REI Co-op Powderbound Insulated Ski and Snowboard Jacket Review
An in-depth review of REI’s Powderbound Insulated Jacket, an affordable all-season ski and snowboard jacket
January 29th, 2026
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Our verdict
The REI Co-op Powderbound Insulated ski and snowboard jacket is a quality jacket at an affordable price. The jacket fared well on milder days with some sunshine and moderate temperatures (think mid-20s and above) and easily stashed our passes, covered our helmets, and stored our phones, granola bars, and chapstick. It even has snapbacks for the powderskirt, which was not the norm on most of the snowboard jackets we tested.
Is this jacket ideal for hard-chargers who will ride no matter the weather? Not necessarily, as it is lacking in some warmth factors, but it has solid features that make a day of riding comfortable and convenient.
Choose this jacket if you are a beginner who isn't quite sure you are all in on this winter sport, if you need more inclusive sizing, or if you simply don’t want to drop $300 or more on a jacket. Even at a lower price point, you get REI’s tech and high-quality construction with decent waterproofing, good breathability, and insulation in both the arms and the torso. Plus, REI prides itself on sustainability, and this jacket is made in a Fair Trade Factory with sustainable textile production, all without a premium price tag.
It has a more classic fit with a shorter hem than other snowboard jackets, but is loose enough that you could layer up underneath with a fleece or puffy if you encounter some wicked temperatures or wind.
For a no-frills jacket that offers up what you need—light waterproofing, balanced warmth, and essential features—the Powderbound Insulated Jacket is a dependable choice for fun days on the mountain.
men's
Women's
Learn more about our favorite ski and snowboarding jackets in our Best Men’s Ski Jackets and Best Women’s Ski Jackets guides.
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REI Co-Op Powderbound Insulated Jacket Specifications
Price: $229
Weight: 1 lb. 14.3 oz for men’s; 1 lb. 10.1 oz for women’s
Insulation: 80 grams of synthetic insulation in the core; 60 grams of synthetic insulation in the sleeves
Waterproof rating: At-home testing rating of 4/5; Critically seam-sealed nylon shell fabric with durable water repellent (DWR) made without PFAS
Breathability rating: Peak 2-layer waterproof/breathable laminate
Waterproof technology: 2-layer waterproof, breathable laminate
Seams: Seam-sealed
Fabric/material: Nylon shell and lining
Fit: Regular/relaxed (not baggy or extra long hems)
Sizes available: XS to XXXL for women’s; S to XXXL for men’s, including tall options
Ventilation: Pit zips, unlined
Hood: Helmet-compatible, attached, adjustable
Powder skirt: Yes, attached with snap backs
Pockets: External pass pocket, two lined hand pockets with an integrated key clip; internal drop-in pocket; an internal zippered media pocket with a port for headphonesSustainability: Contains materials that meet the bluesign criteria; Fair Trade Certified Factory, from a Climate Labeled Certified brand
Colorways: Four options for men; four options for women
Warranty: 365-day return window for members; 90 days for non-members
Best for
Resort riders—beginners to intermediate
Resort skiers—beginners to intermediate
Moderate temperature days with mild wind (20s and above)
Early-season or spring ski days with warmer temperatures
Snowboarders and skiers who want plus-size, big and tall, and kids' options
Comparison table
Men’s
| SKI/SNOWBOARD JACKET | MSRP* | INSULATION | SIZES | # POCKETS | WATERPROOFING | PIT ZIPS | POWDER SKIRT |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| REI Co-op Powderbound Insulated Jacket | $229 | 80 grams of synthetic insulation in the core; 60 grams of synthetic insulation in the sleeves | S - 3XL Tall | 5 | Peak 2-layer waterproof/breathable laminate | Yes | Yes |
| Columbia Whirlibird V Interchange 3-in-1 Jacket | $230 | 100% recycled polyester Thermarator and Omni-Heat thermal-reflective lining | S - 4XL Tall | 6 | Omni-Teach | Yes | Yes |
| 868 Nightline Insulated Jacket | $230 | infiLOFT insulation: 100% polyester (body and sleeves: 60 g; hood: 40 g) | S - XXL | 6 | 2-layer infiDRY 10K fabric and PFAS-free durable water repellent (DWR) treatment | Yes | Yes |
| Montec Doom Snowboard Jacket | $269 | 60 grams in the body, 40 grams in the sleeve, 40 grams in the hood | XS - XXL | 6 | Shield-Tec 2L | Yes | Yes |
| The North Face THERMOBALL Snow Triclimate | $400 | 11 G/Ft² ThermoBall 100% Recycled Polyester | S - XXL | 5 | DryVent with non-PFC DWR finish | Yes | Yes |
Women’s
| SKI/SNOWBOARD JACKET | MSRP* | INSULATION | SIZES | # POCKETS | SEAM SEAL | WATERPROOFING | PIT ZIPS | POWDER SKIRT |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| REI Co-op Powderbound Insulated Jacket | $229 | 80 grams of synthetic insulation in the core; 60 grams of synthetic insulation in the sleeves | XS - 3XL | 5 | Full | Peak 2-layer waterproof/breathable laminate | Yes | Yes |
