Are you looking for the best plus size ski trousers and jackets in the UK, but struggling to find clothing that fits?
I feel your pain.
Last Christmas I went skiing in the Swiss mountains for the first time in a few decades. I wear a size 16 in trousers but anywhere from a 20-24 on top, depending on the style.
And so many retailers simply don’t believe I exist. I had the same experience looking for plus size wetsuits. All of the brands I thought of when looking for plus sized ski gear seemed to think that a “large” is a size 14. Roxy’s largest size is an XXL (18) while Dope Snow tops out at a XL (16). It feels as though if we’re bigger than that, we probably don’t ski or snowboard at all.
Ha! Here’s me and my teen having a brilliant time in the snow last Christmas.
Having done a LOT of Internet research, I thought I’d share some of the best UK plus size ski clothing, in hopes of saving you some time.
Below you’ll find UK retailers who provide ski gear that will fit you, whether you’re a size 16, 18 or 28. Some of these retailers offer ski clothes up to a size 34, without resorting to the old trick of buying mens’ XXL clothing that’s far too long and the wrong shape. Why shouldn’t people with bigger bodies look great in the snow?
Just so you know, some of the links in this post may be affiliate links, meaning I earn a small commission if you buy, at no cost to you.
Best UK Plus Size Ski Clothing
When you visit the mountains, your essential kit should include a base layer (thermal leggings and long sleeved top) then a lightweight fleece under a ski or snow jacket, along with salopettes or ski trousers.
You’re unlikely to have problems finding under layers and boots, but when it comes to ski outerwear, it can be a challenge finding the right size of kit. This is especially true if you are plus sized but short – not everyone who wears a size 16+ is tall!
Depending on what you need, I’ve divided this list of the best plus size ski wear for women into two sections. First, we’ll look at ski and snow trousers or salopettes, and then I’ll share my favourite plus size ski jackets and snowboard tops. Most of the items I’m sharing are available up to a size 24, and some are available up to a UK size 34.
Plus Size Ski Pants & Salopettes for Women in the UK
Womens Dare2B Effused II Ski Pant (10-30), from £49
Let’s all give Short Ski Shop a medal because not only do they sell a full range of Dare2Be plus size ski pants in multiple colours, they ALSO sell them in regular and short lengths, and up to a UK size 30.
This is a big deal for people like me, who ordinarily need to turn up our ski pants by 3 inches or more, meaning the snow gaiters don’t work and we get soggy ankles. These trousers are waterproof, stretchable and have zipped pockets and bottoms. They even have detachable braces. Currently they’re available for between £50 and £120.
Womens Dare 2B Intrigue Ski Pant (22-30), £76.99
These Womens Dare 2B Intrigue Ski Pant (Sizes 22-30) are black. They’re a slightly lighter fabric than the Effused II, but still include zip pockets, snow gaiters and detachable braces. There’s reinforced binding at the ankle (to avoid wear from your boots) and the waist is elasticated with velcro adjusters. They’re available in UK size 22 to 30, and also available in short and regular length.
Mountain Warehouse Moon Ski Pants (6-24), £44.99
These moon plus size salopettes from Mountain Warehouse are super reasonable, at under £40. They’re great for short ski trips or if you aren’t sure you’re going to love the snow, and don’t want to go too spendy! The “Moon” style salopettes go up to a size 28+ and are available in black, white, grey and navy. From my experience I’d say they are well sized so you can buy your regular size and you’ll have room for base layers underneath. But… as a shorter person, I bought these ski pants in 2020 and they are quite long. The inside leg is at least 31 inches and in the snow, I ended up having to fold them up a lot.
If you want a slimmer fitting trouser than the Moon style from MW, then I would suggest the Avalanche ski pant. They’re more expensive at £85, and available up to a size 22. Because they’re cut closer to the body, they give you a bit more freedom of movement. Reviewers say the ankle size on these is small so they might not fit over ski boots – worth knowing before you buy!
Campri Ski Pants for Women (S-6XL), £85
I’m including these ski pants because they’re only £85, although I have opinions about the fact that a size 20 is a 3XL. *eye roll* These plus size ski pants are a great buy for the quality, with breathable and waterproof fabric. There are 2 zip pockets, belt loops and an adjustable waist.
