Best Gore-Tex Snowboard Jackets of 2025

Staying warm and dry on the mountain is key to having a great day on your board. That’s where Gore-Tex snowboard jackets come in. Known for their top-quality waterproofing and breathability, these jackets keep you protected from snow, wind, and wet weather. Whether you’re carving through powder or riding in heavy storms, a Gore-Tex jacket helps you stay comfortable all day. In this guide, we’ve rounded up the best Gore-Tex snowboard jackets that combine durability, performance, and style for every type of rider.

1. Burton AK Swash – Men’s

• Waterproofing: GORE-TEX 2-Layer with PFC-Free DWR
• Insulation: 60g PrimaLoft® Silver (Mapped to Core)
• Lining: Living Lining™ with Ripstop Down-Proof Fabric
• Seams: Fully Taped with GORE-SEAM® Tape

The Burton AK Swash is a legendary piece in the snowboarding world. It’s engineered like a vest, concentrating 60g of PrimaLoft® Silver insulation around your core where you need it most, while leaving the arms free for unrestricted movement. This body-mapped approach makes it ideal for active riders who generate heat while hiking or charging hard. The jacket is a fortress against the elements, featuring a robust GORE-TEX 2-layer recycled polyester fabric that provides industry-leading waterproofing and breathability. Every detail is dialed in for performance on the mountain, from the articulated fit that moves with your body to the strategically placed pockets that keep your essentials secure and accessible.

The Living Lining™ technology is a standout, using pores that expand to release heat when you’re warm and shrink to trap it when you’re cold, offering automatic climate control. The StormForm Contour™ hood fits perfectly over a helmet. For deep powder days, the ergonomic water-repellent zip-out stretch waist gaiter and jacket-to-pant interface create a seamless barrier against snow. Add in the mesh-lined pit zips for quick ventilation and a Therma-Pocket to keep your phone’s battery alive in the cold, and you have a premium jacket that acts as your personal concierge for any mountain adventure, from frigid pre-dawn missions to stormy tree runs.

• Pros
  • Vest-like insulation provides core warmth with excellent arm mobility.
  • Top-tier GORE-TEX waterproofing and breathability.
  • Living Lining™ offers intelligent temperature regulation.
• Cons
  • Light insulation may require additional layering on the coldest days.
  • Premium price point reflects its high-end features.

See the Burton AK Swash

2. Burton AK Embark – Women’s

• Waterproofing: GORE-TEX 2-Layer with PFC-Free DWR
• Insulation: 60g PrimaLoft® Silver
• Lining: Living Lining® Mapped with Soft Taffeta and Stretch Panels
• Fit: Regular Articulated Fit

The Burton AK Embark Jacket is a masterclass in versatility. Its foundation is the time-tested GORE-TEX 2-layer fabric. This durable shell is paired with 60g of PrimaLoft® Silver insulation, providing a crucial layer of low-bulk warmth that keeps you comfortable without hindering your movement. The insulation is lightweight and hydrophobic, meaning it continues to perform even if it gets damp. This thoughtful combination of weather protection and warmth makes the Embark a reliable choice for the entire season, adapting effortlessly from cold mid-winter days to sunny spring sessions with just a change of your midlayer.

What truly sets the Embark apart are the details designed to enhance a rider’s experience. The regular articulated fit is engineered to mimic the body’s natural flex. Burton’s innovative Living Lining® provides automatic climate control, with pores that open to vent excess heat and close to retain it. Features like the helmet-compatible StormForm hood, a removable waist gaiter, and YKK® water-resistant zippers add layers of practical protection. Multiple pockets, including a Therma-Pocket to preserve your phone’s battery. For the female rider seeking one high-performance jacket to do it all, the Embark is a dependable and stylish workhorse.

• Pros
  • Excellent GORE-TEX weather protection.
  • Articulated fit provides superior freedom of movement.
  • Versatile design is suitable for both resort and backcountry use.
• Cons
  • 60g of insulation may require smart layering in very cold climates.
  • May have more features than a minimalist rider needs.

