With breathtaking scenery and rugged outdoors, an Alaska cruise is the best way to experience the Arctic.
However, Alaska’s weather can be unpredictable, even in the summer. As such, you must invest in a good jacket before embarking on this unforgettable adventure.
In this blog, we’ll explore the best jackets for an Alaska cruise based on warmth, versatility, durability, and quality stitching. We have also factored in their style to ensure you look good on and off the ship.
Best Jackets for an Alaska Cruise
Best Winter Jacket
Tommy Hilfiger
Best Overall
Columbia Whirlibird IV
Best for Women
Outdoor Ventures
The three above jackets offer the best value for money. However, we have added other selections to cater to different personal needs.
For instance, if you have chest problems, you might need a specific type of jacket. However, while traveling, ensure you get the right travel insurance that will cover you even if you get sick.
Now, let’s have an in-depth review of the best five jackets for an Alaska cruise.
1. Best Overall: Columbia Whirlibird IV Interchange 3-in-1 Jacket
- Fully Omni-Tech outer shell and an Insulated Omni- Heat liner
- Water-resistant DWR finish
- Multiple pockets – goggles, ski pass, chest, hand and interior security pockets
- Underarm venting to let perspiration out
- Adjustable hood, cuffs, and powder skirts
Whether you visit Alaska in spring, winter, or summer, the Columbia Whirlibird IV Interchange 3-in-1 Jacket performs exceptionally. The jacket combines functionality with versatility thanks to its water-resistant, windproof, and breathable outer shell and the removable, fleece inner liner.
You can wear them separately or together, which allows you to adjust your layering levels depending on the prevalent conditions. Besides, the Columbia Whirlibird IV has both men’s and women’s variations but identical weather resistance, breathability, and comfort features.
While the 3-in-1 jacket may be quite costly, ingenious insulation designs and durability make the Whirlibird IV interchange an excellent investment for any outdoor enthusiast.
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Cons
2. Best Winter Jacket: Tommy Hilfiger Men’s Arctic Snorkel Bomber Jacket
- Arctic cloth fabric
- Sleek and versatile design
- Faux fur trimmed hood
- Rib-knit hem and cuffs
- Full-length zipper with additional snap closure
Style meets alpine performance with the Tommy Hilfiger’s Men’s Arctic Jacket. A bomber design with a modern cut makes the jacket perfect for a casual or formal trendy look, while the Arctic Cloth fabric offers exceptional warmth and wet weather performance.
Besides, front snap closures, elastic cuffs, and a zipper on the collar offer comfort, versatility, and convenience when cruising Alaska in the peak of winter. Functional pockets with fleece lining and zippers keep your hands insulated while providing secure storage for personal items such as wallets, keys, or smartphones.
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Cons
3. Best for Women: Outdoor Ventures Women’s Softshell Jacket
- 144F microfleece lining
- Full-length 2-way zipper
- Hideaway adjustable waist drawcord
- Breathable – 1000G/M²/24hr
Do not let a rainy or windy day ruin your Alaska outdoor adventure. This softshell jacket has a water-resistant exterior, high zipper collar, and fluttering front panels to offer protection from these elements. An ultra-soft fleece interior lining and a huge adjustable hood provide excellent comfort and insulation.
With a wide range of feminine color options, the lightweight jacket makes for a fashionable and reliable companion as you explore the remarkable beauty and unpredictability of the Last Frontier.
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Cons
4. Best Hybrid Jacket: The North Face Antora Triclimate Jacket
- 3-in-1 Design: DryVent™ outer shell and insulated inner lining
- Zip-in-compatible with other The North Face jackets
- Removable and adjustable hood
- Hem cinch-cord
- Stylish with an active fit
The North Face Antora Triclimate Jacket is made with style and functionality in mind. Besides, you can never go wrong with a North Face product. High-quality materials and exceptional craftsmanship guarantee durability and maximum protection from any elements while on the cruise.
The outer shell is made from DryVent™ technology, which ensures you look good while staying protected from any flush Alaskan rain or snow. The inner fleece layer is soft and cozy, offering excellent insulation in chilly temperatures. Depending on the weather, you can combine these two layers or wear them separately.
We also liked its multiple internal and external pockets with zippers that offer convenient and dry storage for your gadgets and carry-ons. The jacket is compact and easily packable into any backpack or suitcase, providing more room to haul other belongings.
