Softshell jackets bridge the gap between lightweight insulating layers and waterproof hard shells. They move well, breathe well, and provide superior protection from weather elements than a regular fleece or synthetic jacket.
If you are new to these jackets and you would love to know more about them, here is what you should know:
They are Perfect When you are Engaging in Strenuous Activities
Softshell jackets are designed for high-output activities that require a lot of effort. They make ideal units for these activities because they are made of woven nylon or polyester, which is elastic, breathable, and weather resistant.
These qualities make them great for climbing, biking, backcountry skiing, cross-country skiing, hiking, etc. A softshell is an excellent outer layer if it’s chilly outside, not too wet, and you’re working hard.
The jackets let adequate air in and out to maintain your body temperature. This gives them an advantage over the other two shell options: hardshell and rain jackets.
They provide better weather protection than traditional insulating mid-layers such as fleeces, synthetic coats, or down jackets. They are highly versatile garments that may be worn in all four seasons because they are in the middle.
The Jackets are Water-Resistant and Even Sometimes Waterproof
Most softshell jackets have good water resistance and keep you dry in light to moderate rain. The outside has a durable water-repellent (DWR) coating that beads up and sheds rainfall, which means you can use them at all times, even when it’s raining.
While they offer some levels of water resistance, when there is heavy rain, water might seep in and soak you up.
Luckily, some softshell jackets go a step further, with panels of waterproof hardshell fabric or a full-on waterproof/breathable membrane hidden under the stretch-woven softshell fabric.
You get the best of both worlds with these jackets: rain and snow protection but also superb breathability, movement, and a pleasant next-to-skin feel.
They are Warmer than Hard Shells and Rain Jackets
The warmth a jacket provides depends on its thickness and design. Softshells often offer more insulation than a rain jacket or hardshell.
Rain jackets and hard shells are thin shells designed to keep moisture out, whereas softshells are thicker and often feature a light internal lining.
The warmest softshell coats connect fleece to the garment’s interior, providing nearly as much warmth as a thin synthetic jacket.
Softshells are Usually Heavier
Standard softshell jackets are the heaviest of the three outer layer alternatives due to their thick structure.
Rain jackets can be as light as 5 ounces, and nearly every major outdoor gear company has a waterproof shell weighing less than 10 ounces. While hard shells are often a little heavier, most designs weigh far under a pound.
Softshells, on the other hand, are significantly heavier, with most standard versions weighing between a pound and a half.
Furthermore, they are typically large. While this can be an issue for backpacking and other weight-conscious sports such as jogging, climbing, and backcountry skiing, casual users will find that the extra ounces don’t make a big impact.
While softshells are known to be heavier, there has been a recent trend in softshells toward lighter and more packable designs, with running and climbing-specific jackets such as Arcteryx softshell jackets leading the pack.
These jackets feature the stretch, breathability, and wind protection that you look for in softshells, but they’re also small enough to fit into their own chest pockets.
These lightweight softshells are a considerably more comfortable alternative, especially for high-output activities.
They are Perfect for Everyday Use
Softshell jackets aren’t limited to rock climbing or backcountry skiing, as most people think. Because of their water and wind resistance, they make excellent fall and spring daily wear pieces for basic activities such as walking your dog or taking a trip around the neighborhood.
When it’s chilly, windy, or drizzly, but you don’t want to take a separate rain jacket with you, you can always use your softshell jacket.
They Allow Movement
Other than breathability, softshell jackets have an elastic feel. The outer fabric offers four-way flexibility (extending horizontally and vertically) for a tremendous range of motion.
Softshells are famous for climbing, scrambling when hiking or mountaineering, and backcountry skiing, where you need to reach, bend, and otherwise contort your body.
To allow this, they are made to make it easy for you to move. The feature also means you can choose a softshell with a somewhat tighter fit, ideal for moving quickly.
The Jackets are Wind Resistant
A softshell’s smooth face fabric is usually wind resistant but still porous enough to allow some ventilation. It’s enough that a little breeze may not be felt, but a forceful gust will be felt.
This partial wind resistance is deliberate so that you can stay cool while working hard. You can go up a mountain without having to remove the remove the jacket due to increase in heat inside.
Softshell coats and pants, are either totally or partially windproof. The totally windproof jackets protect you even when there is too much wind. Unfortunately, they can get hot especially when engaging in strenuous activities.
They Have their Limitations
Softshells are among the most adaptable outdoor clothing, but they have restrictions. Due to this, there are some situations you can’t use them.
The most obvious example is when the weather is bad.
The air-permeable design is a disadvantage in heavy winds, especially if you’ll be halted and hunkered down for an extended time.
The same applies to rainstorms: softshell coats cannot compete with rain jackets’ waterproofing.
Another factor to consider is weight, and for individuals who value lightness, such as backpackers, there may be a better outer layer than a softshell.
Softshell jackets will be heavier than rain jackets and will still not provide total waterproof protection, necessitating you to wear two outer layers.
While the jackets have limitations, they come with many advantages that outweigh the limitations.
A softshell is a great choice, even if you are looking for a jacket that you can wear for everyday use. The only thing you need to do is to ensure that you buy it from a reputable company.
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