Everyone deserves to enjoy the outdoors year-round, especially in the magic of winter, without the additional barrier of finding apparel that fits. To help speed up the process, we rounded up the best plus-size ski and snow gear for women based on expert interviews, and were currently field testing these choice picks.
The outdoor industry still has a ways to go to serve extended size options to skiers, riders, sledders, and other winter recreationists, but over the past few years, a handful of brands have pioneered high-quality options. Youll find insulated options like the L.L.Bean Rugged Ridge Parka or backcountry-oriented designs that are more breathable and decked out with great pockets, like the Outdoor Research Snowcrew Jacket. The sizes in this category include 1X-4X, as well as extra short through long lengths.
Read on for top sellers in women’s plus-size snow apparel that doesnt skimp on functionality, style, or protection. For in-depth advice on how to select the best plus-size apparel, read theBuyer’s Guideor jump to thePrice Valuesummary. Still weighing your options? Consult ourComparison Chartto see how the choices stack up. Otherwise, take a look at our awarded goods for the 2024-2025 season.
Editor’s Note: We updated our Women’s Plus-Size Ski and Snow Gear guide on November 13, 2024, with a Price Value, Fit Sizing, Plus Sizes, Straight Extended Sizes sections — and field testing is currently underway in Utah and California.
The Best Plus-Size Ski and Snow Gear for Women of 2024-2025 Best Overall Plus-Size Ski Jacket for Women: L.L. Bean Rugged Ridge Parka Best Budget Plus-Size Ski Jacket for Women: Columbia Whirlibird IV Jacket Most Stylish Plus-Size Ski Jacket for Women: Plus Snow Cartel Brooklyn Ski Jacket Best Plus-Size Backcountry Ski Jacket for Women: Outdoor Research Snowcrew Jacket Best Plus-Size Mid-Layer for Women: The North Face Womens Plus Osito Jacket L.L.Bean Rugged Ridge Parka Check Price at L.L.Bean
Specs Features: Detachable and adjustable hood, fleece neck warmer, goggle pocket with wipe Waterproofing: Yes Insulated: Yes Sizes: 1X, 2X, 3X Pros Reaches below hip Five pockets total for plenty of storage Two-way zipper with storm flap Great price Cons Not the most stylish lifestyle option Size range does not go up to 5X Mattie Schuler For snow sports, a proven favorite is the L.L.Bean Rugged Ridge Parka ($199). The jacket is a constant bestseller with a relaxed fit. The jacket is lightweight yet has warm insulation with 170 grams of PrimaLoft in the core area plus 133 grams in the hood and sleeves.
We love the micro-fleece collar for all-weather comfort, especially when the breeze picks up, and the option to zip off the hood.
L.L.Bean has expanded its sizing assortment to be more inclusive. You’ll now find a full range of sizes — all at the same price and with the same glorious color options — that range from XS to 3X, or 2 to 26 for women.
Male companions dont need to be left out, either. There is a range of S to XXXL for men in both regular and tall proportions. Ladies can match the Rugged Ridge Parka with the Wildcat snow pants for full protection — a fully waterproof-breathable kit.
Read More Best Budget Plus-Size Ski Jacket for Women Columbia Whirlibird IV Jacket $145 at AmazonCheck price at columbia
Specs Features: Zip-in and 3-point Interchange System, attached and adjustable hood, pit vents, ski pass pocket, goggle pocket Waterproofing: Yes Insulated: Yes Plus Sizes: 1X, 2X, 3X Pros Omni-heat thermal reflectivity Five total pockets Wear synthetic insulation layer solo, or shell solo, or pair the two Cons Best for moderate rain and snow versus heavy snow Mattie Schuler Columbia has consistently debuted high-quality snow gear at a price that will still leave something left over for those après vibes. That includes the Columbia Whirlibird IV Interchange Jacket ($230) a classic 3-in-1 jacket — you’ll get a shell and a zip-in puffy liner that can each be worn separately or zipped together for a solid, cold-weather jacket.
