Let’s face it: the barrier for entry into the resort skiing world is higher than most other sports. First, you’ll need to solidify a layering strategy (typically a base layer, an insulated mid-layer and a waterproof shell), but you’ll also want sturdy safety gear (like goggles and a helmet) and convenient accessories that help you stay warm while sitting on the lifts, as well as on the slopes.
The good news is that there’s a huge variety of ski apparel out there, ranging from expensive technical threads for experienced shredders to sleek ski suits and affordable duds for new-to-the-sport bunny slopers. We’ve gone ahead and handpicked some of our favorites from tried-and-trusted outdoor brands and asked several snowy mountain experts what’s currently in their closets.
The result? A no-nonsense list of the best resort ski gear and apparel on the market today. Read on for our favorite ski jackets, bibs, pants, helmets, poles and more.
Our favorite resort ski jackets
A good resort ski jacket should be waterproof, windproof and insulated to keep your core warm on those harrowing lift rides. You’ll also want to pay attention to the jacket’s length: A longer hip-length cut helps keep fast-melting powder out of your sensitive bits. Below are some of our top picks for durable, bombproof shells and puffies to keep you cozy.
Unlike much of Patagonia’s winter lineup, which focuses on hiking and backcountry skiing, the Storm Shift Jacket features a two-layer PFC-free Gore-Tex outer and a body-mapped fleece lining, making it a bit more insulated for days spent on the groomers. We recommend pairing it with a good insulated mid-layer, like Arc’teryx’s Atom Hoody.
Both the men’s and women’s versions of the Storm Shift come in four different color schemes. Women’s sizes range from XXS to XL, while men’s sizes span XS to XXL.
Columbia has created a true competitor to more expensive jackets with its Highland Summit line, utilizing its reflective Omni-Heat insulation to keep you extra-warm in the gnarliest weather. The exterior of the jacket is waterproof and fully seam-sealed too, so you’ll stay dry if you happen to take a tumble. In addition to these great tech specs, the jacket boasts excellent pockets, including one specifically designed to hold your lift ticket for easy swiping.
The women’s version of this jacket comes in sizes XS to 3X and is available in three colors. The men’s version also comes in three colors and has standard sizes from S to XXL, big sizes 1X to 6X and tall sizes LT to 5XT.
Award-winning freelance journalist and avid skier, Sarah Kuta, loves Houdini’s Rollercoaster Jacket and Bib, because its shell design allows her to layer up or down, depending on weather conditions. “I am also truly obsessed with how many pockets they have, because you can never have too many pockets, especially while skiing,” she says. “The cut and color are also really flattering and look great contrasted against the snow in photos.”
With its high-visibility colors, solid durability and 100% recycled Gore-Tex outer, Mountain Hardwear’s Cloud Bank Jacket is a no-brainer for those who prefer a more relaxed fit and want a piece that truly excels in the sustainability arena.
Though Artilect is perhaps best known for its ultra-warm, lightweight Merino base layers, Doug Schnitzspahn, editor in chief of Elevation Outdoors Magazine, says that this three-layer shell is a true stand-out. “Artilect's Formation 3L Jacket is my choice day-to-day when I ski up at Eldora, my local resort. It has all the three-layer waterproof/breathable protection you want from a shell, and it’s light enough for sunny days or times when I want to work for my turns by huffing up the skin track instead of riding the lifts,” he says.
As a smaller Jackson Hole company that prides itself on being certified climate neutral, Stio’s snow apparel is always a big winner in my book. Built to perform in the harshest Teton conditions, this Doublecharge Insulated Jacket is stuffed with PrimaLoft Silver Eco synthetic insulation, keeping you warm while saving the planet. Prefer a shell style? Check out the Environ Jacket.
“Rossignol is diving into ski apparel, and I’m stoked on the relaxed fit of the Evader Jacket,” says freelance writer and CNN Underscored contributor Heather Balogh Rochfort. “The whole kit has a bit of a freeride style which gives me lots of mobility, and I love the thoughtful features, like the stretchy thumb strap,” she explains.
Looking for that perfectly warm ski jacket that won’t drain your savings account? The Powderbound Insulated Jacket by REI Co-op offers two-layer shell protection over an insulated layer that boasts 80 grams of synthetic fluff. A sustainable, bluesign-approved nylon liner helps protect the planet, while a helmet-compatible hood and high collar help protect your neck and noggin.
The women’s version of this jacket only comes in two colors but has sizes XS to 3X to choose from. The men’s version has six colors and is available in sizes S to XXXL.
One of our CNN Underscored contributors, Jennifer Yellin, skied in the uber-warm Cosima Down jacket for the entirety of last year’s winter season, and according to her, she “wouldn’t think about skiing in anything else again.” She noted that the jacket’s 15,000 millimeter waterproof rating ensured that she stayed bone-dry. “With 550-fill down in the upper body and outer sleeves, I never felt cold — even during single-digit New England ski days,” she says.