| Columbia Whirlibird V Interchange 3-in-1 Jacket | $230 | 100% recycled polyester Thermarator and Omni-Heat thermal-reflective lining | XS - 3XL | 6 | Full | Omni-Teach | Yes | Yes |
| 868 Athena Insulated Jacket | $230 | infiLOFT insulation: 100% polyester (body and sleeves: 60 g; hood: 40 g) | XS - XL | 6 | 2-layer infiDRY 10K fabric and PFAS-free durable water repellent (DWR) treatment | Yes | Yes | |
| Montec Doom Snowboard Jacket | $269 | 60 grams in the body, 40 grams in the sleeve, 40 grams in the hood | XXS - XL | 6 | Shield-Tec 2L | Yes | Yes | |
| The North Face THERMOBALL Snow Triclimate | $400 | 11 G/Ft² ThermoBall 100% Recycled Polyester | XS - 3XL | 5 | Full | DryVent with non-PFC DWR finish | Yes | Yes |
What we liked
Affordability
Classic, no-frills style
Abundant and useful features
Inclusive sizing
REI's sustainability initiatives and warranty included
What could be better
Overall warmth
Durability is mid-level, so it's not ideal for park riding
How we tested
We tested the women’s jacket over multiple days at Eldora Mountain Resort outside of Boulder, Colorado. Eldora is known for their strong winds, so we tested this jacket’s warmth to its limit. On days when it was in the 20s or lower, and when it was cloudy or extremely windy (the average wind at Eldora is usually 10 to 16 mph with gusts of 25 mph and above), I felt a bit chilled. When it was 20s or above and sunny, I felt comfortable and warm, but also didn’t overheat.
I also tested this jacket side-by-side with other high-end jackets, like The North Face Thermoball Snow Triclimate jacket, and the affordable Montec Doom insulated jacket. I tried all the zippers while wearing gloves and mittens. For testing overall waterproofness, in addition to wearing the jackets while snowboarding in varied conditions, I ran a faucet over various parts of the jacket for a minute at a time to simulate lab testing.
Performance in the field
Fit and comfort
This jacket fit true to size with a regular, slightly boxy fit and no real style points. In fact, I actually thought it was one of the most unflattering jackets I’ve tested.
With a base layer underneath the insulated jacket, movement while riding and strapping in was easy and flexible. For colder days, we layered more underneath, but the bulkiness was slightly annoying. The hem sits just below hip length and feels a little short for me, both for extra coverage and protection and for general looks.
The hood on the REI Co-op Powderbound Insulated snowboard jacket fits nicely over a variety of helmets.
Warmth and insulation
REI rates this jacket as “warmer” on their internal rating. With 80 grams of synthetic insulation in the core and 60 grams in the sleeves, this jacket sits in the middle for insulation compared to other jackets we tested. Some had less insulation, like 60 grams in the torso and 40 in the sleeves, or no insulation at all because the jacket is a shell. Even though this jacket has similar insulation to the others we tested, it left me feeling a bit colder throughout the day, especially when conditions weren’t warm and sunny.
When testing with a base layer (no other midlayer) on days with temperatures in the teens that warmed to sunny 30-degree weather, we’d have to agree. It did not keep me warm on extremely chilly or windy days, but it was perfect for sunny days above 25 degrees. Technically, you could layer another midlayer underneath the jacket, but it feels quite bulky and, overall, not entirely comfortable for a full day of riding.
Waterproofing and breathability
The REI Co-op Powderbound Insulated snowboard jacket is waterproof due to REI Co-op’s Peak 2-layer laminate, which helps keep moisture out but allows sweat to evaporate out for a waterproof, breathable jacket. The nylon shell is seam-sealed and features a durable water-repellent finish made without PFAS.
In our at-home waterproof testing, where I ran the faucet over various parts of the jacket for a minute at a time, we found no dampness seeping through, and the zippered pockets were fully dry inside. When testing breathability, I didn't overheat, but that’s partly because the coat wasn't warm enough for super-chilly mountain weather.
Durability and construction
The outer shell fabric is made from a relatively durable nylon; as long as you aren’t crashing on park features or slicing your board's edge into the coat, this jacket should hold up for quite a few seasons. Because of the shell's critically seam-sealed areas, it should also retain its waterproofing for seasons on end. To the touch, it feels more flexible than other jackets, but not quite as durable as high-end shells like the Arc’teryx Sentinel or the Patagonia Powder Town, both of which cost much more than the REI Co-op Powderbound.
Ventilation
There are zippered pit vents on each side of the jacket with easy pulls for when you have mittens or gloves on. These are not lined with mesh, so you could get snow in if you fall, but they were among the easiest pit zippers to open and close on all the jackets we tested. About half the jackets we tested have pit vents that are lined.
