Best Softshell Jackets of 2025
Windproof, water-resistant, breathable, comfortable jackets for hiking, running, climbing, and mountaineering
May 9th, 2025, updated with a new overall winner, new best upgrade winner, new best breathable winner, new best winter winner, and info on difference between softshells and hardshells
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For active days outside — whether hiking, running, mountaineering, rock climbing, ice climbing, or paddling — a softshell is often a good jack-of-all-trades layer to keep on hand.
There are plenty of days in the outdoors when it’s not stormy enough for a full rain jacket. However, a softshell is perfect for when the wind is ripping or there’s enough of a chance of light rain or snow that you still want some protection from the elements.
A softshell jacket is the ideal outerwear to bridge the gap between a waterproof hardshell and a tech shirt, baselayer, or fleece jacket that offers no wind or water protection. It’s also one of the most versatile pieces of outerwear you can have in your quiver of jackets.
Softshell jackets are not full-on wind and waterproof hardshell jackets; they also offer far more protection than many other layers. Softshells ride a fine line between weather resistance and breathability to protect you from the elements without overheating.
Generally, softshell jackets do not have fully waterproof membranes like many hardshells (although there are some exceptions). They typically emphasize breathability while offering wind and water resistance, and they tend to be stretchier, softer, quieter, and more comfortable than hardshell jackets.
We researched the best softshell jackets, then spent 1.5 years running, biking, hiking, skiing, and climbing in the top men’s and women’s softshell models from chilly alpine ridges to desert canyons to help you find the best softshell for your needs.
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Softshell jackets comparison tables
Men’s
| MEN'S SOFTSHELL | TREELINE AWARD | BEST FOR | WATERPROOFING | WEIGHT | # OF POCKETS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mammut Ultimate Comfort SO | Best Overall Read why |
All-around outdoor use | PFC-free DWR | 520 g | 2 handwarmer, 1 chest |
| Arc'teryx Gamma Hoody | Best Upgrade Read why |
All-around outdoor use | DWR treatment | 545 g | 2 handwarmers, 1 chest |
| Mammut Ultimate VII SO | Best Breathable Read why |
All-around outdoor use | GORE TEX Infinium | 530 g | 2 handwarmer, 1 chest |
| Outdoor Research Ferrosi | Best Affordable Read why |
All-around outdoor use on a budget | DWR treatment | 394 g | 2 handwarmer, 1 chest, 2 internal |
| Rab Kinetic 2.0 | Best Weather-Resistant Read why |
Softshell protection in wet weather | Proflex fabric with PU waterproof membrane | 335 g | 2 handwarmer pockets |
| Black Diamond Alpine Start | Best Ultralight Read why |
Fast and light mountain missions | Eco-Repel Bio PFC-Free DWR | 227 g | 1 chest pocket |
| Ortovox SW Col Becchei Hybrid | High-output activities | TEC STRETCH and 60 g SWISSWOOL with MERINO NATURETEC LIGHT | 354 g | 2 handwarmer pockets |
Women’s
| WOMEN'S SOFTSHELL | TREELINE AWARD | BEST FOR | WATERPROOFING | WEIGHT | # OF POCKETS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mammut Ultimate Comfort SO | Best Overall Read why |
All-around outdoor use | PFC-free DWR | 438 g | 2 handwarmer, 1 chest |
| Arc'teryx Gamma Hoody | Best Upgrade Read why |
All-around outdoor use | DWR treatment | 425 g | 3 |
| Mammut Ultimate VII SO | Best Breathable Read why |
All-around outdoor use | GORE TEX Infinium | 441 g | 2 |
| Outdoor Research Ferrosi | Best Affordable Read why |
All-around outdoor use on a budget | DWR treatment | 354 g | 5 |
| Rab Kinetic 2.0 | Best Weather-Resistant Read why |
Softshell protection in wet weather | Proflex fabric with PU waterproof membrane | 286 g | 2 handwarmer pockets |
| Black Diamond Alpine Start | Best Ultralight Read why |
Fast and light mountain missions | Eco-Repel Bio PFC-Free DWR | 190 g | 1 chest pocket |
| Ortovox Col Becchei Hybrid | High output activities | TEC STRETCH and 60 g SWISSWOOL with MERINO NATURETEC LIGHT | 322 g | 2 handwarmer pockets |
The winners
Best overall softshell jacket: Mammut Ultimate Comfort SO Hooded Jacket
Weatherproofing material: PFC-free DWR
Weight: 483 grams (women’s)/520 grams (men’s)
Number of pockets: 2 hand, 1 chest
Best for: All-around outdoor use
What we liked: Good breathability, great fit, comfortable
What we didn't like: Expensive, no pit zips
If you’re looking for an ideal combination of comfort and weather resistance in a quality softshell, we think the Mammut Ultimate Comfort SO lives up to its name and fits the bill for an ideal softshell.
