14 Best Gore-Tex Ski Jacket for 2023-2024
When it comes to choosing the best gore-tex ski jacket, there are a few factors to consider: the conditions you’ll be facing on the mountain and your personal skiing style. Whether you’re tackling the Arctic or basking in the sun on an Aspen peak, our comprehensive guide has got you covered.
We’ve carefully curated top picks across various categories, including insulated jackets, versatile shells, and 3-in-1 models that offer the best of both worlds. We have evaluated these options for warmth, weather resistance, and overall comfort, both on the slopes and in the backcountry, ensuring you have all the information you need to make an informed decision. Feel free to browse our comparison table and expert buying advice for guidance, or click on the specific category you’re interested in to dive deeper.
Check out our article about the best gore-tex jackets for outdoor activities to explore a variety of options and discover the perfect fit for your next adventure. Explore our detailed guide tailored exclusively for men and our comprehensive list of gore-tex snowboard jackets that ensure the utmost comfort and performance.
Related: Best Women’s Gore-tex Jacket
Top Choices
Overall Best Gore-tex Ski Jacket: Arc’teryx Sabre SV Jacket
Best Gore-tex Ski Budget Option: Burton [ak] Surgence GORE-TEX 2L Jacket
Best Gore-tex Resort Ski Jacket: Backcountry Cottonwoods Jacket
Best Gore-tex Ski Touring Jacket: Norrona Lyngen GORE-TEX Active Jacket
Best Gore-tex Backcountry Ski Jacket: RAB Khroma Cirque GORE-TEX Jacket
Best Gore-tex 3-in-1 Ski Jacket: Volcom AW 3-IN-1 GORE-Tex Jacket
Best Gore-tex Insulated Ski Jacket: Mountain Hardwear  CLOUD BANK™ Gore-Tex Insulated Jacket
More Gore-tex Ski Jackets 2023-2024:
686 GLCR GORE-TEX 3L Hydra Thermagraph Jacket (Men)
Burton GORE-TEX 3L Treeline Jacket
Dakine Stoker GORE-TEX 3L Jacket
Haglöfs Vassi Touring GORE-TEX Jacket
Mountain Hardwear Viv™ Gore-tex Pro Jacket
Norrøna Lofoten  Gore-Tex Pro Jacket
Roxy GORE-TEX Stretch Purelines Jacket
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Overall Best Gore-Tex Ski Jacket
Arc’teryx Sabre SV Jacket
Price: $900
Weight: 595g
Best Use: Big Mountain Skiing / Backcountry Skiing / Freeride & Freeride Touring / Ski/Snowboard
Fit: Regular
Designed for peak performance and durability, this gore-tex ski jacket is constructed from Super durable N100d Most Rugged 3L GORE-TEX PRO material, offering high abrasion resistance along with waterproof, windproof, and breathable qualities. The regular fit design ensures freedom of movement and accommodates layering, while a DWR (Durable Water-repellent) finish adds an extra layer of moisture protection. The helmet-compatible StormHood™ offers full coverage without obstructing visibility, and articulated patterning allows for unrestricted mobility. Storage is ample with two zippered hand pockets, two internal dump pockets, internal zip pockets, and an external chest pocket, as well as a sleeve pocket designed for an RFID pass. For added safety on the slopes, the jacket features a RECCO® reflector and a Slide ‘n Loc™ attachment that fits compatible pants and jackets. An integrated powder skirt effectively seals out snow. In terms of sustainability, the jacket meets bluesign® criteria and contains at least a 30% portion of recycled content in its raw materials.
