Advnture Verdict
An innovative reflective lining makes this one of the warmest coats we tested, and neutral, smart looks make this ski jacket double up as a cosy winter all-rounder of a coat.
Pros
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Very warm
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Works well as a general winter coat
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Great quality
Cons
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Slim fit won’t suit curvier figures
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Columbia Mount Bindo: first impressions
The Bindo has all the features we look for in the best women’s waterproof jackets, such as a snow skirt, an adjustable hood and goggle and lift-pass pockets, as well as being very comfortable to move in. Having said that, we’d go a size up if you aren’t keen on a slim fit (and even then, curvy figures may find it doesn’t fit too well – learn more about how a ski jacket should fit).
The faux fur hood liner may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but it’s removable, and the smart looks and neutral colors make this a wear-anywhere choice.
• RRP: $305 (US) / £230 (UK)
• Waterproofing: Omni-Tech waterproofing
• Insulation: Omni-Heat Infinity reflective lining
• Sizes: XS / S / M / L / XL / XXL
• Colors: Orange / Black / White / Navy
• Compatibility: Ideal for ski touring when the temperatures drop as well as for more casual winter use
Columbia Mount Bindo: on the trails
In our experience, you are guaranteed to stay cosy in the cold in the Columbia Mount Bindo whether hurtling down slopes or cross country skiing. We love the longer length of this rather smart jacket, which gives more wind and snow protection to your lower torso than most ski jackets, and makes this design double up nicely as a winter coat, so you get more bang for your buck when you’re back home from the slopes.
On the snow, Columbia’s innovative gold reflective lining does a great job of trapping in body heat, which is very welcome when you’re out in bad conditions (or just sitting on a chilly chair lift). Even when you’re not moving, this clever lining keeps you instantly cosy – a good choice if you really feel the cold, or if you’re learning to ski or skiing in bitter conditions, when you’ll need to be bundled up properly.
That hefty heat-giving lining does also make this coat too warm for balmy spring skiing – save it for when the temperature really drops.
An award-winning travel and outdoors journalist, presenter and blogger, Sian regularly writes for The Independent, Evening Standard, BBC Countryfile, Coast, Outdoor Enthusiast and Sunday Times Travel. Life as a hiking, camping, wild-swimming adventure-writer has taken her around the world, exploring Bolivian jungles, kayaking in Greenland, diving with turtles in Australia, climbing mountains in Africa and, in Thailand, learning the hard way that peeing on a jellyfish sting doesn’t help. Her blog, thegirloutdoors.co.uk, champions accessible adventures.