We tested this softshell in chilly spring mud season conditions on hikes, bike rides, and and nordic ski outings in the mountains of Colorado, and both our men’s and women’s testers found this softshell to be an excellent all-around option.
Mammut Ultimate Comfort SO Hooded Jacket
Men's
Women's
Our longstanding best overall winner, the Mammut Ultimate VII SO Hooded Jacket (men's and women's) currently has very limited availability, but is reportedly returning soon. In the meantime, we tested the Ultimate Comfort—another popular hooded softshell from Mammut—and we haven’t been disappointed.
Given the option, we’d still recommend the Ultimate VII SO as the best overall if you can find it; it beats out the Ultimate Comfort in terms of breathability and standout features (like pit zips). But if you’re unable to find the Ultimate VII SO in your size, we heartily recommend the Ultimate Comfort as another great option.
The Ultimate Comfort is made with a 3-layer, 4-way-stretch softshell material treated with a PFC-free DWR. This gives the jacket its ideal combo of weatherproofing and comfort.
In testing, we found the Ultimate Comfort to be sufficiently weatherproof in cold Tenmile Range winds and wet spring snowstorms.
On warmer days, it breathes well—though it can’t match the supreme breathability of the Mammut Ultimate VII SO.
The overall shell material of the Ultimate Comfort is in general a bit less breathable than that of the Ultimate VII, and this model does not have pit zips for venting when things really heat up. But, we think the Ultimate Comfort has better abrasion resistance than the Ultimate VII, which is an added bonus.
The Ultimate Comfort fits true to size and has an excellent overall fit in both men’s and women’s. It’s a relatively trim, streamlined fit that still leaves room for some light layers underneath. It’s not as slim as what we’d call a “Euro” fit; it’s slightly roomier than the Mammut Ultimate VII and much more so than the Ortovox Col Becchei we tested, but not quite as loose-fitting as the Outdoor Research Ferrosi.
While the Mammut Ultimate Comfort SO is a bit on the spendy side, we think it makes an excellent all-around softshell choice that’s versatile throughout a variety of seasons, activities, and conditions.
Best Upgrade Softshell: Arc’teryx Gamma Hoody
Weatherproofing material: double-weave shell fabric with DWR treatment
Weight: 420 grams (women’s), 545 grams (men’s)
Number of pockets: 2 zippered hand pockets, 1 small internal zippered chest pocket
Best for: all-around use
What we liked: excellent weather protection, durable, comfortable and breathable
What we didn’t like: expensive, on the heavy side
There are a few key ingredients that make up the ideal softshell. Versatility and durability are crucial, but it must also have good weatherproofing while remaining breathable and comfortable. We think that Arc’teryx has hit the sweet spot for a softshell in the Gamma Hoody. This midweight softshell is a fine companion for a variety of uses, from hiking and camping to climbing and skiing. It stands up to weather well while remaining comfortable during higher output activities. We spent multiple seasons testing the older version and have now had a few month’s worth of adventures in the updated model. It’s durable, functional, and versatile and for these reasons we think it’s the best overall option. For the vast majority of outdoor adventures, the Gamma won’t disappoint when you need a softshell jacket on your back.
Arc’teryx Gamma Hoody
Men's
Women's
The Gamma is made with a doubleweave softshell fabric that has mechanical stretch for added comfort and mobility. It’s treated with a DWR for additional weather protection. Compared to other jackets in our test, the Gamma’s face fabric is one of the most durable in the bunch. We tested an older model of this jacket for several seasons of hiking, backpacking, camping, backcountry skiing, and more, and after heavy use the only sign of wear was a slight bit of fading in the front of the collar. It stands up well to abrasion, like when bushwhacking or scrambling, and we never worried about snagging or tearing the jacket.
Other features include two spacious zippered hand pockets and one small interior zippered chest pocket. The adjustable drawcord hem came in handy when we wanted to dial the fit or keep bad weather out. The hood is both spacious and adjustable—large enough to fit over a ski helmet, but it cinches down nicely without a helmet, too. Like the older model, the Gamma maintains a simple cuff on the sleeve. It does not have velcro adjustments but has some stretch to pull over a light glove.
We tested the Gamma in a wide range of conditions, from cool yet sunny fall days to full-on winter snowstorms. It sheds light precipitation and dry snow with ease and does a very good job at blocking wind. It’s not quite as waterproof as the Rab Kinetic, but it is one of the most weatherproof in our test—better at shedding moisture and blocking wind than the Mammut, Outdoor Research, and Black Diamond models we tested.
On one particular snowy hike in early winter, the Gamma served our men’s tester well. On the steady uphill of the hike, it was breathable enough to leave on without unzipping. Once above treeline, it blocked cold wind and blowing snow well. It is not as breathable or quite as stretchy as the Mammut, but it is more weatherproof overall. If you’re deciding between the two, choose the Gamma for better weather protection and choose the Ultimate VII SO for breathability and comfort. We think both jackets are excellent options, but the Arc’teryx is slightly better for all-around use because of its weather protection and more abrasion-resistant fabric.