See the Burton AK Embark

3. Burton AK Upshift – Women’s

• Waterproofing: GORE-TEX 2-Layer with PFC-Free DWR
• Insulation: None (Shell)
• Lining: Living Lining™ with Taffeta and Closed Cell Mesh
• Fit: Slim Articulated Fit

The Burton AK Upshift Jacket is the quintessential shell for the active female rider who values breathability and adaptability above all else. Designed as an uninsulated piece, it serves as a lightweight, weatherproof barrier. This makes it an incredibly versatile companion for high-output activities like snowboarding. The jacket is built around a GORE-TEX 2-layer fabric that provides elite-level waterproofing and windproofing. Its real genius, however, lies in its exceptional breathability, which is further enhanced by Burton’s signature Living Lining® technology. This intelligent lining reacts to your body heat, expanding to vent moisture and prevent overheating during intense efforts and contracting to trap warmth during rest periods.

Crafted with a slim, articulated fit, the Upshift is contoured to move with your body. This performance-oriented design is perfect for those who prefer a more athletic feel. Rider-specific features abound, including a helmet-compatible StormForm hood that offers maximum protection without compromising peripheral vision, mesh-lined pit zips for rapid cooling, and YKK® water-resistant zippers for an extra line of defense against moisture. A full suite of pockets, including a Therma-Pocket for your media device, keeps your gear organized.

• Pros
  • Extremely breathable and lightweight, ideal for high-output activities.
  • Living Lining™ provides excellent automatic temperature regulation.
  • Slim, articulated fit offers great mobility and a clean aesthetic.
• Cons
  • No insulation requires a dedicated and effective layering system for cold days.
  • Slim fit may not accommodate very bulky mid-layers.

See the Burton AK Upshift

4. REI Co-op First Chair GTX

• Waterproofing: 2-Layer GORE-TEX ePE Membrane (PFAS-Free)
• Insulation: None (Shell)
• Materials: bluesign® Approved Recycled Polyester
• Key Feature: Fair Trade Certified™ Factory Production

The REI Co-op First Chair GTX jacket is a testament to the fact that high-performance, eco-conscious gear can be accessible. This jacket is a workhorse designed for resort riders who want reliable protection for a full day on the mountain, from the first chair to the last. Its core feature is the 2-layer GORE-TEX ePE membrane, which offers exceptional waterproof and windproof protection while being made without PFAS chemicals, reflecting a modern commitment to sustainability. The shell is constructed from tough, bluesign® approved recycled polyester, so you can feel good about its reduced environmental impact.

Practicality is where the First Chair GTX truly shines. Every feature is thoughtfully designed for on-mountain convenience. The helmet-compatible hood is fully adjustable to dial in the perfect fit, while the tall, tricot-lined collar protects your chin from windburn. When you start to heat up, large pit zips allow for quick and easy ventilation. Storage is plentiful, with dual-entry chest pockets, zippered hand pockets, and dedicated spots for your lift pass and goggles. The powder skirt effectively seals out snow on deep days and conveniently snaps away when not needed.

• Pros
  • Excellent value for a GORE-TEX jacket.
  • Roomy fit is perfect for layering and offers great comfort.
  • Practical and user-friendly features like ample pockets and large pit zips.
• Cons
  • As a shell, it offers no built-in insulation.
  • The roomier, less-tailored fit may not appeal to those seeking an athletic cut.

See the Men’s at REI See the Women’s at REI

5. Arc’teryx Sabre – Men’s

• Waterproofing: 3-Layer GORE-TEX ePE (PFAS-Free)
• Backer: GORE C-KNIT™ Technology
• Safety: Embedded RECCO® Reflector
• Fabric: Durable 80-Denier Recycled Nylon Face

The Arc’teryx Sabre Jacket is an icon in the world of big mountain freeride apparel. Its construction is centered around a durable, 3-layer GORE-TEX ePE fabric, which provides uncompromising waterproof, windproof, and breathable protection. This updated material is not only robust, with an 80-denier face fabric that withstands abrasion from rock, ice, and tree branches, but it’s also made without PFAS, signaling a step forward in sustainable performance. Unlike standard shells, the Sabre features a GORE C-KNIT™ backer, a soft and quiet inner layer that enhances comfort and allows the jacket to glide smoothly over mid-layers.

