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Best Snowboard Jackets and Pants 2020-2021 | Our pick of the top snowboard outerwear to wear in resorts and the backcountry

Whether you're planning on cruising the resort or venturing out in the backcountry, we've chosen the best outerwear to do so in

It’s important to put some time and effort into choosing your snowboard jacket and pants. It’s as important as choosing the right snowboard, and the right pair of bindings to match. Whether you’re a keen backcountry explorer or an in-resort rider, a certain amount of thought should go into picking the best outerwear for you.

First of all, you need to consider where you will be doing most of your snowboarding, what kind of conditions you are likely to face, and how much time you will spend wearing your outerwear. Once you’ve answered the basic questions about the kind of snowboarder you are, it’s time to look at the more technical aspects of your outerwear.

“What’s important to remember is that it’s all a balancing act between being waterproof and being breathable”

If you’re looking for a more in-depth guide to choosing your outerwear, take a look at our ‘how to choose the best snowboard jackets and pants’, but if you’re just here for the basics, scroll down.

Waterproofing and Breathability

What’s important to remember is that it’s all a balancing act between being waterproof and being breathable. If something’s extremely waterproof but doesn’t have that breathability, you begin to sweat. In turn, this means your sweat will have nowhere to go and you’ll be soaked after only a couple of laps.

The waterproof rating is measured in millimetres (mm). This refers to the depth of water that is required to penetrate the fabric (based on filling a one-inch diameter tube). The higher the rating, the more waterproof the outerwear.

Breathability is measured in grams. The ratings refer to the weight of water that can pass through a square metre of fabric in 24hours. Bear in mind though, that the testing protocols aren’t universal and can lack consistency between brands. Usually, you’ll find the breathability ratings to be somewhere between 5k and 20k – with the higher number being a more breathable option.

Shell / Insulation

Another two key factors when it comes to choosing your snowboard outerwear is the fabric and insulation. You can choose between a hard shell, soft shell or an insulated model.

The main benefits of a hardshell is its ability to resist the most extreme weather conditions you’re likely to face on the mountain. The jackets / pants are designed to provide shelter against rain and wind. They’re also designed to be extremely breathable and durable, hence the reason why they’re so often preferred by backcountry enthusiasts.

“You can choose between a hard shell, soft shell or an insulated model”

If you’re looking for something a bit more comfortable, a softshell jacket / pants combo might be more up your street. Softshells often allow for more mobility, whilst also offering a decent amount of waterproofing and breathability.

You can also choose to go with an insulated option. Head over to our best snowboard mid-layer to get the low down on the difference between down and synthetic insulation.


Sustainability and Durability

Choosing more sustainable options has become the norm these days. It’s also, we’re happy to report, something that’s become much popular within the snowboard industry. Brands are putting more effort into producing products sustainably, and this is clear when looking at this season’s outerwear.

When purchasing a new product, you should bear in mind that even though the manufacturing of products has become more sustainable – the key to sustainability lies in the durability of the product itself. It may, for example, be worth spending a bit more money on a jacket that can last you up to five years rather than a cheaper option that might only take you through one season and has to be replaced sooner.

In the end, it’s down to you what you choose to spend your money on. Just make sure that whatever you choose has the right fit, as it’d be a shame if you couldn’t fit an extra layer underneath or the pants started falling off mid-way down the slope.

Best Snowboard Outerwear 2020-2021

The Best Snowboard Jackets and Pants For Winter 2020/21



Airblaster Erik Leon C.O.R.E Jacket

PRICE: £150 / €180/ $150

In order to try and make snowboarding more inclusive, together with Erik Leon Airblaster is introducing a new line named C.O.R.E for 20/21, which includes the Erik Leon C.O.R.E jacket. The jacket is part of Airblaster’s Freedom series and has got a 10K waterproof and a 10K breathability rating to keep you dry.

Selected for The Whitelines 100 – take a closer look at the Airblaster Erik Leon C.O.R.E Jacket here

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Airblaster Erik Leon C.O.R.E Pants

PRICE: £120 / €150 / $120

Brands are constantly upping their game when it comes to taking on more environmental responsibility, a path Airblaster has chosen to embark upon too. In the production of the Erik Leon pants, 50% recycled content has been used – meaning Airblaster is essentially trying to dress you in second-hand plastic bottles. It may sound trashy but, trust us, Mother Nature will dig your vibe.

Selected for The Whitelines 100 – take a closer look at the Airblaster Erik Leon C.O.R.E Pants here

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Patagonia Snowdrifter Jacket

PRICE: £360

Patagonia’s Snowdrifter jacket has been a huge favourite amongst the riders who like to spend their time off the beaten path and explore what lies outside the boundaries of the resorts. Designed to tackle anything nature throws your way, the 3L shell is back for its second season with an updated colourway – for both men and women.

