What Is A Softshell & Which One Is Right For You?

The Different Kinds of Softshells

Like most technical pieces of clothing, there are multiple variations of one particular style. Take rain jackets, for example: When searching for the perfect raincoat, you’ll discover the 2L, the 2.5L, and the 3L. They’re all rain jackets, but they boast slightly different features and will be constructed in a somewhat different way.

The same goes for softshells; there are many variations, and each will excel for various reasons. Let’s look at the 3 major categories that a softshell jacket can fall into.

Lightweight Stretch-Woven Softshells

Stretch-woven softshell jackets are the most common and work as an ideal mid-layer under a waterproof shell or stand-alone layer in warmer temperatures. They have wind-resistant and water-repellent outer layers with highly breathable inners.

The breathable layer is efficient enough at keeping wearers dry while backpacking, cycling, or even cross-country skiing during light precipitation.

Laminated Softshells

Laminated soft shells are designed for colder and wetter conditions. These jackets are outfitted with water and windproof laminates that allow them to hold up in harsher conditions, keeping wearers dry and comfortable.

Laminated softshells share similar features with waterproof shells or hardshells, being slightly heavier and a little less breathable. But, if you’re focused on weather protection, a laminated softshell is the right choice thanks to its taped seams and waterproof membranes.

Hybrid Softshells

As the name implies, hybrid softshells offer the best of both worlds. They combine features from lightweight stretch-woven softshells with the weather protection of laminated softshells, making them more durable and performant.

Robust, laminated fabrics reinforce high-abrasion areas such as the core and the shoulders, while more breathable fabrics make up hot zones under the arms and along the back. Hybrid softshells utilise a mixture of fabrics to provide exceptional breathability and rugged protection for all your favourite outdoor activities.

Although we’ve discussed three types of softshells, the two main categories are stretch-woven and membrane softshells. Laminated softshells and hybrids fall under the membrane category, whereas lightweight stretch-woven softshells remain in the stretch-woven category.

Membrane softshells are more robust than lightweight stretch-woven softshells and will be more appealing for those concerned with weather protection rather than breathability. A membrane softshell is ideal for people who spend a lot of time outside in wet weather where water protection is an absolute must.