Every detail of the Sabre is refined for movement and safety. The regular fit and articulated patterning provide complete freedom of movement. The helmet-compatible StormHood™ is a signature Arc’teryx feature. Safety is enhanced with an embedded RECCO® reflector, which can aid search and rescue teams in an emergency. Practical features like a powder skirt to seal out deep snow, multiple pockets for essential gear, and pit zippers for rapid ventilation round out this exceptional shell. The Sabre is not just a piece of clothing; it’s a piece of specialized equipment for the serious skier or snowboarder who demands the absolute best in durability, performance, and weather protection.

• Pros
  • Exceptional durability and weather protection from 3L GORE-TEX.
  • Soft, quiet, and comfortable GORE C-KNIT™ backer.
  • Integrated RECCO® reflector for enhanced safety.
• Cons
  • A significant investment with a very high price point.
  • Uninsulated shell design requires a complete layering system.

View at REI View at evo

6. Arc’teryx Sentinel – Women’s

• Waterproofing: 3-Layer GORE-TEX ePE (PFAS-Free)
• Backer: GORE C-KNIT™ Technology
• Safety: Embedded RECCO® Reflector
• System Integration: Slide ‘n Loc™ Jacket-to-Pant Attachment

The Arc’teryx Sentinel Jacket is a legendary piece designed specifically for women who push the boundaries in big mountain freeride and backcountry environments. It is engineered to be a veritable fortress against the elements, utilizing a robust 3-layer GORE-TEX ePE fabric with an 80-denier recycled nylon face. This construction offers complete waterproof and windproof protection while maintaining excellent breathability for comfort on strenuous climbs. The PFAS-free membrane underscores a commitment to environmental responsibility without sacrificing performance. Inside, the GORE C-KNIT™ backer technology provides a soft, supple feel against your layers.

Designed with a women-specific regular fit and articulated patterning, the Sentinel offers unrestricted mobility. The helmet-compatible StormHood™ cinches down securely for full protection without limiting visibility, a critical feature in challenging weather. Safety is paramount, with an integrated RECCO® reflector to aid rescuers in an emergency. For deep powder days, the Slide ‘n Loc™ attachments allow you to connect the jacket to compatible pants. Ample pit zippers provide quick ventilation, and well-placed pockets keep your essentials secure.

• Pros
  • Bombproof 3L GORE-TEX protection built for harsh conditions.
  • Women-specific fit with excellent articulation for mobility.
  • Comfortable and quiet GORE C-KNIT™ backer.
• Cons
  • Premium price tag places it at the top end of the market.
  • Requires a full layering system as it contains no insulation.

View at REI View at evo

7. Patagonia Storm Shift

• Waterproofing: 2-Layer GORE-TEX (100% PFC-Free)
• Lining: Body-Mapped Zigzag Fleece
• Safety: Concealed RECCO® Reflector
• Ethical Production: Fair Trade Certified™ Sewn

The Patagonia Storm Shift Jacket expertly bridges the gap between an uninsulated shell and a fully insulated jacket. Its standout feature is a technical fleece lining with a zigzag texture that is body-mapped throughout the jacket. This innovative lining not only provides a good measure of warmth but is also engineered to actively wick moisture away from your body and dry quickly. This is all wrapped in a 2-layer GORE-TEX shell, which provides reliable waterproof and breathable protection. In a significant step for sustainability, the entire fabric package—from the recycled polyester face fabric to the GORE-TEX membrane and DWR finish—is completely free of perfluorinated chemicals (PFCs).