The Gamma weighs in at over a full pound, making it one of the heavier models in our test. But, that weight is part of what contributes to the durable construction and good weatherproofing qualities. If you need a lighter softshell, consider the Black Diamond Alpine start, but know that you’ll be sacrificing weather protection for weight savings.
Overall, if you are looking for one softshell to do it all and do it well, this is the best for all-around use. It’s likely to last several seasons and years of use and is a supremely versatile piece of gear to have for just about any outdoor adventure across different seasons and terrain.
Best breathable softshell jacket: Mammut Ultimate VII SO Hooded Jacket
Weatherproofing material: GORE TEX Infinium
Weight: 530 grams (men's), 441 g (women's)
Number of pockets: 2 for women’s, 3 for men’s
Best for: all-around outdoor use
What we liked: best-in-test breathability, comfortable, feature-packed
What we didn't like: expensive, heavy, can be hard to find
For the ideal blend of comfort, breathability, and weather resistance, the overall best softshell jacket is the Mammut Ultimate VII SO Hooded Jacket. This jacket has a good balance of all the features we look for in a softshell: weather resistance, breathability, comfort, durability, features, and sustainability.
A combination of features collide to make the Ultimate VII SO our winner. First, the shell is made with a 4-way stretch that offers excellent range of motion. This membrane, while not fully waterproof, is fully windproof and exceptionally breathable.
Mammut Ultimate VII SO
Men's
Women's
The Ultimate VII SO is constructed with a 100% recycled polyester face fabric. It’s a bluesign and Fair Wear product, meaning that the environment and the workers were considered in the manufacture of the fabrics.
The Mammut fits true to size, with athletic tailoring and enough room for a light layer underneath. Some features we appreciate include an adjustable hood, pit zips, and elastic cuffs. During testing, we came to prefer the elastic cuffs over the bulkier adjustable Velcro ones on other jackets.
There weren’t many things we didn’t like about the Ultimate VII SO. The main zipper has a two-way pull, which seemed unnecessary. It is the most expensive softshell we tested and one of the heaviest. One thing worth noting about this softshell is that it is indeed soft. Though we think it is sufficiently durable for most adventures, the supple, stretchy material is slightly less abrasion-resistant than others we considered. Check out the Rab Kinetic or the Ortovox Col Becchei if you intend to use it for bushwhacking.
After weeks of testing in a multitude of conditions, we concluded that you’d be hard-pressed to find a more well-rounded, comfortable, and functional softshell jacket than the Mammut VII SO.
Best affordable softshell jacket: Outdoor Research Ferrosi Hoodie
Weatherproofing material: DWR treatment
Weight: women’s: 354 g (women's); 394 g (men's)
Number of pockets: 5
Best for: all-around outdoor use on a budget
What we liked: price, features, comfort, extended sizing
What we didn't like: boxy fit, lacking style
It’s tough to beat the value of the Outdoor Research Ferrosi Hoodie. No other budget model we tested compared to the functionality of this softshell. While the features in our other award-winning jackets eke out a bit more performance than the Ferrosi, this is undoubtedly an excellent option at the price. We wrote a whole article dedicated to the Ferrosi Hoodie because we think it’s such a great bang-for-the-buck outdoor item.
We tested the Ferrosi in multiple environments and seasons. This jacket falls in the middle for weight and breathability among the other softshells. It’s made with a mix of Nylon and Spandex fabrics with Stretch Woven 90D Ripstop in the body and hood. This combination means that the Ferrosi has a lot of comfortable stretch for freedom of movement where needed. It also maintained good weather-protective qualities along windy ridges and light rain.
For features, the Ferrosi stacks up an adjustable hem, an adjustable helmet-compatible hood, a couple of internal stash pockets, and three zippered outer pockets. Additionally, the Ferrosi comes in the widest range of sizes of any in our test.
What we think this softshell lacks is a more tailored fit and style. Compared to the sleeker, better-tailored fit of others in this review, the Ferrosi is rather boxy and has the least flattering fit.
The Ferrosi is a popular softshell for a good reason; we’ve seen it in action on many local trails, it receives excellent reviews, and it is recommended by the folks at Outdoor Gear Lab. If you’re a “function before fashion” type of person, the Ferrosi is an excellent softshell at great price.
Outdoor Research Ferrosi Hoodie
Men's
Women's
Best weather-resistant softshell jacket: Rab Kinetic 2.0
Weatherproofing material: Proflex fabric with PU waterproof membrane
Weight: 286 grams (women's); 335 grams (men's)
Number of pockets: 2 handwarmer pockets
Best for: softshell protection in wet weather
What we liked: waterproofing, sleek design
What we didn't like: not as breathable as others, slim fit leaves little room for layers
All softshell jackets are meant to be wind and water-resistant and should offer good protection from the elements. That’s where the Rab Kinetic 2.0 stands out.
