As winter arrives, many people begin shopping for outerwear to stay warm. However, not all jackets are made equal, especially regarding outdoor sports like snowboarding. If you are wondering whether you need a snowboarding jacket or if your regular winter coat will work, this blog will help clarify. Here’s everything you need to know about the difference between a snowboard jacket and a regular jacket.
Purpose & Design
Snowboarding jackets are made for active use in snowy, cold, and wet mountain weather conditions. It is made to deal with extreme weather while allowing movement. On flip side, a regular, casual jacket is made for everyday life - commuting, casual outings, or a short trip outside. It focuses on warmth and a stylish look, not performance.
Snowboarding jackets are commonly used in high intensity sports. Therefore, snowboarding jackets are made to keep you dry, ventilated, and protected while constantly moving in the mountains and on the slopes.
Waterproofing & Breathability
Snowboarding jackets often come with high waterproof ratings, typically 10,000mm and higher. This means if you're in heavy snowfall or wet conditions, the jacket will keep water from getting through. Additionally, snowboard jackets are breathable, which means you don't get sweaty and cold inside if you're active.
Regular jackets may have water resistant but they're not fully waterproof. They would be fine for light rain or short periods in snowy conditions, but are not necessarily going to keep you dry riding a snowy mountain all day.
If you’re out snowboarding all day, staying dry is non-negotiable. A regular jacket just won’t cut it.
Insulation and Warmth
Snowboarding jackets come in different insulation levels (some are shells that need to be layered for warmth), giving snowboarders the flexibility to wear what they want and layer based on the weather. Most jackets for snowboarding include features like thermal linings and moisture-wicking fabrics.
Regular jackets are usually bulkier and simply made for warmth. They don't provide a consideration for ventilation or versatility in layering and insulation. If you were to wear them while snowboarding, you'd likely be overheated in no time.
Fit and Mobility
Snowboarding involves a lot of movement - bending, jumping, riding, etc. This is why snowboarding jackets are designed to have a somewhat relaxed fit when you need to wear layers or don't want to restrict movement.
Snowboarding jackets also have lengthy backs so that when you fall, it helps keep the snow from getting into the jacket. Articulated elbows and additional room in the shoulders are other design features you might find in a snowboarding jacket.
Regular jackets are often more fitted and you might feel restricted when you are moving around or wearing multiple layers under the jacket.
Typically, regular jackets are not designed for action sports.
Special Features
Snowboarding jackets are packed with thoughtful features to enhance performance and protection:
Ventilation zips under the arms for cooling down
Goggle pockets and media pockets
Helmet-compatible hoods
Lift pass holders
Reinforced seams for durability
These features are not there in most regular jackets, which focus more on basic utility and fashion.
Durability
Snowboarding jackets are made from very durable materials to survive in snow and ice, falls, and abrasion. They often use reinforced seams and durable zippers to handle wear and tear. Regular jackets are normally not made to withstand this kind of use. They will tear or break over time in adverse outdoor conditions.
Final Thoughts
Regular jackets are great for casual winter wear, but they cannot provide the same level of performance, protection, and comfort as snowboarding jackets can on the slopes. If you're snowboarding or planning to spend significant time in the snowy mountain range, it's worth getting a proper snowboarding jacket.
It's not only about keeping warm; it's about staying easily dry and comfortable, and safe while you're out enjoying the snow. With the right gear, you will have a safe fun time.
