Best Softshell Jackets of 2023
Windproof, water-resistant, breathable, comfortable jackets for hiking, running, climbing, and mountaineering
September 13th, 2023
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, and more comfortable than hardshell jackets.
We researched the best softshell jackets, then spent weeks running, biking, hiking, 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 Table
MEN’S
| MEN'S SOFTSHELL | TREELINE AWARD | BEST FOR | WATERPROOFING | WEIGHT | # OF POCKETS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mammut Ultimate VII SO | Best Overall 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 | 336 g | 2 handwarmer pockets |
| Black Diamond Alpine Start | Best Ultralight Read why |
fast and light mountain missions | Eco-Repel Bio PFC-Free DWR | 210 g | 1 chest pocket |
| Arc'teryx Gamma Hoody | all-around outdoor use | DWR treatment | 545 g | 2 handwamrest, 1 chest |
woMEN’S
| WOMEN'S SOFTSHELL | TREELINE AWARD | BEST FOR | WATERPROOFING | WEIGHT | # OF POCKETS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mammut Ultimate VII SO | Best Overall 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 | 355 g | 5 |
| Rab Kinetic 2.0 | Best Weather-Resistant Read why |
softshell protection in wet weather | Proflex fabric with PU waterproof membrane | 290 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 |
| Arc'teryx Gamma Hoody | all-around outdoor use | DWR treatment | 474.9 g | 3 |
The winners
Best overall 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 4-way stretch jacket has a good balance of all the features we look for in a softshell: weather resistance, breathability, comfort, durability, features, and sustainability.
Other jackets in our review might be lighter, more weather-protective, or more affordable — but none of those have as good a balance as the Ultimate VII. We tested this jacket on morning runs at altitude in the Rockies, hiking in the alpine in the afternoon, and even on a few fall desert adventures. It stood up well to wind on exposed ridgelines and was so breathable and comfortable that we rarely needed to shed the layer.
MAMMUT ULTIMATE VII SO
MEN'S
WOMEN'S
Testing the men's and women's Mammut Ultimate VII SO softshell jacket on a fall hike in Colorado. Photo by Matt Derrick.
A combination of features collides to make the Ultimate VII SO so comfortable and functional. First, the shell is made with a 4-way stretch polyester material that offers an excellent range of motion. What gives this jacket its excellent wind resistance is that it’s constructed with 3-layer GORE-TEX Infinium.
This membrane, while not fully waterproof, is fully windproof while remaining exceptionally breathable. Over weeks of chilly fall temperatures in the Rockies, this softshell proved to be the most well-rounded, breathable, and comfortable.
Detail of the Men's Mammut Ultimate IVV SO softshell. Photo by Matt Derrick.
There is also a water-repellent coating on the face fabric; while this softshell (and most softshells) won’t hold up while hiking in a downpour, it sheds light precipitation well and dries quickly when it does take on a little water. The Ultimate VII SO is constructed with a 100% recycled polyester face fabric. It’s also a Bluesign and Fair Wear product, meaning that the fabric is more environmentally-friendly than most outerwear and is sewn in a factory with international labor standards.
The author testing the women's Mammut Ultimate VII SO softshell jacket on a fall hike in Colorado. Photo by Matt Derrick.
The jacket fits true to size for both men and women, with athletic tailoring and enough room for a light layer underneath. Some features we appreciate in the Ultimate VII SO include an adjustable hem and hood, pit zips for venting, and elastic cuffs. During testing, we came to prefer the elastic cuffs over the adjustable velcro ones on other models we tested; they stretch enough to slide over a light glove but don’t have the added bulk of velcro.
The Mammut Ultimate IVV SO softshell was one of two softshells we tested with pitzips and the only award winner. Photo by Matt Derrick.
This jacket was also the only softshell we tested with pit zips. Because of this jacket’s stand-out breathability, we didn’t need to use them too often. However, we appreciated them when we started sweating but still needed some wind protection.
At 530 grams, this is one of the heavier softshell jackets we tested, but we feel that the features more than make up for what it lacks in weight savings.
