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Best Snowboard Jackets 2025-2026

A round-up of the best snowboard jackets for 2025-2026, tested, chosen and reviewed by the Whitelines Team

It’s important to put some time and effort into choosing your snowboard jacket. When all is said and done, it’s arguably as important as choosing the right snowboard, and the right pair of bindings to match. Whether you’re a keen backcountry explorer or an in-bounds rider, a certain amount of thought should go into picking the best outerwear for you. While this list focuses on the best jackets, most are available with a matching pair of pants to complete the set, similar in spec and tech to ensure you’ve got the same level of protection head to toe.

“What’s important to remember is that it’s all a balancing act between being waterproof and being breathable”

First of all, you need to consider where you will be doing most of your snowboarding, what kind of conditions you are likely to face, and how much time you will spend wearing your jacket. Once you’ve answered the basic questions about the kind of snowboarder you are, it’s time to look at the more technical aspects of your outerwear.

If you’re looking for a more in-depth guide to choosing your outerwear, take a look at our ‘how to choose the best snowboard jackets and pants’, but if you’re already clued up on this, scroll down for our shortlist.

Waterproofing and Breathability

What’s important to remember is that it’s all a balancing act between being waterproof and being breathable. If something’s extremely waterproof but doesn’t have that breathability, you begin to sweat. In turn, this means your sweat will have nowhere to go and you’ll be soaked after only a couple of laps.

The waterproof rating is measured in millimetres (mm). This refers to the depth of water that is required to penetrate the fabric (based on filling a one-inch diameter tube). The higher the rating, the more waterproof the outerwear.

Breathability is measured in grams. The ratings refer to the weight of water that can pass through a square metre of fabric in 24hours. Bear in mind though, that the testing protocols aren’t universal and can lack consistency between brands. Usually, you’ll find the breathability ratings to be somewhere between 5k and 20k – with the higher number being a more breathable option.

Shell / Insulation

Another two key factors when it comes to choosing your snowboard outerwear is the fabric and insulation. You can choose between a hard shell, soft shell or an insulated model.

The main benefits of a hardshell is its ability to resist the most extreme weather conditions you’re likely to face on the mountain. The jackets / pants are designed to provide shelter against rain and wind. They’re also designed to be extremely breathable and durable, hence the reason why they’re so often preferred by backcountry enthusiasts.

“You can choose between a hard shell, soft shell or an insulated model”

If you’re looking for something a bit more comfortable, a softshell jacket / pants combo might be more up your street. Softshells often allow for more mobility, whilst also offering a decent amount of waterproofing and breathability.

While you’re scrolling for new snowboard outerwear, why not take a look at the best snowboards, the best snowboard bindings and the best snowboard boots of this season too.

Sustainability and Durability

Choosing more sustainable options has become the norm these days. It’s also, we’re happy to report, something that’s become much popular within the snowboard industry. Brands are putting more effort into producing products sustainably, and this is clear when looking at this season’s outerwear.

When purchasing a new product, you should bear in mind that even though the manufacturing of products has become more sustainable – the key to sustainability lies in the durability of the product itself. It may, for example, be worth spending a bit more money on a jacket that can last you up to five years rather than a cheaper option that might only take you through one season and has to be replaced sooner.

In the end, it’s down to you what you choose to spend your money on. Just make sure that whatever you choose has the right fit, as it’d be a shame if you couldn’t fit an extra layer underneath or the jacket pops its zip after a big lunch down the slope.

Best Snowboard Jackets for 2025-2026

 

Beyond Medals Nostalgia Jacket 2025-2026

PRICE: £231 / €259 / $259
SIZES: XXS, XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL
CATEGORY: Insulated
WATERPROOF / BREATHABILITY: 15K/15K
NEW FOR 25/26 SEASON: Yes

Why we chose the Beyond Medals Nostalgia Jacket:
Maybe snowboarding was better in the 90s – but the outerwear certainly wasn’t. With the Nostalgia jacket, modern tech marries seamlessly with unmistakably retro stylings. We like!

Who is the Beyond Medals Nostalgia Jacket for?
The obvious answer would be the longer-in-the-tooth rider who reminisces fondly about the times when all jackets looked like this – but with those specs and a nice baggy fit, this is a true cross-generational crowd-pleaser.

