A softshell jacket is much thinner than a hardshell jacket, but it can also be lined. The material is primarily made of polyester or another synthetic material that is waterproof. A softshell jacket is basically a single jacket without a fleece base layer, designed to protect against light wind and rain on warm days. Worn on its own, it is particularly suitable for outdoor activities in summer to release moisture through humidity or perspiration to the outside and thus prevent the formation of germs and odours in the material.
What activities are softshell jackets suitable for kids for?
Children are often surprised by downpours in summer, especially when playing outdoors. Softshell jackets for kids are therefore ideal for all outdoor play activities as well as for long outings, camping and travelling. A waterproof jacket for kids is important to arm them against all weather-related surprises. A softshell jackets for kids is a good way to protect them from getting soaked and hypothermia if you are out and about with them for a long length of time or until late in the evening. At Transa, you'll find a range of products to suit your kids' needs.
What properties do softshell jackets for kids have?
Softshell jackets for kids are waterproof and windproof, but they don't keep out cold and moisture as well as hardshell jackets. This is because there is no warm fleece layer underneath, which is why these jackets are not suitable for outdoor activities in winter when the snow cover is high. On warmer winter days, softshell jackets can be perfectly adequate, especially if there is no strong rain forecast. If you are doing winter sports with your kids, for example, you should opt for a hard shell jacket. Kids can also easily fall in the snow, which can push the softshell material as a children's jacket to its limits in terms of protection against moisture.
How to care for softshell jackets
Softshell jackets should only be washed on a gentle cycle and the temperature should not be set higher than 30 to 40 degrees. An extra rinse cycle with clear water is advisable. The use of fabric softener is not recommended, as this can destroy the membrane and thus the protective function of the softshell material. Under no circumstances should you iron them, especially as they are crease-resistant anyway and are most likely to destroy the membrane. Tumble drying is also not recommended for this reason. It's better to hang the jacket to dry on a gentle spin cycle.
Which detergent should you use for softshell jackets?
Liquid mild detergents are a good choice for softshells. You can also buy special detergents for jackets made from this material at drugstores. If the softshell jacket is only lightly polluted, you can also give it a short wash in the sink with a little mild detergent or shampoo. To protect the material, machine washing is only recommended for jackets with strong pollution.
When to wear softshell jackets
As a transitional jacket for kids, this type of jacket is considered typical everyday wear. They are also appropriate for barbecues, birthdays and other occasions. In general, these jackets are suitable for spring and autumn.