This jacket straddles the line between hardshell and softshell, featuring a waterproof membrane in the construction of the jacket rather than just a water-repellent coating on the face fabric like other softshells, making it our highest-performing softshell for tackling light to medium showers.
We tested this shell on chilly gray mornings in the mountains — running, hiking, and mountain biking — with light precipitation. We’re impressed by its ability to keep us dry without overheating as much as a hard shell rain jacket would.
For how protective it is, the Kinetic is fairly light. It doesn’t skimp on features, either. It has adjustable Velcro cuffs, an adjustable drawcord hem, and a snug hood that fits underneath (but not over) a climbing helmet. The jacket does fit on the slim side. If you want to be able to wear a light insulating layer underneath, we’d consider sizing up.
The stretch in the fabric is notable and the face fabric is soft but durable. We did not have any durability issues during testing and think this shell will wear well.
If you are looking for a comfortable, breathable softshell jacket and weather resistance is a top priority, we recommend the Kinetic 2.0.
Rab Kinetic 2.0
Men's
Women's
Best Ultralight Softshell: Black Diamond Alpine Start Hoody
Weatherproofing material: Eco-Repel Bio PFC-Free DWR
Weight: 190 grams (women's); 227 grams (men's)
Number of pockets: 1 chest pocket
Best for: fast and light mountain missions
What we liked: minimal, lightweight design
What we didn't like: lacks additional features, odor retention
The Black Diamond Alpine Start Hoody is by far the lightest and most minimal we tested. Thanks to its simple and lightweight design, we think this is the best softshell jacket option for folks who prioritize weight savings, packability, and simplicity in their gear.
Black Diamond Alpine Start Hoody
Men's
Women's
As a softshell jacket, it’s almost as breathable as ultralight wind shells we use—and more water-resistant—without much of a weight penalty. We found ourselves leaving the wind layer at home and just bringing this. The Alpine Start does not breathe as well as the Mammut Ultimate VII SO, despite being significantly thinner, but the Mammut softshell is almost three times heavier.
Features are minimal in the Alpine Start. It has stretch in the cuffs and a hood just big enough to fit over a climbing helmet. It lacks handwarmer pockets. It has one zippered chest pocket that doubles as a stuff sack when it’s not in use.
One thing we noticed during testing is that when we worked up a sweat in this jacket, it held on to the odor more than most others in the test.
For us, the Alpine Start is a stand-out model for its weight and simplicity, and we think it is best for climbers, trail runners, and anyone counting grams.
Best Softshell for Winter: Ortovox Swisswool Col Becchei Hybrid Jacket
Weatherproofing material: Tec Stretch and 60 g Swisswool with Merino NatureTec Light
Weight: 320 grams (women’s), 352 grams (men’s)
Number of pockets: 2 hand pockets
Best for: cold weather
What we liked: warm, durable shell material, comfortable
What we didn’t like: runs small and sizing can be tricky
For cold weather adventures when a softshell is still preferred over a hardshell, our favorite jacket for the job is the Ortovox Col Becchei Hybrid. This softshell combines a weather-resistant shell fabric with strategically placed wool insulation for days when a regular softshell may not be warm enough. After testing on late fall hikes, nordic skiing, and on backcountry ski tours, we found this jacket to be the best softshell for winter and cold weather. In an earlier version of this story, we dinged it for its sizing (it runs small) but now that we tested the proper size, we have glowing praise for this jacket.
Ortovox Swisswool Col Becchei Hybrid Jacket
Men's
Women's
The Col Becchei Hybrid is constructed with a Tech Stretch softshell material for the main body of the jacket. This shell material is water-resistant and provides plenty of protection in drier snowy conditions (rain and wet snow eventually will wet it out, but it takes several hours or heavy precipitation). In the chest and arms of the jacket, there are light patterned baffles filled with merino wool insulation. This insulation is warm yet still breathable, and it stays that way even if it gets damp from precipitation. Even on snowy, very blustery days nordic skiing near Breckenridge, Colorado in single-digit temps, this jacket was enough to keep us warm and dry while moving. This is the warmest softshell in our test.
For features, the Col Becchei Hybrid has two hand pockets placed higher on the torso, making them easier to access with a backpack on. The elastic bands on the hem and cuffs keep weather out while sealing warmth in, without adding the extra weight or bulk of a drawcord hem or velcro wrist gaiters. We really appreciate how simple yet functional this jacket is, and think it offers a great warmth-to-weight ratio along with good overall weather protection. This softshell is also the only other one, besides the Mammut, that we tested with pit zips. They came in handy on warmer days or when we were really working up a sweat on cool hikes.
Aside from performance, there are a few other details we appreciate about the Col Becchei Hybrid. First, the jacket is made without the use of PFC’s or forever chemicals that are harmful to the environment. It’s also certified under Fair Wear, which helps to ensure that the garment workers are getting paid fairly provided good working conditions. Lastly, the use of wool is both a functional and fairly sustainable material.