Rochfort also heartily recommends Flylow’s Charlie Coat for frigid climates and powder days, especially for snow lovers who tend to run cold. According to her, it’s “a super-warm and breathable ski kit that makes it so easy to catch repeat powder laps on chilly winter mornings.” It’s also built with breathable fabric and pit zips, unlike most down outer layers, meaning you’ll stay ventilated on the gnarliest runs.
“I’ve never felt so free yet protected in a shell,” says writer and CNN Underscored contributor Erica Zazo of Arc’teryx’s Sentinel Anorak Jacket. The fact that it’s not insulated makes it easy to layer up or down, depending on the outside temperature, and an easy switch if you intend to wear the garment uphilling. “Even after carving (and face-planting) in waist-deep powder, I came off the mountain completely dry underneath the jacket. I also loved the ability to unzip the pit zips while skinning up the mountain in the backcountry to let some air in to cool down,” adds Zazo.
According to Schnitzspahn, Arc’teryx is a brand that understands “how to combine fit and function,” which makes them his go-to for big days in intense climates. “If you want to go all out, the Beta Down Insulated Jacket is what you will want to be wearing on a storm day or when temps are way below freezing. The outer shell layer keeps the elements at bay with a layer of Gore-Tex. But it’s the down insulation that really makes this jacket special. This 850-fill European goose down highlights why down is still the best insulator with plenty of loft that stays warm without overheating,” he says.
Though it’s pricier than a lot of pieces on our list, Ortovox’s 3L Deep Shell Jacket truly offers the best of everything — climate neutral, no PFCs, supreme weatherproofing, low weight and ample pockets. An adjustable waistband and storm hood help keep the snow out when you take a tumble, and subtle Merino wool lining where you need it most helps keep your most sensitive bits warm.
Both men’s and women’s versions are available in six colorways. The women’s jacket comes in sizes XS to XL, while the men’s comes in S to XXL.
Our favorite resort ski pants and bibs
The most important thing to ask yourself before investing in a pair of ski pants is, “What kind of conditions am I likely to be riding in?” If the answer is deep powder, you’ll want to select a pair with excellent waterproofing and boot gaiters (or just for a pair of bibs to protect your waist). If you’re likely to hang out on groomed greens and blues, you can likely get a pair of insulated snow pants or a shell and then layer up or down, depending on the weather forecast.
“Stio makes really great functional, durable gear that’s perfect for all snow pursuits,” says adventurer and avid skier Jen Nelson. “They are 100% carbon neutral-certified, and their Environ line is made from 100% recycled polyester.” Tack on the included belt and inner boot gaiters, and you’ll see why we love the Environ Pant so much.
With zippered leg vents, elastic boot gaiters and roomy thigh pockets, it’s easy to see what makes Ortovox’s Deep Shell Pants special. They are an ultra-light, full-featured pair of waterproof pants that’s perfect for hardcore pursuits in the snow. The brand’s incredible sustainability record is just icing on the cake.
The Ortovox bottoms also come in six colors for both the men’s and women’s versions. The men’s pants come in sizes S to XXL and the women’s pants come in XS to XL.
Another design from Rossignol’s recent foray into the world of ski apparel, the Evader Ski Pants are as stylish as they are functional. Designed with an eye-catching two-tone for maximum visibility on the slopes, these trousers are also loaded with three-layer shell protection from the elements and ventilating leg zips. Rochfort loves this kit for its relaxed “freeride style,” which gives wearers loads of mobility.
Affordable, durable and functional, REI’s Powderbound Insulated Snow Pants are one of our favorite budget picks for ski and snowboarding bottoms. Apart from offering high-end features like zippered thigh vents and stretchy boot gaiters to keep out snow, they’re also fair trade-certified and come packed with 40 grams of synthetic insulation.
REI Co-op’s pants come in sizes XS to XL for women and sizes S to XXL for men. The women’s version is currently only available in black, while the men’s pants have four colors to pick from.
A newer addition to Flylow’s stellar lineup, the Foxy Insulated Bib offers all the drool-worthy features of its bestselling Foxy Bib (like great thigh pockets), with an added layer of insulation that makes it perfect for resort days, when you might be sitting on a frigid lift ride for 20 minutes or more. Schnitzspahn says to go for the Baker Bib if you’d prefer something without insulation on your resort excursions.
This is the women’s version of Rossignol’s awesome new ski pants, and Rochfort says she’s already stoked on its great roster of features, like a relaxed fit, waterproof yet breathable membrane, cargo pockets and integrated boot gaiters. “Plus, I know pink is polarizing for women but whatever: I love the pink kit,” she says.
