Skiers love a good debate…powder vs. groomers, alpine vs. touring, socks over or under your base layer (it’s over, by the way). Argue all you want, but one thing we can all agree on is that nothing kills a good day faster than bad ski kits.
Ski Kits Provide the Performance Armor you Need
The right ski kit isn’t just protection, it’s performance armor. So we took five heavy hitters this season: the Mammut Haldigrat HS, the Helly Hansen Women’s Sogn Shell, Akova Legacy Hardshell, ThirtyTwo Recycled X Fava Jacket and Basement Bib, and Rossignol Desafio Jacket & Outerlimits Bib and put them through their paces. From deep snow to high winds to “why am I sweating through my base layer” moments these winter kits crushed it each in their own way.
Mammut Haldigrat HS Hooded Jacket & Bib
Photo Credit: Mammut
Best for: Touring enthusiasts and dedicated backcountry skiers
Meet the Mammut Haldigrat H the quiet, confident type that thrives on pre-dawn alarms and long ascents. This kit is purpose-built for ski mountaineers and backcountry purists who value precision and breathability over anything else.
With Mammut DRYtechnology Pro 3L, the Haldigrat is light enough for hours on the skintrack yet tough enough to handle any weather surprises that might come your way. Large ventilation zips, harness-compatible pockets, and a helmet-friendly hood make it fully optimized for big mountain missions.
It’s also fitted with a RECCO® reflector, because safety tech shouldn’t add weight or fuss.
Why it stands out:
It’s the perfect mix of minimalist and high-function. If you count vert more than laps and think “resort days” are your rest days, this kit is your match.
Helly Hansen Women’s Sogn Shell Jacket & Pant
Photo Credit: Helly Hansen
Best for: All-mountain skiers, freeriders, and sidecountry explorers
If versatility were a superpower, the Helly Hansen Sogn Shell would be wearing a cape. Designed for female skiers who want to rip everything from groomers to glades, this kit blends hardcore weatherproofing with all-day comfort.
Built with HELLY TECH Professional 3-layer fabric, it’s waterproof (like really, really waterproof) and equally and impressively breathable. The articulated sleeves and knees move with you, not against you and won’t bunch up while you’re ripping up the mountain with your aggressive skiing.
Bonus features like RECCO® reflectors and a helmet-compatible hood add safety and function to an already amazing kit. However, the real star, especially in our tech-dominant world, is the LIFE POCKET+™ which keeps your phone battery alive longer in freezing temps. Nothing says “rookie move” like your phone dying mid-run and you not being able to brag about hitting 43 mph after a few beers at après ski.
Why it stands out:
Tough, technical, and thoughtfully designed for skiers who want protection without bulk. Ideal for those who like layering flexibility and aren’t afraid to chase a sidecountry stash before last chair.
Akova Legacy Hardshell 3L Jacket & Pant
Photo Credit: Akova
Best for: Resort freeride and hybrid skiers
The Akova Legacy 3L walks the fine line between freeride toughness and modern simplicity. Think clean design, bomber construction, and enough technical edge to handle a surprise storm.
Built with a 3-layer waterproof/breathable shell, this kit is both sleek and sturdy. Reinforced zones keep it durable for tree runs and lift-line bumps alike. Thigh-length vents and full-length pant zips are practical and a great conversation starter with the person next to you in line who insists that your pants are undone. The Akova Legacy is the kit you throw on for storm days at the resort and the occasional bootpack to hidden lines.
Why it stands out:
Durable enough for hard-charging laps but streamlined for everyday wear. It’s the understated workhorse that looks good, performs great, and doesn’t need to shout about it.
ThirtyTwo Recycled X Fava Jacket and Basement Bib
Photo Credit: Thirty Two
Best for: Freestyle riders and freeride skiers who send it from first chair to last call
The ThirtyTwo Recycled X Fava Jacket and Basement Bib is a bold, storm-ready setup that backs up its looks with legit performance. This combo thrives equally on deep days as it does lapping the park all while drawing a fine line between functional and flat-out fun.
The Fava Jacket delivers 15K waterproofing and breathability with recycled REPEL fabric, fully taped seams, and pit zips for when things heat up. The Basement Bib brings equally rugged protection with reinforced cuffs, stretch side panels, and adjustable suspenders for a dialed-in fit that moves as hard as you do.
The orange-and-camo combo isn’t just eye-catching it’s built to last and brings that “I just went hunting” appeal to the slopes.
Why it stands out:
This kit is a perfect balance of durability and style. For riders who want sustainability, performance you got it. And for those who like a little personality in their kit, ThirtyTwo delivers!
Rossignol Desafio Jacket & Outerlimits Bib
Best for: All-mountain chargers who want premium performance with a touch of Euro flair
Rossignol’s Desafio Jacket and Outerlimits Bib bring French style to freeride freedom. The 20K/20K waterproof-breathable fabric holds its own in any storm, while stretch zones and venting keep you moving with the grace and flexibility of a dancer
The fit? Tailored but not tight. It’s sleek enough for ripping resort laps but tough enough for tree runs and everything in between. The Outerlimits Bib adds durability and smart pocket placement so nothing gets in your way (except maybe the après crowd admiring your style).
Why it stands out:
Refined yet rugged, this combination is a high-performance setup for skiers who want technical mastery with serious style points.
About the Author
Rich Stoner is the founder of the après-ski lifestyle clothing and media brand, All About Après. He is also the co-host of the Après All Day Podcast. No stranger to the ski and après-ski scene, Rich has been a long time contributor for many publications on topics like skiing, travel, gear, beer and food. However, his passion is on the slopes and enjoying good times with good people. You can find him perfecting his craft carving turns and drinking beers in the Green Mountains of Vermont. @allaboutapres