Tech Talk
Fit, features, materials and construction
This one’s not a true shell thanks to the thin padding (which gets thinner still in the arms), but it won’t cook you during a spring session. Sure, you can find techier jackets out there with stretchier fabric and bomb-proof ratings, but for the price the Beyond Medals Nostalgia packs a punch.

Tester Verdict

Pat Nichols

“Hands down, my favourite outerwear I’ve tested this winter. Beyond Medals has clearly put a lot of time and effort not just into the style of how the kit looks, but the fit. It cinches perfectly for the modern boxy look. I also got the most compliments on my fit while wearing the full Nostalgia kit – so you know, ‘look good, feel good, ride good’ etc. Plenty of pockets in places where they’re not in painful landing zones when you fall. I tested this across various temps and snow conditions and was comfortable throughout. It’s very lightly lined, but effectively can be worn ike a shell. I’ll be ripping this one for as long as I can!”

Read the in-depth review of the 2025-2026 Beyond Medals Nostalgia Jacket and Pants here

Buy the Beyond Medals Nostalgia Snowboard Jacket 2025-2026: from €259.95 at BLUETOMATO.COM

Quiksilver Ultralight Stretch Jacket 2025-2026

PRICE: £320
SIZES: S, M, L, XL, XXL
CATEGORY: Insulated
WATERPROOF / BREATHABILITY: 20K/20K
NEW FOR 25/26 SEASON: No

Why we chose the Quiksilver Ultralight Stretch Jacket:
It’s genuinely the lightest insulated jacket we’ve tested, delivering PrimaLoft Active warmth without the bulk that usually comes with full winter protection.

Who is the Quiksilver Ultralight Stretch Jacket for?
Riders who demand serious shelter and hate feeling weighed down by bulky outerwear – but who appreciate some built-in warmth for those sub-zero pow days.

Tech Talk
Fit, features, materials and construction
The Ultralight offers a modern fit with plenty of mobility that’s practical on the hill and right on trend. WarmFlight x3 PrimaLoft Active insulation provides that headline warmth without weight, while DryFlight 20K technology handles weather protection. 58% recycled polyester construction proves sustainability doesn’t mean compromising performance, delivering breathable comfort even when temperatures fluctuate throughout the day. Our pick of the colourways options is a tan and black number they call ‘Fallen Rock’ – Farrow & Ball would be proud!

Tester Verdict

Pat Nichols

“The tag doesn’t lie, this is an insanely light jacket – especially considering it’s insulated. It felt lighter than most shells I’ve worn. The fit was great, it’s got good pockets, good tech and a layer of insulation while still being breathable. I wore it on a cold morning that quickly turned very warm and it didn’t just turn into a sweat bag.”

Buy the Quiksilver Ultralight Stretch Snowboard Jacket 2025-2026: from £320 at QUIKSILVER.COM

686 SMARTY 3IN1 RODEO 3L JACKET 2025-2026

686 Smarty 3-in-1 Rodeo 3L Jacket 2025-2026

PRICE: €349.95 / £299 / $329.95
SIZES: S, M, L, XL, XXL
CATEGORY: Insulated
WATERPROOF / BREATHABILITY: 20K/15K
NEW FOR 25/26 SEASON: No

Why we chose the 686 Smarty 3-in-1 Rodeo 3L Jacket:
It’s the ultimate adaptable system – lightweight shell for spring days, insulated vest for cold snaps, or combine both when winter gets serious.

Who is the 686 Smarty 3-in-1 Rodeo 3L Jacket for?
Riders seeking maximum versatility from one jacket, whether you’re facing varying conditions or simply want multiple styling options throughout the season.

Tech Talk
Fit, features, materials and construction
686’s legendary 3-in-1 “Smarty” system centers around a clean 20K/15K shell paired with a removable infiLOFT 200g puffer vest. PFAS-free DWR treatment and fully taped seams ensure reliable weather protection, while the 7-pocket design balances style with function. 686 are always on point with their colourways – choose from Emerald Green, Limestone, and the subtle Black Fracture Print.

