Best Women’s Snowboard Jacket | Buyer's Guide

THE BEST WOMEN’S SNOWBOARD JACKET | SNOWBOARDING BUYER’S GUIDE

For decades, Arc’teryx has been a leading women’s snowboard jacket brand. We know quality because we know nothing else. Obsessive design meets exacting execution for every single product we make.

Our best women’s snowboard jacket outerwear is celebrated across mountain sports for performing at a high level and looking good while doing it. You bring the talent and we’ll send the best gear to help you achieve your objectives at the ski resort, in the terrain park, or the backcountry.

THE TOP WOMEN’S SNOWBOARDING JACKETS FOR 2024

OUR WARMEST WOMEN’S SNOWBOARD JACKET USES BOTH DOWN AND SYNTHETIC INSULATION | ARC’TERYX ANDESSA JACKET

The best of two (very warm) worlds come together in the Andessa Jacket, which is a hybrid of down and synthetic insulation. We put the down where its famous weight-to-warmth ratio helps out most, and the synthetic where the jacket gets the most moisture because synthetic stays warm when wet, unlike down.

This waterproof women's winter snowboard jacket is for cold days snowboarding in the resort. We call it a snowboard-specific masterpiece but that’s a bit braggy. Either way, the combination of fully waterproof and windproof/breathable GORE-TEX fabric with both down and synthetic insulations is worth a closer look.

Strategic placement of the insulation type is all about comfort, but it also prolongs jacket life. A fancy thing we call “Down Composite Mapping” puts synthetic Coreloft™ insulation along the hem, hood, and underarms. Why? Because these are the areas where the moisture mostly goes. Down Contour LT™ puts 750-fill European Goose down at the core and sleeves for warmth where it is most needed to keep you toasty and shredding all day long.

A removable powder skirt, mesh-lined PowderGuard™ underarm vents, and a mesh-backed WaterTight™ front zip prevents snow entry but allows heat to escape. That way, you can ride as hard as you want and not worry about the moisture you make. Snowboarding is a sweaty pursuit.

The removable, insulated DropHood™ fits over standard snowboard helmets and is designed to rotate with head movements so you can stay safe making big, luxurious powder turns or navigating crowded groomers.

SOMETIMES THE BEST SNOWBOARD JACKET FOR WOMEN IS THE MOST DISTINCTIVE | ARC’TERYX SENTINEL ANORAK

We can’t get over the subtle styling and progressive cut of this sweet, sweet anorak. It’s been along time since snowboard jackets have had this striking of a silhouette. Of course, it’s super technical, too.

As a durable, versatile freeride shell with stormproof GORE-TEX protection, the Sentinel Anorak offers comfort, progressive performance, and a toolbox of features equipped for big days on open snow. GORE-TEX delivers waterproof, windproof, breathable protection and has a flannel backer for light insulation. Tough on the outside. Cozy on the inside.

WaterTight™ pit zips ventilate, and the integrated powder skirt keeps snow from creeping in. Pockets are placed for easy access, the helmet-compatible StormHood™ cinches securely for full coverage and exceptional visibility, and an embedded RECCO® reflector aids search and rescue in emergency situations. Look good.

Feel good. Ride good.

EVEN THE BEST WOMEN'S SNOWBOARD SHELL JACKETS NEED AN AMAZING MID LAYER. THIS IS IT. | ARC’TERYX PROTON HYBRID HOODY

Looking for the best cheap snowboard jacket? That doesn’t make sense. The best isn’t cheap, and we don’t do anything less than the best. The good news is, the Proton Hybrid brings the best of all materials together in one backcountry package that may be more affordable.

The Proton Hybrid Hoody is an amazing mid layer that can still be used on sunny days or anytime you don’t need full waterproofing. How? By utilizing breathable backcountry insulation with GORE-TEX INFINIUM™ wind protection.

The backcountry demands balance. You need insulation to offset the cold, but also air permeability to release excess heat. Overheating is the worst. The Proton protects from wind and allows freedom to move without restriction.

Coreloft™ Compact insulates you. Fortius™ Air 50 outer allows airflow. GORE-TEX INFINIUM™ at the yoke and hood blocks wind and light weather. All the best stuff. Nothing cheap. Still affordable. This is your best backcountry partner that isn’t human (never ride alone).