We love the features and performance of this jacket, but it is expensive—in fact, the most expensive in our test by a decent margin. We do think the performance and features make it worth it, but it is still on the high-end of the price spectrum for a softshell jacket. Other than that, the only other thing that could be better is the sizing. This jacket runs small and getting the perfect fit can be a bit tricky, We recommend sizing up.
Ultimately, if you’re looking for a high-performance hybrid softshell jacket ideal for winter and cold weather conditions, we think the Col Becchei Hybrid is an excellent, top-of-the-line option. It is a spendy jacket, but if you spend a lot of time outside in the winter and need a jacket that’s both warm, breathable, and weather-protective, this one will serve you very well.
Other softshell jackets we tested
The North Face Apex Bionic 3 Jacket
Weatherproofing material: WindWall recycled polyester, 14% elastane with non-PFC durable water-repellent (non-PFC DWR) finish
Weight: 609 g (women’s); 640 g (men’s)
Number of pockets: 2 handwarmer pockets
What we liked: price, size inclusivity, easy to find, very warm
What we didn't like: weight, thickness, lacked stretch
The North Face Apex Bionic 3 is a popular softshell that made many “Best Softshell Jackets” lists due to its affordable price. The North Face Apex Bionic 3 is the most size-inclusive softshell we considered, offering sizes from XS to 3XL. We like this North Face jacket because it is relatively affordable, and last year's model can often be found at prices that rival knockoffs found at Big Box stores like Costco.
The North Face Apex Bionic 3 Jacket
Men's
Women's
We tested the Apex Bionic because of its popularity among everyday customers. This softshell is one of the warmest, with a soft fleece backing on the inside. While it does have some stretch, we found it too thick and cumbersome to be functional for high-output activities.
Overall, this jacket is much less technical than our award winners—all of which have a more athletic fit, hoods, and other technical features we look for. It does hit the marks for waterproofing, wind resistance, and comfort.
If you want a warm softshell for wearing around town, this would work well, although it does lack a little style.
Columbia Hikebound II Jacket
Weatherproofing: Omni-Tech™ waterproof
Weight: not stated
Number of pockets: Zippered hand pockets and zippered chest pocket
What we liked: price
What we didn’t like: not really a softshell
We tested the Columbia Hikebound II alongside the other softshells in this review. We were initially interested in this jacket because of its ultra-affordable price point and because it appeared on several other softshell “Best Of” lists.
However, when we tested the Hikebound, we discovered it is not what we’d consider a true softshell. We’d slot it more as a budget rain jacket that’ll get the job done if that’s all you can afford. However, there are certainly better options out there for both softshells and hardshells, so overall, we’d hesitate to recommend this one unless you absolutely cannot afford to spend more. There are many other options (from companies like Outdoor Research) that offer much better bang-for-buck overall, even if they are more expensive.
Columbia Hikebound II Jacket
Men's
Women's
Arc'teryx Gamma MX Hoody
Weatherproofing material: double-weave shell fabric with DWR treatment and insulating backer
Weight: 495 grams (women’s)
Number of pockets: 3
Best for: cold weather
If you want a little more durability, chest pockets, and helmet compatibility, consider the Arc'teryx Gamma MX Hoody.
We tested the Gamma Heavyweight softshell hoody alongside the revised Gamma Hoody from Arc’teryx. It boasts the same outer shell materials as the Gamma, but has an added lining of insulation on the inside for particularly cold weather. The jacket is warm and comfortable and very weather protective for a softshell. And, like the regular Gamma, it boasts excellent durability.
Ultimately, we found the regular Gamma to perform better overall. The Gamma Heavyweight is unsurprisingly quite heavy compared to all the other softshells we tested. We think that for all-around use, the regular Gamma Hoody is much more versatile while being quite a bit lighter. And for cold weather, we’d recommend the Ortovox Col Beccei. Both this and the Ortovox are the most expensive in our test, but the Ortovox is far lighter and has better technical performance overall for cold weather activities. If the weight doesn’t bother you, this is still a top-of-the-line softshell worth considering for cold weather.
It's been updated with FC0 material for a lower footprint.
Arc'teryx Gamma Mx Hoody
Men's
Women's
Buying advice
Testing the Outdoor Research Ferrosi in winter while skiing.
What is a softshell jacket?
A softshell jacket is a weather-resistant shell that balances breathability with protection from the elements. Often, softshells will be made with a stretchy, comfortable material for freedom of movement during outdoor activities. Softshells are not meant to be fully waterproof for days in torrential downpours. They are meant to offer protection from wind and light precipitation while allowing you to stay on the move without overheating.
Testing the women's Rab Kinetic 2.0 softshell jacket on a fall hike. Photo by Matt Derrick.
Do softshell jackets keep you warm?
Softshell jackets will add warmth as a layer, especially since they offer protection from the wind. Most softshells, however, are not insulated. If you’re using a softshell in cold conditions, finding one with the right fit to layer underneath is ideal.
