Ski clothing brands at a glance: Top ski fashion for the next winter season

Fashion on the piste is important, not only because high-quality skiwear looks good, but also because it protects you from the elements on the mountain. But which ski clothing brands are there and how do they stand out in terms of quality, price or style? For ski fans, these are crucial questions that SnowTrex knows how to answer. And so we now present ten selected brands that offer the perfect blend of performance and value for money for your next trip to the piste.

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If you want to make a good impression on the piste, you need more than just good technique.

Montec

Montec was founded in 2016 in Sweden and has quickly built a strong following among skiers and snowboarders with a focus on backcountry-capable gear for an affordable price. Their jackets and pants feature contrast styling, bold colors, and a modern look that appeals to riders of all ages. With 20k waterproofing across the range, plus recycled materials and bluesign®-approved fabrics, Montec delivers high performance without the added cost. This eco-friendly approach makes them one of the most sustainable snow brands out there.

Helly Hansen

Helly Hansen was started in 1877 in Norway, crafting fisherman’s jackets that stood up to the wild North Sea. Over time, they expanded into ski and outdoor gear with a global reputation for durability. Their jackets often feature minimalist, Scandinavian styling with bright color accents for a modern look, and are often seen both on and off the slopes. Using Helly Tech® for waterproofing and breathability, Helly Hansen ensures you stay warm and dry in all conditions. Combined with fair mid-range prices, they offer proven performance without going too high-end.

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Winter sports enthusiasts know that it can get draughty in the lift and good ski clothing helps to keep you warm.

Burton

Burton was founded by Jake Burton Carpenter in 1977 in Vermont and helped shape the modern snowboard scene from the ground up. Today, it’s the biggest brand in snowboarding, with the biggest market share across snowboard clothing, boots, bindings, and boards. Their outerwear fuses street-styling with durable construction for some of the most sought-after and reliable clothing out there. Using DRYRIDE™ technology, Burton pieces deliver reliable waterproofing and breathability, plus thoughtful venting where you need it most. Despite its big name, the brand remains mid-tier friendly for solid value and versatility. Though they do offer a more technical Gore-Tex range for riders who demand ultimate performance.

Dope Snow

Dope Snow was founded by a small Swedish team that wanted to bring stylish and affordable freestyle gear to the slopes. Over the years, it has become a go-to brand for younger riders seeking fresh designs, attracted by the wide range of colours and styles. Their jackets and pants blend modern colour-blocking and relaxed fits, offering a streetwear feel that stands out. Their range provides 15k waterproofing as standard along with decent insulation, ensuring comfort in cold weather. Dope Snow delivers some of the most stylish and functional gear on the market for an unbeatable price.

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Whether it’s bright sunshine or heavy snowfall, winter sports enthusiasts are prepared for anything with the right ski clothing.

Columbia

Columbia began in 1938 in Portland, Oregon, originally making hats and eventually evolving into one of the world’s biggest outdoor brands. Their heritage is rooted in practical, durable gear designed to handle rugged adventures. Columbia’s jackets and pants typically come in neutral or earthy tones that suit both everyday winter wear and resort life. Their focus is on easy-to-match designs that don’t date quickly, discouraging fast fashion. Featuring innovations like Omni-Heat reflective linings and Omni-Tech waterproofing, Columbia balances warmth and dryness at accessible prices. For dependable performance without a premium tag, you can’t go wrong.

Volcom

Volcom launched in 1991 with a rebellious skate, surf, and snow ethos that challenged mainstream style and expectations. Since then, it’s grown into a major lifestyle brand beloved by riders who like a little edge. Their outerwear pairs artistic graphics and bold colours with a relaxed, skate-inspired cut, creating pieces perfectly at home in the terrain park. Yet they’re not all about style. Their Zip Tech® jacket-to-pant interfaces keep snow out, and great waterproofing that stands up to the mountain weather. Despite the cool, relaxed vibe, Volcom remains mid-priced, and a favourite among park riders.

Oakley

Oakley started in 1975 focusing on high-tech glasses before expanding into apparel and gear for mountain sports. Backed by a history of innovation, they’ve built a reputation for cutting-edge designs and remain the leader in the goggle space with their PRIZM lenses. Their jackets and pants feature a unique style that is instantly recognisable and on the slopes their FN Dry™ membranes and well-placed vents keep you comfortable in all conditions. Offered at mid-range prices, Oakley’s outerwear balances technology, durability, and flair for anyone who wants both function and style.

DC

DC was founded in 1994 by two skateboarders who wanted to fuse street style with serious performance. Over time, they brought that same energy to snowboarding, making DC a staple brand on the slopes, especially in the US. Their jackets and pants boast big, bold logos and a modern style perfect for riders who favour that baggy, freestyle look. Most of the range features 15k waterproofing and good insulation, offering solid protection in tough conditions. DC lands in the mid-tier range, giving you extra street credit and quality gear without the premium cost.

Armada

Armada began in 2002, founded by professional skiers who felt the sport needed a fresh perspective. Over the years, they’ve become a go-to brand for skiers who enjoy pushing limits in freestyle and freeride. Their jackets and pants often feature creative patterns with a modern silhouette, adding personality without going overboard. Expect 15k or 20k waterproof ratings, strategic venting, and tough fabrics that can handle hard landings. Armada offers performance-focused gear that looks great—ideal if you’re chasing park laps and big-mountain lines in the same day.

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No matter what adventure lies ahead, the right clothing is essential.

Protest

Protest began in the Netherlands in 1993, aiming to bring bright, budget-friendly gear to surfers, snowboarders, and skiers alike. Over time, their bold prints and bright designs made them a favourite among riders who appreciate a bit of flair. Their jackets and pants often feature relaxed fits with eye-catching colours, striking a balance between casual style and practical performance. If you’re on the hunt for fun-looking, wallet-friendly outerwear, Protest hits that sweet spot between function and fashion.

Black Diamond

Black Diamond was founded in 1989 by dedicated climbers who wanted gear to tackle serious alpine adventures. Over the years, they’ve built a solid reputation for reliability, branching into ski apparel built specifically for the backcountry. Their jackets and pants usually stick to understated colours and feature minimalist styling, showing a “function-first” approach rather than flashy styling. High waterproof ratings, durable fabrics, and thoughtful details ensure you stay protected when conditions get tough. If you’re seeking well-engineered gear without stepping into ultra-luxury territory, Black Diamond’s gear is a very reliable choice.

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The right clothing is particularly important in deep snow.

Picture Organic Clothing

Picture Organic Clothing launched in 2008 in France with a clear eco-focused mission, using recycled and organic materials from the start. Their commitment to sustainability quickly caught on, turning them into a go-to brand for riders who care about the planet. Bright colours and playul geometric patterns define Picture’s style, adding a youthful vibe to their jackets and pants. But under the fun exterior, you’ll find high-quality waterproof membranes and warm insulation designed for the mountains. If you want environmentally conscious outerwear that blends style and performance, Picture is the brand for you.

Where to buy gear

When you’re buying snow gear, you can choose between buying online or from stores. If you live in or are visiting a winter resort town, then you’ll be able to choose from plenty of ski shops. This is ideal as you can check out clothing as well as speak to shop assistants and get individual advice. However, some brands are online-only like Montec and Dope, and lots of shops will only stock specific brands. Online stores have a wider range of brands and also stock previous seasons’ items, which means you can often find gear discounted. As such, if you’re confident in your choice, buying online is often better value than buying in shops.