Base NZ
Outerwear Buyers Guide
Outerwear Buyers Guide
Stay Dry. Stay Warm. Ride Longer.
Here in New Zealand, the weather can throw all four seasons at you in a single day — especially in the mountains. Choosing the right outerwear means more time riding and less time sitting in the café trying to warm up. Whether you're slashing powder or just enjoying mellow laps, the right jacket and pants combo makes all the difference.
Let’s break down what matters when choosing your snow outerwear.
Snow jackets and pants are built with different waterproof fabrics — and each one is rated to tell you how well it’ll keep the elements out.
Why waterproofing matters:
More waterproof = better performance in wet snow, heavy rain, and longer exposure. If you're active or riding through gnarly conditions, you’ll want gear that can hold its own.
Waterproof Ratings Explained:
| Waterproof Rating (mm) | Water Resistance Provided | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| 0–5,000 mm | No resistance to some resistance to moisture. | Light rain, dry snow, no pressure. |
| 6,000–10,000 mm | Rainproof and waterproof under light pressure. | Light rain, average snow, light pressure. |
| 11,000–15,000 mm | Rainproof and waterproof except under high pressure. | Moderate rain, average snow, light pressure. |
| 16,000–20,000 mm | Rainproof and waterproof under high pressure. | Heavy rain, wet snow, some pressure. Think PNW. |
| 20,000 mm+ | Rainproof and waterproof under very high pressure. | Heavy rain, wet snow, high pressure. |
Many of our high-end options are made with GORE-TEX® — a breathable, waterproof membrane that blocks liquid but lets sweat escape. Brands also develop their own waterproof tech, but GORE-TEX remains the gold standard.
Your jacket and pants help keep you warm, but how much warmth you need depends on your activity level and riding style.
Shell Jackets & Pants
- Uninsulated outer layer
- Ideal for layering underneath (merino or synthetic)
- Perfect for high-output riding (like touring or backcountry)
- More versatile — wear more or less underneath based on the weather
Insulated Jackets & Pants
- Built-in warmth
- Ideal for colder days or if you feel the cold easily
- Less layering needed, good for low- to moderate-activity riders
Pro tip: Shells + smart layering = a favourite combo at BaseNZ. It gives you control over your warmth all season long.
From hiking boot packs to dragging skis through the carpark, you’re going to sweat. Your outerwear needs to breathe so that sweat doesn’t turn to ice.
What to look for:
- Mesh-lined vents or underarm zips
- Breathable membranes (like GORE-TEX or in-house versions)
- High breathability rating (measured in g/m², often listed alongside waterproofing)
Pair your outerwear with merino base layers to maximise breathability and stay comfortable from the first chair to last call.
Dry It Right
Always hang your gear to dry ASAP. More airflow = faster drying = better performance. Wet gear is the fastest way to ruin day two.
Reactivating Waterproofing
Got a GORE-TEX item? Toss it in a low-heat tumble dryer for 20 minutes to reactivate the DWR (durable water repellent) coating. Make sure it’s fully dry first!
Washing Your Gear
Use tech-safe cleaners like Nikwax Tech Wash (no additives = no performance issues). Regular laundry detergent can damage your waterproofing.
Follow the label instructions and wash only when needed to keep your gear in top shape.
Need Help?
Not sure what combo is right for you?
Our team will help you get set up for comfort and performance on every ride.