What To Look For
Look for a jacket that offers the proper mix of waterproofing and breathability for your local resort conditions. Waterproofing gives the jacket the ability to keep outside moisture out, and is often provided in a millimeter measurement, with most jackets ranging from 5,000 mm to 30,000 mm. Breathability allows your inner moisture to escape so that you don't become waterlogged. This is often given in a measurement in grams. Higher numbers equate to more effective waterproofing and breathing. Other things to look for include a waist gaiter to prevent snow or moisture from slipping under your jacket, taped seams, zippered vents under the arms and water-resistant zippers.
Common Pitfalls
Snowboard clothing is designed to be worn in layers. The most important aspect of the outer layers, like your jacket, is the ability to breathe and protect from wind and moisture. Many riders prefer a shell-style jacket, which allows them to adjust the insulation underneath. Jackets with integrated insulation like down or loft don't provide as much flexibility in layering, and may prove to be too hot and uncomfortable for warmer days. On the other hand, you may prefer to have the extra insulation if you ride in colder weather.
Where To Buy
For the best selection of jackets, shop at a local ski shop or sporting goods store with a snowboard section. Look for waterproof/breathable measurements on the tag, and try several jackets on to find the right mix of fit, comfort, style and features. Online, you'll find snowboard jackets at ski retailers like Sierra Snowboard and The House, as well as at larger outdoor retailers like Backcountry and REI.
Cost
Snowboard jackets range widely in cost from around $150 to $600. Unless you do a lot of backcountry trekking, you won't need to get a top-end jacket. These jackets typically offer very high waterproof/breathability numbers and use expensive materials and technologies to make an advanced jacket capable of holding strong under the worst conditions. In other words, if float-plane splitboarding in Alaska isn't in your season's plans, you don't need to spend $500 or $600 for a jacket. For more casual, fair-weather resort riding, you can find a good jacket for between $150 and $300.
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