Tester Verdict

Pat Nichols

“This is a quality bit of kit. The outer jacket is a clean, lightweight shell. You can cinch it in perfectly for a nice boxy fit or let it hang. The inner puffy vest fits so comfortably, I forgot I had it on. Temperature-wise, I wore both layers plus a base layer in -20c and it was perfect. The jacket also pairs perfectly with the green Dojo pants, with the zips and pants matching, which was cool. The only comment I’d make is that the big front pockets felt a little more style-oriented than function-first. But that’s not necessarily a bad thing, as they do look great! I’d happily buy this setup!”

Buy the 686 Smarty 3-in-1 Rodeo 3L Jacket 2025-2026: from $329.95 at evo.com

Airblaster Cypress Women’s Jacket 2025-2026

PRICE: $259.95 / £190 / €220
SIZES: XS, S, M, L, XL
CATEGORY: Resort
WATERPROOF / BREATHABILITY: 15K/10K
NEW FOR 25/26 SEASON: Yes

Why we chose the Airblaster Cypress Jacket:
Blending old school style with decidedly new school tech, the Cypress Jacket is the ideal marriage of fashion and function.

Who is the Airblaster Cypress Jacket for?
Ladies looking for a jacket to take them from the peaks to the streets, the Cypress Jacket’s tech features and nostalgia-fuelled aesthetics will serve you well and won’t leave you wanting.

Tech Talk
Fit, features, materials and construction
Thanks to the 15K/10K weatherproofing, you’ll keep the worst of Mother Nature at bay, and whilst the lack of insulation means you’ll have to layer up on colder days, it means you can rock this all season long, even when the spring slush brings the heat. Made by snowboarders, for snowboarders, the crew at Airblaster have tricked the Cypress Jacket out with a ton of rider-refined features to make every day on the hill as stress-free as possible.

Tester Verdict

Sara Previte

“An old school style jacket with a new twist. It’s giving early 00s in a cool way. A baggy fit, I cinched so it didn’t sit too low on me, as it is a long cut. Cuffs were big enough to fit over a mitt easily, but the Velcro closure was quite rigid. The 4 front pockets I found sit close to each other in a weird way. Two hip pockets and two chest pockets, but the chest pockets sit very low. Overall, a cool new piece offered in a variety of great colors with matching cypress pants.”

Buy the Airblaster Cyrpress Jacket 2025-2026: from $259.95 at MYAIRBLASTER.COM

 

Souvenir 3ply rip stop Jacket 2025-2026

Souvenir 3 Ply Ripstop Jacket 2025-2026

PRICE: £385 / €360 / $337
SIZES: XXXS, XXS, XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL
CATEGORY: Shell
WATERPROOF / BREATHABILITY: 20K/20K
NEW FOR 25/26 SEASON: No

Why we chose the Souvenir 3 Ply Ripstop Jacket:
Souvenir channels 90s golden-era vibes through baggy cuts and earth tones, backed by modern 3-ply ripstop construction and PFAS-free waterproofing that actually works.

Who is the Souvenir 3 Ply Ripstop Jacket for?
Style-conscious riders seeking retro aesthetics and affordability without sacrificing technical performance. You can call off the Vinted search…

Tech Talk
Fit, features, materials and construction
This is a classic baggy shell made from 3 Ply Micro Ripstop fabric that delivers 20k/20k protection via its PFAS-free membrane and PFC-free DWR. The acronyms continue with YKK Waterproof Vislon zippers throughout (including 2-way main opening), underarm vents, and oversized pockets. A 3-point adjustable hood, velcro cuff tabs, bungee waist, and powder skirt handle mountain functionality. Available in Putty, Marshmallow, and Black – Putty gets our vote if you’re looking to channel those peak Peter Line vibes.

Tester Verdict

Kevin Frank

“This shell is amazing! No frills, just a really great, durable and waterproof shell at a great price point. I will say the only drawback I have experienced with this jacket is that the ripstop can feel kind of stiff, taking a bit of comfort away. This is made up for in durability, though – you could take a slide down a flight of concrete stairs in this thing and your jacket would be intact!”

