The Salomon QST Guard has been designed to look like a shell but perform like an insulated jacket thanks to - well, insulation, in the form of 40 gram Primaloft.
This is actually a pretty good combination as it means the jacket isn't too heavy and bulky like some insulated ski jackets but at the same time it keeps you warmer than a shell. And, of course, it's also waterproof, windproof and breathable.
The design has been carefully thought out. The hood is helmet compatible but still has an ergonomic fit if you're not wearing a lid, and the collar sits reasonably high and has a soft microfleece lining to keep draughts out and add to comfort.
Of pockets there are several - a small zipped lift pass pocket on the left sleeve, one small zipped chest pocket (a bit too small to be much use really), two zipped hand pockets and on the inside of the Guard a usefully capacious mesh stash pocket which will easily hold goggles or a water bottle plus a small, zipped security pocket.
Velcro adjustable cuffs sit over wrist gaiters, and there are mesh-backed pit zips to let warm air out and a fixed powder skirt to stop cold air and snow getting in, along with an adjustable hem.
So, all-in-all the Salomon QST Guard has pretty much all you need in an insulated ski jacket.
