5 Best Ski Jackets for Kids
Obermeyer Boys’ Mach 11 Insulated Ski Jacket
This stylish jacket is perfect for boys, suitable for skiing and everyday winter wear.
- Exceptional waterproofing and breathability at 15,000 millimetres.
- 160-gram synthetic insulation ensures great warmth.
- Only suitable for handwashing.
Wantdo Boys’ Waterproof Ski Jacket
A fantastic budget option, this jacket is available in a variety of colours for boys.
- Waterproofing rated at 10,000 millimetres for moderate snow.
- Detachable hood with elastic gaskets to prevent wind chill.
- The fleece liner is less warm and breathable compared to synthetic insulation.
Spyder Girls’ Zadie Synthetic Down Ski Jacket
Perfectly designed for girls, this jacket offers warmth for skiing or daily winter use.
- Comparable warmth to a 600-fill down jacket.
- Features a removable faux fur collar and helmet-compatible hood.
- Waterproofing is only effective in moderate snowfall.
Which Ski Jackets for Kids are Best?
Ski jackets are an excellent choice for children, not just for skiing but for all types of wintry activities. It’s essential that these jackets also look good, as kids often want to feel stylish in addition to being warm. When searching for the perfect ski jacket, we recommend focusing on three key factors: warmth, waterproofing, and breathability.
Things to Consider Before Buying a Ski Jacket for Kids
Types of Insulation
- Down: Renowned for its lightweight nature and excellent warmth. A down jacket should ideally feature a Durable Water Repellent (DWR) coating, with 500-700 fill power being a great standard.
- Synthetic: While not as warm as down, synthetic insulation remains popular and is generally more affordable. Cold weather jackets should contain 100-200 grams per square metre of synthetic insulation.
- Fleece: Fleece jackets require a waterproof shell and should measure 200-300 grams of insulation for effective warmth.
Some jackets may not have insulation, making them lightweight yet highly resistant to water and wind. If you opt for such a jacket, ensure your child is dressed in suitable base and mid-layers.
Waterproofing Ratings
Waterproofing is rated in millimetres; higher ratings indicate better waterproof performance. For optimal protection, look for jackets rated at 20,000 millimetres or more, combined with a solid DWR coating. A rating of 5,000 millimetres will only provide basic water resistance, while kids’ ski jackets should have at least 10,000 millimetres to handle wet conditions effectively.
Breathability Levels
The need for breathability increases with activity level. Regular skiing requires a breathability rating of 5,000-8,000 grams. For more intense skiing, aim for jackets with a rating of 10,000-15,000 grams; backcountry skiing demands 20,000 grams or higher.
Features of a Quality Ski Jacket for Kids
Powder Skirt
A powder skirt is a vital feature that helps keep snow and cold winds out. If a jacket lacks this, ensure that the inner layers are snugly tucked in. A drawcord at the hem is also a practical addition.
Hood
Given the unpredictable weather in the mountains, every ski jacket should come with a hood. Ideally, hoods should be insulated, waterproof, and adjustable to fit snugly around the face.
Price Expectations for Kids’ Ski Jackets
High-end ski jackets, often sold with matching ski pants, can reach prices of £500. However, there are quality budget options starting around £40 that still deliver good performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Layers Should My Child Wear with an Uninsulated Ski Jacket?
A: Start with polyester or Merino wool base layers, and consider a down or synthetic mid-layer for warmth. Ensure the uninsulated jacket has a hood and pair it with a woolen hat.
Can a Snowboarding Jacket be Used as a Ski Jacket?
A: Absolutely! Snowboarding jackets fulfill the same purpose as ski jackets.
Top Picks for Kids’ Ski Jackets
Best Overall Ski Jacket
Obermeyer Boys’ Mach 11 Insulated Ski Jacket
Overview: This stylish jacket serves well for skiing and everyday winter activities.
Strengths: Excellent waterproofing and breathability rated at 15,000 millimetres, plus 160-gram insulation for warmth. Underarm vents allow cooling without removing the jacket.
Consideration: Hand wash only.
Best Budget Ski Jacket
Wantdo Boys’ Waterproof Ski Jacket
Overview: A budget-friendly option available in multiple colours.
Strengths: Good waterproofing at 10,000 millimetres and a detachable hood with wind-blocking elastic gaskets.
Consideration: The fleece liner may not provide as much warmth or breathability as synthetic insulation.
Noteworthy Option
Spyder Girls’ Zadie Synthetic Down Ski Jacket
Overview: A warm jacket for girls suitable for skiing and daily winter wear.
Strengths: Comparable warmth to a 600-fill down jacket, with good waterproofing and features like a removable faux fur collar and helmet-compatible hood.
Consideration: Waterproofing is best for moderate snowfall.