Mens Soft Shell Jackets
What Is A Softshell Jacket?
A softshell jacket is a multi-functional garment designed to bridge the gap between a fleece and a waterproof hardshell. It offers a unique blend of features ideal for active pursuits in cool, but not too wet, environments. The softshell jacket is made of woven nylon or polyester that is stretchy, highly breathable, and moderately weather resistant. It is designed to provide protection from light snow and rain, while offering mobility and comfort during high-energy activities. Softshells are not fully waterproof, but they are more breathable and flexible than hardshell jackets, making them suitable for a wide range of outdoor activities such as climbing, skiing, and hiking. They are also used as casual jackets due to their versatility and comfort. Softshell jackets are known for their breathability, stretchiness, and softness, making them a popular choice for high-output activities and everyday use.
Remember! Softshell jackets are designed to offer a balance of breathability, mobility, and moderate weather resistance, making them suitable for a wide range of outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and climbing, while in contrast, men's leather jackets are made of animal hides like cowhide, buffalo, or horse and are designed for fashion and warmth. These leather garments, be it men’s leather jackets or women's leather jackets, are heavier and more durable than softshell jackets and are suitable for cool-to-cold temperatures in dry conditions, and are not as breathable or stretchy as softshell jackets and are not suitable for high-energy activities. Besides these, leather jackets are also more expensive than softshell jackets and require proper care to maintain their quality
Why Would Someone Choose To Wear A Soft Shell Jacket?
There are several reasons why someone might choose to wear a softshell jacket over other options like fleeces or hardshells:
Versatility: Softshells are like the Goldilocks of outdoor jackets - not too warm, not too waterproof, just right for a wide range of activities and weather conditions. They offer a balanced combination of breathability, weather resistance, and warmth, making them suitable for hiking, climbing, biking, running, and more.
Breathability: Unlike hardshells, which can trap moisture and make you sweat, softshells are highly breathable. This allows air to circulate and keeps you comfortable during high-intensity workouts or in warmer environments.
Mobility: Softshells are typically made from stretchy materials that move with you. This is ideal for activities that require a lot of freedom of movement, such as climbing or scrambling.
Windproofness: Unlike fleeces, softshells offer good wind protection. This helps keep you warm and comfortable, even on windy days.
Water resistance: While not fully waterproof, softshell jackets often have a DWR (durable water repellent) coating that sheds light rain and snow. This makes them suitable for short bursts of precipitation or unexpected drizzle.
Comfort: Softshells are generally softer and more comfortable to wear than hardshells. They can be worn as an outer layer on mild days or layered under a hardshell for additional warmth in cold or wet conditions.
Lightweight: Softshells are typically lighter and more packable than hardshells. This makes them ideal for activities where every ounce counts, such as backpacking or running.
Durability: Although not as bombproof as some hardshells, softshells are generally quite durable and can withstand everyday wear and tear.
Style: Softshells come in a variety of styles and colors to suit different tastes. You can find lightweight, minimalist jackets for athletic pursuits or more casual designs for everyday wear.
Are Softshell Jackets Good For Winter?
Softshells can be good winter companions for certain activities and conditions, but it's important to understand their limitations and layer appropriately for colder temperatures and heavier precipitation. They are versatile outer layers that offer breathability, mobility, and moderate weather resistance, however, uninsulated softshells may not be warm enough on their own for the dead of winter, but thick, fleece-lined softshells can be great for activities like ice climbing or as an outer layer over insulating pieces. Besides these, for high-output activities, the breathability and stretchiness of softshells make them a preferred choice. It's important to note that softshells are not fully waterproof, so they may not be ideal for sustained rain or snowfall, therefore, the suitability of a softshell for winter depends on the specific conditions and the intended use.
What Is The Difference Between A Fleece And Soft Shell Jacket?
The main difference between a fleece and a softshell jacket is their intended use and construction. Fleece jackets are designed to provide warmth and insulation, while softshell jackets are designed to offer a balance of breathability, mobility, and moderate weather resistance. Fleece jackets are typically made of synthetic materials like polyester and are lightweight, soft, and warm, and are considered suitable for cool-to-cold temperatures in dry conditions and can be worn as an outer layer or mid-layer. Softshell jackets, on the other hand, are made of stretch-woven polyester or nylon and elastane and are designed to be worn as an outer layer. They offer moderate weather resistance, breathability, and mobility, making them suitable for high-energy activities like hiking, running, and skiing. Softshells are not fully waterproof, but they offer more breathability than hardshell jackets. In summary, fleece jackets are designed for warmth and insulation, while softshell jackets are designed for breathability, mobility, and moderate weather resistance.
What Is The Difference Between Shell And Softshell Jacket?
Both shell and softshell jackets offer protection from the elements, but they cater to different needs. A hard shell jacket is a waterproof, durable, and often non-stretchy outer layer designed to provide protection from rain or snow in extreme conditions. On the other hand, a softshell jacket is a water-resistant, stretchy, and breathable shell that offers protection from light snow and rain, making it more versatile and suitable for a wider range of climates. Softshells are designed to move with the wearer and maintain a comfortable body temperature during high-energy activities, while some feature a soft or fleece lining for added warmth. In summary, hard shell jackets excel in extreme conditions and offer superior weather protection, while softshell jackets are more versatile, breathable, and comfortable, making them suitable for a variety of outdoor activities.
What Sets Soft Shell Jackets Apart From Other Winter Outerwear?
Softshell jackets carve out a unique niche in the world of winter outerwear by offering a dynamic blend of functionality that sets them apart from other options. Softshell jackets are made of stretch-woven polyester or nylon and elastane, and they offer a balance of breathability, mobility, and moderate weather resistance. They are designed to provide protection from light snow and rain, making them suitable for a wide range of outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and climbing. Softshells are not fully waterproof, but they offer more breathability than hardshell jackets, making them a preferred choice for high-output activities. In contrast, hard shell jackets are waterproof, durable, and often non-stretchy outer layers designed to provide protection from rain or snow in extreme conditions. Fleece jackets, on the other hand, are designed to provide warmth and insulation and are made of synthetic materials like polyester. They are suitable for cool-to-cold temperatures in dry conditions and can be worn as an outer layer or mid-layer. In summary, softshell jackets are different from other winter outerwear in their balance of breathability, mobility, and moderate weather resistance, making them a versatile choice for various outdoor activities.
