Softshell is one of the most versatile materials you can find in outdoor clothing today. It combines the properties of several layers at once – it protects against wind, withstands light rain, breathes well and at the same time provides plenty of freedom of movement. That is why softshell jackets, softshell trousers and vests have become essential equipment for hikers, runners, cyclists and families with children. In this guide, we will look at what softshell actually is, how it works, what the difference is between membrane and woven softshell, when it makes more sense than hardshell and how to choose the right model for hiking, sport and everyday wear.
What is softshell? A material that can replace several layers
The word softshell literally means soft shell. The name describes its main idea very well: to create a material that protects against bad weather, but at the same time is not stiff, noisy or uncomfortable like classic waterproof jackets.
In reality, however, softshell is not one specific material. It is a group of multi-layer fabrics that combine several functions at the same time. A typical softshell fabric combines a flexible outer material with a protective layer against wind and water, sometimes also with a soft fleece lining that increases thermal comfort.
Thanks to this construction, softshell can replace several layers of clothing at once. In most common outdoor situations, there is no need to wear a separate windbreaker or a thicker fleece. A well-chosen softshell jacket can perform both functions at the same time.
The main properties of softshell include high breathability, stretch and freedom of movement, wind protection, water repellency and higher thermal comfort than classic windbreakers.
This makes it an ideal material for hiking, active movement and everyday wear during most of the year.
Membrane vs. woven softshell
Not all softshell materials work in the same way. When choosing, you will most often come across two basic constructions – membrane and woven softshell.
Membrane softshell contains a functional membrane between the individual layers, which significantly increases protection against water and wind. The water column can reach up to 30,000 mm depending on the specific material construction, while still maintaining very good breathability.
TIP: Kilpi uses, for example, SIBERIUM® SRC technology, which is a modern membrane softshell designed for more demanding conditions. The material effectively protects against wind, handles rain and wet snow, and at the same time releases excess heat during active movement.
You will appreciate membrane softshell especially during:
- mountain hiking,
- autumn and winter trips,
- long stays outdoors,
- changeable weather.
Woven softshell, on the other hand, does not contain a membrane. Protection against wind and light moisture is provided by a densely woven material with a water-repellent DWR finish.
The water column is usually up to 5,000 mm, but it offers even higher breathability and lower weight than membrane versions.
It is ideal for everyday wear, spring and summer hiking, running, cycling and situations where heat release is the priority.
In general, if you regularly move in the mountains or go out in all weather conditions, it is worth investing in membrane softshell. On the other hand, for everyday use or sport in drier conditions, a lighter woven softshell is often more practical.
Softshell vs. hardshell – a comparison to help you choose
One of the most common questions when choosing outdoor clothing is: Should I buy softshell or hardshell?
The answer is not simple, because both materials were created for different conditions. They are not competitors, but two different types of protection that complement each other.
| Feature | Softshell | Hardshell |
|---|---|---|
| Waterproofness | Withstands light to moderate rain | Fully waterproof |
| Breathability | Very high | Lower |
| Stretch | Excellent | Limited |
| Weight | Low to medium | Usually lower |
| Thermal comfort | Higher | Practically no insulation |
| Packability | Medium | Excellent |
| Taped seams | Usually no | Yes |
| Material noise | Quiet and soft | Stiffer, rustlier |
| Price | Usually lower | Higher |
The table clearly shows that each material is designed for a different situation.
Softshell is intended mainly for active movement in changeable weather. It offers higher comfort, better breathability and a more pleasant feel when worn.
Hardshell, on the other hand, is a specialist for rain, wet snow and extreme conditions. Its main task is to prevent water from getting inside, even if it rains all day.
When to choose softshell?
Softshell is the best choice when you expect active movement and changeable weather, but not long-lasting heavy rain.
It is perfect for:
- hiking,
- mountain trips,
- running,
- cycling,
- Nordic walking,
- everyday wear.
Softshell trousers work just as well, protecting against wind and allowing free movement when walking or climbing. Children’s softshell trousers are also very popular because they withstand frequent movement, are easy to maintain and give children plenty of comfort when playing outdoors.
Softshell can be worn as an outer layer in dry weather or as an insulating layer under a hardshell jacket if conditions get significantly worse.
When to reach for hardshell?
Hardshell makes the most sense where there is a risk of long-lasting rain or wet snow.
Typical examples include:
- multi-day mountain crossings,
- high-altitude hiking,
- exposed ridges,
- winter mountain tours,
- situations where the weather cannot be predicted.
That is why many experienced hikers keep a hardshell packed in their backpack most of the time as a reliable backup. If the weather turns bad, they simply put it on over their softshell.
How to choose softshell? A guide by activity and weather
There is no single universal softshell jacket or pair of softshell trousers that will be ideal for every situation. When choosing, it is worth focusing mainly on where and how you will use the clothing most often. A hiker on mountain ridges will appreciate different features than a runner or cyclist, while everyday wear also has its own requirements.
For hiking and outdoor activities
For hiking, the three most important qualities are – comfort, durability and the ability to respond to changeable weather.
The ideal softshell jacket should be flexible enough not to restrict movement during climbs or when moving over rocks. At the same time, it should protect well against wind and handle shorter showers. For mountain hiking, it is worth choosing membrane softshell with a higher water column and a quality DWR finish.
Pay the same attention to trousers. Softshell trousers are popular because they do not let the wind through, breathe well and their stretch makes walking easier on steep ascents and descents. Compared to classic hiking trousers, they also provide greater thermal comfort during colder mornings or autumn trips.
Practical details include anatomically shaped knees, adjustable leg openings and reinforced areas in high-stress zones.
