Softshell Jackets – Versatile Garments for Sport and Leisure
Versatile Garments for Sport and Leisure
Everybody is talking about softshell. The versatile fabric manages the balancing act between weatherproof hardshell jackets and comfortable fleece jackets. Softshells are breathable, elastic, pleasantly soft on the skin, windproof and water-resistant – the perfect combination for all kinds of outdoor activities.
In our online shop you'll find a huge choice of useful softshell jackets for women and men in all common sizes and colours for best protection from wind and light rain. Discover our range of softshell jackets by popular brands like Jack Wolfskin, VAUDE, GONSO, Castelli, GORE WEAR and Löffler.
What is a softshell jacket?
Just like hardshell outdoor jackets feature a membrane to stop wind and rain from passing through, softshell jackets are usually also made of a two- or three-layer laminate with an integrated membrane. Their outer layer is very elastic and robust, their lining is breathable and soft.
In contrast to membranes used for hardshell jackets, membranes of softshell jackets are not wind- and waterproof, but only windproof and water-resistant. Therefore, softshell jackets are exactly between warm (not weatherproof) fleece jackets and wind- and waterproof hardshell jackets. Softshell is designed to protect you from wind and light rain and is yet elastic to offer free range of movement. Depending on the model you choose, the jacket might also have a windproof, water-resistant membrane stopping cold wind, light rain and spray from penetrating. Some popular membranes used for softshells are GORE WINDSTOPPER, WINDPROOF by VAUDE, STORMLOCK by JACK WOLFSKIN and WINDTEX by ALÉ.
Which softshell jacket is best for cycling? Where can I wear a softshell jacket?
As already mentioned above, softshell jackets are not waterproof. So, if you are looking for a jacket for rainy days, you are better advised to buy a waterproof jacket. Softshell jackets are perfectly suitable for all other uses though – whether sport or leisure activities – as they offer light weather protection, high comfort and a free range of movement.
How do I wash and care for my softshell jacket?
Softshell fabric requires special care. Due to the integrated membrane, you should wash your jacket at 30° C in the washing machine, using special detergent for functional clothing. The special laundry detergent won't clog the membrane and instead retain its windproof, breathable and water-resistant properties.
If your jacket is no longer water-resistant, you can also re-waterproof it. This can either be done by hand with a waterproofing spray or in the washing machine with a liquid waterproofing detergent. Once treated with a waterproofing agent, your softshell jacket should be water-resistant again.
How should a softshell jacket fit?
Depending on whether you want to wear your softshell jacket on relaxed evening rides or use it for weather protection on fast-paced tours, you should rather choose a casual or a close-fitting softshell jacket. Just choose the right cut for the proper level of mobility.
Useful features of softshell jackets
Fleece lining: Those who don't want to do without outdoor activities on cold days should choose a jacket with sufficient insulating properties. Therefore, some softshell jackets are lined with a soft and warm fleece to offer additional warmth on cold days.
Hood: If you want to wear your softshell jacket in everyday life, on bike tours and cycle journeys, you should go for a hooded softshell jacket. A hood keeps your head pleasantly warm and protects sensitive body areas from cold draughts and light rain. However, you can also do without a hood – just make sure the jacket has a high stand-up collar to protect your neck from cold. A helmet cover for protection from rain is also a good choice.
Convertible jackets: Convertible jackets offer even more flexibility. The jackets feature a zip around the upper arm to quickly zip-off the sleeves. Thus, you can easily turn your outdoor jacket into a gilet or cycling jersey – provided it comes with fitted internal sleeves. The perfect choice for changing weather and temperatures!
In our online shop you'll find a huge choice of useful softshell jackets for women and men in all common sizes and colours for best protection from wind and light rain. Discover our range of softshell jackets by popular brands like Jack Wolfskin, VAUDE, GONSO, Castelli, GORE WEAR and Löffler.