Designed for demanding winter sports like alpine skiing and ski touring, this collection of shell jackets features high-performance models from top outdoor brands. Offering waterproof and windproof protection, these technical shells are ideal for unpredictable mountain conditions. Lightweight, breathable, and layer-friendly, they deliver comfort and performance during high-output activities in alpine environments.
Shell Jackets
A shell jacket is an outer layer that protects you from wind and moisture. Usually worn during high-energy activities, such as alpine skiing, snowboarding, backcountry skiing, or snowshoeing, shells wick sweat and excess heat and keep snow and rain out. They trap some heat, but for winter activities, you will normally wear insulating layers underneath. This layering system allows adding or removing clothing to adjust your temperature, making shell jackets a versatile garment for the different conditions encountered in mountain sports. For example, on a frigid midwinter day, you could wear a fleece as a mid layer, but on a mild spring day, just a long-sleeve merino wool shirt.
Shell Jackets Versus Insulated Jackets
The primary differences between these two types of jackets are versatility and breathability. Shell jackets allow you to cool off by removing your insulating mid layers. While you can add layers for extra warmth when wearing an insulated jacket, you can’t remove the insulating layer that’s built into the jacket when you need to cool off. So, if you tend to run hot or want just one jacket for all skiing conditions, including milder days, a shell jacket is probably the best choice. But if you tend to get chilly and do all your skiing or snowboarding in-bounds at the resort, you may want to go with an insulated jacket, especially in a cold climate.
How to Choose a Shell Jacket?
If you’re looking for a jacket for snow sports, consider your climate and primary activities. Here are a few aspects of jacket design and construction to consider:
2L versus 3L Construction
Most shell jackets are made with either 2-layer or 3-layer construction. Both protect you from wind and moisture, but they differ in feel, breathability, and performance.
2-layer shells are often lined with mesh or taffeta for comfort. They’re a bit bulkier and softer, which makes them a solid choice for resort skiing, especially if you value warmth and don’t need to worry about packability. They are also usually the more affordable option.
3-layer shells are lighter and more breathable. The waterproof membrane is bonded between the outer fabric and a thin inner backing, which cuts weight and increases durability, breathability, and packability. These shells are ideal for ski touring, freeriding, and anyone who spends long days in the mountains.
Fabric Thickness and Density
Another factor to consider is fabric thickness and density, often measured in denier (D). Shells designed for skiing range from about 40D to 150D. Jackets on the higher end have a more durable fabric and capture more heat. They are best for resort skiing and people who are hard on their gear. Lower denier shells will be lighter, more supple, and more easily packable into a backpack. They work well for cardiovascular activities, such as alpine touring or snowshoeing. But if your backcountry outings sometimes turn into long bushwhacking sessions, you may not want to go with the lightest jacket.
Waterproofing and Breathability
A good shell jacket keeps the elements out, but just as important, it needs to dump heat and moisture. That’s where waterproofing and breathability ratings come in.
Waterproofing is measured in millimetres (mm) and tells you how much water pressure a fabric can withstand before it leaks. For skiing and snowboarding at the resort, look for a jacket rated at 10,000 mm or higher. If you often ride or ski in wet snow or stormy weather, go for 15,000 mm to 20,000 mm+ for better protection.
Breathability, measured in grams per square metre per 24 hours (g/m²/24 hrs), tells you how well a fabric moves sweat and moisture away from your body. A 10,000 g rating works well for resort skiing, while 15,000 g or higher is better for touring when you’re generating heat climbing the skin track or shredding deep powder in the trees.
Features to Look For
Shell jackets vary widely in their features, and the right ones depend on how you ski. Here are some key details to look out for:
Helmet-Compatible Hood
Make sure the hood fits over your ski helmet without limiting your range of motion or peripheral vision. It should adjust easily and stay in place on windy days.
Underarm Zips
For ski tourers, freeriders, and anyone who runs warm, underarm vents help release heat without having to remove layers.
Ski Pass Pocket
Usually located on the sleeve or upper chest, this small zippered pocket makes it easy to tap through RFID gates at the resort.
Powder Skirt
This elastic fabric around the waist on the inner jacket keeps out snow and cold air on storm days or when you fall. Some are removable; others connect to compatible pants for full protection.
Adjustable Cuffs and Hem
Look for cuffs that cinch over or under gloves, plus a draw cord hem to block out drafts from below.
RECCO® Reflector
Many shells now include a built-in RECCO® reflector, which aids in search and rescue. That said, it’s not a substitute for a beacon in the backcountry.
Sealed Seams
Many shells have taped seams to keep moisture from penetrating the jacket. In some cases, seams are taped only in key areas. On higher-end jackets, all the seams are sealed, which can be a significant advantage if you’re often out in wet conditions.
