1. Criteria for choosing a ski touring jacket

Insulation and thermal protection: ski touring involves periods of intense activity followed by rest periods. It's therefore essential to choose a jacket that offers good insulation to keep you warm during static phases, without overheating during exertion. Modern technologies such as Primaloft or Thinsulate are particularly suitable, as they combine lightness with thermal performance, even in wet conditions.

Breathability and ventilation: a ski touring jacket must allow perspiration to escape during ascents, while retaining body heat during descents. Materials such as GORE-TEX are recommended for their ability to offer waterproof protection while remaining highly breathable. In addition, ventilation zips located under the arms or along the torso can be used to adjust body temperature according to the intensity of effort and climatic conditions.

Lightweight and compressible: on long mountain outings, every gram counts. A lightweight, compressible jacket is ideal for minimizing effort and maximizing performance. It should fit easily into a rucksack without taking up too much space or adding unnecessary weight.

Durability and abrasion resistance: Ski touring can put your equipment to the test, especially when traversing rocky or wooded areas. An abrasion-resistant jacket designed with reinforcements in critical areas, such as shoulders and sides, will guarantee a longer life for your garment.

Practical features: details such as accessible pockets, a ski helmet-compatible hood and adjustable cuffs are essential for efficiency and functionality in the mountains. A good ski touring jacket will also include a removable snow skirt, useful for keeping snow out during a fall.

2. Advanced manufacturing technologies

Mountain clothing manufacturers use a variety of technologies to improve the performance of ski touring jackets. Among the most relevant innovations are :

• Waterproof and breathable membranes: Technologies such as GORE-TEX Pro, Dermizax, or NeoShell offer superior levels of protection and comfort in extreme conditions.
• Stretch fabrics: The use of stretch fabrics in jacket design increases freedom of movement, essential for advanced ski touring.
• Water-repellent treatments (DWR ): These allow rain or melt water to slide off the fabric rather than saturate it, preserving the jacket's insulation and breathability.

3. Tips for the care and durability of your jacket

Cleaning and storage: To ensure the longevity of your jacket, it's crucial to clean it according to the manufacturer's instructions, often at low temperatures and with mild detergents. Avoid fabric softeners and tumble-dryers, which can damage the technical properties of fabrics.

Re-waterproofing: After several seasons of use, it may be necessary to re-apply a DWR treatment to maintain the jacket's effectiveness against the elements. Specific products are available for this purpose, often in spray or wash form.

Repairs: In the event of tears or wear, it's best to repair your jacket quickly to avoid further damage. Many manufacturers offer repair kits for easy, durable repairs.

In conclusion, choosing the right ski touring jacket means considering both technical and practical aspects. A well-chosen jacket will be a reliable and durable companion for your mountain adventures, providing protection, comfort and performance in equal measure.