THE BEST WOMEN’S SNOWBOARD JACKET FOR BIG MOUNTAIN FREERIDING | ARC’TERYX RUSH JACKET

Full disclaimer: this is our staff favourite for snowboarding. Shhh, don’t tell anyone—we aren’t supposed to play favourites. The light, durable GORE-TEX shell delivers backcountry weather protection on the same level as our best women's snowboard jackets, but it just looks and moves on another level.

A robust backcountry kit must include everything needed to handle a day in rugged conditions while still performing. It must give you the freedom to find fresh lines and deep powder. Rush does that.

Light and durable, the 80D 3L GORE-TEX fabric with GORE C-KNIT™ backer technology delivers waterproof, windproof protection with enhanced breathability. The StormHood™ adjusts for improved peripheral vision, an embedded RECCO® reflector can aid search and rescue, pit zippers ventilate, and multiple pockets organize small essentials.

Rush out and get this women's snowboard jacket. It’s the secret backcountry upgrade we all need.

THE BEST WOMEN’S SNOWBOARDING JACKET FOR SPLITBOARDING OUT OF BOUNDS | ARC’TERYX SENTINEL JACKET

This is a GORE-TEX big mountain snowboard jacket with a warm flannel liner and helmet-compatible StormHood™ that is equipped to handle the vertical (read: STEEP) aspects of big mountain snowboarding.

Built for freeride touring and patterned to move with you, the Sentinel’s features align to deliver breathability and weather protection. WaterTight™ pit zips dump heat rapidly on traverses and ascents, and the integrated powder skirt keeps snow out, even when you crash hard in deep powder.

Pockets provide security and are placed for easy accessibility. The best part? They work with a pack on because who tours without a pack, right?

The helmet-compatible StormHood™ cinches securely, giving full coverage and exceptional visibility. Slide’n Loc™ attachments link to the Sentinel Pant with our super slick snowboard jacket to pants attachment system, creating a snowproof system that works as a single unit.

THE WARMEST AND BEST WOMEN’S SNOWBOARD JACKET FOR BACKCOUNTRY | ARC’TERYX RUSH INSULATED JACKET

If the Rush is our most badass splitboarding and freeriding jacket, the Rush Insulated Jacket is the same except for those who run cold, or slow. If you like to take your time in the backcountry and soak up the views, you may need a bit more warmth in your women’s snowboard wear. Bring this jacket with you.

The Rush Insulated Jacket is a light, durable insulated coat, and one of the warmest women’s snowboard jackets. Rest breaks, taking skins off, high-output descents, putting skins on...when the backcountry cold slams you hard, Rush will take the brunt. Light, packable, and warm, this jacket shines when output stops and temperatures drop.

Windproof, water repellant, and highly breathable, the GORE-TEX INFINIUM™ outer utilizes our Hadron™ face fabric for maximum durability and minimal weight.

100gsm Coreloft™ insulates. An air-permeable liner speeds vapour transfer. The helmet-compatible StormHood™ adds warmth. An embedded RECCO® reflector aids search and rescue.

Crafted at a Fair Trade Certified facility as part of our commitment to transition 80% of Arc’teryx products to fair trade certification by 2025.

THE WARMEST AND BEST WOMEN’S SNOWBOARD DOWN JACKET FOR RESORT RIDING | ARC’TERYX THERISS DOWN JACKET

Resort riders move differently than backcountry splitboarders. There’s a rhythm to it; the lifts, the lines, the stashes, and the timing of the openings. When you have it dialed and you know the mountain intimately, you can get way more powder than any backcountry expert. But it comes with its challenges too. To do it right, your kit needs to be perfectly suited to you and your surroundings. That’s where the Theriss Down Jacket comes in.

This warm, dry GORE-TEX snowboard jacket features down insulation’s superior warmth-to-weight ratio. It also has that distinct resort style.

From Verbier’s massive terrain to Las Lenas’ windy powder stashes, wherever you find your turns is where Theriss can keep you dry and warm. Plus, it helps you look good while doing it.

