First and foremost, what exactly is a shell? The terms shell and jacket are sometimes used interchangeably, although shell can also apply to trousers, parkas, and ponchos. In this situation, we’re discussing coats. The term describes the fundamentals of a softshell jacket. A softshell jacket is lightweight and flexible, and it may help protect you from the weather. The process of selecting a new jacket might be a little daunting.

 

This article discusses the softshell jacket and its applications in our daily lives, while also discussing different types and styling options to choose from.

Table of Contents

What Is Softshell Jacket

Lady-in-a-yellow-softshell-jacket

A softshell jacket is a flexible garment that can be used for a variety of outdoor tasks, but what precisely is a softshell jacket? A softshell jacket is constructed of woven cloth, as opposed to hardshell coats, which are made of stiffer material. A softshell jacket, unlike traditional coats, lacks a lining and is instead constructed by gluing two layers of cloth together.

 

They are intended to fill the gap in between a fleece, which provides less water resistance and weather protection, and a waterproof jacket, which is less flexible.

Different Types of Softshell

A man in a black softshell jacket
Softshell jackets are classified as either stretch-woven or membrane. A water-resistant coating is applied to a stretch-woven softshell jacket, whereas a waterproof layer is connected in between 2 layers of cloth in a membrane softshell. Both softshell jackets are not completely waterproof since they lack taped seams to prevent water from entering the stitched regions.

Stretch-woven softshell jackets

These are much more permeable than membrane softshell jackets and thus are popular for sports like jogging and cycling.

Pros
Cons

Membrane softshells

These are slightly heavier than stretch-woven options and are better suited to outdoor activities that require more weather protection.

Pros
Cons

How to Choose My Own Softshell

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The softshell option you select will be determined by the activity for which you intend to utilize it. A span softshell jacket is optimal for activities requiring a versatile outer layer, like climbing, decent hiking, and cycling. Certain softshell jackets have fleece layered for extra warmth, which is perfect if you want something lightweight to use daily.

 

If you’d like a softshell for yet more dynamic purposes and don’t want as much warmth, an unfilled softshell is a better option. If you don’t want to wear the fleece lining, you can still layer up beneath. A thinner, airy soft shell is perfect for cycling or running.

How to Layer with Softshell

A woman in a softshell jacket and other cloth layers

Softshell jackets are often short and therefore should be worn close to the body. Because the fabric is stretchy, there still is a decent range of motion, but the tightened fit helps retain heat. In addition to their technical qualities, the shorter cut and design make these a popular option as an informal everyday jacket.

 

Not every softshell jacket comes with a hood attached. If your softshell jacket’s only function is to operate as a mid-layer beneath a waterproof, a softshell jacket without the need for a hood may be more suited as a hood may get in the way. A hood, on the other hand, is a beneficial feature if you want to use your softshell jacket as an upper shell through light rain showers.

 

Softshell jackets are an excellent mid-layer whenever the weather is very chilly and you want something a little more sturdy than a fleece. Because of its waterproof and windproof properties, softshells may also be used as an outer layer over a wool sweater or t-shirt.

The Bottom Line

Softshell jackets are an item of excellent mid-layer clothing for chilly weather and practicality. Because of its water-resistance and windproof properties, softshells may be worn as an upper shell during mild-cool days. 

 

The aforementioned guide mentions what these jackets are, different types of the same, and how you can layer them to keep you warm and classy. Now you can go on and buy a few from a lightweight jacket OEM. Happy shopping!