Built with Patagonia’s renowned attention to detail and commitment to ethical production, the Storm Shift is packed with functional features. The helmet-compatible, two-way-adjustable hood has a laminated visor for optimal visibility in blowing snow, and the tall collar provides sanctuary for your face and neck. When your body heat rises, pit zips offer a quick way to dump excess warmth. A suite of well-placed pockets keeps your essentials organized, while low-profile cuffs and an adjustable powder gasket work together to seal out the elements. The jacket also includes a concealed RECCO® reflector for added safety and is Fair Trade Certified™ sewn, meaning the people who made it earned a premium for their labor.

• Pros
  • Unique fleece lining provides warmth and superior moisture wicking.
  • Fair Trade Certified™ and contains recycled materials.
  • Integrated RECCO® reflector and well-designed hood.
• Cons
  • The built-in lining makes it less versatile for very warm spring conditions.
  • Not as lightweight or packable as a dedicated uninsulated shell.

View Men’s at REI View Women’s at evo

8. Arc’teryx Beta AR

• Waterproofing: N40d Most Rugged 3-Layer GORE-TEX PRO
• Reinforcements: N80d Most Rugged 3L GORE-TEX PRO in High-Wear Areas
• Hood: Helmet-Compatible DropHood™ with Separate Collar
• Intended Use: All Round (AR) Alpine and Backcountry

The Arc’teryx Beta AR Jacket is the gold standard of versatile, high-performance hardshells. The “AR” in its name stands for “All Round,” signifying its design as a do-it-all piece for a huge range of mountain activities, from skiing and snowboarding to ice climbing and alpine trekking. Its foundation is the GORE-TEX PRO “Most Rugged” technology, a 3-layer system that delivers the highest level of durable waterproof, windproof, and breathable protection. Arc’teryx strategically maps a lighter N40d fabric in the main body for packability and breathability, while reinforcing high-wear areas like the shoulders and elbows with burly N80d fabric to withstand abrasion from packs and rough terrain.

What sets the Beta AR apart is its refined, function-first design. A key feature is the helmet-compatible DropHood™, which is separate from the collar. This allows the collar to provide full neck protection from drafts and spindrift, even when the hood is down. When deployed, the hood offers exceptional coverage and visibility, with Cohaesive™ cord-lock adjusters that are easy to use even with gloves on. The regular fit allows for comfortable layering, while WaterTight™ pit zippers provide rapid ventilation during intense activity. Though it lacks a dedicated powder skirt, its longer length offers ample coverage.

• Pros
  • Highly versatile for a wide range of mountain sports.
  • Excellent DropHood™ design with a protective stand-alone collar.
  • Lightweight and packable relative to its durability.
• Cons
  • Very high price point.
  • Lack of a powder skirt makes it less specialized for deep-snow snowboarding.

Vew Men’s at evo View Women’s at evo

9. 686 Fragment Shell Anorak – Men’s

• Waterproofing: GORE-TEX 2-Layer with PFC-Free DWR
• Insulation: None (Shell)
• Style: Pullover Anorak with Side Zipper
• Key Feature: Hood Link System for Enhanced Packability

The 686 GORE-TEX Fragment Shell Anorak delivers a powerful fusion of freestyle-inspired aesthetics and serious technical performance. The pullover anorak style has a distinct look that stands out in the lift line and the park. But this jacket is far more than just a style statement. It’s built with a bluesign® approved GORE-TEX 2-layer fabric. As an uninsulated shell, it gives you the freedom to customize your layering based on the day’s conditions, making it a versatile piece for everything from cold, clear days to wet spring slush sessions.

Functionality is cleverly integrated into its clean design. A side-entry zipper makes getting the anorak on and off much easier than with older pullover designs, while Air-Flo™ underarm vents allow for quick heat release when you’re hiking a feature. The large front kangaroo pocket provides ample storage, and a dedicated pass pocket on the sleeve adds convenience. One of the most innovative features is the Hood Link system, which allows you to roll the jacket tightly into its own hood and secure it.

