What is the best ski jacket for backcountry ski touring?

Question

I'm looking for recommendations from experienced backcountry skiers on this one. I'm looking for an extremely lightweight (<1 pound), waterproof outer layer that is easily packable when not needed.

What brands and models would you recommend?

Answer 1

I like the Sporthill stuff a lot. The 3sp fabric is very warm and very breathable. Avoid wearing a waterproof jacket (even Goretex) for any length of time when working hard; they don&#039;t breath enough and you will get soaked, then cold.

A sporthill jacket, with a breathable shell such as ones from Sierratradingpost.com  is a good combo.

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Answer 2

I hauled a big heavy ski jacket into the woods once...that was a mistake. It spent most of the time in my pack.

I normally stash my Marmot Precip rain shell into my pack in the event I need something waterproof. If I need it on the way up, it&#039;s fairly breathable so I don&#039;t get soaked skinning or booting up a slope and if I need it on the way down, it does the job until I get back to camp or my car.

I have a wide variety of mid-layers ranging from windstopper shirts, to vests, to windbloc fleece, to wool sweaters. 9 out of 10 times my mid-layer is enough to get me through the day and if it rains or snows, the lightweight rain shell does the job.

I got that shell in 2001 and it is still in pretty good shape. Some delamination here and there, but nothing major. I also use it all summer when hiking.

Answer 3

Columbia. best all around will last you years.

Answer 4

Don&#039;t stick to ski brands try looking at burton.com they have the best jackets for winter. There AK series is great and it designed for backcountry

Answer 5

Try Mountain Equipment Coop or Taiga on-line out of Vancouver BC  Top grade gortex layered jackets and more