The Theriss is waterproof, windproof, and breathable thanks to 2L GORE-TEX. Lofty responsibly sourced goose down keeps you warm in the most important spots while Coreloft™ synthetic insulation is used where moisture gathers. The entire down and synthetic insulation design comes together where insulation forms around your body for more efficient performance. It’s a magical little system.

The insulated hood adds warmth, an embedded RECCO® reflector can aid search and rescue, and a removable powder skirt seals out snow.

WHAT MATERIALS ARE USED IN HIGH-QUALITY SNOWBOARDING JACKETS?

The best women's snowboard jackets come together in a way that is far from accidental. Every single piece of material or hardware is picked with exacting standards. We will walk through what makes the best women’s snowboarding jackets below.

THE SINGLE MOST IMPORTANT FEATURE IN THE TOP WOMEN’S SNOWBOARDING JACKETS

In one phrase, GORE-TEX. This wonder material is the main reason any women's snow outerwear succeeds. Most GORE-TEX fabrics are waterproof or at least water repellent. Most of the best women’s snowboarding jackets are windproof thanks to GORE-TEX. It’s just better.

Arc'teryx has been using W. L. Gore & Associates (Gore) products for years. It is and always has been the best material for waterproof and windproof women’s snowboard jacket brands.

GORE-TEX’s humble beginnings started when the benefits of synthetic polymer PTFE (polymer polytetrafluoroethylene) were discovered way back in the 60s. Bill Gore and his son Bob eventually created PTFE (ePTFE), which is now known as GORE-TEX. While we have lots of different iterations of GORE-TEX now—like 2-layer and 3-layer and GORE-TEX PRO and Windstopper, etc.—originally it was only one.

GORE-TEX is the reason we can outlast weather in the alpine like never before. It’s strong like a bull, truly waterproof when taken care of, and windproof in the wildest tempests.

Arc’teryx uses it to create the best women's snowboard jackets in the world. Facts.

Today, W. L. Gore & Associates does $4.5 billion in business annually, probably due in large part to the legacy they’ve built on that wondrous material we all need in our warm snowboarding jackets.

GORE-TEX isn’t cheap. If you are looking for the best budget snowboard jacket, you probably won’t get GORE-TEX. We only make the best snowboarding jackets for women and the value associated with the quality is worth the investment.

WHY CHOOSE ARC’TERYX AS THE BEST WOMEN’S SNOWBOARDING JACKET?

Looking good in the mountains makes sense, but staying safe, dry, and warm is more important. Luckily, with an Arc’teryx women's snowboard jacket you can have it all. The aesthetics, cut, and colours pair well with waterproofing, windproofing, and durability.

If you want to challenge yourself in the great outdoors while still shining, you’ll have to step up your game with an Arc’teryx stylish snowboard jacket. Stay warm and dry with our suite of features on every women's winter snowboard jacket. From the micro seams to the GORE-TEX material, every detail is taken care of.

Arc’teryx is an industry leader in innovating new and useful features on the warmest women’s snowboard jackets. That’s why we are known for the kind of obsessive design other brands look to for inspiration. The waterproof zippers lock out water with impunity. The materials breathe freely while keeping the weather at bay. The silhouettes we cut may look impressive, but most importantly the best snowboarding jacket moves with you. We stand out in a sea of women’s snowboard jacket brands, and that’s because we care about quality, performance, and aesthetics under one big mountain umbrella.

The best women’s snowboarding jackets are detailed and built from the first stitch up. No shortcuts. Every Arc’teryx piece is designed with a fit that naturally mimics the shape of our bodies. That’s why you move so well through the mountains in Arc’teryx.

These jackets use micro seam technology to reduce width and weight in the best women's snow jacket models. Think less bulk for the best insulated snowboard jackets, and ideal material usage for snowboard shell jackets for women. Add the Stormhood™, one of the most essential features for a day in the elements.

WHAT IS ARC’TERYX DOING TO MAKE SUSTAINABLY CREATED WOMEN’S SNOWBOARD JACKETS?

We all have a lot of work to do when it comes to creating a sustainable and circular economy. Arc’teryx is not alone. We have been working towards sustainability for a long time, and still have a long way to go. We’ve made significant strides though, from our ReGear™ program to using sustainably focused bluesign® suppliers and manufacturers.