And, its one of the only brands in the industry that has been making plus-size ski apparel for over 15 years. Luckily, its inclusive sizing options stick with that more affordable value, too.
Pair with the waterproof and breathable Bugaboo Omni Heat pants, and you are good to go for any weather. The Whirlibird IV Interchange Jacket is especially great for resort skiing or snowboarding.
Read More Most Stylish Plus-Size Ski Jacket for Women Plus Snow Cartel Brooklyn Ski Jacket Check Price at Plus Snow
Specs Features: Pit vents, powder skirt, detachable hood, detachable faux fur, goggle pocket Waterproofing: 15K/15K waterproof breathable laminate Insulated: Yes Plus Sizes: 18-30 Pros Feminine cut Insulation ranges from 100 to 40 grams throughout the jacket in targeted zones Mattie Schuler Plus Snow doesn’t make its own gear, but the brand is in regular communication with brands that do to help both supply gear and to provide input. A top seller from the brand, the Plus Snow Cartel Brooklyn Ski Jacket ($320) is a favorite of Mirna Valerio, a.k.a. The Mirnavator.
This jacket is made for skiers with bigger bodies who want style, comfort, and protection.
With a detachable hood and optional faux fur plus pit zips, there are adaptable features of this design that make it a top choice. There are also four pockets in addition to the hand pockets.
The Cartel Brooklyn Ski Jacket is made from a stretchy, highly waterproof, and breathable fabric so the ensemble can move with you (not against you) while skiing, snowboarding, or snowshoeing.
Read More Best Plus-Size Backcountry Ski Jacket for Women Outdoor Research Snowcrew Jacket $349 at REI$349 at Amazon
Specs Features: Helmet-compatible hood, pit zips, powder skirts, ski pass pocket Waterproofing: Yes Insulated: Yes Plus Sizes: 1X, 2X, 3X, 4X Pros Utilizes recycled materials Insulated chest pocket to preserve phone battery Ski helmet compatible Super waterproof Brushed tricot fabric that lines the chinguard and hand pockets is dreamy-soft Cons Tad pricier than budget options but not the most expensive either Mattie Schuler For days spent touring in the backcountry, opt for the Outdoor Research Womens Snowcrew Jacket ($349). This item is waterproof, windproof, and breathable and made from a stretchy fabric so your range of motion isn’t hindered.
Plus, you’ll get some insulation but tailored in all the right places with a combination of 100g and 80g fill in the jacket. There is underarm ventilation when the laps heat up, too.
Currently, Outdoor Research makes both extended sizes (which are larger and smaller sizes, like XS and XXL) and plus-size womens apparel (which is a different sizing pattern altogether). Outdoor Research has based its plus sizing on plus models and feedback from plus-size testers.
Extended sizing and plus sizing yield two pretty different fits, the brand explained. Plus sizes for the Womens Snowcrew Jacket go up to 4X, a step above most other brands.
Read More Best Plus-Size Mid-Layer for Women The North Face Womens Plus Osito Jacket Check price at the north face
Specs Features: 100% recycled fabric Waterproofing: No Insulated: Yes Plus Sizes: 1X, 2X, 3X Pros Great layering piece for beneath a winter jacket Cons Extended sizes stop at 3X Mattie Schuler If you need a little extra warmth on a cold day, zip up The North Face Womens Plus Osito Jacket ($100), a top-seller for good reason.
This high-pile fleece midlayer is a standard fit that reaches the hips and super soft. The cuffs have an elastic band that helps block a breeze.
As a bonus, there are also two zippered hand pockets. Amazingly, Womens Plus Osito Jacket is also completely made with recycled fabric, so the earth is happy when you wear it, too.
Read More Best of the Rest Plus Snow Pure Lapland Softshell Ski Pant Check Price at Plus Snow
Specs Features: Zip hand pockets, storm cuff, high-rise waist, fleece-bonded lining Waterproofing: 20K/20K waterproof breathable laminate Insulated: No Plus Sizes: 18-30 (including extra short, short, regular, long) Pros Super waterproof and breathable at 20K/20K Great price Cons Not the most dense if you prefer thicker pants Lack insulation The waistband doesn’t have pull tabs for adjustable (but has belt loops) Mattie Schuler The Plus Snow Pure Lapland Softshell Ski Pant ($240) is also a favorite of Mirna Valerio, a.k.a. The Mirnavator.
