Softshell jackets: you see them on every footpath, in every town and on every train platform. They’re popular with walkers, cyclists, travellers and people who spend time outdoors every day. Why? These jackets are water-repellent, windproof and feel supple against your body – and they’re also available in a variety of colours and styles. Perfect, therefore, for active pursuits and changeable weather.

But what exactly is softshell? And how does a softshell jacket differ from a hardshell jacket? In this article, we explain everything about this versatile material and what to look out for when buying one.

What is softshell?

Softshell is a supple, breathable material that’s particularly useful if you enjoy being active. Softshell fabric consists of several layers: an outer layer that blocks the wind and repels water, a middle layer for structure, and – usually – a lovely soft inner lining.

Although a softshell doesn’t protect against the rain as well as a traditional raincoat, it is certainly capable of withstanding short showers. The supple nature of the material also makes it much more comfortable. The softshell fabric stretches with your body and doesn’t feel stiff or constricting during exercise. It’s also moisture-wicking, meaning you won’t get sweaty during a brisk walk. This makes a softshell jacket the ideal choice for changeable weather, chilly mornings and light rain.

Softshell is available in various styles and colours. Are you looking for a rugged, cropped softshell jacket for men? Or are you looking for a fitted, long softshell jacket for women? Discover our softshell collection and choose what suits you best.

The pros and cons of a softshell jacket

Softshell jackets are popular because they’re comfortable to wear. They’re more flexible and comfortable than many traditional outdoor jackets, and often have a fashionable touch. A real all-rounder, then! Yet we’d be lying if we said they’re suitable for every situation. In some scenarios, softshells are less than ideal.

The advantages:

  • Freedom of movement: No stiff sleeves that ride up when you stretch your arms
  • Breathability: Sweat evaporates outwards rather than condensing
  • Comfort: Soft on the inside, doesn’t creak
  • Wind protection: Cold wind stays out
  • Light rain resistance: Drizzle and short showers are no problem
  • Suitable for layering: Works as an outer layer or as a mid-layer under a hardshell
  • Versatile use: For walking, cycling, travelling and everyday use

The downsides:

  • They aren’t always fully waterproof: In persistent rain, you’ll get wet
  • They’re therefore less suitable for heavy rain: A hardshell performs better in these situations
  • They aren’t always very warm: Without a layer underneath, you’re unlikely to stay warm enough in really cold conditions

Feature

Freedom of movement

Breathability

Wind protection

Rain protection

Suitable for active use

Comfort during movement

Softshell jacket

High

Often good

Good

Water-repellent, not always waterproof

Very suited

High

Normal jacket

Depends on design

Varies

Varies

Depends on design

Not specifically designed

Depends on fit

The difference between a softshell and a hardshell


Softshells and hardshells are both outdoor jackets, but they serve different purposes. Softshell is primarily about comfort, breathability and flexibility. It is designed for active moments where you want to move freely, without having to worry about extreme weather or other challenging conditions. 

Hardshell, on the other hand, is more focused on protection against rain, wind and harsher weather. Think of long hikes in the pouring rain or expeditions where you really need to stay dry. In short: softshell for movement and changeable weather, hardshell for serious protection against the elements.

What is a hardshell?


Hardshells are designed as a protective outer layer in rain, wind and more intensive outdoor use. The material feels sturdier and less supple than softshell, but there’s a reason for that: a hardshell keeps you truly dry in heavy rain. Think fully taped seams, a high water column and a windproof finish. Perfect for prolonged exposure to rain or for expeditions where you simply cannot get wet. Hardshells are less comfortable for everyday use, but when it really starts to pour, they are indispensable. Hardshell jackets for women and hardshell jackets for men are real must-have’s for your more demanding outdoor activities!

The differences in a nutshell

Feature

Best choice for

Material

Breathability

Rain protection

Freedom of movement

Seasonal use

Softshell jacket

Walking, cycling, travelling and everyday use

Supple and flexible

High

Water-repellent or partially waterproof

Very good

Spring, summer, autumn and milder winter days

Normal jacket

Rain, wind and harsher outdoor conditions

Sturdier and better protection

Often lower than softshell

Often waterproof

Less flexible

Mainly wet and harsher conditions

A softshell jacket is for all seasons.


A softshell jacket isn’t tied to a single season. In spring and summer, you wear it as an outer layer; when it’s chilly or when the wind picks up. In autumn and winter, it becomes part of a layering system: you wear it over a warm jumper or fleece and possibly under a hardshell. The right choice therefore depends on the temperature, your activity and the weather forecast. Are you going for a brisk walk on a chilly autumn day? Then a softshell is often sufficient. Are you standing still in the cold? Then you need more insulation.