There weren’t many things we didn’t like about the Ultimate VII SO. The main zipper has a two-way pull that some may find helpful, though we think it’s an unnecessary feature. But we also don’t think this hinders the jacket's performance other than adding a minimal amount of weight.
The Mammut Ultimate IVV SO softshell has a generous chest pocket to fit larger phones. Photo by Matt Derrick.
Another thing worth noting about this softshell is that it is indeed soft. The supple, soft, and stretchy material that makes this jacket so comfortable also makes it slightly less abrasion resistant than others in our test. We think this jacket will offer good durability, but there are options with a tougher face fabric (like the Rab Kinetic or Ortovox Col Becchei).
The tougher options will be ideal if you plan to use your softshell for a lot of climbing or in instances when you may be brushing up against rocks or tree branches frequently. But with these options, you will sacrifice some breathability for added durability.
Close up of the cinch on the generous hood on the Mammut softshell jacket. Photo by Matt Derrick.
We wore this softshell jacket on a morning ridge scramble in Colorado’s Tenmile Range and did not encounter any issues with abrasion or durability. But if you often find yourself wedging up a chimney on a desert climb, you will probably cause a little more wear and tear on this softshell.
This jacket is the most expensive in our test, but it did not disappoint on the trail. If you’re looking for the ideal all-around softshell, we think this is the best option, especially if budget is not a top priority. The testers over at Outdoor Gear Lab also recommend this jacket, giving it a Top Pick award for comfort and breathability.
We think you’d be hard-pressed to find a more well-rounded, comfortable, and functional softshell jacket than the Mammut VII SO. When we imagine what the perfect softshell jacket would be, this one comes the closest of anything we tested to that ideal
Best affordable softshell jacket:
Outdoor Research Ferrosi Hoody
Weatherproofing material: DWR treatment
Weight: women’s: 355 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 fabric or function of this softshell. While features in our other award-winning jackets eke out a bit more performance than the Ferrosi, this is undoubtedly an excellent option at an excellent price. In fact, we wrote a whole article dedicated to the Ferrosi Hoodie because we think it’s such a great bang-for-the-buck outdoor item.
OUTDOOR RESEARCH FERROSI HOODY
MEN'S
WOMEN'S
The men's and women's Outdoor Research Ferrosi softshell jackets. Photo by Matt Derrick.
We tested the Outdoor Research Ferrosi while hiking above and below treeline, on high alpine trail runs in the northern Colorado mountains, and the southern Utah desert during the chilly fall months. After testing throughout the fall season, when temperatures fluctuate often, it was easy to conclude that this is the best budget softshell on the market.
Weighing 394 grams for men and 355 grams for women, this Outdoor Research jacket falls in the middle for weight among other softshells we tested. 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, which we appreciated while scrambling up slickrock in Zion National Park. And it maintained good weather-protective qualities along windy ridges and when light rain rolled in while hiking in Colorado’s Tenmile Range.
The author with her best friend testing the Outdoor Research Ferrosi softshell jacket on a fall hike
Like other models we tested, this Outdoor Research softshell also uses bluesign-approved and recycled fabrics. For features, the Ferrosi stacks up a drawcord adjustable hem, an adjustable, helmet-compatible hood, and a couple of internal stash pockets along with its three zippered outer pockets.
Regarding performance, the Ferrosi holds its own, especially for the price point. The breathability is similar to that of the Black Diamond Alpine Start; it breathes better than the Rab Kinetic 2.0 but not quite as well as the Mammut VII SO. The fabric is soft, stretchy, and comfortable. During testing, we did find the Ferrosi to wet out the quickest in precipitation when cold fall rain rolled in hiking above treeline, but not by much.
The Outdoor Research Ferrosi softshell on a fall hike.
Overall, after testing on alpine trail runs and hiking in the mountains above Breck, we found the Outdoor Research jacket to be a well-performing all-around softshell. Additionally, the Ferrosi comes in the widest range of sizes of any in our test, offered in men’s from sizes small to XXXL and women’s from sizes XS to XXL.
What we think this budget-friendly softshell lacks is a more tailored fit and style. Compared to the sleeker, better-tailored fit of all the others in this review, the Ferrosi is rather boxy and has the least flattering fit overall.