What most sticks out to us is the variety of fits this brand offers in pants. The menu includes extra short, short, regular, and long variations within the plus-size collection. The waist is a high rise for security, too.
Not to mention, the pants boast a 20K/20K waterproof-breathable rating, meaning these are what you should grab if youre heading to the coast and PNW.
Density-wise, they arent thick either. The Pure Lapland Softshell Ski Pant feel rather soft and light, and with all that tech, still dont break the bank.
Read More Columbia Womens Bugaboo II Pants $120 at REICheck price at columbia
Specs Features: Thermal-reflective lining and synthetic insulation, reinforced hem, internal leg gaiters, adjustable waist Waterproofing: Yes, critically sealed seams Insulated: Yes Plus Sizes: 1X, 2X, 3X Pros Thermal reflective fabric adds insulation alongside the synthetic insulation Cons Not the most waterproof choice for heavy, wet snowfall Mattie Schuler The Columbia Bugaboo II Pants ($120) are stuffed with 60 grams of synthetic insulation for those cold days on the slopes or sled hill. Theres an additional thermal fabric that reflects body heat, too.
With lower-leg snaps and internal gaiters, the snow is kept out from wetting out your socks. There are zippered hand pockets and an adjustable waist, too.
Reach for the Bugaboo Omni Heat Pants for a softly lined yet waterproof and windproof snow pant.
Read More Obermeyer Tuscany II Jacket $279 at REI$247 at Amazon
Specs Features: Fleece chin warmer, interior electronic pocket, removable faux fur, pass pocket, powder skirt Waterproofing: 10K/10K waterproof breathable laminate Insulated: Yes Plus Sizes: 18-22 (also available in 2-16 and petite sizes) Pros Insulated with 150 grams in the body and sleeves plus 40 grams in the hood Cons Not all colors are offered in extended size run Mattie Schuler Obermeyer is a classic go-to in the winter sport industry known for its durable, waterproof, and stylish gear. Some, though not all, of the brands winter line comes in inclusive sizing and that collection includes the Obermeyer Tuscany II Jacket ($279).
The waterproof and breathable jacket has a slightly baggier fit and is ideal for those who need midlevel warmth (think a base layer underneath, not much more).
Pair with the Tuscany II Jacket with the Bliss Pant, which have a slightly slimmer fit, but use a stretchy fabric for a full range of motion on the slopes, and youll be both stylish and comfortable all day.
Read More Outdoor Research Snowcrew Pants $229 at REI$117 at Amazon
Specs Features: Waist adjustment tabs, zip hand pockets, avalanche beacon pocket, thigh vents Waterproofing: Yes Insulated: No Plus Sizes: 1X, 2X, 3X, 4X Pros All plus-sizes include short, regular, and tall options Super waterproof option 56% recycled fabric and 100% recycled liner Cons Not the stretchiest fabric choice Mattie Schuler For days spent touring in the backcountry, reach for those Outdoor Research Women’s Snowcrew Pants ($229) to match the jacket. Just like the top, this design is waterproof, windproof, breathable and created with a malleable fabric so your range of motion isn’t hindered.
Plus, you’ll get some insulation but tailored in all the right places with 45 g in the seat and thighs.
Currently, Outdoor Research makes both extended sizes (which are larger and smaller sizes, like XS and XXL) and plus-size women’s apparel (which is a different sizing pattern altogether). Outdoor Research has based its plus sizing on plus models and feedback from plus-size testers.
Extended sizing and plus sizing yield two pretty different fits, the brand explained. Plus sizes for the Women’s Snowcrew Pants go up to 4X.