Selected for The Whitelines 100 – take a closer look at the Patagonia Snowdrifter Jacket here

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Patagonia Snowdrifter Bib Pants

PRICE: £320

Already proven to be one of the best backcountry-specific pants out there, the Patagonia Snowdrifter bibs haven’t changed much for 20/21 (why change a winning formula).

Offered in both a women’s and men’s specific fit, these 3L bibs are both lightweight and stretchy, making it easier to hike your way through the backcountry. You won’t feel like you’re carrying any extra weight whilst the stretchy material makes it easier for you to move around (the fabric won’t put any restrictions on your movements).

Selected for The Whitelines 100 – take a closer look at the Patagonia Snowdrifter Bib Pants here

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686 Women’s B4BC Gore-Tex Moonlight Jacket

PRICE: $360

By teaming up with B4BC this winter, 686 is doing their part when it comes to promoting a good cause. The 686 Moonlight Jacket isn’t just a good investment in terms of the cause it serves, it is also a quality snowboard jacket in its own right. Made with the long-lasting Gore-Tex material, it is no wonder that this 686 has become a best-seller.

Selected for The Whitelines 100 – take a closer look at the 686 Women’s B4BC Gore-Tex Moonlight Jacket here

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686 Gore-Tex Smarty 3-in-1 Weapon Jacket

PRICE: $600

Offered with a lifetime warranty, this 686 bestseller has got a facelift for 20/21. The Gore-Tex Smarty 3-in-1 Weapon Snowboard Jacket has been upgraded with a Hydrastash compatible powder skirt, new lining and a recycled Clo insulation. If this jacket wasn’t on your radar before, it sure should be now.

Selected for The Whitelines 100 – take a closer look at the 686 Gore-Tex Smarty 3-in-1 Weapon Jacket here

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Bonfire Aspect 2L Stretch Cordura Jacket

PRICE: £170

For 2020/21 Bonfire’s partnered up with Montana’s Great Northern Powder Guides to design a jacket created to withstand the harsh climates of interior Montana – the Bonfire Aspect 2L Stretch Cordura Jacket.

Selected for The Whitelines 100 – take a closer look at the Bonfire Aspect 2L Stretch Cordura Jacket here

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Bonfire 2L Stretch Cordura Bib Pants

PRICE: N/A

Designed to withstand the changeable climate of the Pacific Northwest, Bonfire knows how to deliver long-lasting quality snowboard outerwear and their Bonfire 2L Stretch Cordura Bib pants are no exception.

Selected for The Whitelines 100 – take a closer look at the Bonfire 2L Stretch Cordura Bib Pants here

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Nikita Willow Pullover Women’s Jacket

PRICE: v

Embarking on the journey for a greener future, Nikita’s teamed up with Thermore and are featuring the Thermore EcoDown Insulation in a bunch of their new 2021 collection – including in the Willow Pullover Jacket.

Selected for The Whitelines 100 – take a closer look at the Nikita Willow Pullover Women’s Jacket here

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Nikita B4BC White Pine Texture Women’s Pants

PRICE: £150
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Celebrating two decades of ‘for girls who ride’, Nikita’s 20/21 line is a perfect reflection of the brand’s journey: from a tiny wee skate shop back in the 90s to a big brand favoured by top riders.

To celebrate this milestone, Nikita has teamed up with B4BC and is giving a handful of their products a unique design – including the Nikita White Pine Texture Relax Fit Pants.

Selected for The Whitelines 100 – take a closer look at the Nikita B4BC White Pine Texture Women’s Pants here

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Oakley TC General 2L 10K Shell Stale Jacket

PRICE: £215

For winter 2020/21 Oakley’s teamed up with Stale Sandbech to create a whole new signature line together with the Norwegian wonderchild. Everything from outer layers to mid-layers and accessories can be found within the range, including the Oakley x Stale TC General 2L 10K Shell Jacket.

Selected for The Whitelines 100 – take a closer look at the Oakley TC General 2L 10K Shell Stale Jacket here

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Oakley TC Stretchy Softshell Pants

PRICE: £200

For some years now Oakley has been stepping up their outerwear game by producing high-quality kit. As a result, we’ve seen plenty of pro snowboarders rocking not only their goggles but clothing too.

This winter, Oakley’s teamed up with Stale Sandbech and is bringing us a collection where style meets tech, with the Oakley x Stale TC Stretchy Softshell Pants being a fine example of what the collection has got to offer.

Selected for The Whitelines 100 – take a closer look at the Oakley TC Stretchy Softshell Pants here

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