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Cons
5. Best Insulation Jacket: Columbia Men’s Delta Ridge Down Hooded Jacket
- RDS-certified 650-fill-power down insulation
- Omni-Heat™ thermal reflective insulation
- Scuba hood with soft binding and chin guard
- Water-resistant fabric
- Body skimming fit
The second Columbia product on our list reiterates its high-quality outerwear, and the Men’s Delta Ridge Down Hooded Jacket is no exception. Featuring OmniHeat, one of the most advanced thermal reflective technologies, the jacket traps warmth while blocking cold and winds, ensuring you stay warm and dry.
Besides, the Delta Ridge jacket is cozy and lightweight for an all-day adventure or casual chilly nights. Thermo-bonded baffling adds to the warmth and guarantees freedom of movement during excursions. The coat is available in various colors and designs to enable you to find the perfect style for your Alaska cruise.
Pros
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How to Pick the Best Jacket for an Alaska Cruise- Buyers Guide
Your choice of jacket can either make or break your Alaska adventure.
Let’s explore the most important to consider when selecting the best jacket for your Alaska cruise:
Insulation
Subzero temperatures are typical in Alaska, and your jacket’s insulation will significantly impact your comfort and enjoyment.
Here are the most common types of insulation materials, and we have also highlighted their best attributes:
- Down: highly compressible with excellent insulation and warmth-to-weight ratio
- Fleece: lightweight, soft and breathable
- Synthetic: quick-drying, affordable, and superior heat retention when wet
- Hybrid: versatile, good wind protection, and durable
The time of year and your outdoor activities will significantly affect the type of insulation you choose.
While down offers the best warmth, hybrid jackets provide the best functionality but may be more costly.
Moreover, consider getting a jacket with a hood since it allows for added insulation for your head and neck when the temperatures plummet.
Waterproofing
Water resistance is the most vital factor when choosing a jacket for an Alaska cruise, as heavy downpours and snowstorms are common even in the summer months.
Originally, jackets would have sealed seams to prevent water from seeping through the stitching, but there are more advanced waterproofing technologies such as GORE-TEX and North Face’s DryVent.
Due to the DWR and PU treatments, these jackets are better equipped for Alaska. The durable water repellent (DWR) treatment ensures water rolls off the jacket’s surface, keeping you dry.
In addition, a polyurethane (PU) coating on the inside strengthens your jacket‘s waterproofness and ensures it is windproof and breathable. While these jackets may cost a bit more, their functionality is superb.
Sizing and Fit
A well-fitting jacket keeps you warm and cozy and enhances your mobility during your Alaska cruise.
You should always check with the manufacturer’s sizing chart to determine your ideal jacket size. Try it on and perform subtle actions such as bending down or reaching overhead to assess its suitability.
Besides, the jacket should have adjustable features like zippers, Velcro cuffs, stretch panels, or drawstrings.
It will enable you to modify the jacket for a snug fit according to your preferences or the prevailing temperatures and conditions.
Versatility
Alaska’s weather is very volatile, and your jacket should be able to adapt to changing conditions. In this regard, a 3-in-1 jacket is the most suitable for an Alaska cruise.
Here are the different types of layering and their functionality:
- Base layer: soft with moisture-wicking properties
- Mid-layer: breathable, lightweight, and excellent insulation features
- Outer layer or shell: waterproof, windproof, and serves as a protective shield against elements
The multiple layers make the jacket ideal for a range of activities, from casual backcountry executions to extreme cold-weather adventures in the glaciers and ice fjords.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to go for an Alaska Cruise?
June to August is the best time to venture on an Alaska cruise. It is summer in Alaska, which means longer daylight hours and warmer temperatures, but pack your jacket; better safe than sorry. You might have to contend with larger crowds, but there are plenty of excursions for everyone.
What is the importance of a powder skirt on a winter jacket?
A powder skirt is a fabric that prevents snow from spraying into your jacket when hiking, skiing, or the unfortunate event you fall on the snowy Alaskan slopes. Most powder skirts are permanently sewn into the jacket, while removable skirts are attached to your jacket using a snap or zipper closure for easy removal on warmer days.
Does the price of a jacket determine its quality?
My outdoor jackets are long-term investments where I prioritize quality and functionality over the price.
Besides, if you want a stylish jacket from reputable brands such as North Face and Columbia, they cost more, but their performance is unmatched.
That notwithstanding, you can always find excellent jacket options within your budget range with proper market research.
Final thoughts
When selecting the best jacket for an Alaska cruise, prioritize warmth, waterproofness, breathability, and versatility to ensure you enjoy the Alaska cruise to the fullest. The top five jackets we’ve reviewed in this article offer exemplary performance and functionality.
Whichever jacket you choose for your Alaska cruise, we guarantee a pleasant and gratifying experience despite what the Arctic may blow your way.
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