• Pros
  • Stylish and modern anorak design.
  • Dependable GORE-TEX waterproofing and breathability.
  • Shell design offers great versatility for layering.
• Cons
  • Pullover entry can be less convenient than a full-front zipper.
  • Contains PFAS chemicals as noted in its specifications.

See the 686 GORE-TEX Fragment Shell Anorak

10. Norrona Lofoten Gore-Tex Pro Jacket

• Waterproofing: 3-Layer GORE-TEX PRO
• Breathability: Excellent (RET < 6)
• Fabric: 40D–200D Recycled Nylon Face Fabric
• Powder Skirt: Zip-off with Snap-Seal System

The Norrona Lofoten Gore-Tex Pro Jacket is an icon of the freeride world. Born from the demanding needs of Scandinavian big mountain riding, this jacket is engineered for those who seek out the steepest lines and deepest powder. It is constructed from a rugged 3-layer GORE-TEX Pro fabric, which provides the highest level of waterproof and windproof protection available while offering exceptional breathability (rated with a RET value under 6). This means that while no external moisture can get in, the sweat you generate during intense climbs or descents can easily escape.

Every feature of the Lofoten is purposefully designed for performance in challenging terrain. The technical, semi-fitted cut allows for layering without excess bulk, and its articulated sleeves provide complete freedom of movement. The storm hood is fully adjustable with one hand and fits perfectly over a helmet. For deep days, the zip-off powder skirt creates an impenetrable seal against snow. When you need to cool down fast, massive X-open underarm zippers provide best-in-class ventilation. Details like the asymmetric cuffs, which provide extra coverage over the back of your hands, and integrated hand gaiters showcase Norrona’s meticulous attention to detail.

• Pros
  • Top-tier GORE-TEX Pro provides bombproof weather protection.
  • Outstanding breathability for high-output activities.
  • Extremely durable construction with reinforced fabric.
• Cons
  • Positioned at the highest end of the price spectrum.
  • Uninsulated design requires a complete and effective layering strategy.

View Men’s at Backcountry View Women’s at Backcountry

How to Choose the Perfect Gore-Tex Snowboard Jacket

When it comes to staying dry and comfortable on the mountain, few materials command as much respect as Gore-Tex. For decades, its “Guaranteed to Keep You Dry” promise has made it the gold standard for waterproof and breathable outerwear. But with various types of Gore-Tex fabrics and a dizzying array of jacket features, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. This guide will break down everything you need to know to select the ideal Gore-Tex snowboard jacket for your needs, ensuring you stay warm, dry, and focused on your lines.

Understanding the Magic of Gore-Tex

Before diving into jacket specifics, it’s crucial to understand what makes Gore-Tex so effective. The core of the technology is a remarkably thin membrane of expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE). This membrane is the key to its performance.

The Science of Staying Dry

The Gore-Tex membrane contains over 9 billion microscopic pores per square inch. These pores are about 20,000 times smaller than a water droplet, which means external moisture from rain or snow simply cannot penetrate it. This is what makes the fabric completely waterproof. However, these same pores are 700 times larger than a molecule of water vapor. This allows perspiration from your body to escape, preventing that clammy, damp feeling you get from non-breathable materials. This two-way system is the essence of Gore-Tex: it’s simultaneously waterproof from the outside and breathable from the inside.

Construction and Durability

The delicate Gore-Tex membrane is typically bonded between a durable outer face fabric and a comfortable inner lining. This creates a laminate that protects the membrane from abrasion, oils, and dirt while providing the structure of the jacket. The outer fabric is also treated with a Durable Water Repellent (DWR) finish, which causes water to bead up and roll off, further enhancing performance and breathability.

Decoding the Gore-Tex Product Lines

Not all Gore-Tex is created equal. The brand offers several product lines tailored to different activities and intensity levels. Understanding these distinctions is the first step in narrowing down your choice.