Coming in right around the $100 mark, these water-resistant snow pants are as affordable as they are cozy. Featuring an adjustable, forgiving waistband, internal elastic gaiters and ankle snaps (for easy boot on and off), they’re equipped with the full suite of features you’d expect from a pricier pant.
These super-durable, Gore-Tex-equipped bib pants are definitely an investment, but they’re the best ski pants CNN Underscored’s outdoor editor Kai Burkhardt has ever used. “I love this bib so much,” he says. “It’s incredibly waterproof and windproof and has tons of pockets and thigh zippers to easily dump heat, and its straps are actually comfortable. Plus, the pant legs have extra-strong panels to withstand abuse from your skis’ edges.” Not to mention the bib is equipped with a Recco reflector, which can aid search-and-rescue operations, to round out a long list of ski-specific features.
Our favorite resort ski suits
No longer a 1970s throwback or a silly piece to wear for spring skiing, today’s ski suits are high-tech and super warm. If the weather’s good and you’ll be cruising down groomers, they are the best way to look svelte on the slopes. Plus, a lot of ski suits can actually help you save some money since they’re cheaper than buying each item separately.
Though it seems pricey at first glance, you have to remember that the Katze Suit is essentially a pair of ski bibs and a jacket, all in one. Coming in a wide variety of fun colors to match your unique style, this garment has been thoughtfully designed with four-way stretch fabric, 550-fill-power duck down and water-resistant powder cuffs that fit around your boots to keep snow out.
If you prefer a more street-forward, relaxed style, look no further than Helly Hansen’s Chugach Infin Printed Suit. Featuring an ultra-high neck zipper to keep your chin toasty on bad weather days, thumb loops and adjustable velcro wrist cuffs, this onesie allows wearers to dial in the perfect fit. Plus, it’s fully waterproof.
Sometimes, the name says it all. Airblaster’s Sassy Beast Suit is a functional snow suit for those who want to go hard on groomers or powder runs. With excellent waterproofing, machine-washable fabric and a 350-degree waist zip for easy bathroom access, it’s a ski suit designed for your biggest days on the mountain. The best part? Its 40 grams of Primaloft insulation will keep you cozy on the chilliest slopes.
Designed to emulate the racing suits of a bygone era, Halfdays’ adorable (and highly functional) one-piece ski suit comes in a wide variety of ultra-fun colors while providing loads of warmth and waterproofing. Designed for temperatures between 0 and 40 degrees Fahrenheit, the suit is constructed with eco-friendly PrimaLoft insulation and a 100% recycled polyester shell.
Our favorite mid and base layers for resort skiing
Most experts agree that a “three layer strategy” is best when adventuring in the snow. That means you’ll want to wear a form-fitting base layer, an insulated mid layer (like a heavy fleece or down jacket) and a waterproof shell on top.
As warm as they are adorable, Kari Traa’s Rose Base Layer Pants have been making waves the last few years in the outdoor industry. Designed by women, for women, this Norwegian brand blends Nordic style with the cozy, antimicrobial properties of Merino wool for some of the best next-to-skin layers on the market today.
No kit is complete without the matching top to go with the pants, and we recommend skipping the crew neck for this more full-coverage half-zip base layer that’ll help keep your neck warm on those cold lift rides and windy mountain days.
“These base layers are for those who like an athletic (read: tight) fit and seek high performance,” says Schnitzspahn. “They get the job done whether you are knocking out speedy laps at a resort, uphill skiing on a skin track or even just winter running. The midweight Evolutyon Long Sleeve provides enough warmth and stretch for a wide variety of activities and temperatures,” he adds.
Kuta and Nelson are both huge fans of Helly Hansen’s Lifa Active Stripe Crew Base Layer, which offers a lighter fabric that’s perfect for spring skiing. “It's lightweight, and, when I sweat, it wicks away the moisture and keeps my body temperature super comfortable,” says Kuta.
“The Arc’teryx Rho base layer is about as buttery soft as base layers come,” says Zazo of the new Rho Hoody, which she also noted boasts an affirming fit for the gender nonconforming. “The Men’s fit is a boxier, relaxed fit and I find it’s not too restricting on the hips. The front pocket is sleek and perfect for holding a couple of credit cards when you don’t want to carry a bulky wallet,” she explains.
Yes, we are recommending yet another REI Co-op design for our top budget pick. In its Merino 185 Base Layers, the brand has combined the super-soft skin feel of a more expensive wool thermal and paired it with an elastic waistband, gusseted crotch and functional fly for freedom of movement on big, snowy adventures.
Burkhardt’s top pick, this base layer comes in a 1/4 zip and crew version. “Ibex does Merino wool better than any other brand I’ve tried,” he says. “Merino base layers normally feel at least a little bit itchy to me, but that’s not the case with Ibex’s Pro Tech. The set is lightweight but surprisingly warm, and even after sleeping in them for more than seven days straight, they didn’t smell at all.” Find the bottoms here, along with the women’s top and bottoms here.
