BARGAIN PUFFY
Good luck finding an equally tricked-out, ski-specific soft shell at this price. In addition to a removable powder skirt and helmet-compatible hood, the Wildcard has everything you need—hidden pass clip, dedicated goggle pocket, and audio-player compartment with earbud port—for an organized day sans backpack. Its low-profile layer of synthetic insulation can handle all but the coldest days at most resorts. 3.2 lbs (L); columbia.com
Bonus: You can actually work all the zipper pulls while wearing bulky gloves.
Bummer: No vents means it’s difficult to shed heat when necessary.