When ski season kicks off and snowflakes begin to pile up on the mountains, the ski fashion scene is at least part of the thrill for many skiers and snowboarders. The best women’s ski suits sit at the intersection of function, style and glamor – but can be a small investment, so it’s important to choose the right one for your needs. A lot of research and design goes into every piece of outerwear. Fabrics, seams and even zippers are highly engineered to keep water out while being breathable, flexible for athletic movement and a bit of ski town style.
Intersection of function, style and glamour. ILLUSTRATION: FORBES / PHOTO: RETAIL
To find the best options, I considered the different uses, climates and styles that outerwear manufacturers offer, along with my personal knowledge of how different types of skiers require different levels of performance from their gear. If you’re planning on hitting the slopes or thinking about a new suit, here’s what I recommend.
Stio’s waterproof, seam-sealed dungarees have it all when your goal is performance on the slopes, durability and style in the mountains. The high-waisted suit has a flattering, curve-hugging silhouette, zip pockets and vents that allow freedom of movement for soaring through deep powder or chilling out during après-ski. The bib has comfortable elasticated straps and is made from a weather-resistant, eco-friendly shell made from recycled materials. Keep in mind: Pair with the matching Environ jacket for full coverage.
Tipsy Elves have made a name for themselves offering waterproof, insulated ski suits that won’t break the bank and still perform on the hill. They also offer a flattering silhouette and no shortage of fun, irreverent designs and colors that hark back to the glory days of ’60s and ’80s ski culture. All suits have a waterproof hood, zip pockets, ID pocket and an inner chest pocket for valuables. Keep in mind: The fabric isn’t quite as durable as some technical fabrics, so it’s best to keep ski edges off your suit.
This suit exudes the slope glamor of Slim Aarons heyday. It’s made from four-way stretch fabric with a waterproof outer treatment and has a hood and soft insulation to keep you warm without bulk. Also great: the full-length front zip and the zipped cuffs make it easy to pull the pants over your ski boots. And if good looks are part of your key performance indicators, you can’t go wrong with the bright colors and tie-waist. Keep in mind: It’s an expensive choice.
Based in Vancouver, Canada, Arc’teryx’s Sentinel one-piece suit will stand up to the worst conditions and perform. This waterproof, windproof and breathable 3-layer GoreTex shell is made for staying out all day, with zips for ventilation, a large hood that fits over helmets and as a shell the wearer can choose what types of layers to wear best suited to the conditions and activities of the day. Keep in mind: Like many one-piece suits, sunny spring days can get a little warm.
This shell jacket and pant from Tahoe-based Flylow is built to withstand high-energy activities, from hiking a backcountry ski slope to slush skiing on warmer days at the resort. It’s waterproof, windproof and breathable, with vents you can open and lots of California alpine style. Remember, while this gear is built to last, frequent washing is required to keep the technical fabric in tip-top shape.
Outdoor Research recently added Plus and Extended sizes to their popular collections, including up to 4X for their best-selling Carbide bib. The waterproof Pertex shell features outer thigh vents for warm days or uphill climbs, a storage pocket and abrasion protection to protect your boots from ski edges. Combine with the Carbide Jacket for the complete kit. Remember: This bib is just a protective cover, so you’ll need to wear the right layer for winter or spring weather.
When it comes to ski suit materials, comfort can be a matter of preference. Stretchy softshell outers are popular, but if you don’t like tight-fitting ski gear, I like the loose-fitting and soft, smooth fabric of the Dakine Stoker dungarees and matching jacket, which has side zips, a breathable anti-fog collar, just enough pockets and style to make you look like a mountain town dweller. Keep in mind: The fit is baggy, so if you don’t like that classic snowboard look, this bib might not be for you.
If you’re feeling cold or planning to stay on the slopes no matter what the thermometer says – but don’t want to look like a snowman – then this premium Nordic suit from Helly Hansen is for you. Insulated with a combination of down and recycled polyester, it has a detachable belt and hood, and fleece-lined pockets for warmth. Keep in mind: This suit has limited temperature applications. So if you’re skiing in the spring, you’ll want a lighter option.
my expertise
I am a former competitive freeskier and have lived in various ski towns in the western United States and British Columbia, Canada for the last 16 years. I have traveled to South America and all over Europe to ski and seen and tested a lot of ski suits and outerwear. First hand experience has taught me the importance of proper fit, style and function in your ski gear. I’m now a full-time freelance writer covering outdoor sports, gear, and travel primarily in the area of my favorite sport and lifestyle, alpine skiing, backcountry, and nordic skiing.
How I picked the best ski suits for women
First, I made a priority list for different types of skiers and looked for well-known options from high-profile brands that I personally tested. I’ve also included offers from lesser-known, but innovative, small companies worth considering. I spoke to longtime gear critic Frederick Reimers of Outside Magazine, ski journalist and author Jennifer Walton, and Deirdre O’Mara, a passionate skier and former outdoor product engineer.
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