If you’re shopping for ski or snowboard outerwear, you’ve likely come across Burton and Montec. Both brands are popular in the snow community, but they offer very different experiences. Burton and Montec are among the best-known ski brands today, each shaping modern snowwear with their own approach to rider needs. Below is a complete breakdown to help you decide which one fits your needs best.
Brand background
Burton was founded in 1977 in Vermont and is one of the original snowboard brands. It has deep roots in snowboarding culture and is known for pushing the boundaries of performance, quality, and innovation.
Montec launched in 2016 in Sweden. It gained popularity through its direct-to-consumer model and social media marketing, offering functional and stylish gear at a more affordable price.
Technical performance
Burton uses advanced materials like GORE-TEX in its premium lines and DRYRIDE in the rest of its apparel. Features often include Living Lining for climate control, fully taped seams, helmet-compatible hoods, and ergonomic fits.
Montec uses its own Shield-Tec membrane, delivering 20,000 mm waterproofing and 20,000 g/m² breathability. Fabrics are treated with PFC-free DWR. All outerwear features fully taped seams, generous ventilation zips, chin guards, and smart storage details.
Sustainability
Burton is a certified B Corporation. It emphasizes responsible sourcing, bluesign® approved materials, renewable energy, fair labour, and long-lasting product design supported by repair services.
Montec focuses on practical sustainability. Most products utilise bluesign®-approved fabrics, recycled polyester, and PFAS-free DWR. Packaging is plastic-free and recyclable. The brand also runs a Renewed program to extend the life of returned and repaired gear.
Style and fit
Burton offers a broad range of looks and fits, from slim and technical silhouettes to relaxed and freestyle-oriented outerwear. Its premium line tends to focus on function-first minimalism, while other collections bring in more style variation.
Montec is known for bold colours, streetwear-inspired aesthetics, and longer, relaxed cuts. Their outerwear often features anorak designs and matching sets that create a distinct mountain look.
Pricing and value
Burton jackets typically retail between £200 and £840, with pants ranging from £165 to £830. The higher cost reflects premium materials, innovation, and long-term durability.
Montec jackets range from £156 to £212, with pants and bibs between £170 and £195. The brand delivers strong performance at a more accessible price by cutting out traditional retail markups.
Who each brand is for
Choose Burton if you want industry-leading tech, long-term reliability, and gear trusted by professionals. It’s a great fit for experienced riders and those who prioritize performance in demanding conditions.
Choose Montec if you value clean design, modern features, and great value. It’s ideal for resort riders, style-conscious snowboarders, and anyone who wants quality without the premium price tag.
Burton vs. Montec at a glance
Here’s a quick side-by-side summary to show how Burton and Montec stack up across key categories.
Example product comparison: Burton Pillowline vs. Montec Fawk
The Burton Pillowline Snow Jacket vs. Montec Fawk Snow Jacket (Insulated) are two top-tier ski jackets, often matched with well-built ski pants that suit different types of riding. Below is a quick breakdown of how these jackets compare in terms of materials, features, and intended use.
Summary
Burton Pillowline GORE-TEX 2L: Offers superior waterproofing and breathability with its GORE-TEX 2-layer membrane, making it ideal for extreme weather conditions. The 80g ThermacoreECO insulation provides warmth, and features like the Living Lining® adapt to your body temperature for added comfort.
Montec Fawk Ski Jacket: Provides excellent performance with its 20k/20k SHIELD-TEC membrane, suitable for most alpine conditions. It offers versatility with both insulated and shell versions, and includes thoughtful features like a helmet-compatible hood, ample pocket storage, and eco-friendly materials.
Both jackets are excellent choices, with the Burton Pillowline being more suited for those seeking maximum protection in harsh conditions, while the Montec Fawk offers great performance and features at a more accessible price point.
Conclusion
Both brands bring excellent snow outerwear to the table but in different ways. Burton is built for riders who want performance, durability, and legacy-backed design. Montec offers reliable gear with great functionality and features at a friendlier price, along with a modern aesthetic and commitment to more sustainable practices.
Choose the one that best fits your riding style, budget, and personal preferences. Either way, you’ll be ready for the mountain.