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

How do you select the proper winter jacket for cat or heli skiing?

The proper winter jacket can literally make the difference between staying warm and dry or getting cold and wet. There are several key properties you must consider when buying a new coat.

When I shop 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.

The very first thing to look for when selecting a winter jacket is to look for one that is longer then waist length. This alone will prevent the jacket from being pushed up when you wipe out. Having a draw cord at the bottom will add a bit more protection. 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.