LET’S BEGIN AT THE END WITH REGEAR™

We are proud of the warm snowboard jackets we create for snowboarders, and we believe in our gear enough that we will take it back when it’s no longer being used.

We refurbish each garment with the obsessive design that built it. The goal is to extend its active life. Just because it's human moved on doesn’t mean it has to retire. Arc’teryx women’s snowboard jackets go for a very long time so why not keep them in action? We like to think of it as “rewilding” our gear. It lowers the carbon footprint and it keeps passionate mountain community members wearing the best winter jackets for snowboarding even when their budgets aren’t flourishing.

It works too. A full sixty-five percent of the environmental impact of one of our jackets is caused by making it; the raw materials have to be made and shipped.

The garment has to be made and shipped. And it all has to be marketed. All these actions create carbon. But once a snowboard jacket is made, it can service literally a dozen snowboarders over its lifespan. The longer we keep gear in action, the less damage our industry does.

Want to trade gear in? In Canada and the U.S., we’ll take used functional gear in good condition. If you’d give it to a friend, we’ll probably take it.

A WOMEN’S SNOWBOARD JACKET BRAND DESIGNED FOR THE LONG RUN

We use the best materials to create the most refined, durable, and best women's snowboarding jackets possible. We want to make it easier to keep gear out in the field. We want to empower people to find inspiration in nature, design, and one another. We want to acknowledge our interdependence with one another and the living world.

Guided by design, community, science, and passion, we have committed to improving our environmental footprint and growing our positive social impact. We align with the circularity principles of the Ellen MacArthur Foundation and are pursuing circularity, as part of our path to net zero. We make the best women's snowboarding jackets, but we want to continue to pursue how to be better at making them and keeping them in play for as long as possible.

LOW CARBON. HIGH QUALITY. LONG-TERM THINKING. NO SHORTCUTS.

We put our best energy into designing our women's snowboard outerwear. We build the best women's snowboard jackets possible to last and endure the toughest conditions.

Durability and performance have guided us since the beginning. However, 65% of a garment’s environmental impact happens during manufacturing and sourcing. We want to spread that damage out across lifetimes. If we build the best snowboard jacket possible it will be built to last, with timeless design, outstanding quality, and dedicated durability.

The most sustainable thing to do is buy nothing at all. Let that sink in and then let’s continue below.

The second-best thing to do is buy pre-loved ReGEAR™, the Arc’teryx gear others have traded in and we have refurbished. It was awesome gear when the original buyer got it and it still is. If you buy something new, pick the most quality option. The quality that performs season after season. Pick clean designs and popular—not fashionable—colours (or the always popular black) for maximum reselling potential.

Every time you choose to buy one of our durable jackets, you favour durability over disposability. You also play a part in supporting resale, repurposed, or upcycled offerings, and the growing shift towards circularity.

ReBird™ is a hub of initiatives where we are bringing circularity to life in the manufacturing and sale of top women's snowboarding jackets.

HOW ELSE ARE WE COMMITTING TO SUSTAINABILITY?

  • A commitment to a science-based carbon target on climate action.
  • We are working towards a circular economy.
  • We commit to Fair Trade certification and improving working conditions everywhere we build products.

Our product philosophy is the foundation of our approach to sustainability. We believe that building products like the absolute best women's snowboarding jackets is the most powerful way to minimize our impact.

HOW DO WE KEEP THE BEST WOMEN'S SNOWBOARDING JACKETS IN PLAY FOR AS LONG AS POSSIBLE?

We assess every winter jacket for snowboarding that we make and its impact throughout the full lifecycle. This means ongoing analysis throughout multiple steps including sourcing raw materials, garment manufacture, distribution, and retailing. It also includes use, care, repair, and ultimately end of use. Fashionable snowboard jackets get cycled out of service too often. Stylish jackets remain. Stay away from trends. Follow quality and low-key style to get longevity out of your favourite and best snowboard jacket.

Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) is a science-based methodology that helps us identify where impacts lie within this life cycle. It applies a rigorous protocol to measure the specific environmental effects of every single step of a product’s life.