The Ferrosi is a popular softshell for a good reason; we’ve often seen it in action on local trails and received excellent customer reviews on Outdoor Research’s website. It also comes recommended by the folks at Outdoor Gear Lab, earning their “Best Buy” award. If you’re a die-hard “function before fashion” type of person, or if budget is a top priority, the Ferrosi is an excellent softshell at a tough-to-beat price.
Best weather-resistant softshell jacket:
Rab Kinetic 2.0
Weatherproofing material: Proflex fabric with PU waterproof membrane
Weight: 290 grams (women's); 336 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. Most softshells, however, are not considered truly waterproof. 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 others in our review, making it our highest-performing softshell for tackling light rain to heavier showers.
RAB KINETIC 2.0
MEN'S
WOMEN'S
The Rab Kinetic jacket detail. Photo by Matt Derrick.
We tested this shell on many 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. So if you’re looking for a softshell that can double as a rain jacket in a pinch, the Kinetic 2.0 provides best-in-test protection from heavy rain.
Testing the women's Rab Kinetic 2.0 softshell jacket on a fall hike. Photo by Matt Derrick.
We consider the Kinetic a softshell jacket, but you could just as easily slot this as a super breathable rain jacket. The most waterproof in our test, this jacket is made with Rab’s recycled Proflex fabric. It’s a stretchy, softshell-like fabric that, unlike most other softshells, incorporates a waterproof membrane that is laminated into the layers of the jacket’s fabric. It stood up better than any other jacket in our test to light precipitation and fared decently well in full-on heavy rain, though it did not outperform a true GORE-TEX rain shell.
That being said, the Kinetic is much more comfortable than most rain jackets we’ve used, and we’d prefer it in anything that’s not a downpour. The breathability in the Kinetic is exceptional for a waterproof jacket, but it does trap heat more than others in our test, like the Mammut VII SO. But if we’re headed into the mountains, with a chance of encountering harsh weather, that’s a compromise we’re willing to make.
The Rab Kinetic jacket detail. Photo by Matt Derrick.
For how protective it is, the Kinetic is fairly light. The only shell in our test lighter than this one is the Black Diamond Alpine Start. The Kinetic 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 Rab Kinetic jacket cuff detail. Photo by Matt Derrick.
The stretch in the fabric is also a notable feature. This shell is very comfortable to wear as long as things don’t heat up too much. The face fabric is soft but durable, thanks to a thick polyester weave. We did not have any durability issues during testing and think this shell will wear better than many others out there. At 290 grams for women and 336 grams for men, the Kinetic 2.0 is also reasonably light.
The Rab Kinetic jacket chest logo detail. Photo by Matt Derrick.
We only noted a few downsides to the Kinetic 2.0 in our testing. First, you will sacrifice some breathability with this softshell jacket, which is an expected and understandable trade-off for the added waterproofing.
The jacket does fit on the slim side, and while we wouldn’t say it runs small, it doesn’t leave as much room for layering as other shells. If you want to be able to wear a light insulating layer underneath, we’d consider sizing up.
Testers at Outdoor Gear Lab and Switchback Travel recommend the Kinetic for a comfortable, breathable, and truly waterproof softshell-like jacket. If your top priority in a softshell jacket is weather resistance, choose the Kinetic 2.0.
Best Ultralight Softshell:
Black Diamond Alpine Start Hoody
Weatherproofing material: Eco-Repel Bio PFC-Free DWR
Weight: 190 grams (women's); 210 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 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. This jacket had the most barely-there feel of any in our test. We consistently reached for this on trail runs and for fast and light mountain missions.
BLACK DIAMOND ALPINE START HOODY
MEN'S
WOMEN'S
Testing the men's and women's Black Diamond Alpine Start on a trail run in Colorado in the fall. Photo by Matt Derrick.
Weighing a mere 190 grams for women and 210 grams for men, the Alpine Start is the lightest in our test by at least 100 grams. It’s made with a stretch-woven nylon Schoeller fabric that allows for excellent freedom of movement — we used this jacket most for trail running and even on longer runs on desert trails in southern Utah, it never felt cumbersome or inhibited movement.