Buy the Souvenir 3-Ply Ripstop Shell Jacket 2025-2026: from €429.95 at BLUETOMATO.COM

 

Patagonia POWSLAYER Jacket 2025-2026

Patagonia Powslayer Jacket 2025-2026

PRICE: $799 / €800 / £720
SIZES: XS, S, M, L, XL
CATEGORY: Shell
WATERPROOF / BREATHABILITY: GORE-TEX Pro ePE
NEW FOR 25/26 SEASON: No

Why we chose the Patagonia Powslayer Jacket:
Patagonia’s backcountry flagship gets the Gore-Tex Pro ePE treatment – 30% lighter than before while maintaining bombproof protection, backed by unmatched eco credentials and their ‘Iron-Clad’ lifetime guarantee.

Who is the Patagonia Powslayer Jacket for?
Serious backcountry riders and splitboarders who demand the lightest, most breathable shell available and who appreciate that technical performance and environmental commitment come at a premium price.

Tech Talk
Fit, features, materials and construction
The revised Powslayer features 3-layer Gore-Tex Pro ePE constructed from 100% recycled nylon with a woven ripstop backer, delivering supreme breathability without PFAS. At just 630g, it packs down impressively small for touring. A helmet-compatible hood with laminated visor, two oversized bellowed chest pockets (one with media pocket), handwarmers, arm pocket, adjustable powder skirt and internal storage handle the essentials. Fair Trade Certified construction helps you tread lightly.

Tester Verdict

Tristan Kennedy

“I wore Patagonia’s new Powslayer Jacket & Pants for a couple of days piste bashing around Val Gardena and Passo Tonale and appreciated the range of features (including lift pass pocket, and two capacious chest pockets) and the comfy fit. But it was when I got it out splitboarding that the jacket really came into its own. You really do feel the difference with Gore-Tex Pro when you start climbing – it just takes much longer to work up a sweat. I’ve worn a (non-recycled) Gore-Tex Pro jacket by another leading brand for the past couple of seasons, and this felt exactly the same in terms of supreme breathability. The vents on both the jacket and pants allow you to dump heat easily. I did a late-season mission to a peak in Italy’s Süd-Tirol region, with an early start, so I needed the warmth before the sun came up, and wore the jacket most of the way up. When I needed to take it off, it packed down impressively small and weighed very little in my bag. You’d expect nothing less from Patagonia, but both the jacket and pants are really great products.”

Buy the Patagonia Powslayer Jacket 2025-2026: from $799 at evo.com

Buy the Patagonia Powslayer Jacket 2025-2026: from £720 at PATAGONIA.COM

Beyond Medals Pro Jacket 2025-2026

Beyond Medals Pro Tech 3L Jacket 2025-2026

PRICE: £395
SIZES: XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL
CATEGORY: Shell
WATERPROOF / BREATHABILITY: 20K/20K
NEW FOR 25/26 SEASON: No

Why we chose the Beyond Medals Pro Tech 3L Jacket:
Even when they turn the dial right up to high-spec backcountry mode, the Beyond Medals crew never compromise on style – and this jacket is the proof.

Who is the Beyond Medals Pro Tech 3L Jacket for?
Powder-chasers are the target market here – but this will have a particularly strong appeal to those who don’t want to go overboard into space-age materials and their correspondingly high prices.

Tech Talk
Fit, features, materials and construction
You can stay sealed up tight in the Beyond Medals Pro Tech 3K jacket, thanks to the multi-layer exterior, powder skirt, wrist gaiters and adjustable hood. Extra pockets for all your backcountry-related accessories will come in handy, too. Unless you’re a rare breed of powder obsessive, it’s essentially got everything you need and nothing you don’t.

Tester Verdict

Tristan Kennedy

“I gave the Beyond Metals Pro Tech Jacket 3L a high rating because it is a technical, comfortable shell that is more stylish than most on the market. Beyond Metals has done a good job at making this jacket high-tech while still looking like a snowboard jacket, rather than a mountaineering jacket. It says regular fit, but it is more on the baggy side (which is true across the line). The only thing I didn’t like was the Velcro cuffs on the sleeves; the material was harder than I would have liked. Great colour options and an incredible price compared to other jackets on the market. I gave it a low score for warmth because it is a shell, so not meant to be warm. But it was very waterproof, and with the right layers can be worn every day.”

