Should your ski jacket be tight or loose? Trim or bulky? Stylish or functional? There’s no denying that the ski slopes have long been a bit of a fashion parade, but when it comes to your ski jacket, of course the most important thing you want is protection from the cold. Beyond that, some of us prefer the sleek snow bunny look with a snug fit while others opt for the baggy style favored by snowboarders. But is there actually a functional argument for one style over another, or does it all just come down to your instincts for fashion? Let’s take a look.
How should a ski jacket fit?
Basically speaking, the best thing you can do is try on a few ski jackets while wearing your base layer and your mid layer. If you can comfortably fasten the jacket over these clothes and reach your arms overhead (remember, you’ll want to be able to pull the bar down on the chairlift), and the jacket isn’t excessively loose, it’s the right size.
You shall also want to wear your ski gloves, since ski jackets are designed with long sleeves to go over your gloves and keep the snow out. Without your gloves on, you may be fooled into thinking the jacket is too big based on the sleeves. You also don’t want your sleeve riding up when you’re lowering the bar and exposing your wrist to the cold.Should you size up in a ski jacket?
Almost all ski jackets nowadays will come with various adjustable straps and drawstrings, so if the jacket is just slightly loose, play around with these before sizing up and losing warmth. If your jacket is too big, you’re more susceptible to wind and snow getting in, which is the last thing you want.
How long is too long for a ski jacket?
How should a ski jacket fit?
The best ski jacket is always insulated, breathable and waterproof, but beyond that they come in an array of fits and styles these days. One of the biggest question when shopping for a new ski jacket is whether it should be tight or loose. After all, if it’s too tight you won’t be able to fit layers underneath it and on a cold day you might want a mid layer such as a fleece jacket in addition to your base layer. But then again, if it’s too loose it might not keep you warm enough. So what’s the answer?
Basically speaking, the best thing you can do is try on a few ski jackets while wearing your base layer and your mid layer. If you can comfortably fasten the jacket over these clothes and reach your arms overhead (remember, you’ll want to be able to pull the bar down on the chairlift), and the jacket isn’t excessively loose, it’s the right size. You shall also want to wear your ski gloves, since ski jackets are designed with long sleeves to go over your gloves and keep the snow out. Without your gloves on, you may be fooled into thinking the jacket is too big based on the sleeves. You also don’t want your sleeve riding up when you’re lowering the bar and exposing your wrist to the cold.
