Ski Style: Chic and Cheap, Hard Corps

Last season we highlighted the best ski jackets available for $299 and less in the October Style department. Though much of the response was excellent, there were quite a few readers who felt that $299 was still too much to pay for a ski jacket. “I could outfit myself and three daughters for less than the price of one parka reviewed in your magazine,” wrote a dismayed father from California.

So we went hunting for even greater values and found some fantastic options for as low as $100. Here are six of our picks, ranging from lightweight shells to fully insulated jackets, all affordably priced at $199 or less.

Hard Corps went back to the drawing board for this season’s apparel designs, opting for a simpler “freerider” look compared to its technical past. The new approach shows in the Trybe Zombie shell ($150), which has mesh lining for wicking away moisture and a soft fleece-lined collar and chinguard to protect against chafing. Underarm ventilation zippers allow wearers to release excess body heat, while the drawcord waist and adjustable Velcro cuffs help keep wind out. Large mesh interior pockets are perfect for storing snacks.
Hard Corps (800) 937-7462; www.hardcorps.com