Buy the Beyond Medals Pro Tech 3L Jacket 2025-2026: from €449.95 at BEYONDMEDALS.COM

 

686 women’s outline snowboard anorak 2025-2026

686 Outline Anorak Women’s Jacket 2025-2026

PRICE: €240 / £215 / $230
SIZES: XS, S, M, L, XL
CATEGORY: Resort
WATERPROOF / BREATHABILITY: 10K/10K
NEW FOR 25/26 SEASON: No

Why we chose the 686 Outline Anorak Jacket:
With a progressive, boxy fit to give you plenty of room to move and layer up without feeling restricted and resort-ready weatherproofing, the 686 Outline Anorak is an all-mountain, all-season staple.

Who is the 686 Outline Anorak Jacket for?
Those who don’t want to pigeonhole their riding and are looking for an outerlayer that can stand up to a full season of hard wear and tear, whether that’s lapping the park or heading to the pub.

Tech Talk
Fit, features, materials and construction
The Outline Anorak is built around 686’s 2-layer infiDRY 10K fabric, providing a solid 10,000mm of waterproofing to fend off snow and sleet. It also has a 10,000g breathability rating and a PFAS-free DWR finish to let moisture out when you’re hiking a rail or charging through powder. To ensure no moisture sneaks in, the jacket features fully taped Bemis seams, locking out the elements for all-day comfort. As a shell, it’s the perfect outer layer for any condition – just adjust your base layers to match the temperature.

Tester Verdict

Sara Previte

“I tested this product in the Smokey pink colorblock. This is a very feminine colorway, but the bagginess counters it, giving it a stylish vibe. The color is very light and is for people who are good at keeping things clean. I find an anorak very uncomfortable, but it did have an easy entry with the full zip on the side. The kangaroo pouch gives loads of storage as well as two zip pockets. I wish the pass pouch were zippered, not Velcro. Big wrist cuffs made it easy to put mitts off and on.”

Buy the 686 Outline Anorak Jacket 2025-2026: from $229.95 at evo.com

Quiksilver High Altitude GORE-TEX Jacket 2025-2026

PRICE: £360
SIZES: XS, S, M, L, XL
CATEGORY: Insulated
WATERPROOF / BREATHABILITY: GORE-TEX
NEW FOR 25/26 SEASON: No

Why we chose the Quiksilver High Altitude GORE-TEX Jacket:
It’s classic Gore-Tex reliability wrapped in clean, functional design that proves sometimes the best approach is keeping things simple.

Who is the Quiksilver High Altitude GORE-TEX Jacket for?
Riders who appreciate understated quality over flashy features, seeking proven weather protection with style that works both on and off the mountain.

Tech Talk
Fit, features, materials and construction
The High Altitude has a classic loose fit and slightly 90s styling cues (which is a good thing). Its Gore-Tex fabric literally guarantees to keep you dry while remaining breathable, and is paired with WarmFlight x1 insulation for lightweight warmth. The 100% recycled polyester construction supports sustainability goals without compromising performance. Thoughtfully designed pockets balance functionality with clean aesthetics that will earn you nods of approval.

Tester Verdict

Pat Nichols

“A good quality, stylish jacket. The material didn’t feel super high quality, but it is Gore-Tex and didn’t feel bad. The jacket also has good, functional pockets and looks great (I got a lot of compliments in this thing). All in all, it’s simplicity done well.”

Buy the Quiksilver High Altitude GORE-TEX Jacket 2025-2026: from £360 at QUIKSILVER.COM

Burton Futuretrust Snowboard Jacket 2025-2026

Burton Futuretrust 3L Jacket 2025-2026

PRICE: $390 / €400 / £370
SIZES: XXS, XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL
CATEGORY: Shell
WATERPROOF / BREATHABILITY: 20K/20K
NEW FOR 25/26 SEASON: No

Why we chose the Burton Futuretrust 3L Jacket:
Burton’s gender-neutral Futuretrust philosophy delivers oversized comfort with clean minimalist styling, backed by 3-layer storm protection and sustainable Bluesign-approved construction.

Who is the Burton Futuretrust 3L Jacket for?
Burton fans seeking a baggy, layerable shell that’s bang on trend and works across all conditions, with a priority on straightforward function over bells and whistles.