Softshell vs. hardshell jacket
Hardshell jackets are meant to be fully wind and waterproof. They typically have a membrane laminated into the fabric that stops moisture from getting in while offering some breathability. Softshell jackets are the inverse. They offer protection from wind and precipitation but typically breathe much better than hardshells.
If you’re going to be in truly wet, rainy, and windy conditions, a hardshell will offer the best protection. However, if you’re on the move as the weather shifts from sunny to windy with a splash of light precipitation, a softshell will adapt and breathe while offering light protection from the elements.
What to look for in a softshell jacket
Wind resistance is a key feature in a softshell. Here, the author is testing the Arc'teryx Gamma Lightweight Hoody.
Fabric
The best softshell jackets are made with a stretchy, durable synthetic fabric and should have some sort of water-repellent treatment on the face fabric. Different brands use different blends of synthetic fibers, often using other specific fabrics like Schoeller or Proflex. Some softshell fabrics will breathe better than others, while some may have a stronger water-repellent treatment or, on rare occasions, a fully waterproof membrane.
The fabrics also vary in thickness. More often than not, thicker fabrics will be warmer and more durable. A more breathable fabric is ideal if you use your softshell for high-output activities like running or ice climbing, whereas you can get away with a less breathable fabric for light hiking.
Wind Resistance
Wind resistance is a crucial feature of softshells. While all are not fully windproof, the best softshell jackets should all offer a good level of wind protection. Some achieve this with a specific weave, while others use a specific, windproof membrane (like GORE-TEX Infinium). If you're hiking, running, or climbing above treeline, this will be an important feature.
Water Resistance
Most softshells will be water resistant but not fully waterproof. The best softshell jackets should all have a quality water repellent on the face fabric while maintaining breathability.
The Mammut Ultimate VII SO softshell jacket is water resistant, as you can see here with water beading up on the surface. Photo by Matt Derrick.
Breathability
Breathability is the critical component that makes softshells different from hardshells. Breathability also makes them a great piece of outerwear for when you’re on the move — from hiking to running to climbing and biking. Hardshell jackets with a waterproof membrane breathe by letting water vapor pass through from the inside of the jacket once you start to heat up. Softshells, on the other hand, most often allow not just some breathability once you start sweating but some level of air permeability to stop you from sweating in the first place. The best softshell jackets balance breathability and air permeability so that you can manage heat and moisture efficiently.
The Mammut Ultimate IVV SO Hooded Jacket was one of two softshells we tested with pitzips and the only award winner. Photo by Matt Derrick.
Pockets
Pockets are often a personal preference for outdoor apparel, but we love a jacket with just the right amount of well-placed pockets. Handwarmer pockets are essential with all but the most minimal jackets, and we appreciate chest pockets for storing easy-access essentials.
The Mammut Ultimate IVV SO softshell has a generous chest pocket to fit larger phones. Photo by Matt Derrick.
Adjustable Cuffs, Drawcord, and Helmet Compatible
Adjustability is the key to finding a layer that is suited for whatever outdoor activity you throw at it. We found three areas where adjustability was an advantage in softshells:
1) Most softshell jackets come with an adjustable drawcord
2) Most softshell cuffs come with Velcro cuffs for adjustability. We came to prefer elastic cuffs as they stretch enough to slide over a light glove but don't have the added bulk of Velcro.
3) For a helmet-compatible soft shell jacket, consider Arc'teryx Gamma MX.
Why do you need a softshell jacket?
Testing the Mammut softshell and Arc'teryx Gamma softshell on an early winter hike.
Softshell jackets are one of the most versatile and useful jackets you can have in your gear closet. They are the ideal layer for days when you need some protection from the elements but you’re still moving. Softshells are useful layers for just about any outdoor activity, from hiking, backpacking, and trail running to mountain biking, rock climbing, skiing, and more.
Versatility
Versatility is one of the features that makes softshells shine. They’re not as fully waterproof as a Gore-Tex shell, but that makes them far more breathable and comfortable. That means you still get some weather protection from wind and light precipitation without needing to shed your layer when you start working harder on the trail.
And if it does start to downpour? Layer your hardshell over the softshell for added insulation. Softshells are excellent companions for active movement outdoors—we used them hiking, backpacking, trail running, camping, mountain biking, road cycling, backcountry skiing, cross-country skiing, resort skiing, and rock climbing in our testing—because of that breathability and comfort that can’t come from a true hardshell, and because of the weather protection you don’t get from other insulating layers.
Another bonus: Softshell jackets typically dry faster than hardshells when they do get wet.
Comfort
Softshell jackets are more comfortable than hardshell jackets for a couple of reasons. The first is of course the breathability. Unlike hardshells (even waterproof-breathable ones) or windshell jackets, softshells are designed with breathability in mind so you can keep moving without having to constantly shed or add layers.