Arctix Snow Pants (Sizes 8-30), from £27
These Arctix plus size snow pants are a great buy from Amazon. Available in a huge range, with 25 colours, along with short and regular lengths. There are over 30,000 positive reviews, and at just £27-£40 per pair, they are a GREAT buy. Reviewers recommend checking the sizing charts carefully (look in the reviews for photos of the size chart from the label – apparently it’s more accurate than the one on Amazon). The largest size is equivalent to a 28-30, meaning these pants are very inclusive. The drawstring waist makes these trousers ideal for those with curvy hips and butts, but a smaller waist.
Jack Wolfskin Gravity Trousers (10-22), £85
Looking for something colourful? These Gravity Jack Wolfskin trousers are available up to a size 22, and are a soft shell design. This gives them great stretch and makes it easier to move, meaning these trousers are great for sledging and snowboarding. You’ll also get reinforced knees, cosy fleece lining and a stretchy ‘flex’ shield on the back to keep you warm and comfortable. there are also side zippers for ventilation. They are a bit more of an investment, but they’re great quality.
Ulla Popken High Waisted Ski Trousers (16-34), £130
At £130, these Hyprar ski trousers are mid-range but they definitely are one of the best plus size ski clothing brands in the UK. These pants are high rise (hello, comfort) with zipped pockets, a shaped knee and elastic hem with side vents. The leg length is 32 inches and these trousers are available all the way up to size 34. Full marks!
Ulla Popken Triple Function Lined Ski Pants (16-34), £61
Another winner from Ulla Popken, these lined trousers designed with plus size women in mind are available in SIX colours, in sizes up to a UK 34, they’re £61 (on sale from £100 regular price) so a bit more affordable than the last recommendation. These have a 30″ inside leg and a sportier cut, with welded seams and contrasting hem seams. There’s an adjustable velcro tab waist with a zip closure and three pockets.
Plus Size Ski Jackets for Women in the UK
When it comes to good plus size ski jackets, there is a little more choice for women in sizes 16-24, although it gets harder to find nice ski coats above size 24. However, I’ve found seven great ski jackets that are available in a range of sizes including plus size ski jackets in sizes 16-34.
Dare2B Ski Jacket (8-30), £109
Another great option from Dare2B this navy and black jacket comes in at a very affordable £69 and is available in plus sizes from 8 up to 30. It’s a pared back style with seam-sealed 10k woven fabric shell to keep you warm and dry. Fully lined, with a snow skirt and a zipped pocket for your ski pass. The RRP on this is £150, so I think it’s a great buy at Short Ski Shop.
As ever MW has a broad range of plus size ski clothing and this ‘moon’ design ski jacket for women is available in several different patterns and styles. I like this grey and white combo, which is a bit more interesting than a block colour, but there are various colours in stock up to a size 24.
For a slightly higher spec jacket, the Powder style from Mountain Warehouse is also available up to a size 24 at £99. This is a jacket that I have and I do recommend it as being really great value and a comfortable fit. The lightweight insulation means the jacket isn’t too bulky and it’s a little large on sizing, meaning you have room for plenty of layers, or you could potentially go down a size if you’re not someone who feels the cold too badly.
Icepeak Carmel Ski Jacket (10-22), £136
If you’re looking for more of a snowboarding style jacket in a plus size, then how about this ski jacket from Icepeak, which has a half zip and front pouch and goes up to a size 22? It’s available in dark blue or turquoise, and is machine washable. It has a cosy lining, adjustable hood, zip pockets and handy thumb holes to keep your wrists dry when wearing gloves. It is available from Zalando, which has long shipping times of around two weeks, so be sure to order in good time!
Ulla Popken Ski Jacket (16-34), £140
I’m extremely impressed by the Ulla Popken range of ski fashion, since it’s not only really inclusive but also takes into account what people WANT to wear. This triple function ski jacket is sleek, in a dark petrol blue with contrast zips and is something that even my 17 year old said she would wear. It has a removable, adjustable hood, hidden zip closure, zip pockets and a light mesh lining. If you need more warmth, Ulla Popken sells a zip-in fleece lining for this jacket.
TacVasen Ski Jacket (XS to XXL), £61
This ski jacket is a bestseller on Amazon with thousands of good reviews, but the sizing is based on the Asian market, so they do tend to come up a little small. The women’s XXL (£61)is around a UK size 20, but if you need larger, then the men’s version of this jacket (£59) goes up to a 57″ chest, which is equivalent to around a UK size 28/30. They’re inexpensive and available in 12 colours for the men’s jacket and 16 colours for the women’s jacket.
So there you have it – my guide to the very best UK plus size ski clothing for women this winter. If you have a great find that I’ve missed, please let me know in the comments and I’ll include it. Otherwise, hope to see you on the mountains soon!