Choosing second-hand snow clothing for adults and kids

Second-hand snow clothing can work well for adults and kids when the fit, wear and useful features are clear. Focus on the individual garment rather than the brand name alone. A careful look at measurements, high-wear areas and closures tells you far more than a size label or a broad claim such as waterproof.

What the numbers on snow clothing mean

A label such as 10K/10K commonly pairs a 10,000 mm waterproof figure with a 10,000 g/m²/24 h breathability figure. Confirm the order and test in that brand’s specification.

The waterproof number describes resistance to water pressure; a higher result under the same test resists more pressure. MVTR breathability describes vapour escaping through fabric, with higher numbers indicating more transfer. If the maker uses RET instead, lower is more breathable.

For wet snow, pay attention to seam sealing and wear at the seat and knees. For energetic riding, ventilation zips help you dump heat.

• Shell: An outer weather layer without a substantial insulating fill. Add warm layers underneath.
• Insulated: Includes filling for warmth as well as the outer fabric.
• DWR: A surface finish that sheds droplets; it is separate from the waterproof barrier.

Plan the layers, not just the outer garment

Snow clothing needs to handle cold, wind, movement and changing conditions. A simple system uses a base layer next to the skin, an insulating mid-layer when needed, and a protective jacket and pants on the outside. The Department of Conservation advises layered clothing with a waterproof outer layer for snowy alpine conditions.

Leave enough room under a jacket or pants for the layers you expect to wear, but avoid so much excess fabric that it catches or restricts movement. For ski-field use, check current field guidance and the weather before leaving.

Compare measurements, not just labels

Sizes vary between brands, regions and product years. Compare listing measurements with a similar garment that fits well. Useful jacket measurements include chest width, back length and sleeve length. For pants, compare waist, hip, rise and inside leg where available. Check whether the waist adjusts and whether bib straps have enough range.

For kids, allow some growing room and space for layers, then check that sleeves and cuffs do not cover hands or boots and that the child can bend, sit and move comfortably. Extendable hems or sleeves are helpful only when that feature is confirmed on the actual item.

Inspect the areas that wear first

On jackets, look closely at cuffs, elbows, shoulders, the hem, pocket edges, zips and fasteners. On pants and bibs, inspect the seat, knees, lower legs, inner cuffs and edge guards. Check the photos and condition notes for:

• cuts, worn fabric, seam damage or repairs
• zips, domes, hook-and-loop tabs and braces that do not work cleanly
• stains or wear that may matter to you
• peeling seam tape or damaged lining
• missing hoods, belts or other removable parts mentioned by the design

Be careful with waterproof ratings

A fabric rating is useful only when it can be tied to the garment or confirmed model. Age, wear, washing and damage can change real-world performance, so an original specification is not a guarantee of current condition. ReGear includes waterproof or breathability figures only when they can be confirmed, and shows the actual garment so you can assess visible evidence.

Water beading on the surface and the condition of the waterproof construction are separate checks. GORE-TEX’s care guidance explains that the water-repellent surface treatment wears down. Beading alone does not establish that a used garment is leak-free. Follow the care label for the actual garment; washing and heat instructions are not interchangeable across every fabric.

Look for features that suit how you ride

A powder skirt, boot gaiters, vent zips, lift-pass pocket, helmet-compatible hood and reinforced cuffs can be useful, but not everybody needs every feature. Check that the features named in a listing are visible and working. For children, simple closures, secure pockets and easy toilet access may matter more than a long technical feature list.

Delivery, trying on and returns

Check the delivery options shown at checkout and allow time before your trip to try the garment with the layers you plan to use. Read the store's current returns information before ordering, especially when fit is uncertain. One-off second-hand stock may not have the same item available in another size.

Browse current snow clothing

See ReGear's current second-hand ski and snowboard jackets and used snow pants and bibs, or browse all snow gear. For boots and hardware as well, use our New Zealand second-hand snow gear guide.

Further reading: Department of Conservation winter layering guidance.

References for these explanations

Checked 26 September 2026. Patagonia: waterproof pressure testing; Rab: breathability tests; GORE-TEX: water-repellent finishes; DOC: walking and tramping kit.

Updated 26 September 2026: added plain-language explanations of ratings, terms and buying choices.