Best Budget Option
Burton [ak] Surgence GORE-TEX 2L Jacket
Price: $389.95
Weight:
Best Use: Snowsports, Snowboarding
Fit: Slim Fit
Burton [ak] Surgence GORE-TEX 2L Jacket is a lightweight, packable shell designed specifically for hiking and skinning adventures. Crafted with GORE Paclite® technology, this jacket is incredibly light and easily stowable, making it a convenient addition to any day pack. Engineered for mobility, its breathability, and shaped fit ensure you can move freely on the trail without feeling overheated. The jacket features a range of thoughtful details, such as a pass-through pocket for accessing inner layers without unzipping, and the ability to pack into its own pocket for easy storage. It also incorporates Bluesign® approved materials, minimizing environmental impact during manufacturing. The slim-fit design is complemented by adjustable cuffs, interior access via a chest zipper, internal abrasion-resistant tape, and a lightweight, low-profile back-of-hem cinch. Additional features include reflective details, YKK® water-resistant zippers, a full-time hood with front and rear adjustments, zippered high handwarmer pockets, Pit Zip™ vents for added ventilation, and a lifetime warranty. All these elements combine to make this jacket not just functional but also environmentally conscious.
Best Resort Ski Jacket
Backcountry Cottonwoods GORE-TEX Jacket
Price: $449
Weight: 900g (size M)
Best Use: All-mountain skiing, All-mountain snowboarding, Freeride/Powder skiing
Fit: The ski jacket runs large, it is recommended to size down for the best fit
Elevate your skiing experience with the next-level gore-tex ski jacket, designed to be the toughest in Backcountry’s ski kit lineup. The updated fit profile enhances comfort and mobility, making it ideal for 100-day seasons. Crafted from GORE-TEX 3-layer fabric, the jacket offers unparalleled waterproof durability. The improved, helmet-compatible hood design ensures clear vision, while soft wrist gaiters provide a comfortable and secure sleeve fit. A removable powder skirt effectively keeps deep snow at bay. As part of our Responsible Collection, the face fabric is bluesign® approved. The jacket is constructed with a 100% nylon face fabric treated with C6 DWR, and a 100% nylon 66 lining. All seams are fully sealed for maximum protection. The jacket has a regular fit, hip-length cut, and a center back length of 31 inches for small and 31.75 inches for medium sizes. Storage is ample with two zippered chest pockets (including a goggle wipe), two zippered hand pockets, one zippered sleeve pocket, and one internal mesh pocket. Additional features include underarm zippers for ventilation and wrist gaiters with thumbholes. Overall this is a great choice for any chilly winter day on a slope.
Best Ski Touring Jacket
Norrona Lyngen GORE-TEX Active Jacket
Price: $649
Weight: 300g
Best Use: Ski Touring, Trekking, Mountaineering, Lift accessed freeride
Fit: Technical Fit ( allow multiple layers underneath)
Crafted for superior performance and sustainability, this jacket combines superb breathability and lightweight construction with exceptional waterproof protection. It features articulated elbows, asymmetric cuffs with Velcro® adjustments, and an extended back cut for additional coverage. Storage options include a zippered chest pocket, an inside front pocket, and an internal chest pocket. The design also features off-set seams, one-hand hem adjustment, and the ability to pack the jacket into its own pocket. Additional details include an embroidered logo, an exterior hang loop, and a printed neck/back label. The storm hood is designed to fit a freeride helmet and offers one-hand adjustment, while the stiff brim and taped seams with thin GORE-TEX® 13 mm tape ensure maximum weather protection. Ventilation is provided by an X-open zip, and a YKK® water-resistant front zip adds an extra layer of defense against the elements. The jacket combines two GORE-TEX® technologies: Active SHAKEDRY and 30D GORE-TEX® Active. In terms of sustainability, it contains more than 50% recycled synthetic fibers and is both Oeko-Tex and Bluesign certified.