Softshells are also typically made with softer, stretchier, and less crinkly fabrics than hardshells, which makes them more comfortable when moving on the trail, rock, or skin track.
Weather resistance and protection from elements
Softshells, while not fully water and windproof like hardshells, still offer a good deal of weather protection. All are both water and wind resistant while remaining breathable and comfortable. That means that if you’re on a windy ridge or caught in light precipitation, a softshell is plenty of protection.
Layering
Softshells make for great layering pieces, too. You can layer under them for added warmth when needed, and if the skies really open up, just toss a hardshell over the softshell if necessary.
Variety of outdoor activities
As we mentioned, one softshell can be a useful jacket for many outdoor activities. While some are better for certain activities than others, we’ve used the same softshell for high alpine mountain bike races, backpacking trips, trail runs, ridge scrambling, and cross country skiing.
Urban and casual use
Most softshell jackets lean on the more technical side of things, which is part of what makes them so great for so many different outdoor activities. But that doesn’t mean they’re not useful in town, too. While most won’t have a casual look, they offer a great layer for walking around when the weather could be better.
Travel-friendly
Softshells make an excellent travel piece because of how versatile they are. They can be used in just about any outdoor situation from the high mountains to city streets.
Cost-effective
Having one jacket to do it all means you don’t need four others for the rest of your outdoor sports. This means less money spent and less stuff acquired that will ultimately end in a landfill.
Softshell vs. Hardshell Jackets: Which One Do You Need?
The author testing the Ortovox Col jacket while skiing and found it was the best soft shell for the winter.
If you’re debating between a softshell and a hardshell jacket, the key differences come down to how much weather protection, breathability, and flexibility you need. Both have their place in your layering system, but they serve different purposes in the outdoors.
What’s the difference between softshell and hardshell jackets?
A softshell jacket is designed to be breathable, stretchy, and weather-resistant. It’s ideal for high-output activities like hiking, climbing, and running, where you need protection from wind and light precipitation but don’t want to overheat. Softshells excel in comfort and mobility, making them a go-to for active movement.
A hardshell jacket, on the other hand, is fully waterproof and windproof. These are built for harsh conditions—think downpours, snowstorms, and extreme wind. Hardshells keep you dry, but they’re typically less breathable and stiffer than softshells, which can make them feel clammy during high-exertion activities. Ski jackets and rain jackets fall under the hardshell category.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Feature | Softshell Jacket | Hardshell Jacket |
|---|---|---|
| Weather Protection | Water-resistant, wind-resistant | Fully waterproof and windproof |
| Breathability | High—ideal for active movement | Lower—traps heat and moisture |
| Stretch & Comfort | Soft, flexible, and quiet | Stiff and crinkly |
| Best For | Hiking, climbing, running, biking, everyday wear | Heavy rain, snow, mountaineering, backcountry skiing |
| Layering | Works as an outer layer or midlayer | Worn over insulation for full protection |
When to Choose a Softshell vs. a Hardshell
Go with a softshell if:
✅ You’re moving fast and need breathability (hiking, trail running, climbing).
✅ You want some wind and water resistance without overheating.
✅ You’re looking for a comfortable, flexible layer for mixed conditions.Go with a hardshell if:
✅ You need full waterproofing for heavy rain or snow.
✅ You’re in harsh alpine conditions where wind and wet weather are a constant threat.
✅ You need maximum protection over insulation for cold, wet adventures.
Can you layer a softshell under a hardshell?
Absolutely. A softshell works well as a breathable midlayer under a hardshell when you need full storm protection. This combo gives you comfort and breathability while keeping you dry in wet weather.
At the end of the day, many outdoor enthusiasts end up owning both—a softshell for high-output days and a hardshell for when the weather really turns. If you’re only getting one, think about your primary activities, where you spend time outdoors, and conditions before deciding.
For example, one of our editors lives in California and rarely skis, so they can get away with just a softshell for most activities. On the other hand, one of our editors lives in the mountains of Colorado and spends a lot of time outdoors in winter, so a hardshell is essential.
Care and maintenance tips for softshell jackets
Caring for your softshell jacket will help it to last for a long time and remain in your gear rotation for seasons to come.
Avoid abrasion while using your jacket
Some softshells are made with more abrasion resistant face fabrics than others, but as with any piece of outdoor apparel, avoid sharp rocks and pokey branches whenever you can to help prevent your jacket from seeing extra wear.
Avoid extreme heat
When you’ve got the campfire raging, consider wearing an old hoodie rather than your favorite softshell. Fires embers love to put holes in our favorite technical jackets.
Read the label
Before washing or repairing your jacket, always check the label for manufacturer instructions and recommendations. Like other technical pieces of outerwear, it’s not a good idea to throw your softshell in with your regular load of laundry.
Regular cleaning
Regularly cleaning your softshell (a couple times per season) will help it maintain both its breathability and weather resistance, while also helping keep odors at bay.