The unlined pit zips help release heat when working up a sweat on the slopes.
Features and usability
The Powderbound jacket offers plenty of features. You’ll get pockets where you need them (we really liked both the internal and external chest pockets), a key clip in the lined handwarmer pocket, pit vents for sweaty days, and a hood that fits over and tightens to your helmet.
It also has a powder skirt matched with a cinching hem to block out any cold air. The powder skirt snaps back to have it stay out of the way when you aren’t using it. We found the pockets and pit vents easy to use with mittens on. The collar is lined with fleece for a soft touch on your chin, and the cuffs are easy to use with both gauntlet mittens or short, undercuff options.
The powderskirt prevents snow from entering on deep powder days. Thankfully, this jacket has snapbacks to keep the powderskirt in place when not in use or when your jacket is open.
Weight and packability
As an insulated jacket, the Powderbound is heavier than other thinner shell jackets we tested. However, because it has a mid-level insulation rating, it is lighter than our warmest insulated jackets. For example, it is almost one pound lighter than other insulated jackets, like the Helly Hansen Powchaser Asymmetric. You could technically stuff the PowderBound into a small pack, but because of the integrated insulation, it is not recommended for a touring day when you'll most likely be using a pack and shedding layers.
Features
Shell and lining materials
The outer shell and inner lining are both made from a bluesign-approved nylon. The shell is a 2-layer, waterproof and breathable laminate with critically sealed seams and a PFAs-free, Durable Water Repellent (DWR) finish, for complete waterproofing.
Ventilation system details
The Powderbound insulated jacket has open pit zips (no mesh liner), so if you do fall, snow can easily get in.
Powder skirt design
This jacket comes with an attached powder skirt that snaps away when not needed, edged with an elastic gripper. The hem also has a drawcord to further seal out cold air and snow.
Hood and helmet compatibility
The attached hood is helmet-compatible with cinches in the back and the front for a secure, protective fit.
Pockets and zippers
The pockets are pretty standard pockets for a snowboarding jacket. There are two zippered hand-warmer pockets near the hips, both lined, and one has an integrated key clip. We liked the two chest pockets (external and internal) because having one on the outside for Chapstick or a small bar is nice, as is having an internal quick-access pocket that is a bit warmer for your phone.
There is also a pass pocket on the left sleeve. Inside, there is a drop-in pocket for goggles or gloves. The pockets are all easy to use with mittens or gloves and are waterproof.
Style options and colorways
The REI Co-op Powderbound jacket features a classic, slightly boxy fit. It isn’t tight or too baggy, which means you can also layer up extra underneath (on especially cold days) without hindering movement too much. The back is 33.75 inches for a men’s medium and 29 inches for a women’s medium; it sits just at or slightly below the hips.
Colors for men include black, red, a color-blocked light blue, and a darker blue with a design; colors for women include black, cherrywood brown, a color-blocked light blue, and a funky patterned black, pink, and orange.
Sustainability and ethics
The jacket is made in a Fair Trade Certified Factory, which means the factory meets responsible social, environmental, and economic standards. It contains materials that meet the bluesign criteria (a set of guidelines for sustainable textile production), and the REI Co-op brand is certified under The Climate Label, meaning that REI actively funds efforts to reduce carbon emissions.
Who should buy the REI Co-op Powderbound Insulated Jacket
Buy if you’re just getting into the sport, as it isn’t too pricey and can double as an everyday winter jacket as well. The Powderbound is also an ideal jacket if you are a fair-weather rider in dryer climates (think Rocky Mountains, and maybe avoid if you tend to ski the frigid East coast); in mild-to-moderate temperatures with drier conditions, you’ll stay warm, comfortable, and dry all day.
Skip if you want a top-rated technical jacket for extreme conditions. Yes, it is warm, waterproof, and breathable, but the waterproofing and overall durability will surely be tested if you are charging hard in deep powder, a windy blizzard, or single-digit temps. It is also insulated, so this will be too warm for backcountry touring.
Where to buy
The REI Co-op Powderbound Insulated Jacket is only available at REI.
REI
Pros: 100% satisfaction policy for 1 year; 10% dividend for members.
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Why you should trust us / about the author
Although I grew up in Wisconsin, my family got me on skis when I was just three years old. At ten, I decided to follow in my older brother's footsteps and try snowboarding. I haven’t stepped on a ski since and, instead, have been snowboarding for more than 25 years, with more than half of those seasons spent out west once I moved to Boulder, Colorado.
I have dabbled in park riding over the years, but my go-to is moguls, trees, and steeps as I’ve advanced to an experienced rider; I have spent time in the backcountry as well. When it comes to testing snowboarding gear, I’ve spent numerous seasons sporting many different helmets, boots, bindings, and apparel to break down the minutiae of what truly works and what doesn’t when it comes to what I need as a snowboarder.
Read more on Mattie Schuler’s website or author page.