Like many others in our test, the main fabric is bluesign-approved. For protection from the elements, Black Diamond employs Schoeller Eco-Repel Bio, a PFC-free durable water repellent (DWR) that uses fewer harsh, bad-for-the-environment chemicals than traditional DWR coatings.
We tested the Alpine Start from late summer to late fall. We took it out trail running, long hiking excursions, mountain biking, and, of course, for a few early morning alpine starts in the mountains. This shell does a great job of blocking wind and light rain while remaining reasonably breathable.
The author testing the women's Black Diamond softshell. Photo by Matt Derrick.
As a softshell jacket, it’s far more breathable than ultralight windshells we frequently use (like the Patagonia Houdini Jacket or Black Diamond Distance Windshell) without sacrificing weight or packability. More often than not, we found ourselves leaving the wind layer at home and just bringing this instead. 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.
We did find the face fabric on the Alpine Start to be less prone to snagging than the Mammut, though. Because it’s thin and lightweight, it’s not likely to be as durable overall as beefier jackets in our test.
Testing the mens’s and women’s Black Diamond Alpine Start Hoody on a trail run. Photo by Matt Derrick.
Features are few in the Alpine Start, which makes this minimalist jacket stand out. It has the essentials without any extra frills. It has stretch in the cuffs and a hood just big enough to fit over a climbing helmet. Unlike all the others we tested, this softshell does not have handwarmer pockets. It does have one zippered chest pocket that doubles as a stuff sack, so you can easily stow the layer when it’s not in use. We think this softshell is best for climbers, trail runners, and anyone counting grams with their gear.
We don’t have many gripes about the Alpine Start as an ultralight softshell. 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. That’s common with synthetic fabrics, but it’s worth noting that it was particularly noticeable with this softshell.
The Alpine Start gets nods from Outdoor Gear Lab and Blister Gear Review to further support our recommendation. This softshell is versatile and lightweight; if a feature-packed jacket isn’t your top priority, this is worth considering. For us, it’s a stand-out model for its weight and simplicity.
Contenders
Arc’teryx Gamma Hoody
Weatherproofing material: DWR treatment
Weight: 474.9 g (women's); 545 g (men's)
Number of pockets: 3
What we liked: excellent durability, good balance of breathability and weatherproofing
What we didn't like: expensive, not as breathable as others, not widely available anymore
We’ve spent several seasons using and testing a couple-years-old model of the Arc'teryx Gamma Hoody. We tested in a variety of conditions and for a variety of activities — from hiking and scrambling in the alpine to mid-winter ski touring — this has been a go-to jacket. It has an outstanding balance of breathability, durability, comfortable fleece lining, and weatherproofing with minimal features that are just what we want and nothing we don't.
ARC’TERYX GAMMA LT HOODY
MEN'S
WOMEN'S
The author testing the Arc'teryx Gamma LT Hoody.
The Arc'teryx Gamma Hoody has seen some updates for this year. It was previously called the Gamma LT Hoody (which stands for 'lightweight)'. The Gamma LT Hoody was long considered a top softshell jacket and you may still be able to find one on discount in some retailers (Amazon).
We think Arc'teryx may have changed the name to reduce confusion with the Arc'teryx Gamma Lightweight hoodie (men's and women's), which was previously called the Gamma SL hoody (SL meaning Superlight). We decided not to consider testing that one since our ultralight category generally has softshells that are lighter than the Gamma Lightweight.
Compared to our top choice, the Mammut VII SO, the Gamma offers a little more abrasion resistance and durability but less breathability and overall comfort.
The Arc’teryx Gamma LT Hoody was difficult to find for a while. Now that the Arc’teryx Gamma Hoody, its replacement, is available, we’re looking forward to testing it. We will report back on our findings, but given our experience with the Gamma LT, we have high expectations for the Gamma Hoody.
If you want a little more durability, chest pockets, and helmet compatibility, see if you can find the Gamma MX Hoody.