Most softshell jackets can be washed in a washing machine, but always opt for one without an agitator in it as that can damage your gear. Traditional laundry detergents can ruin the water-resistant treatments on your jacket, so always ensure that there is no soap residue left from the last load and use a cleaner that’s made for technical outerwear, like Nikwax Tech Wash.
Follow the instructions on the tag, but usually, you’ll want to wash on a cold and gentle cycle with a low spin or no spin at all. Always check the pockets and zip up all the zippers, including the front one, before washing.
Rising
Don’t go overboard with the cleaner in your wash cycle—you usually don’t need much. Leftover soap residue is not good for the fabric or your skin. If you think the wash cycle did not rinse well enough, run it through another rinse cycle before drying.
Drying
Check the tag or manufacturer instructions before drying your softshell. While some may need to be air-dried, many actually benefit from a short time in the dryer on low heat. This often helps to reactivate the DWR coating. If you opt to air dry, dry flat to avoid any stretching of the fabric. And if you tumble dry, double-check the label before doing so, then ensure that your dryer is not on too hot of a setting, and don’t leave the jacket in for too long—just until it’s dried completely.
Reapply DWR (Durable Water Repellent)
As time goes on and you stack up adventures in your jacket, the DWR coating will start to fade. This is an easy thing to reapply that will extend the life of your jacket and help it maintain its weather resistance. Wash the softshell before reapplying a DWR, then, using something like Nikwax Softshell Proof, follow the instructions on the bottle to reapply your DWR coating.
Spot cleaning
If you need to spot-clean your jacket, do so with just warm water. Avoid traditional hand soaps, dish soaps, or laundry detergents that can harm the technical fabrics and DWR coatings.
Store properly
Store your jacket in a closet that won’t see anything like nasty moths, and hang it from the shoulders instead of the hood. This will help to prevent the fabric from stretching out overtime.
Repairs
Softshells are fairly easy to repair, whether it’s a small tear that needs to be patched or a finicky zipper. Some companies also have great warranty and repair options if you don’t want to do it yourself. But repairing your jacket instead of replacing it keeps it in rotation for many more adventures and out of the landfill.
Zipper Maintenance
Always treat jacket zippers with care. They’re often the first thing to go on a jacket, but that doesn’t mean you can’t avoid that or keep the jacket going. Don’t yank hard on zippers. Cleaning your jacket on a regular seasonal basis will also help to keep your zippers clean and smooth. If a zipper does give you issues, they’re often easy to repair at home or send back to the manufacturer for a quick fix. It’s much cheaper than a new jacket, and it’s easier on the environment, too.
FAQ
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Most softshells are designed to have an athletic fit. This means they’re not skin tight or form fitting, so that you still have space to layer underneath, but they’re not baggy, either. You want to be able to layer both under and over the jacket. But because you’re moving so much in it, you don’t want excess fabric bunching up in the body or the arms.
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A softshell jacket should tread the line between tight and loose, with a nice, active fit. It should allow for layering and freedom of movement without being baggy.
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Many softshells are designed with a lean towards certain sports, but just about all of them are very versatile. Some are ultralight, making them good for trail running, while others are thicker and heavier, more ideal for skiing. Some fall in the middle. Consider what you plan to use your softshell for most and that should help you find the right one.
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Softshells are incredibly versatile, but there are times when you may need more weather protection. If it’s a true downpour or you’re out skiing in blizzard-like conditions, a hardshell will offer the most weather protection.
How we tested
The author testing the women's Black Diamond Alpine Start Hoody. Photo by Matt Derrick.
We tested contenders for the best softshell jackets from the end of summer and fall, when the versatility of softshells is most useful for fluctuating temperatures.
We tested both men’s and women’s models of softshells side by side. Most testing was done high in Colorado’s northern mountains, and we also tested in the southern Utah desert to contrast with a different climate.
We went trail running, hiking, mountain biking, and for a few ridge scrambles in these jackets.
We were out on pleasant bluebird days and cold, cloudy, windy ones with spurts of precipitation. We noted breathability, wind resistance, water resistance, and durability throughout our testing. We also took note of the fit, comfort, and features in each model.
Why you should trust us
The author testing the Outdoor Research Ferrosi softshell with her best friend.
A true mountain dweller, Stasia feels far more at home on a high alpine ridge than on a busy city street. She writes primarily in the outdoors, adventure travel, and environmental realm. She’s worked as a hiking and backpacking guide in Southeast Alaska, has held WFR, AIARE 1, and Avalanche Rescue certifications, and is working to become an avalanche education instructor. Her bylines can be found in BACKPACKER Magazine, 5280 Magazine, and REI Co-op Journal, among others.
She is also the managing editor of the new print zine, Trails Mag. Stasia is a lifelong skier, backpacker, mountain biker, and trail runner with a passion for lowering barriers to entry for outdoor sports. When she’s not writing or cooking, you’ll find her in the mountains, probably above treeline, and probably testing gear. You can see all of Stasia's stories at Treeline here or at her website.
