Softshell jackets: everything you need to know

Material

The outer material of a softshell jacket consists of an abrasion-resistant fabric, and the inner consists of a of a moisture-wicking, fine non-woven material such as fleece.

If you want to combine a softshell with several layers, it is best to wear the softshell jacket between the insulation layer and the hard shell jacket. When combined, a softshell jacket and waterproof jacket will keep you dry and warm. If you want to wear the softshell jacket on its own, think of it as a compromise between fleece jacket and waterproof jacket.

Softshell jackets are available with and without a membrane. Those without a membrane are more breathable and usually more stretchy, but often less insulating and wind-repellent than softshell jackets with a membrane. At Transa, we distinguish between roughly three categories.

Softshell light: lightweight wind jacket for warm temperatures, highly breathable, no insulation

Softshell medium: the most versatile of softshell jackets, because some are lightly insulated and wick moisture away well to the outside, and some have an integrated membrane against wind

Softshell warm: well insulated models for cold days and/or winter sports, some have an integrated membrane against wind

Windproofness

Unlike waterproof jackets, softshell jackets are not defined by whether they are waterproof, but by how windproof they are. Softshell jackets are water-repellent, but never waterproof. However, depending on the brand and model, the properties of the materials may differ.

The warmer the softshell jacket, the heavier it is. So think about the conditions in which you are mostly on the go. It might be worth the extra weight, or you might want to save on it.

Wind chill effect

Wind has a big influence on how warm or cold the actual temperature feels. There’s even a name for it: the wind chill effect indicates the temperature the air feels at a specific wind speed. Here’s an example: with a moderate breeze of 20 kilometres per hour, 0 degrees air temperature feels like -5 degrees.

Stretchability

Compared to hardshell, softshell is soft (hence the name) and much more stretchy. Softshell jackets with double weave are the most stretchy because they have no membrane or insulation that could restrict movement. A softshell jacket is therefore well suited for activities where you have to move freely, such as climbing, trekking or ski touring.

Features

Pay attention to the features of your softshell jacket. The details of a jacket contribute a lot to comfort and functionality.

• Hood: The hood keeps your head and neck warm. It should give you a clear view, not restrict you or fall on your face. A drawstring ensures that you can adjust the hood. If you’re wearing the softshell jacket for climbing, the hood should fit under or over a helmet – whichever is most comfortable for you.

• Drawstring: In the hem, a drawstring helps prevent the wind from blowing into your jacket from underneath.

• Thumb loops: They keep the sleeves from riding up and keep your wrists and hands warm.

• Pockets: Pockets mean you’ll have everything you need to hand in no time. If you’re wearing the jacket for climbing, it’s a bit more convenient if they’re set a little higher. This means you don’t have to loosen the climbing harness to reach into your pockets. The same goes for the hip belt of your backpack.

• Underarm ventilation: In softshell jackets with a membrane, underarm ventilation provides additional cooling. This is not necessary for a jacket without a membrane, because the material is highly breathable anyway.

Benefits

A softshell jacket protects you from the wind and keeps you relatively dry. It wicks moisture away from the body and is softer and more elastic than a hardshell. A softshell jacket is basically more breathable than hardshell, which is particularly comfortable during heavy physical exertion because moisture can escape easily. A softshell jacket with an inner lining also provides warmth similar to fleece and is particularly comfortable to wear.

Maintenance

On the care label of your softshell jacket, you will find the most important information on washing and waterproofing. Softshell jackets are generally easy to care for. But how often should you wash a softshell jacket? One rule of thumb is as often as necessary, but as little as possible. But don’t be afraid to wash your jacket regularly. Good care ensures that the jacket remains breathable and water repellent.

It’s best to wash your softshell jacket with a special detergent, but a gentle liquid detergent without fabric softener is also suitable. Make sure that there is no residue left from the detergent. With an additional rinse cycle this should not be a problem.

Be careful with the tumble dryer, as high heat can damage the fabric and its functionality. It’s best to hang up your softshell jacket to dry.

Precision fit of softshell

Because softshell is very stretchy, many softshell jackets and trousers are cut more tightly. If you find this comfortable, then your regular clothing size should also fit you in softshell clothing. But if you want to wear another layer underneath, for example a fleece jacket, then choose a larger or looser fit model. It’s best to try on the softshell jacket or trousers with the clothes underneath that you usually wear when trekking, climbing or other activities.

Temperatures

Softshell jackets differ greatly in construction. A model with a membrane and/or insulation is suitable for temperatures from around 7 degrees Celsius, and can even be suitable for lower temperatures if you also wear thermal underwear. Lighter models insulate less. which is why they are more suitable for warmer temperatures or intense physical activity. The temperature the jacket is suitable for depends which layer you’re wearing the softshell as, and what you’re wearing underneath or on top.