Skiing is an expensive sport. Sometimes there is no way around this, so it’s always good to know how to save extra money. There are some budget jackets out there that will still give you good performance without breaking the bank.
I’m a lifelong skier with a very strong passion for the sport. I know how important it is to have high-quality ski gear, and I also know that most skiers are on a budget. That’s why I put together this list of more affordable ski jacket options.
The Oakley Crescent 3.0 is my pick for the best budget ski jacket. It’s rare to find a model that gives you the versatility of a 3-in-1 design at a lower price, but this one does just that and more.
There are a few other great budget ski jackets out there, and I’ll provide you with all of the best options in this post. I want to make sure you have good equipment to enjoy your time in the snow, even with a limited amount of money to spend.
Let’s start saving.
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Who Should Get This
A budget ski jacket is perfect for someone who wants to stay warm while skiing without having to spend more than $200 USD out of pocket. The options here are affordable but also good quality so they will last a season or two.
While these jackets are primarily used for skiing, they can be used for a variety of other outdoor sports or events. Even if you aren’t a skier, the jackets can be used in any cold-weather situation.
If you already have a ski jacket or only ski when it’s relatively warm out, you might not have a need for a brand new ski jacket.
Best Budget Ski Jackets: Top Picks
Here are my picks for the best budget ski jackets. Each option here comes at an affordable price while also providing you with good protection against the wind and snow.
1. Oakley Crescent 3.0
- Best for: Overall
- Key features: Versatile, waterproof, breathable
- Waterproofing: Softshell Teflon
- Insulation: Fleece
- Cost: $$
The Oakley Crescent 3.0 is my top pick. This is a somewhat affordable but still high-quality option that is great for all kinds of skiers.
The design provides you with a lot of versatility, and you can adjust the level of insulation based on the conditions or weather you are skiing in.
It’s also finished with an interior media pocket and has multiple exterior zip pockets. I wish it was available in more color options, but for a budget jacket, this one is hard to beat.
2. Wantdo Women’s Mountain
- Best for: Women
- Key features: Women’s fit, many color options warm, comfortable, well-insulated, detachable hood
- Waterproofing: PU Membrane
- Insulation: 240 grams synthetic
- Cost: $
Female skiers on a budget will appreciate the Wantdo Women’s Mountain ski jacket. This is another very affordable option that is durable and comfortable.
It comes packed with 240-grams of synthetic insulation to give you a lot of warmth when you need it. It also has a waterproofing rating of 10k, so you’ll be sure to stay dry as you ski.
I also like the detachable hood, windproof cuffs, and adjustable snow skirt, because these features allow you to adapt to any type of conditions that come your way.
This jacket has a somewhat smaller fit, so you might want to size up accordingly.
Related Articles: Best Ski Jackets for Women
3. MOERDENG Waterproof Ski
- Best for: Comfort
- Key features: Relaxed fit, wind and waterproof, breathable, adjustable cuffs
- Waterproofing: DWR
- Insulation: Fleece
- Cost: $
The MOERDENG Waterproof Ski jacket has a relaxed fit that makes it my choice for the best budget ski jacket with comfort in mind.
It also provides you with plenty of flexibility, so you can turn, twist, or tuck all over the mountain without feeling restricted.
Adjustable cuffs and a well-designed hood help you keep out the elements, while also giving you adaptable performance you can count on.
The outer shell is somewhat prone to tears, so be careful of treating this model rough.
4. Wildhorn Dover
- Best for: Warmth
- Key features: Warm, 2-way stretch material, thumbhole handwarmers, storm flap
- Waterproofing: 12K DWR
- Insulation: Fleece
- Cost: $$
If you want a little added warmth out of a budget jacket, the Wildhorn Dover is worth exploring. This is a very effective option to block out wind and moisture while keeping body heat inside.
It’s built with a 2-way stretch outer shell that provides a lot of freedom of movement, and this also comes with an impressive 12K waterproof rating.
Critically taped seams help to increase durability, which is a good thing to have in a budget jacket. I also like the ergonomic design because it provides a natural fit and feel.
This one can be overkill on warmer days, so just keep that in mind on bluebird days.
5. Camel Crown 3-in-1
- Best for: Versatility
- Key features: 3-in-1 versatility, warm, detachable hood, durable, comfortable
- Waterproofing: Synthetic
- Insulation: Fleece
- Cost: $
The Camel Crown 3-in-1 winter jacket will give you exceptional versatility in a budget package.
This two piece jacket can be used on colder days or you can split it into an outer shell and inner jacket to adjust to the weather or your preferences.
It’s fully windproof and also provides decent waterproofing thanks to a synthetic outer layer designed to repel moisture. It stays pretty breathable along the way.
Some reviews have reported issues with this model wearing down and losing waterproofing over time, so just know it might not be a long term solution.
Best Budget Ski Jackets: What to Consider
Here are some essential things to keep in mind when choosing budget ski jackets under $200. Sometimes a lower price comes with lower quality, so pay attention to each of these factors to ensure you get a good model.
Durability
No matter how good a skier you are, there will be a time when you fall. As a result, you need your jacket to be durable. It should be able to take frequent falls, bumps, and hits without tearing or wearing thin.
Generally, a hardshell jacket is more durable, but every option is different, so shop around. Look for materials like ripstop fabrics, and read reviews on the product to see what other skiers are saying about it.
How it Fits
The fit of the jacket is crucial during any outdoor activity. It needs to be the right size and a design that you like and fits your body. Be sure to try out a few different options and see what suits you best.
It needs to offer protection from the elements but also allow you to move freely and easily. If you get a jacket that is too tight, it will restrict your movement and can cut off circulation. If you get one that is too big, it can let in wind and snow.
Warmth and Comfort
Of course, you also want to consider the warmth and comfort of the jacket. A jacket should keep you warm and allow you to spend hours outside without getting cold.
Look for features such as extra lining or waterproofness to keep you as comfortable as possible during your long day skiing. Insulation is another factor that comes into play with warmth in mind.
If you want extra warmth, look for jackets that have additional insulation built in. If you don’t need that, a shell-style jacket will work just fine, and you can pair this with other layers to adjust to the conditions you are skiing in.
Useful Tips & Resources
To get the most out of your jacket, be sure to keep it clean and care for it. It is likely to get quite dirty after a long day of skiing. This article shows how to wash your ski jacket and keep it clean so that it will last a long time.
Also, while skiing or wearing the jacket, watch out for ski branches or other things that could rip it. While ski jackets are durable, you still need to be careful, or you could ruin the jacket with one simple mistake.
Some jackets might even have removable liners or layers, so make sure all layers are properly inserted and attached before you head out to the hills. Budget jackets usually aren’t as durable as more expensive options, so always be careful.
Skiing is always expensive, even when you find ways to save. Check out this post for some more tips on how to save money in all aspects of a ski trip.
Final Verdict
The Oakley Crescent 3.0 is my pick for the best budget ski jacket. I like this model a lot because of its 3-in-1 design that gives you quite a bit of versatility. It’s also a pretty durable budget option with a great fit.
Every budget jacket that you see on this list is affordable, but it’s also high-quality. Some budget jackets won’t give you good warmth or waterproofing capabilities, but all of the models here will.
