Key takeaways
- A softshell is a stretchy, breathable jacket that resists wind and light moisture but isn't fully waterproof.
- It prioritizes comfort, mobility, and breathability — ideal for high-output activity in cool, dry-to-damp weather.
- Many softshells add light insulation or a brushed lining for warmth.
- For sustained rain you still need a waterproof hardshell; the softshell trades waterproofing for breathability.
What a softshell is
A softshell is a flexible, breathable jacket (softshell pants exist too) that resists wind and light moisture while prioritizing comfort, stretch, and breathability. It sits between your insulating layers and a fully waterproof hardshell in a layering system, and many softshells add a brushed lining or light insulation for warmth.
How it works
A tight, stretchy weave and a DWR finish block wind and shed drizzle and snow, while the fabric breathes far better than a waterproof membrane — venting the heat and sweat you generate during hard activity. The trade-off is that it’s water-resistant, not waterproof.
On a cold, breezy ski tour, a skier climbs in a breathable softshell that blocks the wind and dumps heat on the uphill — then pulls a waterproof hardshell from the pack only if it actually starts to rain or storm.
Softshell vs hardshell
Reach for a softshell for breathability and mobility in dry-to-damp cool weather; reach for a hardshell when you need guaranteed waterproofing in sustained rain or storms. Many people carry both. For wind-only protection at minimal weight, a windbreaker is lighter still.
The bottom line
A softshell is the comfortable, breathable workhorse for active days in cool, dry-to-damp weather: it blocks wind and light moisture, stretches with you, and vents heat far better than a waterproof shell. Just don't expect it to keep you dry in real rain — that's the hardshell's job, and many people carry both.
Frequently asked questions
What is a softshell jacket?
A softshell is a flexible, breathable jacket that blocks wind and sheds light moisture while staying stretchy and comfortable. Unlike a stiff waterproof hardshell, it prioritizes breathability and mobility, making it ideal for aerobic activity in cool, dry-to-damp conditions. Many softshells also include light insulation.
Is a softshell waterproof?
No — softshells are water-resistant, not waterproof. They handle wind, snow, and light drizzle thanks to a tight weave and DWR finish, but they'll wet through in sustained rain. For real precipitation you need a waterproof hardshell; the softshell's advantage is far better breathability and stretch.
Softshell or hardshell?
Choose a softshell for breathability, comfort, and stretch during high-output activity in dry or lightly wet conditions; choose a hardshell when you need guaranteed waterproof protection in sustained rain, snow, or storms. Many people carry a softshell as their everyday active layer and a hardshell for when the weather turns.
Sources
- Layering & shells — The Mountaineers
- Apparel basics — American Hiking Society