Peak Performance Vertec HIPE 3L Womens Shell Jacket 2027

The Jacket

The Peak Performance Vertec HIPE® 3L Shell Jacket is an uninsulated ski shell built around Peak Performance's own HIPE® 3L membrane - rated 20,000mm waterproof and 20,000g/m²/24h breathable, with every seam fully sealed. That puts it squarely in serious-shell territory: storm days, high-output laps, and any time you're layering up underneath and need the outer layer to breathe and stay dry. 

The fabric is three-layer construction with a 100% polyamide face, a polyurethane membrane, and a woven polyester backer - no loose interior lining catching on fleece or sliding around. The 2-way YKK AquaGuard® front zipper lets you vent from the bottom on the climb and zip tight on the descent without taking your gloves off. Underarm zip vents open up fast when you need them.

Because it's a shell, warmth is entirely on you and your layering. On a cold, wet day, plan on a proper mid-layer underneath - the jacket won't add any insulation on its own. That's the trade-off you're making for the weight and the packability.

What We Like

The one-hand hood adjustment stands out. When conditions get ugly and you're wearing gloves, not having to fiddle with two separate cords is a real win. The 2-way front zip is the same idea - fast access, one motion.

We also like that Peak Performance made this without intentionally added PFAS. The DWR still works, the waterproofing is solid at 20K, and you're not relying on chemistry that's becoming increasingly hard to justify. The Frosted Blossom colorway is clean and a little different from the standard black-or-white options that flood this category.

Pockets are well thought out: zippered hand pockets, a zippered chest pocket, a ski pass pocket on the sleeve, an inner mesh stash pocket, and a zippered interior pocket. You can actually carry what you need without stuffing everything into one spot.

Fit & Sizing

This jacket runs in a relaxed fit with a hip-length cut, dropped hem, and articulated sleeves - there's real room for a base layer and a mid-layer underneath without the shoulders pulling. Velcro cuffs and a drawcord hem let you dial it in once you've got your layers sorted. Peak Performance sizing generally runs true to size for a relaxed-fit shell. If you're between sizes and planning to layer heavily, take the larger one.

Not sure how it'll fit over your specific layering setup? Stop in at any of our three locations and we can help you sort it out.

Why Willi's

We've been fitting skiers in the Pittsburgh area since 1970, and our staff skis the same gear we sell. Come see us at our South Hills, North Hills, or Seven Springs shop - we're happy to help you put together the right shell-and-layer combination for the days you actually ski.

Features

• HIPE® 3L Fabric: Waterproof and windproof with optimized breathability, and with a water repellent finish. All HIPE® garments are fully seam sealed.
• Waterproofness: 20,000mm
• Breathability: 20,000 g/m²/24h
• Product Weight: 0.6 kg
• Fit: Relaxed, hip length, dropped hem, articulated sleeves
• Material: Shell face: 100% Polyamide — back: 100% Polyester — membrane: 100% Polyurethane
• Front Zipper: Full front, 2-way YKK AquaGuard® zipper
• Hood: Ski helmet-compatible; two-way (height and width) adjustable; one-hand hood adjustment; laminated brim
• Snow Skirt: Fixed snow skirt with snap-in ski pant system
• Ventilation: Zippered underarm vents
• Safety: RECCO® Rescue System reflector
• Goggle Wiper
• Pockets: Zippered hand pockets, zippered chest pocket, zippered ski pass pocket, inner mesh stash pocket, zippered inner pocket
• Cuffs: Velcro cuff adjustment
• Hem: Adjustable drawcord hem
• Responsibility: Made without intentionally added PFAS