Read More Obermeyer Bliss Pant $199 at REI$80 at Amazon
Specs Features: Fleece-lined and high back waistband, zippered hand pockets, reinforced hems, powder cuffs, ventilation Waterproofing: 15K/15K waterproof breathable laminate Insulated: Yes Plus Sizes: 18-22, short, regular, and long Pros Internal leg vents Scuff guards Fleece-lined waistband Cons Vents are small — but at least they’re there Mattie Schuler Alongside the Tuscany II Jacket, the Obermeyer Bliss Pant ($199) likewise comes in inclusive sizing. This pair is also durable and waterproof without sacrificing style.
These pants have a slightly slimmer fit, but use a stretchy fabric for a full range of motion on the slopes. We love the generous zippers on the back of the leg, which allow the circumference to widen over boot necks.
The Bliss Pant also has 40 grams of insulation for comfort on those chilly morning or lift rides.
Read More L.L.Bean Wildcat Waterproof Insulated Snow Pant Check Price at L.L.Bean
Specs Features: Fleece-lined waistband, seat, and knees, waist adjusters, durable scuff guards, inner snow gaiters Waterproofing: Yes Insulated: Yes Plus sizes: 1X, 2X, 3X Pros Insulated Several pockets Cons No ventilation zips Mattie Schuler The L.L.Bean Wildcat Waterproof Insulated Snow Pant ($169) is a mid-rise snow pant with a cozy tricot lining at the waist, knees, and backside, rounding out all the technical details for a comfortable pair.
With a hint of warmth, these pants are insulated with 60 grams of PrimaLoft but dont look stuffed. The two-layer design is waterproof, too.
To adjust fit, ladies can opt to use the integrated Velcro waist adjusters or utilize the belt loops. There are two snaps to close up the waist.
We love the side zips near the ankles and the reinforced scuff guards for long-term durability on walks to and from the lot. For additional cargo space, the Wildcat Waterproof Insulated Snow Pant has three pockets, too.
Read More The North Face 1996 Retro Nuptse Jacket $330 at REI$280 at Amazon
Specs Features: Two hand pockets, jacket stashes into its right hand pocket Waterproofing: DWR treatment on surface Insulated: Yes Plus Sizes: 1X, 2X, 3X Pros Down fill is very compressible and super warm Cons Natural down fill can be vulnerable to super wet weather Mattie Schuler The North Face’s women’s gear includes inclusive sizing with the same high-quality construction and features that The North Face is known for like is rad The North Face 1996 Retro Nuptse Jacket ($300).
This 700-fill goose down jacket is super compressible and full of insulation that is RDS-certified. The hood also stashes into the collar.
With a boxy style and relaxed fit, the 1996 Retro Nuptse Jacket is a great choice for around-town or hardcore adventure.
Read More DSG Outerwear Craze 5.0 Hooded Snowmobiling Shell Jacket Check Price at Scheels
Specs Features: Sealed and taped seams, removable hood, underarm vents Waterproofing: Yes Insulated: Yes Plus Sizes: 1X Pros Underarm vents aren’t always available on plus-size apparel and they are here Integrated write gaiters Soft micro-fleece liner on chin guard Cons Not the most color options Mattie Schuler Although traditionally a brand that outfits snowmobilers, hunters, and fishers, DSG Outwear does sport high-quality snow gear that goes up to size 1X. Check out the DSG Outerwear Craze 5.0 Hooded Snowmobiling Shell Jacket ($250) for a warm and waterproof setup.
Bonus: the matching bottoms can be worn as regular snow pants or easily convert to bibs with zip-on straps and an insulated upper bib section.
With full functionality, the jacket has an interior zip pocket with a headphone port for communication throughout the ride. Plus, the two hand pockets and internal mesh dump pocket add extra hammocks for goods.
For warmth, the jacket boasts 200 grams of insulation around the torso plus 150 grams in the sleeves. Garnished with underarm vents, the Craze 5.0 Hooded Snowmobiling Shell Jacket is a good choice for active days in the cold.
