Choose the right cross-country ski jacket

No. For most cross-country sessions, a wind- and water-repellent softshell is enough. It handles snow and sleet, and it breathes better than a fully waterproof jacket.

If you often go skiing in heavier sleet and rain, choose a jacket with a membrane and a high water column, like Premium 2.0 with a waterproof rating of 15,000 mm and taped seams.

If you go cross-country skiing a lot in the mountains or in open terrain, we recommend a cross-country ski jacket with a hood for extra protection, like Power or Shield.

Water column (WP) shows how well the fabric keeps water out, measured in millimeters. Breathability (MVP) shows how much moisture can escape, measured in grams per square meter per 24 hours. The higher the number, the better. Many of our cross-country ski jackets have, for example, a waterproof rating of 10,000 mm WP and breathability rating of 10,000 MVP – enough for snow, sleet and light rain, while letting sweat out when the temperature, intensity and pace picks up.

A cross-country ski jacket should fit close to your body without feeling tight when you reach your arms forward to pole. The sleeves should cover your wrists, and the jacket should be long enough to cover your lower back. If you plan to wear a thicker mid-layer underneath, you can go up one size. Check the size guide on the product pages to find the right size and measurements.

Always check and follow the care label on each garment. Wash between 90°F to 110°F as the label says, with the zippers closed. Don’t use fabric softener, as it reduces breathability and the water-repellent treatment. If the jacket allows it, you can tumble dry on low heat or iron on a low setting to reactivate the water-repellent treatment.

Dress in layers: a moisture-wicking base layer in wool or thermal material closest to your skin, a thin mid-layer when it’s really cold, and a windproof and water-repellent cross-country ski jacket on the outside.

Start a little cold, because you get warm fast when your heart rate rises. A hat or headband, gloves and wool socks make a big difference, since your hands, feet and head get cold first.