This wallet-friendly synthetic base layer is stretchy, moisture wicking and warm for your toughest days on the slopes this season. A fuzzy, brushed lining keeps your legs feeling like they’re swaddled in your comfiest sofa blanket, while the pants’ flat-lined seams make for easy layering sans chafing.
Our favorite helmets for resort skiing
It’s important to grab a good helmet before you hit the slopes. Crashes are surprisingly common on crowded groomers and loads of in-bounds runs meander through trees. If you can swing it, getting a form-fitting design with Mips (multi-directional impact protection system) will protect your fragile cranium and last for years.
Not only does Balogh Rochfort view helmets with Mips as “essential” but she says she loves this Vantage model by Smith for its “universal fit that works with a variety of ski goggles.” Plus, it pairs Zonal Koroyd coverage with its Mips system for excellent, energy-absorbing impact protection.
Balogh Rochfort says she “totally loves” the universal fit on this Salomon Husk Prime helmet too, noting that it’s compatible with a wide range of head shapes and eyewear. It’s got a washable liner to keep you smelling sweet, a BOA fit system to lock it in place and an easy-close magnetic buckle that makes it easy to put on with gloves or mittens. Helmet bag included.
Our favorite accessories for resort skiing
Of course, there are a wide variety of ski accessories (think gloves, goggles, poles, socks and other gadgets) to help you dial in your comfort when the lifts finally open. Here are a few of our faves.
“Being able to adjust your pole length on the fly gives you the ability to have more stability when you’re in the back bowls in deep powder or cruising a groomer down Riva Ridge,” says Francis Do, a Vail Mountain Ski and Snowboard School instructor. Leki’s Spitfire Vario 3D poles are made of lightweight aluminum (which is sturdier than carbon fiber) and include two different baskets for use in hard pack or powder.
If you’re the type who likes to go on big ski trips that involve airplanes at least once a year, you’ll want a sturdy, well-padded roller bag for your prized skis. It’s got room for two sets of skis, plus boots, gloves and a few accessories. Made with 100% recycled ripstop polyester, this bag can handle the worst scuffs and scrapes so your skis don’t have to suffer.
After extensive goggle testing for CNN Underscored, Balogh Rochfort says that the Salomon Sentry Prime Sigma came out on top. “They fit really well and work with a variety of helmets, and the clarity and color contrast is awesome. Plus, I really love the included hard-sided, magnetic lens protector,” she says.
Another great goggle option is the Lookout model from Zeal Optics. Built with the brand’s patented Rail Lock System, these goggles allow you to swap out lenses when conditions change, offering photochromatic, polarized and molecular mirror options. I’ve had mine for two years and adore how their low profile improves my field of vision.
The budget pick in our goggle testing, Goodr’s goggles are an amazing balance of performance and value. At just $75, you get interchangeable magnetic lenses so your vision can stay clear no matter the conditions. Are they as good as Salomon’s Sentry Prime Sigma Photocromatic goggles? No. But if you don’t want to spend a fortune on a pair of goggles, go with the Goodr Snow G.
Balogh Rochfort did loads of repeatable and in-the-field testing of a variety of winter gloves, and she says the Baïst Mitt won for “best gauntlet mitten.” Made with reinforced leather, these babies feature machine-washable liners and a wrist pull cord to keep snow out.
Conditions in Alaska are famously gnarly, and Kelly Keene, a mountain guide at St. Elias Guides and gear head at Alta Ski Shop, says that Hestra’s Fält Guide Gloves are her favorite. “Dexterity is important in the backcountry, so a warm pair of gloves goes a long way. These ones are both durable and warm,” she explains.
Balogh Rochfort recommends these heated glove liners as a bougie stocking stuffer for those with chronically cold fingers. “They're not cheap, but I really love them for cold touring days when I want the dexterity of liners but need more warmth than they typically offer,” she says.
Nelson says she is also a big fan of Skida’s fun, Scandinavian-inspired prints on cold-weather gear. “I love that they are a small, women-owned brand that makes really cute products for hard-charging outdoor ladies so you can look your best while getting rad. Their fleece-lined hats and neck warmers are all made in Vermont,” she says.
Do from Vail Mountain also heartily recommended these techy, heated socks by Therm-ic, going so far as to call them the first piece of gear he can’t live without. “The Bluetooth app allows me to adjust the warmth of the socks and keep my feet happy all day,” he says.
There are, obviously, less expensive ski sock options out there too, like these Merino wool stunners from Smartwool, which boast body-mapped cushioning and mesh zones to keep you comfortable and well ventilated wherever your skis may take you this winter.