window
Trademark note: Third-party branded membrane and fabric names belong to their respective owners and are used here only as buyer search terminology. Material access, authorization, labeling rules and public performance claims are confirmed for every program.
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