Best for Backcountry Ski
RAB Khroma Cirque GORE-TEX Jacket
Price: $470
Weight: 425g
Best Use: Backcountry Ski Touring, Ski Mountaineering
Fit: Regular
The Khroma Cirque Jacket is crafted to conquer both uphill and downhill challenges. This remarkable ski touring gear showcases a cutting-edge design, featuring a breathable 3-layer GORE-TEX Active shell. Designed for both comfort and performance, this regular-fit jacket has a center back length of 80 cm (31.5 inches) and weighs 425 grams (15 oz) in size M. It features a 3-way, fully adjustable ski helmet-compatible hood with a wind collar system, as well as a wired and laminated peak for enhanced protection against the elements. For added comfort, the jacket includes a fleece-lined chin guard. The YKK® AquaGuard® Vislon front zip is reinforced with an internal storm flap for extra weather resistance. Storage is ample with two Napoleon chest pockets featuring YKK® AquaGuard® zips and a security clip, a sleeve ski pass pocket, and an internal zipped security pocket. Ventilation is provided by YKK® Conceal® pit zips. The hem is adjustable, and the cuffs are equipped with anti-snag hook-and-loop adjustments. The jacket is constructed with GORE-TEX Active 3-Layer waterproof technology (30D), boasting a hydrostatic head rating of 28,000 mm and a breathability rating of less than 4 Ret.
Best 3-in-1 Ski Jacket
Volcom AW 3-IN-1 GORE-TEX JACKET
Price: $560
Fill Weight: 300g
Best Use: Resort Skiing
Fit: Relaxed-Long
Designed for versatility and comfort on the slopes, our re-engineered 3-in-1 jacket is tailored for a feminine silhouette and offers adaptability in any weather condition. The exterior features a fully taped, waterproof GORE-TEX 2-Layer shell with a boyfriend fit, while the zip-out interior boasts a V-Science Flat Rip Taffeta lining with Non-Fluorinated DWR and 300g of Thermore Ecodown Fibers Genius, providing 600 fill power. This unique construction allows you to control your temperature by layering up or zipping out the hoodless Puff Jacket. Quality features include our patented Zip Tech® jacket-to-pant interface and Recco® advanced rescue technology for added safety. The jacket also comes with a YKK® AquaGuard® water-repellent zipper, hinged hood styling, hidden toggle cinch hood, and peripheral hood adjustment. For added comfort, it features a super suede chin guard, mesh-lined zippered vents, and a stretch adjustable powder skirt. The V-Science 2-way cuff system, Lycra storm cuffs, and brushed tricot-lined handwarmer pockets provide extra warmth. Additional features include a left-sleeve zippered pass pocket, pocket access hem cinch, goggle pocket, noise pocket, specialty ticket ring, and a whistle zipper pull, making this the ultimate do-it-all jacket for any skiing adventure.
Best Insulated Ski Jacket
Mountain Hardwear CLOUD BANK™ Gore-Tex Insulated Jacket
Price: $450
Weight: 980g
Best Use: Skiing/Snowboarding
Fit: Standard Fit: Not too tight, not too loose
The Cloud Bank™ is a midweight snow shell designed for a range of winter activities, from weekend resort skiing to sled-accessed backcountry adventures. Constructed with a 2-layer GORE-TEX® shell fabric, it offers waterproof and breathable protection, ensuring you stay dry and comfortable. The jacket features body-mapped synthetic stretch insulation, providing 80 grams of insulation at the body and 60 grams at the sleeves and hood for optimal warmth-to-weight ratio. A helmet-compatible hood with a three-way drawcord adjustment, underarm zip vents with mesh backing, and a zippered chest pocket add to its functionality. Additional storage options include two lower hand pockets with hook and loop flap closures and a pass pocket on the sleeve. The jacket also comes with a two-way center front zipper complemented by a weather flap, an internal zippered pocket, and an internal powder skirt that integrates with your pants. Integrated stretch cuffs and dual drawcord hem adjustments offer a snug fit, while an integrated RECCO® reflector enhances safety. This feature-rich jacket is engineered to withstand tough conditions and keep you warm and protected on both sides of the mountain.