Read More REI Powderbound Snow Pants $159 at REI
Specs Features: Bluesign-approved materials, Fair Trade-certified factory, double-snap closure on waist band Waterproofing: DWR Insulated: Yes Plus sizes: 1X, 2X, 3X Pros Three pockets Articulated knees Cons Not the most waterproof or most insulated choice Limited color options Mattie Schuler REI offers womens plus-size ski pants up to 3X (sizes 18 to 26): check out the REI Co-op Powderbound Snow Pants ($149).
This design is treated with DWR for light moisture, so its not the best choice for PNW trips. The pants are also loaded with 40 grams of synthetic insulation for a bump of warmth.
While the Powderbound Snow Pants arent the warmest or most waterproof, they are certainly a functional pair with reinforced hems, zippered hand pockets that are softly lined, and belt loops.
Read More Plus-Size Ski and Snow Gear for Women Comparison Chart Scroll right to view all of the columns: Waterproofing, Insulated, Plus Sizes.
Snow Gear | Price | Waterproofing | Insulated | Plus Sizes |
---|---|---|---|---|
L.L.Bean Rugged Ridge Parka | $199 | Yes | Yes | 1X, 2X, 3X |
Columbia Whirlibird IV Jacket | $230 | Yes | Yes | 1X, 2X, 3X |
Obermeyer Tuscany II Jacket | $279 | 10K/10K | Yes | 18-22 |
Plus Snow Cartel Brooklyn Ski Jacket | $320 | 15K/15K | Yes | 18-30 |
Outdoor Research Snowcrew Jacket | $349 | Yes | Yes | 1X, 2X, 3X, 4X |
Plus Snow Pure Lapland Softshell Ski Pant | $240 | 20K/20K | No | 18-30 |
Columbia Bugaboo Omni Heat Pants | $120 | Yes | Yes | 1X, 2X, 3X |
Outdoor Research Snowcrew Pants | $229 | Yes | No | 1X, 2X, 3X, 4X |
Obermeyer Bliss Pant | $199 | 15K/15K | Yes | 18-22 |
L.L.Bean Wildcat Waterproof Insulated Snow Pant | $169 | Yes | Yes | 1X, 2X, 3X |
The North Face 1996 Retro Nuptse Jacket | $300 | DWR treatment on surface | Yes | 1X, 2X, 3X |
DSG Outerwear Craze 5.0 Hooded Snowmobiling Shell Jacket | $250 | Yes | Yes | 1X, 2X, 3X, 4X |
The North Face Womens Plus Osito Jacket | $100 | No | Yes | 1X, 2X, 3X |
REI Powderbound Snow Pants | $149 | DWR | Yes | 1X, 2X, 3X |
When Plus Snow surveyed more than 1,000 men and women in its first-ever plus-size global winter sports survey, data showed that nearly 75% are active skiers. Yet, 97% responded that they have difficulty finding appropriate-fitting gear, and 60% said that this lack of gear has prevented them from heading outside for winter sports at all.
“I work to source and supply plus-size clothing, but also to advocate so that more brands make plus-size clothing options, and then more people can enjoy the outdoors safely,” said Mon Balon of Plus Snow, an online winter gear shop with inclusive sizing.
“Representation is also a core foundation of what we work towards,” she said. “As we all know, you cant be what you cant see. Fatphobia and size bias has ruled the outdoor industry for far too long, and its time for that narrative to change. Everybody should be able to enjoy the outdoors safely and when clothing doesnt fit properly, it becomes a safety issue.”
Although Plus Snow has been doing the work to source brands that have inclusive sizing since 2015, other brands are finally coming around to add not just extra sizing options, but also extra sizing options in a variety of styles and at the same price point as other sizes.
Our Expert Testers Our Testing Grounds We are working with two longstanding snowsports professionals and athletes in California and Utah to field test plus-size apparel and will report our findings soon.
Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose Plus-Size Ski and Snow Gear for Women Fit Sizing When it comes to apparel, plus size means anything beyond the standard or extended size range. Plus sizes might include 1X to 3X and can go up to 5X, but most snowsports stop at 4X because its been challenging for brands to find fit testers for 5X.
