When skiing all day in harsh conditions, fashion is nice, but function is critical to keeping you warm, dry, and on the mountain. We’ve laid out 6 ski jackets that each offer a unique version of top technology for the 2010 ski season. From the budget-conscious speedster to the top-of-the-line technical freak, we’ve got you covered.
Men's Technical Ski Jackets
Bode Knows: Kjus Strike Jacket
There’s a reason why Bode Miller rides Kjus – the stuff is awesome. The Strike Jacket’s sleek design matches its super-slick features. Stretch technology and laser-cut fabric keep this jacket streamlined but flexible for maximum movement through any terrain. Waterproofing, insulation, and a removable storm hood combine to protect you from severe weather. And the Recco system protects you in an avalanche. The Strike jacket is a top-of-the-line performance jacket that has the features and style to keep you covered all day in the backcountry and all night at the bars.
Women's Technical Ski Jackets
Function Meets Fashion: The Nils Catherine Jacket
Many technical jackets have a minimalist style approach. With the Nils Catherine jacket, you don’t have to give up style for technical features. The Catherine features a removable faux-fur-lined hood, coupled with top-of-the-line waterproofing, generous insulation, and more to keep you warm, dry, and charging all day. You can have it all with this jacket.
Stretch Fabric Makes You Ski Better: Mountain Hardwear Kramer Jacket
You can’t beat stretch technology for its comfort and simplicity in action sports. And with the Kramer jacket, you don’t have to give up protection from moisture. With its blend of hardshell and softshell fabric and all the technical features you expect, the Kramer is comfortable and versatile.
Versatile Performance: The North Face Lotus Triclimate Jacket
The North Face has earned its reputation in performance skiwear, and the Lotus jacket gives us another reason to love this company. With its 3-in-1 design, you can add the insulated liner when you need it, and zip it out when you don’t. Since you can use either the liner or the shell, or both together, you may not need another jacket all year. This kind of versatility makes the Lotus a great value, and one of our top picks.
Light, Minimalist Tech: Rossignol Fleet Jacket
You don’t get to be a 100-year-old company without delivering on quality year after year. And this year is no exception at Rossignol. The Fleet jacket gives you all the technical features you need—including high-end waterproofing, lightweight insulation, taped seams, and more—at a price that’s as comfortable as the jacket.
Margarita Not Included: Killtec Cantina Jacket
For the budget-concious tech-head, the Killtec Cantina jacket offers performance features without the performance price. You get features like waterproof and windproof fabric, insulation, a zip-off powder skirt, and a removable hood. And the sleek design with a pop of color will make you look like a pro. This is a smart jacket for anyone who’s looking for a great blend of performance and value.