Gore-Tex Pro

This is the top-tier, most rugged, and most breathable option. Designed for severe conditions and high-output activities, Gore-Tex Pro is the choice for serious freeriders, backcountry splitboarders, and mountain guides. Its multi-layer membrane system offers maximum durability and breathability, making it ideal for those who push their limits and demand the absolute best performance. If you frequently hike for your turns or ride in harsh, unpredictable weather, this is your best bet.

Gore-Tex Performance/Standard

This is the classic, versatile option that provides all-around performance for a wide range of snowboarding activities. It offers excellent waterproofing, windproofing, and breathability, making it a reliable choice for resort riders, park enthusiasts, and casual weekend warriors. It strikes a perfect balance between durability, comfort, and price, making it the most common type found in snowboard jackets.

Gore-Tex Paclite and Paclite Plus

As the name suggests, Paclite is designed to be lightweight and packable. It features a 2-layer construction where the inner lining is replaced by a protective carbon layer bonded directly to the membrane. While highly waterproof and breathable, its primary focus is on minimizing weight and bulk. This makes it a great choice for a backup shell for splitboarding or for riders in milder climates who don’t need maximum durability.

Shell Jacket vs. Insulated Jacket

Once you’ve considered the type of Gore-Tex fabric, your next major decision is whether to get a shell or an insulated jacket.

The Gore-Tex Shell

A shell is a non-insulated outer layer consisting only of the Gore-Tex laminate. Its sole purpose is to protect you from wind and water. The primary advantage of a shell is its versatility. You can adapt to any temperature by simply adjusting your mid-layers. On cold days, you can wear a fleece or a puffy down jacket underneath. On warmer spring days, a simple base layer might suffice. Shells are also typically more breathable, making them the preferred choice for backcountry riders or anyone who tends to overheat.

The Insulated Gore-Tex Jacket

An insulated jacket combines the Gore-Tex waterproof shell with a built-in insulation layer (either synthetic or down). This creates an all-in-one solution for staying warm and dry. These jackets are perfect for resort riders who frequent colder climates and prefer the convenience of not having to think too much about layering. However, they are less versatile; an insulated jacket that’s perfect for a frigid day in January will likely be too hot for a sunny day in April.

Essential Snowboard-Specific Features

A great snowboard jacket is more than just its fabric. Look for these key features that are designed to enhance your comfort and convenience on the mountain.

• Fully Taped Seams: For a jacket to be truly waterproof, the tiny holes created by stitching the fabric panels together must be sealed. While all Gore-Tex jackets have taped seams, ensure it says “fully taped” or “fully sealed” for complete protection.
• Powder Skirt: This is an elasticated gaiter at the waist of the jacket that snaps shut to keep snow from getting inside during a fall or in deep powder. Many also feature jacket-to-pant integration systems for a seamless barrier.
• Ventilation (Pit Zips): Zippers under the armpits are a must-have. They allow you to quickly dump excess heat and moisture during strenuous activity without having to take off your jacket.
• Helmet-Compatible Hood: Ensure the hood is large enough to fit comfortably over your helmet. It should also have adjustment points to cinch it down securely so it doesn’t block your peripheral vision.
• Wrist Gaiters: These are stretchy cuffs, often with thumbholes, that bridge the gap between your jacket sleeve and glove, effectively sealing out snow and cold air.
• Pockets: Consider your needs. Look for dedicated pockets for your lift pass, goggles, phone, and other essentials. Waterproof zippers on external pockets are a significant plus.

Finding the Right Fit

Fit is both a matter of personal style and function. A jacket that is too tight will restrict your movement, while one that is too baggy can be cumbersome. Snowboard jackets typically come in a few common fits:

• Slim Fit: A more tailored, athletic cut that sits closer to the body.
• Regular Fit: The standard, offering a good balance of comfort without being overly baggy.
• Relaxed/Baggy Fit: A looser, longer cut popular in freestyle snowboarding, providing maximum room for movement and layering.

Regardless of style, make sure the jacket allows for full range of motion. Raise your arms, twist your torso, and mimic snowboarding movements. The sleeves should be long enough to cover your wrists even when your arms are extended, and the hem shouldn’t ride up and expose your back.