We view our products as systems, like our snowboard jacket to pants attachment systems. Every piece of women's snowboard outerwear requires appropriate care and attention to maintain top performance over time. Proper care is one of the simplest ways to extend the life cycle of any product. Technical fabrics, waterproof membranes, and adhesives maintain their function better with regular washing and occasional retreatment.

REPAIRING LADIES’ SNOWBOARD JACKETS

Repairing the best women's snowboarding jackets keeps them out of landfills. Most tears and damage can be fixed. We have dedicated teams, worldwide, to help keep your winter jackets for snowboarding performing.

At our Vancouver manufacturing facility alone, we repair over 13,000 products annually, returning cherished items to their owners. If a product can't be repaired to our quality standards yet is in usable condition, we work with one of our long-term donation partners to find it a new home. Many of the programs we donate to support youth outdoor initiatives.

WOMEN'S WINTER SNOWBOARD JACKETS AND WHAT THEY’RE MADE FROM

We source base materials that are safe for people and the environment while also ensuring quality and performance in every winter jacket for snowboarding we make.

Microplastic pollution is an emerging environmental concern. Microplastics are tiny plastic particles under 5 millimetres in length. They come from anything plastic that breaks down, including the degradation of larger plastic debris, textiles, car tires, and plastic packaging. They also come from men’s and women's snowboard outerwear.

Arc'teryx uses a range of synthetic and natural textiles in our women's winter snowboard jackets and other products. We are actively working to understand the link between specific textiles and microplastic pollution. To do this we have joined a collaborative research project led by the Ocean Pollution Research Program at Ocean Wise.

The project is 'fingerprinting' 30 different Arc'teryx textile samples and measuring rates of fabric shedding. Data from this research will contribute to a global library of fibre fingerprints that will help to better understand the source, transport, and location of microplastics in the ocean. Our goal is to contribute to solution-oriented designs, practices, and choices.

ARC’TERYX ATHLETE ELENA HIGHT TALKS ABOUT SUSTAINABILITY IN WOMEN’S SNOWBOARDING

The best women's snowboard jacket brands should not be measured solely on their performance in the field. We need to be responsible in how we design, create, and source materials for women's winter snowboard jackets. As one of our athletes, Elena Hight plays a role in inspiring us to do better as we grow into this role. One way we have done this is by committing to transitioning 80% of Arc’teryx products to Fair Trade certification by 2025.

Hight’s first snowboarding sponsor supported her at eight years old. She earned her place on the US Snowboard team at 14. She spent 16 years competing on the professional half-pipe circuit. She’s been to two Olympic Games. She finished first at both the X Games and the US Open. For the next act in her illustrious career, she’s going to try to spin a

much larger, much more ambitious trick—convincing people to care for Earth. “As someone who has been lucky enough to make a living outside, as an athlete, protecting the places we play has become incredibly important to me.” Said Hight, while speaking to The Interia in 2018. “I’m very connected to how humans impact and change the environment, oftentimes in a lot of negative ways. I believe that this mostly has to do with the throwaway mindset that we have developed.”

Elena joined Arc’teryx in 2021, drawn to the brand’s movement toward sustainability. With programs like ReGear and ReBird—which aim to keep the best women's snowboarding jackets in play through a circular economy and upcycling perfectly good old garments—we have tried to better the way Arc’teryx operates, just like Hight has been trying to teach her following to do.

Our society has gotten into this idea that a culture of ease, of being able to buy and throw away, is some sort of status thing... we’re being taught to just discard and move on to the next best thing. That mindset to me is so influential in everything we do, from constantly constructing new housing developments on every piece of land available, even if they intrude on our wilderness, down to the micro-decisions of buying plastic water bottles and throwing them away.”

Hight works with Protect Our Winters, an organization that aims to “help passionate outdoor people protect the places and lifestyles they love from climate change.” She told them what she admires about POW in an interview with Green Sports Alliance.

“POW has done a great job of educating the outdoor sports community about climate change and how we as individuals can get involved in combating it.” Says Hight. “I believe that most outdoor enthusiasts are very passionate people and when we can all rally around a common passion—our Earth—it truly feels like we can help make a difference. POW has really given our industry a united, forward-facing platform to advance the climate change fight.\”

With Elena and her network alongside us, Arc’teryx will continue to design the most sustainable and best women's snowboard jackets we can. Every year, we get better and we will continue to do so.

