Halfdays Review: Ski Wear Designed for Women, With Style That Turns Heads on the Mountain
Halfdays’ best-documented strength is warm, stylish ski wear made specifically for women. It holds a 4.2 out of 5 rating on Thingtesting from 26 reviews, and 80% of reviewers would recommend it. One skier said the Lawrence Jacket “kept me so warm, even at 0°F on the mountain,” another called it “Stylish but still functional,” and a brand testimonial praised a piece as “Super warm, wind resistant, and oh so chic!” Halfdays is an Olympian-founded, women-only ski and outdoor brand designed in Colorado, built around technical performance, fashion-forward design and inclusive sizing from XXS to XL, with select pieces in 1X and 2X. Its range includes the bestselling Alessandra insulated pant (20,000mm waterproofing, 40g PrimaLoft Black insulation, fully sealed seams, thigh vents and a high-rise waist), the Lawrence and Aston insulated jackets, premium GORE-TEX pieces like the Betty 3L Shell Jacket and Bib and the Genevieve 2L Down Jacket and Insulated Pant, plus fleeces, puffers, base layers, gloves, mittens and après styles. OutdoorGearLab praised the Lawrence’s style, fleece-lined pockets and warmth, calling it “great for always-cold folks.” US shipping is free over $95.
The honest caveat: quality consistency. Some Thingtesting reviewers report pockets that “came unglued,” fabric that attracts dirt, fit issues and quality that “just wasn’t there,” and OutdoorGearLab ranked the Lawrence 11th of 19 jackets for overall performance.
Quick Highlights
✅ Thingtesting rating of 4.2/5, with 80% recommending
✅ Lawrence Jacket “kept me so warm, even at 0°F”
✅ “Stylish but still functional”
✅ Olympian-founded, designed in Colorado
✅ Built specifically for women’s fit and style
✅ Sizes XXS to XL, with select pieces up to 2X
✅ Alessandra pant: 20,000mm waterproofing and 40g PrimaLoft Black
✅ GORE-TEX 3L Betty shell and 2L Genevieve down
✅ Lawrence: fleece-lined pockets, chin guard and powder skirt
✅ Recycled polyester shells and PFC-free DWR on key styles
✅ Wide range of colors and prints
✅ Free US shipping over $95
❌ OutdoorGearLab ranked the Lawrence #11 of 19
❌ Reports of pockets coming unglued
❌ Some fabrics attract and hold dirt
❌ Fit complaints, including a large waist gap
❌ Lawrence can run hot on mild days and has a shorter hem
❌ GORE-TEX pieces are expensive ($445–$695)
❌ No Trustpilot reviews to compare
Why Trust This Review
This review draws on Halfdays’ Thingtesting profile (26 reviews, 4.2/5), OutdoorGearLab’s hands-on Lawrence Jacket test, retailer specifications for the Alessandra pant, and Halfdays’ published product and shipping information. GlossGirly has no commercial relationship with Halfdays that affects this verdict.
Full Review Breakdown
Designed for Women, Not Just Resized
Halfdays was created because women’s ski wear too often meant men’s designs in smaller sizes and different colors. As an Olympian-founded, women-only brand designed in Colorado, it shapes jackets, pants and bibs around women’s bodies, with high-rise waistbands, flattering semi-fitted silhouettes and lengths that work for skiing and snowboarding. Its size range runs from XXS to XL, with selected fleeces and puffers available in 1X and 2X, broader than many technical ski brands. The look is fashion-forward: bold colors, prints, cinched waists and coordinated sets that work on the slopes and at après. Reviewers consistently call it “Stylish but still functional.”
Performance: Warmth, Waterproofing and Features
The Alessandra pant, Halfdays’ best-known piece, offers 20,000mm waterproofing, 40g PrimaLoft Black synthetic insulation, fully sealed seams, zippered thigh vents, hip pockets and integrated ankle gaiters, solid specs for resort skiing. The Lawrence Jacket uses PrimaLoft Black Eco insulation and PFC-free DWR, with a hood, pit zips, wrist gaiters, a powder skirt and multiple pockets. OutdoorGearLab scored it 7.0 for weather resistance and comfort, but 6.5 for warmth and 6.0 for breathability, noting it can run hot during hard skiing. For storm days and serious conditions, the GORE-TEX Betty 3L shell and Genevieve 2L down offer premium weather protection.
Quality, Fit and Durability Concerns
Not every buyer is satisfied. Thingtesting reviewers report pockets that “came unglued,” a jacket fabric that “seems to literally attract” dirt, and a puffer lining that “feels a little flimsy.” Another returned both pants and a jacket because “the quality just wasn’t there.” Fit can also vary. One reviewer found “the waist gap was huge” on a trail pant. OutdoorGearLab also noted that the Lawrence’s relatively short hem can let in drafts unless cinched. Read size charts carefully, check inseam and rise measurements, and inspect seams, zippers and pockets as soon as your order arrives so you can use the returns portal if needed.
Price, Shipping and Value
Halfdays covers a broad price range. Base layers and tops start around $70–$95, fleeces and pants sit around $125–$195, insulated pieces like the Alessandra and Lawrence typically cost about $295–$395 (often less on sale at retailers), and GORE-TEX jackets, bibs and pants run from $445 to $695. US shipping is free over $95, new subscribers get 10% off, and Betty or Genevieve purchases include a free GORE-TEX care kit while supplies last. Halfdays is also stocked by major outdoor retailers, which often run sales and offer easy returns. For style-led skiers who want women-specific fit, it delivers good value.
