Having the right coat for your skiholiday can make the difference between staying comfortable and warm or damp and cold. What factor should you look for when buying a new jacket.
When shopping for a winter jacket to wear out on the slopes I am looking for a shell that will protect me from the elements only, wind, rain or snow. I do not need to have the jacket provide any insulation. This is provided by other layers of clothing that I wear under the jacket.
It is important to buy a jacket that will protect you from snow getting up under it. That is why I look for a coat that is slightly longer then waist length. This will prevent any snow from getting in when you crash. Also look for a draw cord at the waist level as well as along the bottom. This will provide the extra protection you need to stay warm and dry.Face it, a jacket full of snow can end your fun quick.Storm cuffs around both wrists will also be appreciated on those really "deep" days.
Having a winter jacket that breaths is critical to staying dry while exerting yourself. Gortex is your friend in this case. Gortex is a semi-permeable membrane that will allow water vapor to escape while preventing water drops from entering. Without this membrane your sweat will accumulate in the jacket and you will get damp and cold.
Choosing the right winter jacket will allow you to spend hours outside at a time while remaining warm and comfortable. When your upper body is warm it prevents your blood from being pulled from the extremities. This will have a dramatic effect of your overall comfort.