Inclusive sizing is another term outdoor brands are using more and more. Inclusive sizing refers not just to plus sizes but a wider range of sizes for every body type, including short, long, petite, tall, maternity, extended sizes, and plus sizes (for all genders).
Size-wise, each manufacturer has its own charts. Be sure to take your personal measurements and match them up. Everyone’s body is unique, so check the exchange and return policy before you buy.
Plus Sizes In the U.S., the general start for plus sizing is size 14 and over.
Plus sizes are built from an entirely separate size block, which has different ratios than the size block used for straight sizes. This size run is designed to accommodate a fuller bicep, waist, and bust. The sections — like the torso or arms — don’t get longer or taller as they go up in size. Plus sizes are labeled 1X, 2X, 3X, 4X, etc.The L.L.Bean Rugged Ridge Parkagoes up to 3X, for instance.
After building prototypes, the brand checks that each size matches a fit model in that size: That step is the same for extended and straight sizes.
Straight Extended Sizes Straight sizes refer to sizes small to large, which are constructed from a specific size block. You’ll often see straight sizes numerically listed from 6 to 14.As the sizes go up, the length changes, but the ratio remains the same.
Extended sizes are the applications of XS, XXS, XL, and XXL (as well as 0-2, 16-20) that go beyond the small-to-large spectrum.
Apparel designers take the pattern of a straight size block — typically the medium, in the middle of the lineup — and adjust the dimensions for smaller or larger bodies. Each silhouette will be proportional and similar in shape to the next size up ordown. This means that the waist-to-hip ratio is the same for a particular jacket in all sizes, from XS to XL.
Finding the Right Fit Just like standard sizing, plus sizing varies by brand. We always recommend checking the size charts and measuring your hip, chest, and inseam if need be (for ski pants). You’ll want a ski jacket to have some room for a baselayer or light midlayer, but not be too loose (or too constricting, for that matter).
On this list, we found theObermeyer Tuscany II Jacketto be the most accurate in terms of fit for a plus-size ski jacket, and theL.L.Bean Wildcat Insulated PantorColumbia Bugaboo Snow Pantthe most accurate in terms of fit for plus-size ski pants.
Price Value Budget If youre searching for a mid-layer to pull on beneath an uninsulated shell, thatll be the price-effective piece on our list, like The North Face Women’s Plus Osito Jacket ($100). However, insulated and basic waterproof options such as the Columbia Bugaboo Omni Heat Pants ($120) still offer up a great deal at the cost of top-tier durability and more refined pockets or premium-level waterproofness.
Mid-Tier Designs in the next zone are more modifiable and stylish while being functional, including the Obermeyer Tuscany II Jacket ($279), which incorporates Repreve material — recycled plastic — for sustainability, as well as insulation.
Premium Reaching for the top shelf, pieces like the Outdoor Research Snowcrew Jacket ($349) are built with the best materials for backcountry travel on skis, splitboard, or snowshoes. This apparel has the highest degree of breathability and waterproofness, underarm zips or leg vents, a functional collection of pockets, and an athletic style. Often youll find integrated wrist gaiters or storm cuffs, as well as a softly lined collar and hood that fits over a helmet or that is removable.
Frequently Asked Questions Which brands make plus-size ski apparel? Many brands make plus-size clothes, but the market for plus-size ski apparel — and plus-size technical ski apparel — is much narrower. Brands like Columbia, L.L.Bean, Obermeyer, DSG Outerwear, Outdoor Research, The North Face, and Eddie Bauer all already offer or have started to offer plus-size ski gear.
Pants, Pants Revolution: Alpine Parrot Launches Plus-Size Hiking Line for Women Alpine Parrot empowers plus-size women to stake a claim to the outdoors, with the simple act of providing pants made for outdoor adventures in size 14 and up.
The Best Women’s Winter Jackets of 2024-2025 Whether you’re looking for a warm, stylish coat to commute in a snowstorm, spectate a hockey game, or enjoy après-ski, we’ve got you covered with the best women’s winter jackets.
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