Best Products Worth Buying
Halfdays’ signature ski pant and the piece many women start with. It combines a flattering, semi-fitted cut and an adjustable high-rise waistband with serious mountain specs: 20,000mm waterproofing, 40g PrimaLoft Black synthetic insulation, fully sealed seams, two zippered thigh vents for hot runs, zippered hip pockets and integrated ankle gaiters to keep snow out of your boots. The shell is 100% recycled polyester, and it comes in colors from black and navy to brighter shades. It suits resort skiers and snowboarders who want warmth and style in one pant. Check the inseam (about 32 inches) and size chart carefully, since fit varies by body shape.
An insulated ski jacket built for warmth, with PrimaLoft Black Eco insulation, PFC-free DWR, a hood, pit zips, a powder skirt, wrist gaiters, fleece-lined pockets and a chin guard. One skier said it “kept me so warm, even at 0°F on the mountain,” and OutdoorGearLab called it “great for always-cold folks.” It ranked 11th of 19 jackets overall, scoring well for style and features but lower on breathability, and it can run warm during hard skiing. Its shorter hem can let drafts in, so cinch the hem and pair it with a high-rise pant like the Alessandra. It’s a great pick for cold-natured skiers and stylish resort days.
Halfdays’ premium technical shell, built with GORE-TEX 3L for waterproof, windproof and breathable protection without built-in insulation. Shells let you layer underneath with fleece, a puffer or base layers, so you can adapt to conditions from spring slush to winter storms. It’s ideal for advanced skiers, backcountry-curious riders and anyone who skis in very wet or variable weather. Pair it with the matching Betty Shell Bib for a coordinated, fully protective kit. It comes with a free GORE-TEX care kit while supplies last. Follow washing and DWR reproofing instructions to keep it performing season after season
A cosy, stylish fleece that works as a midlayer under ski shells or as an everyday jacket at après, on cold commutes and on winter walks. It’s one of Halfdays’ more size-inclusive pieces, available up to 2X, and it’s popular for its fashion-forward look. Thingtesting reviewers paired it with the Aston Jacket and praised Halfdays’ mix of style and function. Layer it under the Betty shell for cold days, or wear it alone on milder ones. Check the fit notes, since layering pieces should leave room under a jacket, and follow care instructions to reduce pilling.
What Customers Actually Think
“It kept me so warm, even at 0°F on the mountain.” — Mackenzie P, Thingtesting reviewer (Lawrence Jacket)
“Stylish but still functional.” — Abigail K, Thingtesting reviewer (Aston Jacket, Pieper Fleece)
“Super warm, wind resistant, and oh so chic!” — Rebecca L., Halfdays customer testimonial
“all the pockets on my jacket came unglued. They were poorly made.” — FERNANDA M, Thingtesting reviewer
“the quality just wasn’t there so I returned both the pants and jacket.” — Katy D, Thingtesting reviewer
Is It Worth It?
Yes, for women who want ski wear that fits their body, looks great and keeps them warm on resort days. The Alessandra pant and Lawrence jacket are strong, stylish choices. Quality reports are mixed, so check sizing, inspect your gear on arrival and consider buying through retailers with easy returns.
Competitors Table
Feature | Halfdays | Arc’teryx (women’s) | Helly Hansen | Obermeyer | Patagonia | Roxy |
Women-only brand | Yes | No | No | No | No | Yes |
GORE-TEX options | Betty, Genevieve | Many | Some | Some | Some | Some |
Size range | XXS–XL (+1X/2X select) | XS–XL | XS–XL | Petite/plus options | XXS–XXL | XS–XL |
Style focus | Fashion-forward | Technical minimal | Technical | Classic | Outdoor | Youthful |
Insulated pant price | ~$295 | Premium | Mid | Mid | Mid–Premium | Budget–Mid |
Expert test | Lawrence #11/19 (OGL) | Often top-ranked | Strong | Strong | Strong | Mixed |
FAQs
Is Halfdays good quality?
Most reviewers recommend it, praising warmth and style, but some report issues like unglued pockets
Is the Halfdays Alessandra pant waterproof?
Yes. It has a 20,000mm waterproof rating and fully sealed seams.
What sizes does Halfdays offer?
Mostly XXS to XL, with some pieces up to 2X.
Who founded Halfdays?
Halfdays describes itself as Olympian-founded and designed in Colorado.
Does Halfdays offer free shipping?
Yes, on US orders over $95.
Final Verdict
Halfdays fills a real gap with ski wear designed for women’s bodies, not just resized men’s gear, combining fashion-forward looks with solid specs like 20,000mm waterproofing, PrimaLoft insulation and premium GORE-TEX options. Skiers love the warmth and style, and the Alessandra pant has become a favorite.
Mixed reports on durability, dirt resistance and fit keep it from top marks, and expert tests place it mid-pack on performance. Choose carefully, check sizing and inspect your order. For stylish, warm resort skiing, Halfdays is a great choice.
Scorecard
Category | Score |
Style & Design | 9.6/10 |
Women-Specific Fit | 8.8/10 |
Warmth | 8.4/10 |
Weather Protection | 8.2/10 |
Breathability | 7.0/10 |
Quality Consistency | 6.8/10 |
Size Inclusivity | 8.2/10 |
Value for Money | 7.8/10 |
Overall | 8.1/10 |