Tech Talk
Fit, features, materials and construction
The Futuretrust features 3-layer waterproof breathable material with welded seams and 20k/20k protection through recycled polyester fabric. PFC-free DWR treatment and Bluesign approval demonstrate Burton’s continued commitment to the environment (which should be applauded in the current political climate). Mesh-lined front zip vents use a single zipper design connecting with hand warmer pockets for clean aesthetics, while a mesh device pocket inside the left pocket keeps essentials secure. Waterproof zippers throughout ensure storm-ready reliability in an intentionally oversized cut designed for easy layering.

Buy the Burton Futuretrust 3L Jacket 2025-2026: from €299.95 at BLUETOMATO.COM

Tester Verdict

Sara Previte

“It looks sick, everyone at Edge of the World snowboard shop rode it and loved it on the test days. Technical, Stylish, Unisex.”

Beyond Medals Tech Jacket 3L 2025-2026

Beyond Medals Tech 3L Jacket 2025-2026

PRICE: €420
SIZES: XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL
CATEGORY: Shell
WATERPROOF / BREATHABILITY: 20K/20K
NEW FOR 25/26 SEASON: No

Why we chose the Beyond Medals Tech 3L Jacket:
Another nice-looking, loose-fitting option from Beyond Medals, with higher specs than you’d think from looking at it.

Who is the Beyond Medals Tech 3L Jacket for?
With its muted colourways and blocky design, this one is a bit of a throwback, looks-wise. So if you want something that looks freestyle-focused but can handle so much more, then be sure to check the Tech.

Tech Talk
Fit, features, materials and construction
There’s very little separating this from the slightly pricier Beyond Medals Pro Tech 3L jacket – basically just a few tweaks to the pockets and overall look. That’s no bad thing, though; with the Tech 3L jacket, you get that same high-quality performance without the full ‘mountain man’ look.

Tester Verdict

Pat Nichols

“I really love this jacket. It has the comfort of a soft shell and holds up to the elements exceptionally. This fit is obviously very thought-out with regards to the demands of snowboarding, with an articulated hood and the ability to run it longer cinched up for that modern look. All the features you need, like a zip-out powder skirt and wrist gaiters. The only things keeping this from a 10 for me are the rubber wrist straps, although durable, I found them to be stiff and bulky, and the two-way zipper at the bottom comes undone very easily. Other than that, this is an amazing jacket that has been designed by snowboarders for snowboarding.”

Buy the Beyond Medals Tech 3L Jacket 2025-2026: from €419.95 at BEYONDMEDALS.COM

Jones Women’s Shralpinist Stretch Recycled 3L Jacket 2025-2026

PRICE: $499.95 / €499.95 / £434.95
SIZES: XS, S, M, L
CATEGORY: Shell
WATERPROOF / BREATHABILITY: 30K/30K
NEW FOR 25/26 SEASON: No

Why we chose the Jones Women’s Shralpinist Stretch Recycled 3L Jacket:
The redesigned women’s Shralpinist delivers enhanced fit and functionality while maintaining the storm protection that made the original a backcountry favorite.

Who is the Jones Women’s Shralpinist Stretch Recycled 3L Jacket for?
Female riders seeking a technical shell for backcountry touring and resort charging, with comfort that keeps up during long mountain days.

Tech Talk
Fit, features, materials and construction
The Shralpinist is built with the same 100% recycled stretch fabric and hydrophilic membrane as the men’s version, featuring an articulated cut for unrestricted movement. Helmet-compatible hood, underarm vents, and a comprehensive pocket system handle mountain essentials. We love a little colour pop, and the Deep Coral colourway is certainly the one to go for if you want to stand out in the backcountry as well as the bar.

Buy the Jones Shralpinist Women’s Jacket 2025-2026: from €499.95 at BLUETOMATO.COM

 

VANS MTE HIGH COUNTRY JACKET 2025-2026

Vans MTE Hi-Country 3L Jacket 2025-2026

PRICE: £310
SIZES: XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL
CATEGORY: Shell
WATERPROOF / BREATHABILITY: 20K/20K
NEW FOR 25/26 SEASON: No

Why we chose the Vans MTE Hi-Country 3L Jacket:
The shoe & boot specialists also do a fine line in outerwear, and this lightweight shell jacket is the pick of the bunch.

Who is the Vans MTE Hi-Country 3L Jacket for?
20,000ml is about right for the all-winter all-rounder, and the colour options are stylish but muted. Perfect, then, for those who let their riding do the talking from January pow days to spring slush.

