• Each jacket has its role and place in your wardrobe, whether it be for outdoor pursuits in the mountains or stylish evenings in the city. Rain coats are for drizzly days; waterproof shells are for adventuring up mountain peaks; parkas are ideal for harsh winter weather; lightly insulated jackets work as layering pieces or as stand-alone apparel in cooler conditions.But what about the softshells? What are they and where do they fit into your jacket wardrobe?What makes a softshell a softshell?
  Discover lightweight stretch-woven softshells
  Discover laminated softshells
  Discover hybrid softshells
  What are the differences between softshells & waterproof shells?
  What are the differences between softshells & fleeces?

Originally introduced to the outdoor apparel world in the mid-2000s, softshell jackets were designed as a hybrid between a waterproof shell and a highly breathable fleece. They were originally intended for high-intensity aerobic activities, and every ski, snowboard, and outerwear brand around the year 2003 was manufacturing them – then all of a sudden they disappeared.

But now they’re back, and highly technical brands like Arc’teryx, Mountain Hardwear, and Outdoor Research are making them, and demand for these jackets is growing.

Softshells are usually made from a combination of materials such as polyester and nylon, which are woven together for durability and comfort. These materials make up most outdoor apparel and gear, and aren’t quite 100% waterproof, but are highly breathable, wear well against the skin, and last a long time.

Those looking for a technical jacket that can withstand a variety of conditions while still providing mobile protection are once again reaching for their favourite softshell.

Like most technical pieces of clothing, there are multiple variations of one particular style. Take rain jackets, for example, when you’re searching for the perfect raincoat, you’ll discover the 2L, the 2.5L and the 3L. They’re all rain jackets, but they have slightly different features and will be made up in a somewhat different way. The same goes for softshells. There are multiple variations, and each will excel for various reasons.

Stretch-woven softshell jackets are the most common and work as an ideal mid-layer under a waterproof shell or stand-alone layer in warmer temperature. They have wind-resistant and water-repellent outer layers with highly breathable inners. The breathable layer is efficient enough at keeping wearers dry while backpacking, cycling, or even cross-country skiing during light precipitation.

Laminated soft shells are designed for colder and wetter conditions. These jackets are outfitted with water and windproof laminates that allow them to hold up in harsher conditions, keeping wearers dry and comfortable. Laminated softshells share similar features with waterproof shells or hardshells, being slightly heavier and a little less breathable. For someone who is more concerned with weather protection, a laminated softshell is the right choice due to their taped seams and waterproof membranes.

Hybrid softshells combine features from lightweight stretch-woven softshells with the weather protection of laminated softshells, making them more durable and performant. Robust, laminated fabrics will make up high abrasion areas such as the core and the shoulders, while more breathable fabrics will make up hot zones like under the arms and back. Hybrid softshells utilizes a mixture of fabrics to provide exceptional breathability and rugged protection for all your favorite outdoor activities.