Women’s mountaineering and ski touring jacket: how to choose the right one?

A technical essential for facing the high mountains

To practice mountaineering or ski touring with peace of mind, the technical jacket is essential equipment. More than just protective clothing, it acts as a real barrier against the elements. A women’s mountaineering jacket protects from wind, cold, rain, and snow while ensuring great freedom of movement. Brands such as Millet and Norrona design jackets specifically for mountaineers and ski touring women looking for performance and comfort, even in extreme conditions.

Softshell or Hardshell: which technology to choose?

Two types of jackets dominate the market: Softshell (or Active Shell) and Hardshell (or protective jacket). Each has its advantages depending on the weather and the intensity of the effort.

Comparison between Softshell and Hardshell

• Softshell: windproof and breathable, it is ideal for outings in good weather or day hikes. Less waterproof but more comfortable, it provides warmth.
• Hardshell: waterproof and abrasion-resistant, it is essential in unstable weather conditions. Lighter and compressible, it is easily worn as a top layer to effectively protect against cold and rain.

For winter practice or high altitude, the Hardshell jacket is generally recommended. Models developed by Millet or Norrona use technical membranes such as GORE-TEX®, guaranteeing waterproofness and durability.

Essential criteria for choosing a women’s mountaineering jacket

A women’s ski touring jacket must combine ergonomics, lightness, and practical features. Here are the key elements to consider:

Key features

• Helmet-compatible hood: it should be adjustable, equipped with a protective visor, while providing panoramic vision.
• High zippered pockets: accessible even with a harness or backpack.
• Underarm ventilation: very useful for regulating temperature without opening the main zipper.
• Waterproof zippers: with pulls that are easy to handle while wearing gloves.
• High collar: to protect the neck and lower face from gusts of wind.

Weight and bulk

Lightness is crucial for endurance sports. A high-performance mountaineering jacket generally weighs less than 500 grams. However, the lighter it is, the less resistant to abrasion it tends to be. It is therefore important to strike the right balance between durability and practicality depending on your frequency of use.

A cut designed for women

Jackets developed by Millet and Norrona offer models specifically designed for the female anatomy. These ergonomic cuts ensure excellent freedom of movement without excess fabric. Models such as those from the Kamet range, by Millet, are tailored for better thermal regulation and optimal protection without hindering climbing or ski touring ascents.

Complementary equipment for mountaineering

A mountaineering jacket alone is not enough to face extreme conditions. Here are the other items to consider for optimal protection in the mountains:

• Mountaineering down jacket: to wear during breaks or in case of extreme cold.
• Thermal base layers: to retain body heat while wicking away moisture.
• Technical pants or overpants: to complement the jacket for full protection.
• Accessories: gloves, beanie, mask, goggles, and helmet are essential depending on the weather and altitude.

Find a wide selection of equipment on our online store Snow Concept, specialist in ski, snowboard and accessories equipment.

For personalized advice, contact us  info line: 09.63.00.76.65 or  via our contact form, our technical advisors will guide you in your ski purchase.