PRODUCTS THAT WORK FLAWLESSLY WITH OUR BEST WOMEN’S SNOWBOARDING JACKETS

THE BEST PACK TO PAIR WITH WOMEN'S SNOWBOARD OUTERWEAR | ARC’TERYX MICON 32 PACK

There are no restaurants in the backcountry. There is no emergency room. You and your partners need to bring it all, from food to first aid, plus a little bit extra. The Micon 32 Backpack is the perfect system to take the crucial stuff with you and still have a place to put your splitboard and your women's snowboard jacket for that particularly dodgy, high-output scramble up the ridge.

This durable, weather-resistant pack is optimized and organized for splitboarding in the backcountry. Think peaceful uptracks, incredible descents, and the views you can enjoy without worrying about your carry system.

Comfortable and tough as hell, the Micon SK 32 features a balanced carry, weather protection, and intuitive organization. A dedicated pocket keeps avalanche tools right at hand and the roll-top main compartment stores your day’s kit. The helmet carries on the pack externally, and a lid pocket stashes goggles and small essentials.

This pack is built for alpine conditions, its high tenacity N210r HT nylon and N400r-AC² ripstop combine for focused durability and weather protection, critical seams are taped, and zippers are WaterTight™. Pair it with your favourite women's winter snowboard jacket and go find some fresh powder with friends.

A SHORT CUFF GLOVE THAT GOES LONG ON VERSATILITY | ARC’TERYX VENTA AR GLOVE

For some people, the worst part of a snowboard glove is the big ol’ cuffs. Your favourite women's snowboard outerwear already features long sleeves made from the best GORE-TEX and your mid layer usually goes all the way to the wrist. Why are we adding more material to one of our most flexible joints? But we digress...

This beautifully short cuff glove is breathable thanks to Fortius™ 1.0 softshell fabric and GORE-TEX INFINIUM™. More than snowboarding, the Venta AR is a multisport glove with leather reinforcements for durability.

The Venta AR features warmth and weather protection at its best for snowboarding but also cross-country skiing, snowshoeing or winter trail runs. The fabric’s brushed inner is lofty and warm, and the outer sheds snow and light rain. It’s not the heartiest of snowboard gloves if you are in wet environments, but for those who don’t need heavy insulation, this is a great option.

Dexterity is built into the patterning. Premium goat leather reinforcements are used on the palm and fingers. This makes them durable and improves grip when you’re fumbling with gear because no one likes to fumble with gear.

THE UNDERRATED HERO | ARC’TERYX TRIORS MERINO WOOL SKI SOCK

Good socks are a lifesaver, whether ripping the resort or skinning in the backcountry. As any long-time rider or skier knows, performance Merino wool is the only choice for socks, delivering winter warmth and full cushioning. They’re going to get stinky, probably, but only because they last forever, and you crush 100-day seasons like a boss. Keep it up. Wash them often.

FULL COVERAGE. AMPLE STYLE. | ARC’TERYX RHO BALACLAVA

Who has ever made the balaclava look this rad? This (obviously) warm balaclava has a fun style and the comfort of Merino wool. A chunky-knit construction is warm enough for the alpine and styled for anywhere. Wear it pulled up for maximum heat. Scrunch it down for a neck warmer.

IT’S WHAT’S UNDER THE HOODY THAT COUNTS | ARC’TERYX KYANITE HOODY

If you are a true adventurer, you know the ultimate hoody is a go-anywhere, do-anything adventure machine. We call it Kyanite and it’s one of the most stylish snowboard jackets we make, whether it’s underneath one of your best women's snowboard jackets or on its own.

Warm, durable, and versatile, this Polartec® Power Stretch® Pro layering hoody is down for any excursion: ski tours, fall mornings at camp, or chilly days at the crags. Kyanite’s thermal performance, durability, and soft comfort make it stand out as both a standalone superstar and an unsung mid layer hero.

Polartec® Power Stretch® Pro has a nylon face for abrasion resistance, and its four-way stretch combines with articulated patterning for exceptional freedom of movement.

The unrestricted fit layers easily under a shell, a low-profile ScubaHood™ adds warmth, and the brushed fleece interior wicks moisture and is soft as kittens.

