The Best Ski Jackets of 2011
If you're looking for a ski jacket that will last you through the entire 2011 ski season, you'll want a garment that's warm enough to keep you focused on your run, but not so bulky that you'll feel weighed down or that you'll reduce your range of motion. The best ski jackets use lightweight insulating material that you can use thin layers with so that you can also wearing it for spring skiing with only a tee shirt underneath. Read on to learn about some of the best ski jackets for both men and women this season.
Dare 2B 5000 Ski Jacket
If you're looking for a men's budget ski jacket this season, make sure to check out this affordable option from the British store ASOS. This bold red jacket originally sold for over $250, but you can now buy it from ASOS for only $76. The jacket has a funnel neck, a hidden zip closure with a wind panel, white vertical zip pocket for your iPod, and cool stripe details on the long sleeves. You'll find twin zipper lower pockets, Velcro cuff tabs, and a hidden hood. This retro style jacket will look great on the slopes, and you'll have fun going all the way with the look with some neon ski pants.
The North Face Amore Ski Jacket
This fashionable women's ski jacket will look just as good on the lift as on Fifth Avenue. It comes in black and has all the functionality of a pure high-tech jacket, however. You'll find an adjustable EZD-tech hood with hidden front and side pockets, as well as a powder skirt to keep you dry. There's an adjustable hem system for a perfect fit, as with a lift clip. This one uses 550 fill goose down and HyVent 2L on the outside for insulation. You can buy it for $259 from Bloomingdale's.
Helly Hansen Velocity Jacket
This highly functional women's ski jacket sells for $280 at Nordstrom. It comes in black or white and uses the brand's patented Helly Hansen HellyTech fabric, which is designed for extreme breathability. The jacket has a WarmCore lining made for the grossest day, as well as articulated arms and a removable hood. This one also features a snow skirt, underarm zippers, and a wrist ski pass pocket. While this one isn't as fashionable as The North Face jacket, it's a bit more rugged.
Spyder Brasi 10,000 mm Ski Jacket
This is currently a steal from ASOS, as it originally went for $572 but now sells for $216. From the highly respected ski brand Spyder, the Brasi coat comes in black and has a stand collar, cool paneled sleeves, and Velcro cuffs for an adjustable fit. This one also has twin zipped pockets and a full front zip covered by press studs, as well as double flap pockets above the hemline. This one is designed to keep you dry, but you'll probably want to wear a warmer layer underneath for winter skiing. If you're wearing it off the slopes, it will look great with a pair of light wash denim.
