Snowboard apparel is designed with specific functionality in mind: keeping you warm, dry, protected from the elements, and allowing freedom of movement. Lets break down the key pieces that every snowboarder should consider:

The Heart of Your Outerwear: A good snowboard jacket is arguably the most important piece of apparel you'll buy. It serves as your primary defense against wind, snow, and moisture while regulating body temperature. Look for jackets with these features:

• Waterproof/Breathable Fabrics: Gore-Tex or similar technologies are industry standards that keep water out while letting sweat vapor escape.
• Insulation: The amount of insulation depends on the climate you ride in. Higher warmth levels (e.g., 60 grams) are best for colder regions, while lighter insulation (e.g., 30-40 grams) is suitable for milder temperatures.
• Hood: A helmet-compatible hood with a drawcord ensures coverage and protection when wearing a helmet.
• Pockets: Plenty of zippered pockets to store essentials like your phone, wallet, goggles, and lift ticket are essential.
• Ventilation Zippers (Pit Zips): These zippers under the arms allow you to release excess heat during strenuous activity or warm weather.

• Burton AK Baker PTX Jacket: Known for its Gore-Tex Pro shell and PrimaLoft Gold insulation, this jacket is a top choice for backcountry riders seeking maximum warmth and waterproofing.
• The North Face Freedom Insulated Jacket: A versatile option with 700 fill down insulation and DryVent fabric, suitable for both resort riding and casual wear.
• Volcom StretchStone Stretch Gore-Tex Jacket: Features the latest in breathable technology and a relaxed fit that allows layering underneath.

The Foundation of Your Snowboard Outfit: Snowboard pants protect your legs from snow and moisture while providing freedom of movement for riding. Here are some key features to look for:

• Waterproof/Breathable Fabrics: Similar to jackets, Gore-Tex or equivalent materials are crucial for keeping you dry.
• Reinforced Knees and Seat: These areas take the most abuse during snowboarding, so reinforcement is essential.
• Gusseted Crotch: Provides added comfort and flexibility when crouching or sitting down.
• Adjustable Waistband/Belt Loops: Allows you to customize the fit and accommodate layering underneath.
• Ventilation Zippers (Thigh Vents): Allow for temperature regulation during warmer rides or intense activity.

• Arc'teryx Sabre AR Pant: These pants are lightweight, highly breathable, and offer excellent freedom of movement thanks to their articulated knees.
• Outdoor Research Skyward II Pants: Featuring Gore-Tex Pro fabric and a durable design, these pants are built for backcountry adventures.
• Burton Reserve Bibs: A bib pant option that provides full coverage and keeps snow out even during deep powder days.

The First Line of Defense Against Cold: Base layers wick moisture away from your skin, keeping you dry and warm. Merino wool or synthetic materials are the best choices:

• Merino Wool: Naturally regulates temperature and resists odor even after multiple wears.
• Synthetic Fabrics (Polyester/Polypropylene): Moisture-wicking properties make them ideal for high-intensity activities.
• Fit: Snug but not restrictive allows full range of motion while maintaining contact with the skin to wick moisture effectively.

• Icebreaker 260 Tech Long Sleeve Crewe: Made from 100% merino wool, this shirt is incredibly warm and comfortable.
• Smartwool Intraknit Merino 200 Bottoms: These pants are a great option for colder temperatures with their thick merino knit construction.
• Patagonia Capilene Cool Daily Shirt & Leggings: A synthetic base layer set that offers excellent moisture management in milder conditions.

Adding Extra Warmth: Mid layers provide an extra layer of insulation and can be added or removed depending on the weather. Fleece, insulated hoodies, and sweaters are popular choices:

• Fleece Jackets: Versatile and warm, fleece jackets offer a good balance between warmth and breathability.
• Insulated Hoodies/Vests: Lightweight insulation provides additional heat without adding bulk.
• Sweaters: A stylish option for layering over base layers or under jackets when its not too cold.

• Patagonia Better Sweater Fleece Jacket: A classic fleece jacket that's durable, warm, and comfortable to wear all day long.
• The North Face ThermoBall Eco Hoodie: Features synthetic insulation that mimics down but performs better in wet conditions.
• Arc'teryx Atom LT Hoody: This versatile hoodie is lightweight, breathable, and provides excellent warmth for a wide range of temperatures.