More Gore-tex Ski Jackets 2023-2024
686 GLCR GORE-TEX 3L Hydra Thermagraph Jacket (Men)
Best Use: Resort-to-Backcountry usage
Fit: Regular Fit
Length: Hip-length
Engineered for durability and sustainability, this jacket features a 3-Layer bluesign® Approved GORE-TEX PRO (Most Rugged) Nylon Fabric with a DWR finish. The fabric is solution-dyed, reducing water usage, chemicals, and CO2 emissions. It boasts fully taped GORE-TEX PRO 3L seams and tapered Polatec® Alpha® Thermagraph® panels for enhanced insulation. For ventilation, the jacket includes Air-Flo™ underarm vents and a helmet-compatible hood that’s adjustable. Comfort is further elevated with a Merino wool blend inner collar and mouth flap. Storage options are abundant, featuring a phone heater pocket with an audio cord outlet, tangle-free headphone loops, and an internal goggle and lens stash pocket. The jacket also has adjustable welded cuffs, Glove Link™ inner thumb grip, inner Lycra wrist gaiters, and a zippered sleeve pass pocket with a key clip. Additional features include a zip-off adjustable powder skirt with a Lycra stretch panel, a Pant Jacket Connect™ system, and a chest pocket inner key clip. The bottom hem is adjustable, and an RFID-blocking inner pocket adds an extra layer of security. All zippers, including the YKK® Aquaguard® center front zipper, are water-resistant. Safety is enhanced with RECCO® Advanced Rescue Technology, and the Hoodlink Packable System offers added convenience.
Burton GORE-TEX 3L Treeline Jacket (Men)
Best Use: Backcountry
Fit: Regular Fit
Length: Waist Length
Crafted with the discerning rider in mind, this jacket offers a splendid blend of comfort and functionality. Sporting a regular fit, it strikes the balance between roomy and snug, ensuring optimal performance and style. It features a 2-way center front zipper and an ergonomic stretch zip-out waist gaiter that seamlessly interfaces with your pants. For media convenience, there’s a media port inside the zippered chest pocket, and all zippers are YKK® water-resistant. The jacket also includes thumbholes for added comfort. The helmet-compatible Fulltime Contour™ Hood offers both front and rear adjustments for a customized fit. Storage is ample with interior mesh dump pockets, zippered handwarmer pockets, and a zippered sleeve pass pocket. Ventilation is provided by Pit Zip™ vents, allowing you to regulate your temperature during long days on the mountain. The jacket is imported and comes with a lifetime warranty. In terms of sustainability, it features PFC-free DWR, making it an eco-conscious choice for riders.
Dakine Stoker GORE-TEX 3L Jacket (Men)
Best Use: Backcountry
Fit: Regular Fit
Length: Hip Length
This piece is crafted from 100% recycled polyester in a 3-layer GORE-TEX® construction, ensuring both sustainability and performance. The fabric is 75 Denier face with PFC-free DWR and features a GORE-TEX® laminate and a 100% recycled backer. It’s also solution-dyed and Blue Sign approved. Designed for optimal functionality, the jacket comes with a tri-pull adjustable fixed hood and an anti-fog breath vent. All zippers are YKK Vislon Aquaguard, offering superior water resistance. For ventilation, the jacket includes zippered pit vents. Storage is ample with a sleeve pass pocket and a media pocket. The ergonomic fit ensures comfort and freedom of movement, while fully taped seams add an extra layer of protection. Additional features include a Recco reflector for safety and a powder skirt for keeping snow out. Mesh stash pockets in the chest and an insulated device pocket provide extra convenience. The Aquaguard zip chest ensures that water stays outside. This jacket is the perfect backcountry piece, designed to keep you dry on the downhill and help you dry off on the uphill, offering all the extras you need and none you don’t.
Haglöfs Vassi Touring GORE-TEX Jacket (Men)
Best Use: Ski Touring, Freeride Ski and Snowboarding
Fit: Regular Fit
Length: Thigh Length
Weight: 615g
Planning an off-the-beaten-track adventure? Check out this high-performance ski-touring jacket. Its freeride design combines style and functionality, with lightweight and breathable GORE-TEX Active fabric keeping you dry during high-pulse activities. Stay versatile with an adjustable, helmet-compatible hood and convenient zippered chest ventilations. With storage in mind, it offers two zippered chest pockets and an internal chest pocket. The articulated sleeves provide freedom of movement, while the adjustable cuffs and bottom hem ensure a perfect fit. This eco-conscious jacket, made from 100% 13D Polyamide Super Light Ripstop, features recycled fabric and is bluesign® approved. The 3-layer GORE-TEX® Active membrane offers optimal waterproofing and breathability. For added safety, it includes a RECCO® reflector, along with other features like a water-resistant zip, brushed chin guard, and snow skirt. Velcro adjustable cuffs complete the package, making it a must-have for ski-touring enthusiasts.
