The proper winter jacket helps you stay comfortable while cat skiing or heli skiing

What do you need to know when choosing the right winter jacket?

The proper winter jacket will absolutely make the difference between staying warm and dry or getting cold and wet. There are several important qualities you must consider when buying a new winter jacket.

When shopping for a jacket to wear while powder skiing I am looking for a shell that will protect me from the elements only, wind, rain or snow.

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 will prevent any snow from getting in when you crash. 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.Storm cuffs around both wrists will also be appreciated on those really "deep" days.

Having a winter jacket that breaths is critical to staying dry while exerting yourself. Gortex is your friend in this case. Gortex is a semi-permeable membrane that will allow water vapor to escape while preventing water drops from entering. Without this membrane your sweat will accumulate in the jacket and you will get damp and cold.

Winter jacket technology keeps improving and clothing designers look for better ways for their products to perform their jobs. Arcteryx has developed and patented a sealed zipper that, when closed, will repel water and wind preventing them from entering the garment. This small feature doesn't seem like much but on a cold, windy day it will have a dramatic effect.

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.