The first thing to note about the Planica jacket is that it doesn't look like your run-of-the-mill ski jacket. The 2-way stretch outer fabric in 'Navy Twill' on test has a denim look to it and is soft to the touch - none of your usual stiff and crunchy materials here! This helps the jacket feel understated and elegant, with a few luxury touches that make it stand out from the crowd, like the fur-lined hood and heavy YKK Metalux zips.
This choice of comfortable and good looking fabrics doesn't leave you without protection on the slopes though. The Planica offers 10K waterproofing which serves you well in all but the worst mountain weather, as well as fully taped seams. This level of performance is absolutely sufficient for your average piste skier, paying for any more would be deemed a waste of money. The jacket is also insulated with high quality and super breathable Primaloft to keep you toasty while still not building up too much of a sweat. If you do start to boil up the pit zips allow you to quickly dump out any excess heat and moisture.
We found the fit of the Planica to be fairly true to size, with room for layering if you feel the need, and a flattering cut. And the lining fabrics leave you in no doubt that this is a luxury bit of kit - they're lovely and smooth, making taking the jacket on and off extremely easy with faux-fur panels adding an extra lux touch that helps make the jacket feel special to wear.
There are also silky-smooth wrist gaiters so that your sleeves stay comfortably in place when you've got your gloves on, snow skirt, and a good selection of pockets including a pass pocket, inner zipped pocket and goggle pocket with cleaning cloth.
The hood is a good size as well as being detachable with a zip. The faux fur trim is sure to polarise opinion but it's detachable if that's not your thing.
Overall, the Planica is a high-quality bit of kit that will suit the typical resort skier who likes to stick to the pistes and then relax with a glass of Vin Chaud on the terrace. If this sounds like you then you'll find the Planica to be a solid, cosseting, comfy option.