Mountain Hardwear Viv™ Gore-tex Pro Jacket
Best Use: Ski Touring, Resort Skiing
Fit: Relaxed Fit
Length: Hip Length
Weight: 540g
Developed in collaboration with Vivian Bruchez, an athlete for Mountain Hardwear, the Viv GORE-TEX® Pro Jacket is the ultimate ski shell. It is meticulously designed to withstand various conditions, ranging from steep resort slopes to challenging terrains. Crafted using a three-layer GORE-TEX® Pro shell fabric, this jacket offers unparalleled waterproof and breathable protection. To ensure breathability, the center front draft flap incorporates laser perforation at the collar. The jacket seamlessly integrates with pants and includes a hood collapse snap feature, keeping the hood out of the way when not in use. Safety is a top priority, which is why the jacket features an integrated RECCO® reflector. Dual drawcord hem adjustments and articulated cuffs, complete with Velcro® tabs and a thumb bungee, provide a customized fit and extra comfort. This comprehensive solution is a must-have for serious skiers and snowboarders alike. With its articulated and lightweight construction, this jacket is packed with essential features. These include a helmet-compatible hood with three-way adjustment and Cohaesive™ cord locks. Storage is abundant with two zippered hand pockets that feature internal gear organization, as well as two large water-resistant zip chest pockets. These chest pockets also come equipped with internal phone pockets and extra gear compartments. For added ventilation, the jacket is equipped with underarm zip vents. Additionally, it sports two oversized internal drop pockets, perfect for storing gloves, skins, or goggles. The innovative “skin pin” system allows for hanging climbing skins inside the shell.
Norrøna Lofoten Gore-Tex Pro Jacket
Best Use: Lift-based Skiing, Lift Accessed Freeride, Mountaineering, Ski Touring
Fit: Regular Fit
Length: Hip Length
Weight: 698g
The jacket is designed for big mountain freeride, the perfect companion for all your on-slope adventures. It is also equally suitable for general ski/snowboard activities, off-slope excursions, and even outdoor pursuits like trekking and mountaineering.
It features articulated elbows and asymmetric cuffs with Velcro® adjustments for a tailored fit, along with an asymmetric longer back cut for added coverage. Ventilation is a priority, with a front chest ventilation system equipped with a YKK® water-resistant zipper and mesh, as well as X-open underarm ventilation with YKK® water-resistant zippers. Lots of storage options, including an internal chest pocket, inside mesh pocket, key-card pocket, and Napoleon chest pockets with YKK® water-resistant zippers. There’s even a keycard and radio pocket on the overarm for easy access. For added convenience, the jacket has a goggle and sunglass wipe inside the pocket and integrated hand gaiters. A one-hand hem adjustment and partly elasticated hem ensure a snug fit, while a storm hood fitted for a freeride helmet offers one-hand adjustment. The jacket is constructed with taped seams on waterproof fabric for maximum durability and protection. It also features a YKK® water-resistant front zipper and a zip-off powder skirt with gripper elastic and a snap-seal solution, making it a comprehensive and versatile choice for any winter sports enthusiast.
