Having the right winter jacket for your snowboarding holiday can make the difference between being warm and dry or cold and wet. What factor should you look for when buying a new winter jacket?
Shopping for a jacket can be daunting because they are lots of different styles to choose from. They key to selecting a jacket for snowcat or heli skiing is to find one that is designed to keep the elements (snow, rain and wind) from getting in. Providing warmth is not the purpose of this garment, an insulating layer worn under your jacket will provide that.
It is important to buy a jacket that will protect you from snow getting up under it. That is why I look for a coat that is slightly longer then waist length. This alone will prevent the jacket from being pushed up when you wipe out. Also look for a draw cord at the waist level as well as along the bottom. This will provide the extra protection you need to stay warm and dry. Face it, a jacket full of snow can end your fun quick. You should also look for either velcro straps or an elastic storm cuff around the wrists.
One of the primary goals of your winter clothing is to allow moisture from sweat to be released. When the inner layers start to get wet they loose their ability to keep you warm. This include being able to allow moisture from sweat to escape. The best material for this is Gortex. Gortex is a membrane that will allow moisture to exit but prevents water drops from entering. Without Gortex you will slowly begin to get damp and loose the ability to maintain heat.
Some companies like Arcteryx have patented a zipper that is sealed when closed. This is a great feature since it prevents any liquid from entering through this "weak link". Wind penetration is also eliminated. It seems like a small feature but after having an Arcteryx jacket you will notice this addition.
Your winter jacket is truly the most important article of ski clothing you will wear. Having cold feet or legs, although not comfortable, are not as critical as the core of your body. In a survival situation a proper winter jacket will be a life saving article of clothing.