How to choose your Descente ski jacket: Technical buying guide and expert advice

Choosing the right ski jacket is a crucial step to fully enjoy your days on the slopes. For sliding enthusiasts and demanding skiers, the brand Descente is established as a global reference thanks to its technical innovations, comfort, and durability.

But how to select the Descente jacket that will perfectly meet your needs? 

Why choose a Descente ski jacket?

Descente, founded in Japan in 1935, is recognized for

• Its textile innovations (stretch fabrics, waterproof-breathable membranes, welded seams, advanced thermal treatments).

• A ergonomic design and a cut designed for freedom of movement (Motion 3D, S.I.O pattern).

• Some exclusive technologies such as Heat Navi© (light-to-heat conversion), Dermizax 20K, Thinsulate, Green Down, etc.

• A ecological commitment increasing (recycled down, PFAS-free materials on some models).

Descente equips both national alpine ski teams and demanding amateur skiers, ensuring a high level of performance and unbeatable reliability.

1. Define your skier profile and your needs

Choosing a Descente ski jacket depends primarily on your practice

• Leisure skier: you prioritize comfort, warmth, and versatility for occasional or family outings.
• Sporty or expert skier: you seek performance, lightness, breathability, and great freedom of movement.
• Freerider or hiker: you need a highly waterproof, breathable jacket with ventilation systems and reduced weight.

Ask yourself the right questions: Do I tend to get cold? To sweat? Am I sensitive to wind? Will I ski in snow or variable conditions? Do I need many pockets or specific accessories?

2. Essential technical criteria for a Descente ski jacket

a) Waterproofness and breathability

• Waterproofness : expressed in mm (water column), it indicates the fabric's resistance to water penetration. At Descente, most jackets offer between 10,000 mm and 20,000 mm (e.g., Dermizax 20K, DTL 20K), providing excellent protection even under heavy snowfall.

• Breathability : measured in g/m²/24h, it indicates the fabric's ability to wick away sweat. Descente models often show 10,000 to 20,000 g/m²/24h, which prevents the feeling of dampness during intense efforts.

b) Thermal insulation

• Natural down : warmth, lightness, compressibility (e.g., Luna, Candace, Coach), ideal for those sensitive to cold and cold conditions.

• Synthetic insulation (e.g., Thinsulate, Heat Navi©): good balance of warmth/breathability, dries quickly, often more affordable, perfect for active skiers or wet climates.

c) Descente offers several cuts 

• Fitted (Athletic/Tailored fit) : close to the body, promotes mobility and performance (e.g., Reign, Swiss Down Jacket).

• Classic : roomier, fits all body types, facilitates layering.

• Long : for maximum protection against cold and wind (e.g., Candace, Coach).

Technologies Motion 3D and S.I.O pattern ensure optimal ergonomics, even in dynamic positions.

d) Accessories and features

• Removable and adjustable hood

• Integrated snow skirt

• Zipped underarm vents

• Multiple pockets (lift pass, glasses, hand warmers, back)

• Lycra cuffs, quick adjusters, removable inner collar

• Waterproof zippers, welded seams

Each Descente model offers a set of options to check according to your priorities: practicality, comfort, safety.

3. Focus on Descente's flagship models

For women

• Luna : technical down jacket, exceptional warmth, modern style, stretch fabric, removable hood, faux fur collar.

• Candace : long coat, Green Down recycled down, tailored fit, DTL 20K membrane, urban and sporty look.

• Cielo : to pair with your jacket, high-waisted pants, flattering cut, Dermizax 20K membrane, Thinsulate insulation.

For men

• Reign : performance jacket, 4-way stretch fabric, 20K waterproofing, athletic cut, premium look.

• Swiss Down Jacket : official coat of the Swiss team, recycled down, S.I.O ergonomics, tailored fit.

• Coach : long coat, down insulation, very loose fit (take 2 sizes smaller), ideal for après-ski or extreme conditions.

4. Choosing the right size and trying before buying

Descente jackets generally fit true to size, but some models (notably Coach) are very loose: it is advisable to consult the size guide or try on in store. Consider the thickness of your mid-layers (fleece, T-neck, base layer). A jacket that is too tight will limit mobility and air circulation; too loose, it will lose thermal efficiency.

5. Care and durability of your Descente jacket

To ensure the longevity of your investment:

• Wash cold, delicate cycle, without fabric softener.

• Air dry or dry at low temperature (for down, add tennis balls to fluff the filling).

• Regularly restore waterproofing with a spray or specific wash.

Proper care preserves the technical performance and appearance of your jacket season after season.

6. Where to buy and discover the Descente collection?

To explore all Descente jackets, pants, and accessories, visit the Descente collection of our site. You will also find personalized advice, the season's new arrivals, and special offers there.

To complete your technical outfit, also discover the Newland collection : T-necks, cardigans, base layers, and accessories made in Italy, combining style and performance.

Conclusion: choosing a Descente jacket is an investment in your comfort and safety

Choosing a Descente ski jacket means choosing quality, innovation, and peace of mind on the slopes. Take the time to identify your needs, compare models, and prioritize technical criteria suited to your practice. A well-chosen jacket will accompany you for many seasons, whatever the weather conditions and your level of demand.

Ready to find your ideal Descente jacket? Discover the full Descente range here or contact our experts for personalized advice.