Tech Talk
Fit, features, materials and construction
With the Vans Hi-Country 3L you’re guaranteed to stay comfy on the mountain, due to the various adjustment options that’ll have it sitting just right while keeping the snow at bay. The fully taped seams and waterproof zippers play their part, too. There’s also a phone pocket with headphone cord compatibility – because on the mountain, wireless won’t cut it.

Tester Verdict

Sara Previte

“An old school style jacket with a new twist. It’s giving early ‘00s in a cool way. A baggy fit, I cinched so it didn’t sit too low on me, as it is a long cut. Cuffs were big enough to fit over a mitt easily, but the Velcro closure was quite rigid. The four front pockets I found sit close to each other in a weird way. Two hip pockets and two chest pockets, but the chest pockets sit very low. Overall, a cool new piece offered in a variety of great colours with matching pants.”

Buy the Vans High-Country MTE Jacket 2025-2026: from $350 at VANS.COM

Airblaster Beast Access Jacket 2025-2026

PRICE: $260
SIZES: XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL
CATEGORY: Shell
WATERPROOF / BREATHABILITY: 30K/20K
NEW FOR 25/26 SEASON: No

Why we chose the Airblaster Beast Access Jacket:
One of Airblaster’s budget-friendly favourites gets some serious upgrades worthy of the brand’s ‘Beast’ series, without going full mountain goat with the aesthetics.

Who is the Airblaster Beast Access Jacket for?
This one will suit the rider who wants no-compromise weatherproofing, wrapped up in a ‘classic’ baggy snowboard jacket look. It’s just a shell, though, so don’t forget those layers!

Tech Talk
Fit, features, materials and construction
When the weather is beastly, the Airblaster Beast Access jacket’s 30,000ml waterproofing, fully taped seams and sturdy waterproof zippers keep it all at bay with ease. Backcountry fans will appreciate the powder skirt, while the 100% recycled shell means that this one scores high for sustainability too.

Tester Verdict

Pat Nichols

“This was a decent jacket with high-quality materials and 30k waterproof and breathability.
It also has a really nice, clean design to it that looks timelessly stylish. So on that front, it’s a banger. However, I did have a few notes: it ran slightly small in the arms for me. I do admittedly have long arms, but most of the time they’re fine in a Large. The neck/hood integration meant that when I ran the jacket fully zipped and rode at speed, it pulled pretty hard against my neck and felt like a choker. I’m not here to kink shame, but it ain’t my cup of tea.

Lastly, it features a two-way zip on the front, which regularly unzips at the bottom. I get that this system allows you to loosen the bottom when sitting, but it’s annoying when it doesn’t stay set while riding. These are, however, ultimately small things, and I did enjoy wearing it for multiple days, and none of them put a stop to my fun on the hill.”

Buy the Airblaster Beast Access Jacket 2025-2026: from $259.95 at MYAIRBLASTER.COM

Jones Shralpinist Stretch Recycled 3L Jacket 2025-2026

PRICE: $499.95 / €499.95 / £434.95
SIZES: S, M, L, XL
CATEGORY: Shell
WATERPROOF / BREATHABILITY: 30K/30K
NEW FOR 25/26 SEASON: No

Why we chose the Jones Shralpinist Stretch Recycled 3L Jacket:
Jones completely redesigned their beloved Shralpinist for enhanced comfort and functionality – delivering storm protection that moves with you across resort and backcountry terrain.

Who is the Jones Shralpinist Stretch Recycled 3L Jacket for?
Mountain explorers demanding a shell that’s comfortable enough for touring yet technical enough for proper storm days, whether charging resort or earning turns.

Tech Talk
Fit, features, materials and construction
The redesigned Shralpinist features 100% recycled 70D stretch fabric with hydrophilic membrane and PFC-free DWR treatment. Articulated patterning, helmet-compatible hood, pit zips, and fully taped seams ensure unrestricted movement and reliable weather protection. It’s available in four colourways – we’re partial to Smoke Gray, though Lime Green offers high visibility for avalanche terrain and Stealth Black provides understated style.

Buy the Jones Shralpinist Stretch Jacket 2025-2026: from $499.95 at evo.com

Buy the Jones Shralpinist Stretch Jacket 2025-2026: from €499.95 at BLUETOMATO.COM

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