Keeping Your Feet Warm & Dry: The right socks are crucial for preventing cold feet and blisters:

• Wool or Synthetic Blends: Wool blends offer superior warmth and moisture management compared to cotton socks.
• Thickness/Height: Choose the thickness based on your boots and how warm you tend to run. Crew-length socks provide good coverage without bunching up in your boots.
• Seamless Toe Closure: Prevents blisters caused by friction against the inside of your boots.

• Darn Tough Over-the-Calf Hiker Micro Crew Cushion Socks: These socks are known for their durability, comfort, and lifetime guarantee.
• Smartwool PhD Outdoor Light Mini Crew Socks: Lightweight merino wool socks that provide excellent cushioning without adding bulk.
• Carhartt Arctic Wool Boot Socks: Thick and warm, these socks are perfect for extremely cold weather riding.

Protecting Your Hands From the Elements: Keeping your hands warm and dry is essential for maintaining control of your board. Heres what to look for:

• Waterproof/Breathable Membrane: Gore-Tex or similar membranes keep water out while allowing moisture vapor to escape.
• Insulation: The amount of insulation depends on the climate you ride in. Thicker gloves are suitable for colder temperatures, while lighter gloves work well in milder conditions.
• Wrist Leashes/Strap System: Prevents losing your gloves if they accidentally slip off.

• Black Diamond Mercury Mitts: These waterproof mittens feature PrimaLoft Gold insulation and a removable liner for versatile warmth levels.
• Hestra Army Leather Heli Ski 3-Finger Mittens: Durable leather construction, warm insulation, and a comfortable fit make these gloves ideal for backcountry riding.
• Dakine Titan Gore-Tex Gloves: A reliable option with waterproof/breathable fabric, reinforced palms, and touchscreen compatibility.

Protecting Your Eyes & Enhancing Visibility: Snowboard goggles are essential for protecting your eyes from the sun, wind, snow, and debris:

• Lens Technology (VLT): The Visible Light Transmission (VLT) rating determines how much light passes through the lens lower VLT values offer more protection in bright conditions.
• Anti-Fog Coating: Prevents fogging by reducing condensation on the inside of the lens.
• Helmet Compatibility: Goggles should fit snugly with your helmet without leaving gaps that allow snow or wind to enter.

• Oakley Flight Deck XM Goggles: Known for their wide field of vision and excellent clarity, these goggles feature Oakley's proprietary Prizm lens technology.
• Smith Optics 41 Mag XL Goggles: Comfortable fit, anti-fog coating, and a variety of interchangeable lenses make these goggles a top choice among snowboarders.
• Anon M3 Goggles: Feature Magna-Tech magnetic lens system for quick and easy lens changes ideal for rapidly changing weather conditions.

Snowboard apparel is often rated by its waterproofness, measured in millimeters of water pressure (mm). A higher number means better waterproofing:

• 5,000-10,000 mm: Suitable for casual riding and light snowfall.
• 10,000-20,000 mm: Ideal for moderate snow conditions.
• 20,000+ mm: The best choice for deep powder days and wet climates.

While waterproofness is crucial, breathability is equally important to prevent overheating:

• 5,000-10,000 g/m/24h: Suitable for moderate activity levels.
• 10,000-15,000 g/m/24h: Offers good breathability during high-intensity activities.
• 15,000+ g/m/24h: The most breathable option ideal for backcountry riding and warmer weather conditions.

The amount of insulation in your jacket or pants depends on the climate you ride in and how cold you tend to run:

• 60-100 g/m: Provides ample warmth for colder climates.
• 40-60 g/m: Suitable for moderate temperatures.
• 20-40 g/m: Lightweight insulation works well in milder weather.

Snowboard apparel should fit comfortably without restricting your movement:

• Layering Room: Allow enough room to layer base and mid layers underneath your jacket and pants.
• Articulated Knees/Elbows: This feature allows for a greater range of motion while riding.
• Adjustable Cuffs & Waistbands: Allows you to customize the fit and seal out cold air.

Investing in high-quality snowboard apparel offers numerous benefits:

• Staying Warm & Dry: Prevents hypothermia, frostbite, and discomfort caused by wet clothing.
• Increased Comfort: Allows you to focus on riding instead of being distracted by the cold or moisture.
• Enhanced Performance: Proper layering allows for optimal temperature regulation, keeping you comfortable and focused throughout your ride.
• Improved Safety: Staying warm and dry helps maintain dexterity in your hands and feet, improving control over your board.