When choosing ski or snowboard gear, waterproofing is key to staying dry and comfortable. This blog aims to discuss the differences between Microporous membranes, like Goretex, and other waterproofing measures you might have seen like 10k, 15k and 20k

🔹 Gore-Tex & Other Waterproof Membranes

These are premium waterproof-breathable fabrics designed to keep moisture out while allowing sweat to escape.

This is the key point with goretex, it is much more breathable than other options as it allows water vapour i.e sweat, to escape from inside your jacket.

✅ Gore-Tex – The industry leader, known for being highly waterproof, windproof, and breathable. It uses a microporous membrane with over 9 billion pores per square inch to block water while allowing vapor to escape.
✅ Other Membranes (e.g., eVent, Dermizax, Futurelight) – Compete with Gore-Tex and offer similar waterproof-breathable performance, sometimes with more flexibility or softer fabrics.

Best for: High-performance skiing, backcountry, wet conditions.


🔹 10K, 15K, 20K Waterproof Ratings

These numbers indicate how much water pressure (in millimeters) a fabric can withstand before leaking.

✔ 10K Waterproofing – Good for light snow and mild conditions. Might get wet in heavy snowfall or wet snow.
✔ 15K Waterproofing – More water-resistant, suitable for moderate snow and wetter climates.
✔ 20K+ Waterproofing – Highly waterproof, ideal for heavy snowfall, wet conditions, and backcountry skiing.

Best for: Resort skiers (10K-15K), deep powder and wet climates (20K+).


🔹 Which One to Choose?

• Casual Resort Skiers – 10K-15K is often enough.
• Frequent & All-Conditions Skiers – 20K+ or a Gore-Tex membrane provides the best protection.
• Backcountry & Extreme Weather – Gore-Tex or a similar high-end waterproof membrane ensures dryness in all conditions and breathability for high levels of exertion.

For expert advice on the best waterproof gear, visit Welcome Board! 🎿❄

Ski jackets can be insulated or shell-style, depending on the level of warmth and versatility needed.

🔹 Insulated Ski Jackets

✅ Built-in insulation for warmth (synthetic or down)
✅ Ideal for cold conditions or resort skiing
✅ Less layering needed underneath

 🔸 Types of Insulation:

• Synthetic (e.g., PrimaLoft) – Stays warm even when wet, dries quickly
• Down – Super warm and lightweight, but loses warmth when wet

Best for: Cold climates, skiers who get cold easily, resort skiing.


🔹 Shell Ski Jackets

✅ No built-in insulation, just a waterproof and breathable outer layer
✅ More versatile – Layer underneath for customizable warmth
✅ Lighter and better for high-energy skiing

 🔸 Types of Shell Jackets:

• Hard Shell – Maximum waterproofing and durability (e.g., Gore-Tex)
• Soft Shell – More breathable and flexible, but less waterproof

Best for: Warmer days, backcountry skiing, layering flexibility.


Which One Should You Choose?

✔ Resort Skiers & Cold Conditions → Insulated Jacket
✔ Backcountry, Variable Weather, High-Activity Skiing → Shell Jacket + Layers

 For expert advice, visit Welcome Board and find the perfect ski jacket for you! 🎿❄

Keeping your ski jacket clean helps maintain its waterproofing, breathability, and performance. Here’s how to do it right:


1️⃣ Use a Technical Wash

❌ Avoid regular detergent – It can strip waterproof coatings.
✅ Use a tech wash (e.g., Toko Eco Textile wash) to clean without damaging the fabric.

How to wash:

1. Close all zippers, Velcro, and snaps.
2. Use a front-loading washing machine on a gentle cycle with cold or warm water.
3. Add the recommended amount of tech wash.
4. Rinse thoroughly.


2️⃣ Reapply DWR (Durable Water Repellent) Coating

Over time, ski jackets lose their DWR finish, which helps water bead off instead of soaking in.

✔ Test if you need DWR: If water no longer beads on the surface, it’s time to reapply.

How to restore DWR:
🧼 After washing, apply a spray-on or wash-in DWR treatment ().
🔥 Tumble dry on low heat (if the care label allows) to reactivate waterproofing.


Pro Tip:

Wash your jacket once or twice per season to keep it fresh and fully functional!

For expert advice and tech wash products, visit Welcome Board! 🎿❄

Ski and snowboard jackets should fit comfortably while allowing freedom of movement and room for layering. The right fit depends on your riding style and personal preference.


🔹 Ski Jacket Fit Ski jackets are typically more fitted to reduce drag and improve aerodynamics on the slopes.

✔ Slim Fit – More form-fitting, great for high-speed skiing and a sleek look
✔ Regular Fit – Allows for easy movement while maintaining a tailored shape
✔ Baggy fit - allows for easy movement and is more common with park and freestyle skiers


🔹 Snowboard Jacket Fit Snowboard jackets tend to be longer and baggier for a relaxed feel and added mobility needed when sitting on the snow to adjust your bindings

✔ Baggy Fit – Provides extra room for layering and flexibility, popular for freestyle riders
✔ Regular Fit – A balance between comfort and movement without being overly loose 🏂

Best for: Freestyle riders, park snowboarders, or those who prefer a more relaxed style


Fit Tips:
✅ Should cover your wrists when arms are outstretched
✅ Jacket length should extend past the waist (especially for snowboarders sitting on the snow)
✅ Room for layers but not excessively bulky

For expert fitting advice, visit Welcome Board! 🎿❄

Choosing between ski bibs and pants depends on comfort, fit, and riding style. Both have advantages, so here’s a breakdown to help you decide:


🔹 Ski Bibs (Overalls-Style Pants)

✅ More coverage & warmth – Extend higher up the torso, keeping snow out
✅ Better fit – No waistband pressure, great for comfort and movement
✅ Stay drier – Ideal for deep powder and backcountry skiing
✅ Extra storage – Often include chest pockets for essentials

 🔸 Best for: Backcountry skiers, deep powder days, or those who prefer extra warmth & coverage


🔹 Ski Pants

✅ Easier on/off – Quick bathroom breaks without removing layers
✅ More breathable – Less material, great for warmer conditions
✅ Lightweight & flexible – No extra fabric on the torso

🔸 Best for: Resort skiing, warmer days, and those who prefer a traditional fit


Which One Should You Choose?

✔ For comfort, warmth & deep snow: Go with bibs
✔ For versatility, breathability & ease:

Choose pants For expert advice and the perfect fit, visit Welcome Board! 🎿❄