Roxy GORE-TEX Stretch Purelines Jacket (Women)
Best Use: Resort Skiing
Fit: Tailored Fit
Length: Hip Length
Weight: 900g
Crafted for performance and durability, this ski jacket features a polyester mechanical stretch plain weave fabric enhanced with GORE-TEX® 2L technology for superior waterproofing. It’s treated with a PFC-free durable water repellency (DWR) and insulated with eco-friendly PrimaLoft® Black Insulation, boasting a fill weight of 60g. The lining is engineered from ultra-lightweight recycled content polyester taffeta, complemented by brushed tricot and stretch panels at the back, shoulders, and sleeves. Designed with a tailored fit, the jacket has fully taped seams for added protection. The 3-way adjustable fixed hood comes with a wire visor and is helmet-compatible, featuring a COHAESIVE® Hood Stopper System for secure fit. The front zip closure utilizes a YKK® Aquaguard® zipper for water resistance. Storage is ample with hand pockets, a chest pocket, and internal media and goggle pockets, as well as a sleeve pass pocket. Additional features include a key clip, 3D shaped stretch fixed powder skirt, snap-away powder skirt system, and a jacket-to-pant attachment system. For ventilation, the jacket has mesh-lined underarm venting. Comfort is enhanced with internal stretch wrist gaiters with thumbholes, sleeve cuff adjusters, and a chin guard. It also comes with a lens cleaner, perforated chin guard, and ROXY HydroSmart technology storm-mask. The jacket is ROXY WarmLink belt compatible, making it a comprehensive choice for any winter activity.
Buyers Guide
Importance of a good ski jacket
A good ski jacket is an essential component of your skiing gear. It not only keeps you warm and comfortable in cold, often harsh mountain environments but also protects you from various elements like snow, wind, and rain. A high-quality ski jacket is designed to maintain your body’s thermal balance, allowing for moisture wicking to prevent overheating while ensuring adequate insulation. This balance of warmth, protection, and breathability is crucial for both safety and enjoyment on the slopes.
Gore-Tex technology in ski jackets has revolutionized this balance. Gore-Tex is a waterproof, windproof, and breathable fabric, making it an ideal material for ski jackets. Its unique membrane contains pores smaller than water droplets but larger than vapor molecules, allowing sweat to escape while preventing water from entering. This technology ensures that skiers stay dry and comfortable, enhancing their overall performance and experience in various skiing conditions.
Key Features to Look for in Gore-Tex Ski Jackets
- Waterproofing and Breathability: Gore-Tex jackets offer superior waterproofing while allowing moisture from the body to escape, keeping you dry and comfortable. Look for jackets with high waterproof ratings and breathability features like venting systems.
- Wind Resistance: Ensure your jacket provides excellent wind resistance to protect against harsh mountain winds, enhancing warmth and comfort.
- Durability and Abrasion Resistance: Ski jackets should withstand rough conditions. Look for jackets with reinforced high-wear areas and robust construction to ensure longevity.
- Insulation and Warmth: Depending on your needs, choose between insulated jackets for colder conditions or shell jackets for layering flexibility. Gore-Tex jackets often balance insulation with breathability, providing warmth without overheating.
Types of Gore-Tex Ski Jackets
Gore-Tex ski jackets come in various types, each suited to different skiing conditions and preferences:
- Shell Jackets: These are lightweight and highly versatile. They provide excellent protection against wind and water while offering great breathability. Ideal for layering, shell jackets are perfect for skiers who prefer to customize their warmth levels with different base and mid-layers.
- Insulated Jackets: These jackets come with built-in insulation, typically down or synthetic materials, offering warmth in colder conditions. They are ideal for skiers who want a warm, all-in-one solution without the need for multiple layers.
- 3-in-1 Jackets: Offering maximum versatility, 3-in-1 jackets combine an outer waterproof shell with a detachable inner insulation layer. This design allows you to use the shell or insulated layer separately or together, adapting easily to changing weather conditions.
- Softshell Gore-Tex Jackets: These jackets are known for their flexibility and comfort. While offering less insulation than traditional ski jackets, they provide excellent breathability and are ideal for high-energy activities in milder conditions. They typically offer good water resistance and are great for skiers who prioritize mobility and comfort.
Fit and Comfort
The right fit is crucial in a Gore-Tex ski jacket for both performance and comfort. A well-fitting jacket allows for free movement, essential for skiing maneuvers, while ensuring the jacket’s features function effectively.
For added comfort, look for jackets with adjustable hoods to accommodate helmets, powder skirts to prevent snow from entering at the waist, and ventilation zips for regulating temperature. These features enhance the overall skiing experience by adapting to different conditions and personal preferences. A jacket that fits well and is equipped with these comfort features can significantly improve your time on the slopes.