The Best Plus-Size Ski & Snow Gear for Women - GearJunkie

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The barrier for entry into winter sports is already pretty high, from ski pass prices to proximity to good snow and mountains. One thing that should never be a barrier? Having gear that fits properly, no matter your size.

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 can't be what you can't see. Fatphobia and size bias has ruled the outdoor industry for far too long, and it's time for that narrative to change. Everybody should be able to enjoy the outdoors safely and when clothing doesn't 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.

Read on for top sellers in women's winter jackets and snow pants that will fit a variety of sizes and don't skimp on functionality, style, or protection.

The Best Plus-Size Ski Apparel of 2022

Best Overall: L.L.Bean Rugged Ridge Parka & Wildcat Snow Pants

L.L.Bean has recently expanded its sizing assortment to be more inclusive. You'll now find a full range of sizes — all at the same price — that range from XS to 3X, 2 to 26 for women, and S to XXXL for men in both regular and tall proportions. For snow sports, two favorites include the Rugged Ridge Parka and the Wildcat Waterproof Insulated Snow Pant.

The jacket is a constant bestseller with a relaxed fit; match it with the Wildcat snow pants for full protection — a waterproof, breathable kit with lightweight, yet warm insulation.

Rugged Ridge Parka

Specs

• Features: detachable and adjustable hood, fleece neck warmer, goggle pocket with wipe
• Waterproofing: yes
• Insulated: yes
• Sizes: 1X, 2X, 3X
• Colors: blue, burgundy, navy, black

Check Availability at L.L.Bean

Wildcat Waterproof Insulated Snow Pant

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
• Colors: black, gray, navy

Check Availabilty at L.L.Bean

Runner-Up: Obermeyer Tuscany II Jacket & Bliss Ski Pants

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 brand's winter line comes in inclusive sizing, like the Tuscany II jacket and the Bliss ski pants.

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 Bliss pants, which have a slightly slimmer fit, but use a stretchy fabric for a full range of motion on the slopes.

Tuscany II Insulated Jacket

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 sizes 2-16 and petite sizes)
• Colors: white, black, military green

Check Price at REI

Bliss Pant

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
• Colors: white, navy, black

Check Price at REI

Best Budget: Columbia Whirlibird IV Jacket & Bugaboo Omni Heat Pants

Columbia has consistently debuted high-quality snow gear at a price that will still leave something left over for those après vibes. And, it's 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.

The Whirlibird IV Interchange is 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.

Pair with the waterproof and breathable Bugaboo Omni Heat pants, and you are good to go for any weather. These options are especially great for resort skiing or snowboarding.

Whirlibird IV Interchange Jacket

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
• Colors: houndstooth, blood orange

Check Price at evoCheck Price at Amazon

Bugaboo Omni Heat Pants

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
• Colors: white, malbec

Check Price at REICheck Price at Amazon

Best Style: Cartel Brooklyn Ski Jacket & Lapland Pants From Plus Snow

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 Plus Snow, the Cartel Brooklyn Ski Jacket and the Lapland Pants (a fav of Mirna Valerio's, aka, The Mirnavator!) are made for skiers with bigger b...