Ortovox Col Becchei Hybrid
Weatherproofing material: Tec Stretch and 60 g Swisswool with Merino NatureTec Light
Weight: 320 g (women’s); 352 g (men’s)
Number of pockets: 2 handwarmer pockets
What we liked: durable softshell material, warmth from added insulation
What we didn't like: fit
We tested the COl Becchei Hybrid jacket against others in our test, and the main feature that is different here is that rather than being a full softshell, there is some strategically placed insulation in the chest and arms for added warmth.
This jacket has top-of-the-line performance and durability; it maintains a good balance of weather protection and breathability, performing well in light rain and higher exertion activities. Thanks to that added insulation, it’s the warmest in our test.
We were disappointed with the fit of this jacket. It runs small and is uncomfortably tight in the shoulders and underarms. However, if this jacket fits you well, it’s a great option for some added warmth. If you’re interested in this jacket, we recommend trying it on in a store.
ORTOVOX COL BECCHEI HYBRID
MEN'S
WOMEN'S
The North Face Apex Bionic
Weatherproofing material: WindWall recycled polyester, 14% elastane with non-PFC durable water-repellent (non-PFC DWR) finish
Weight: 609 g (women’s); 677 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 is a popular softshell that made many best softshell jackets lists due to its affordable price. The North Face Apex Bionic is the most size-inclusive softshell jacket 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
MEN'S
WOMEN'S
We tested the Apex Bionic because of its popularity among everyday customers. This softshell is one of the warmest we tested since it has a soft fleece backing on the inside. While it does have some stretch, during testing on high alpine hikes in Colorado, 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.
If you want a warm softshell for wearing around town, this would work well, although it does lack style. If you want a technical and breathable softshell for outdoor pursuits, consider one of our award picks above.
The North Face Apex Bionic may not be the most advanced softshell, but it hits all the marks for waterproofing, wind resistance, and comfortable design. Still, as one of the heaviest jackets we tested, we think you'd be better off going with the Outdoor Research Ferrosi if you want a high-performance jacket that offers a good bang for the buck.
Columbia Hikebound
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 Hikebound alongside the other softshells in this test. We were initially interested in testing the 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
MEN'S
WOMEN'S
Arc'teryx Gamma MX / Gamma Heavyweight
Weatherproofing material: Fortius™ 2.0 softshell fabric, DWR
Weight: 495 g (women's); 555 g (men's)
Number of pockets: zip chest pocket, 2 zip hand pockets
What we liked: excellent durability, helmet compatibility, weatherproofness
What we didn't like: expensive, not as breathable as others, not widely available
If you want a little more durability, chest pockets, and helmet compatibility, consider the Arc'teryx Gamma MX Hoody. We're currently testing the Gamma MX as a contender for a new category of Best Winter Softshell, a versatile softshell that can be used in a variety of cold weather conditions.
As far as we can tell, Arc'teryx renamed the women's Gamma MX to the Gamma Heavyweight. The MX meant use for mixed conditions, and that's still what the Gamma Heavyweight can do. The specs remain almost the same, though there was a small redesign in the front pocket.
Arc'teryx appears to have kept the Gamma MX name for the men's version. We’re looking forward to testing this soft shell and will report back with our findings.
ARC'TERYX GAMMA MX / GAMMA HEAVYWEIGHT
MEN'S
WOMEN'S
Testing the Outdoor Research Ferrosi on a chilly autumn morning in Colorado’s high country.
Buying advice
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.
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.
Wind resistance is a key feature in a softshell. Here, we’re testing Rab Kinetic on a windy day above treeline.
What to look for in a softshell jacket
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.
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.
Pockets, adjustable cuffs, drawcords, and hoods are all features we liked in the Outdoor Research Ferrosi Softshell.
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.
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.
The author testing softshells above treeline in the fall.
How we tested
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.
The Black Diamond Alpine Start softshell jacket excels at breathability.
Why do you need a softshell jacket?
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.
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
What is the ideal fit for a softshell jacket, and how can I ensure it provides both comfort and functionality?
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.
How tight should a softshell jacket be?
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.
Are there specific softshell jackets designed for particular sports or activities, like skiing, hiking, or climbing?
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.
Do softshell jackets have any limitations or situations where they might not be the best choice for outdoor activities?
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.
The author testing the Outdoor Research Ferrosi softshell with her best friend.
About the author / Why you should trust us
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.