Softshell jackets for winter

A softshell jacket isn’t a thick winter coat that keeps you warm when you’re standing still in the cold, but it works perfectly as a functional outer layer during active moments. Think of walks, city breaks, chilly mornings or days when you’re on the move. The secret? Layering. Wear a warm jumper or fleece gilet under your softshell. This combination traps heat whilst the softshell blocks the wind and wicks away moisture. That way, you won’t overheat during exercise, but you’ll still have enough protection against the elements. For days when you’re moving between indoors and outdoors, that layering system works better than a single thick jacket. A softshell mid-layer is therefore the way to go this season! Check out women’s hiking jackets and men’s hiking jackets for more winter options.



Softshell jackets for summer

In summer, you’ll mainly wear a softshell on cooler days; during early morning walks, whilst travelling, or in changeable weather. The jacket feels lighter and more flexible than padded jackets, which is handy if you’re looking for a functional layer that’s comfortable to wear. On hot days, it’s best to leave your softshell in the wardrobe. But as soon as the temperature drops – for example, on a chilly evening by the sea or a dewy morning in the mountains – it works better than a flimsy windbreaker. It blocks the wind and can handle drizzle. Perfect, then, for summer adventures where the weather isn’t quite on your side, but you don’t need a heavy winter coat either.

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How do you wash a softshell?

Washing a softshell jacket isn’t complicated, but it does require the right approach. If you use the wrong detergent or wash at too high a temperature, you could damage the material. Don’t worry! If you follow these steps, you’ll enjoy your softshell for a long time to come.

1. Check the care label

Not all softshells are the same, so always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Some softshells need to be hand-washed, whilst others can simply go in the machine.

2. Close zips and Velcro

Close all zips and fasten any Velcro. Open zips can damage other clothes, and Velcro attracts lint during washing.

3. Use a mild detergent

Ideally, choose a detergent designed for technical outdoor fabrics. These are gentler and less harsh than standard detergents. They clean without damaging the coating.

4. No fabric softener

Fabric softener may seem handy, but it is disastrous for softshell. It clogs the fabric’s pores, reducing breathability and impairing the water-repellent layer’s effectiveness.

5. Wash at a low temperature

30 degrees is usually sufficient. Water that is too hot can damage the coating and adhesive layers. Again, follow the instructions on the care label!

6. Air dry

Hang the jacket on a hanger or lay it flat. The tumble dryer can cause the fabric to shrink and damage the coating.

7. Re-waterproof

After a few washes, the water-repellent effect diminishes. Treat the outer surface again with waterproofing spray or a waterproofing detergent. 

Proper care ensures that the softshell fabric retains its properties. Don’t wash your softshell jacket too often! Preferably only when it’s really dirty.

Frequently asked questions about softshell jackets

1

What is softshell?

Softshell is a flexible, breathable material used for outdoor jackets. A softshell jacket blocks wind and light rain and offers plenty of freedom of movement during active outdoor activities.

2

How do you care for a softshell jacket?

Wash according to the care label using a mild detergent, without fabric softener. Allow the jacket to air dry and re-waterproof it if it starts to absorb water.

3

Is a softshell jacket water-repellent?

Yes, most softshell jackets are water-repellent and keep out light rain. In persistent or heavy rain, a hardshell is a better choice.

4

Is softshell suitable for summer?

Yes, a softshell is ideal for cooler summer days, chilly mornings and changeable weather. The breathable fabric prevents you from getting too hot whilst on the move.

5

Is softshell suitable for winter?

Yes, as part of a layering system, a softshell works well in winter. Wear a warm jumper or fleece underneath for walks and active outdoor activities.

6

Which is warmer, softshell or fleece?

Fleece feels warmer because it retains your body heat. Softshell, on the other hand, offers protection against wind and light rain, and therefore works better as an outer layer.

Choose the best softshell jacket for you

Choosing a softshell depends on what you’ll be using it for. Are you going on serious hikes? Then breathability is important, otherwise you’ll be sweating on the hills. Do you mainly wear the jacket on a daily basis? Then comfort, fit and how the jacket looks are more important. For travelling, a light, flexible jacket is handy as it takes up little space in your rucksack or suitcase, and in changeable weather, choose a model with good water-repellent properties that also blocks the wind.

At Travelin’, we make softshell jackets for men and women that combine comfort, functionality and a sporty look. Designed for people who love being outdoors and want to be able to rely on their favourite gear.