Our huge range of outwear includes: ski jackets, ski pants, snowboard jackets, and snowboard pants. You want a jacket that not only looks great but also keeps you warm – and our range definitely caters for this! Our outerwear suits all types of snow conditions, and includes basic shell jackets to fully insulated jackets. If you are easily susceptible to the colder temperature, then we would recommend that you check out our insulated range or our super warm down jackets.
Shell or Insulated?
The difference between a jacket and a shell lies in the insulation they offer. So a jacket has more insulation than a shell.
Shell Jacket
These days, your typical snow sports shell is often non-insulated (or very lightly insulated). The shell’s main function is to repel water and wind while remaining breathable. Without breathability, sweat builds up and your clothing loses its insulating ability. The idea of the shell jacket is to keep you dry and windproof so it must be used with other breathable clothing layers. Layer with a good base layer and then mid layer for when the temperature drops.
Insulated or Down Jacket
These styles of jackets are ideal for those who feel the cold on the slopes, or want to use the jacket for other outdoor activities as well. The insulation varies:
- Down jackets warm you quickly and maintain the heat for long time. This is PERFECT for Japan, where the temperature is low and the snow is DRY!.
- Synthetic insulation replicates the warming and heating effects of down, but is less bulky and more breathable.
Tips: Selecting a New Jacket
Your outerwear jacket must be weatherproof - water/wind proof as well as breathable and durable
Waterproof
The higher the mm figure is, the more waterproof the fabric is. The following waterproof ratings are recommended for Japan.
5,000 – 15,000 mm Rainproof, waterproof and windproof unless under serious pressure
15,000 – 30,000 mm Waterproof and windproof even under serious pressure
Breathability
Breathable jackets allow the moisture from your body perspiration to exit through the material itself. If it cannot escape, then the moisture will build up as condensation on the inside of the jacket and will cool you down quickly.
Powder Skirt
Powder skirt prevents any snow or cold air to get into the jacket. This is essential for a place like Japan with its abundance of powder snow.
Ski and Snowboard Pants
Your outerwear pants must be large enough to cover base layers comfortably. Many pants also provide extra protection and durable fabric in case of falls. Research these factors, then choose the right style and color ski pants for you.
Apres Boots
In Niseko and Hakuba, keeping your feet warm and dry is essential to a happy holiday! If you don’t already have footwear that is up to the snowy conditions in Japan, then we highly recommend checking out our range of apres boots for hire. We also stock a large range of retail apres boots if you’re interested in making a worthwhile investment.