START AT THE BOTTOM TO GET TO THE PEAK | ARC’TERYX RHO MERINO WOOL BOTTOM

The base layer is aptly named. It forms a foundation for you to build your amazing snowboarding kit on. The Rho Merino is a performance base layer for lower output activities in cool to cold temperatures. Think snowboarding at the resort. This is some of the best snowboarding clothing you will own, even if people rarely see it.

Lightweight, effective, and comfortable, the Rho Merino is an odour-resistant base layer that uses Torrent™ fabric for an exceptionally soft brushed surface. It speeds moisture transfer and feels great next to the skin.

Elastane fibres add stretch and work with the articulated patterning and gusseted crotch for freedom of movement. The waistband is designed for comfort and easy layering, and a smart thigh pocket stashes a smartphone, which you’ll need to send selfies from the sunny spotlight at the top of the peak.

FOUR PLACES TO SNOWBOARD AND THE BEST WOMEN’S SNOWBOARD JACKET TO RIDE THEM

We picked four iconic locations to check out and the jackets that suit them best. Want to find out what jacket you should be rocking? Try the jacket finder tool we created.

WHISTLER, B.C.

Pretty much in our backyard, this famous—or infamous—ski resort in the Coast Range is a behemoth, the biggest in North America. With 1,565 m (5,133 ft) of vertical and 8,171 acres of terrain to ride, there is almost no end to what you can do at Whistler Blackcomb. It is, however, in the Coast Range, which is near the coast, and that means wetter snow, and more of it (11.9 metres/467 inches a year). It’s also got more turbulent weather.

Now, don’t get us wrong. It still gets blower pow occasionally, but fans of Vermont or Colorado, or Utah may find it too heavy. Indeed, Americans not from the west coast often do. Still, the lift access to true alpine terrain is unlike almost anything on the continent and any snowboarder alive should experience it at least once.

Best women’s snowboard jacketsfor Whistler Blackcomb:

  • Arc’teryx Rush Jacket: Fit in with strong, waterproof, and windproof GORE-TEX, and classic PNW freeride styling.
  • Arc’teryx Atom Hoody: Lightweight and versatile synthetically insulated hoody that stays warm when wet. Pretty much standard issue wear for anyone in the Sea to Sky region.

CRESTED BUTTE, CO

The place that bills itself as “the birthplace of inbounds extreme terrain” in Colorado state’s high and cold Rockies is steeped in snowboard heritage and even steeper in terrain. 2,700 vertical feet and 1,500 acres give more than expected, and the culture has some real ski town vibes. It’s the kind of place where you need to navigate actual cold weather (sorry California), super light snow, and sharp jagged terrain, plus the backcountry is nearly limitless.

Best women’s snowboard jackets for Crested Butte:

  • Arc’teryx Sentinel: GORE-TEX big mountain-focused snowboard jacket with a warm flannel liner, helmet-compatible StormHood™, and relaxed, contemporary fit.
  • Arc’teryx Thorium Hoody: Versatile insulated hoody made with durable Arato™ 30 face fabric and lofty 750 fill grey goose down.

MONT TREMBLANT, QC

Quebec is heaven for a snowboarder. It’s got a storied history with the sport and a snowboard culture all its own. Tremblant is two hours north of Montreal so it sees every kind of snowboarder. But Quebec gets cold...be sure to bring your warmest women’s snowboard jacket, and your taste for both adventure and great food. Tremblant Village goes late into the night so picking clothing that handles après well is key. Bon soir, mon ami.

Best women’s snowboard jackets for Mont Tremblant:

JAY PEAK, VERMONT

Just as close to Montreal as Mont Tremblant but coming with a whole other vibe, Jay Peak is legendary and Vermont itself is the birthplace of the biggest snowboard company on the planet. Bring your warmest women’s snowboard jacket but make sure it’s a hardy shell if you want to explore Jay’s hidden corners. Lots of trees and rocks and blue ice await those who are exploring. So does super sweet, ultralight Vermont powder. Jay’s flavour is a little bit of rough-around-the-edges, a lot of friendly, and tons of fun.

Best women’s snowboard jackets for Jay Peak: