The top features to look for when picking a perfect ski jacket

Between you and the cold is your ski jacket, so it must be warm. Here are the features to look for when picking a ski jacket to keep you toasty on the slopes.

Ski jackets are specially built for harsh winter weather conditions, like biting, icy winds. Quality jackets will also be designed for optimal comfort to allow the skier full range of motion to maximize performance. What's more, good ski jackets are made to offer the skier some protection from a fall.

There are two common types of ski jackets: insulated and shell.

Although there is no definitive answer as to which one is superior, in order to choose the appropriate jacket, you need to consider how your body deals with temperature: do you typically feel warm or cold when active?

• People who find themselves getting warm quickly when active will overheat when wearing an insulated jacket—and not have layers to remove to compensate.
• Skiers who feel naturally colder may have the same issue with the same type of jacket, as they’ll get even colder.

• While some people like hoods on their jackets for added warmth, others prefer to not have a hood flapping around when they ski.
• What's more, zippered vents are very useful to allow heat to escape. For anyone who chills easily, they're not a desirable feature becuase they also permit the cold to get in.
• Velcro closures on cuffs and an inner drawstring help prevent snow and cold from seeping into your coat by snugging it tighter around you.
• Zippered pockets—inside and out—help stash gear like your wallet, ski pass, sunglasses and more. Buttoned pockets make losing things in the snow a risk if you tumble.

Insulated jackets are designed to provide warmth to skiers, and eliminate the need to pile on layers of clothing during frigid and fast mountain descents.

• They are typically made from waterproof and windproof—or resistant at the very least—synthetic fabrics.
• Insulation material is integrated into the jacket thanks to a lightweight inner lining fabric.
• These high-tech fabrics can help regulate the body’s warmth and minimize build-up of perspiration.

The shell ski jacket style isn’t as popular as insulated ones. However, for milder conditions, they are the way to go.

• Shell ski jackets are made from durable synthetics, which protect against the wind and water.
• Due to the lack of insulation, additional layers of clothing is recommended.
• For people who perspire heavily, they're perfect for layering purposes.

Ski jacket manufacturers have begun offering a three-in-one jacket, which includes an outer shell jacket with an inner insulated jacket. When zipped together, they form a single jacket.

This new type of ski jacket gives the wearer a bit more versatility and choice.

• The outer shell can be worn on its own, with your own layers added underneath—perfect for warmer weather.
• The inner jacket can also be worn alone. It should have pockets and other features found on the outer shell, so it's like a "real" jacket.

With so many types of ski jackets out there, it can be difficult to choose the right one with the best features for you. Whether it's practical velcro closure cuffs or an inner drawstring to tighten the waist of your coat, no matter your sense of style, a good ski jacket is essential to staying warm and having fun in winter.