Snowboard Outerwear Size & Buying Guide

Snowboard Outerwear Size & Buying Guide

Why Your Outerwear Matters

Your outerwear isn’t just a style statement—it’s your first line of defence against wind, snow, and moisture while ensuring you stay comfortable across changing conditions on the mountain. Quality snowboard outerwear keeps you warm, dry, and moving freely, whether you’re lapping park, hunting powder, or ripping groomers in variable conditions.

What Makes Snowboard Outerwear Different?

✅ Designed for Movement: Articulated cuts, longer tails, helmet-compatible hoods.
✅ Durable Materials: Reinforced fabrics to handle grabs, tree runs, and repeated chairlift rides.
✅ Weather Protection: Waterproof and breathable layers protect you from snow, rain, and sweat build-up.
✅ Ventilation: Pit zips and mesh-backed vents regulate heat when you’re hiking or in spring slush.
✅ Powder Skirts and Cuffs: Keep snow out when you take a tumble in deep pow.

Understanding Waterproof & Breathability Ratings

Waterproof Ratings (mm)

Snowboard outerwear uses waterproof ratings measured in millimetres to indicate how much water the fabric can withstand before leaking:

• 5,000mm: Basic water resistance, suitable for dry conditions.

• 10,000mm: Mid-level waterproofing for regular resort riding.

• 15,000mm – 20,000mm+: High-end waterproofing for heavy snow, wet conditions, and backcountry missions.

Breathability Ratings (g/m²)

Breathability ratings indicate how well moisture vapor (sweat) escapes:

• 5,000g: Basic breathability, may feel clammy during high activity.

• 10,000g: Suitable for resort laps and moderate activity.

• 15,000g – 20,000g+: Keeps you dry inside-out during hikes and active riding.

How to Choose:

• Ride mainly groomers? 10K/10K is fine.

• Shred powder or variable conditions? Look for 15K–20K+ waterproofing and breathability.

• Backcountry or storm chaser? High-end 3L jackets with top-tier ratings and ventilation are worth it.

What is GORE-TEX & Why Is It Good?

GORE-TEX is a premium waterproof-breathable membrane used in snowboard outerwear, renowned for:
✅ Superior Waterproofing: Keeps heavy wet snow and rain out.
✅ Outstanding Breathability: Allows sweat vapor to escape during high activity.
✅ Durability: Retains performance over years of riding.
✅ Windproof: Blocks cold winds without sacrificing breathability.

Many brands (Burton AK) use GORE-TEX 2L (two-layer) and 3L (three-layer) constructions:

• 2L GORE-TEX: Softer, often with mesh or taffeta linings for comfort, ideal for resort riders.

• 3L GORE-TEX: Lighter, packs smaller, and dries faster. Best for serious riders and backcountry.

If you ride in variable Australian snow conditions, GORE-TEX outerwear ensures you’re prepared for rain, heavy snow, and wet chairlift sessions while staying comfortable on the inside.

Snowboard Outerwear Sizing Guide

Fit matters for warmth, comfort, and mobility. Outerwear should:
✅ Allow layering underneath without restricting movement.
✅ Be long enough to cover your lower back when strapping in.
✅ Have sleeves that don’t ride up when you reach forward.

General Jacket Sizing:

General Pants Sizing:

✅ Fit Tips:

• Try outerwear with your typical base and mid-layer on.

• Remember brands vary: Volcom and Burton often run true to size, while some Japanese brands run smaller.

• Look for adjustable hems, powder skirts, and cuffs for fine-tuning your fit.

Do You Need Layers Under Your Outerwear?

Even with the best outerwear, layering is key:

• Base Layer: Wicks moisture away. Merino or synthetic.

• Mid Layer: Traps heat (fleece, puffy, or synthetic insulation).

• Shell/Outer Layer: Protects against weather.

Layering allows flexibility across warm spring days and cold storm days without overheating or freezing.

Why Buy Your Outerwear From Twelve Board Store?

✅ Premium Range: Hand-picked jackets and pants that perform in Australian conditions.
✅ Fast Shipping: Get your gear in time for your next trip.
✅ Expert Fit Help: Chat with us to get your size dialled.
✅ Ride What You Buy: We only sell outerwear we ride ourselves.

Final Thoughts

Investing in quality snowboard outerwear is one of the best decisions you can make for your riding. It keeps you dry, warm, and comfortable, allowing you to stay out longer and ride harder.

Whether you’re storm chasing in the backcountry or lapping Falls Creek, the right outerwear keeps the focus on your riding—not the weather.

Ready to Upgrade?

Check out our curated outerwear collection and get dialled before your next trip.