For running and cycling
During intense sport, breathability plays the main role. The body produces a large amount of heat, which clothing must release, otherwise overheating occurs.
For running and cycling, lighter softshell materials with a lower weight are therefore more suitable. A sports cut is usually more fitted so that the clothing does not flap in the wind or restrict movement.
Models without a hood or with a detachable hood are also a big advantage, as the hood does not get in the way when running or riding with a cycling helmet.
For skiing and winter sports
Softshell has also found its place among skiers. Modern ski models combine a higher water column, quality membrane and insulated inner layer.
On the slopes, you will especially appreciate protection against cold wind, stretch during movement and higher thermal comfort. A quality ski softshell jacket should have a snow skirt, an adjustable helmet-compatible hood and sufficiently long sleeves.
However, in really bad weather or heavy snowfall, it is still true that a fully waterproof hardshell provides better protection.
For the city and everyday wear
One of the reasons softshell is so popular is its versatility. Many people now wear softshell instead of a classic transitional jacket.
Modern cuts look good not only in nature, but also on the way to work, on a walk or during everyday wear. Longer women’s softshell jackets and softshell coats are also very popular, as they combine the functionality of outdoor clothing with a more elegant look.
Softshell jackets, trousers or vests – what to choose?
When people say softshell, most imagine a jacket. In reality, however, this material is also used for trousers, vests and coats, and each option has its own advantages.
The most universal choice is undoubtedly a softshell jacket. It protects against wind and light rain while allowing comfortable movement during hiking, sport and everyday wear.
You can find lightweight models for spring and summer as well as insulated versions for autumn and winter.
Softshell trousers are among the most popular hiking trousers overall. They are flexible, wind-resistant and, thanks to their water-repellent finish, can handle wet grass or a short shower. A major advantage is comfort when walking. The material does not restrict movement and works well during all-day trips and winter activities.
A softshell vest protects the torso from wind but leaves the arms free. This makes it ideal for spring and autumn hiking, running or cycling. Many people also use it as an extra layer over fleece or a functional sweatshirt.
Softshell coats are also appearing more and more often in women’s collections. They offer the same protection against wind and light rain as a sports jacket, but at the same time look more elegant and are suitable for the city.
Children’s softshell is also very popular. Children spend a lot of time outdoors, often sit on wet grass, run or climb on playgrounds. Thanks to its durability and easy maintenance, softshell handles these situations much better than regular clothing.
When choosing children’s clothing, focus on quality reflective elements, a comfortable fit, sufficiently long sleeves and durable zips. Children’s softshell trousers are also a practical choice, as they protect well against wind and moisture while not restricting children’s movement.
How to layer with softshell correctly?
Softshell works best as part of a well-thought-out layering system. Its purpose is not to replace all clothing, but to combine several functions into one comfortable layer.
The basis is a three-layer system:
1st layer (base layer) – functional underwear that wicks away sweat.
2nd layer (mid layer) – fleece or a light insulating sweatshirt.
3rd layer (shell) – softshell or hardshell depending on the weather.
Example 1: +10 °C, occasional showers
Functional T-shirt + lightweight softshell jacket.
In these conditions, another layer is usually not needed. Softshell provides sufficient protection against wind and short rain showers while also preventing overheating.
Example 2: +5 °C, dry weather and stronger wind
Functional T-shirt + light fleece sweatshirt + softshell.
Fleece provides thermal comfort, while softshell protects against wind and at the same time allows excess heat to escape during walking.
Example 3: −5 °C, snowfall and strong wind
Functional thermal underwear + fleece + softshell + hardshell depending on the intensity of the weather.
In really demanding conditions, softshell can work as an insulating layer under hardshell. This gives you high breathability as well as reliable protection against rain, snow and wind.
This variability is one of the main reasons why softshell has become so popular among hikers, athletes and people looking for one universal piece of clothing for most activities.
DWR finish, washing and softshell care
One of the reasons why a softshell jacket or softshell trousers withstand light rain well is the water-repellent finish known as DWR (Durable Water Repellent). It is a special impregnation applied to the outer layer of the material, thanks to which water does not soak into the fabric but forms drops on the surface that simply roll off.
It is important to know that DWR is not permanent. Regular wear, washing and abrasion gradually reduce its effectiveness. If you notice that water starts soaking into the surface of the material instead of rolling off, it is time to renew the impregnation.
Wash softshell on a gentle programme at a maximum temperature of 30–40 °C and use detergents designed for functional clothing. Avoid regular washing gels with fabric softener and fabric softener itself, as it can clog the pores of the material and significantly reduce its breathability and water-repellent properties.
After several washes, we recommend renewing the DWR impregnation with an impregnation spray or wash-in impregnation designed for technical clothing. This will help the softshell repel water better again and preserve its functional properties for longer.
After washing, let the clothing air-dry naturally. Drying in a tumble dryer or on a direct heat source can shorten the lifespan of the membrane and elastic fibres.
Common mistakes when choosing softshell
Softshell is one of the most versatile outdoor materials, yet several mistakes are often repeated when choosing it, which can lead to disappointment even with otherwise high-quality clothing.
1. Choosing softshell instead of hardshell for all-day rain
Softshell is designed mainly against wind and light to moderate showers. If you know you are facing long-lasting rain or a multi-day mountain crossing, the right choice is a hardshell jacket with a fully waterproof membrane.
2. Ignoring the water column
Not all softshell materials offer the same level of protection. The difference between lightweight woven softshell and a membrane model can be significant. When choosing, always consider the environment in which you will use the clothing most often.
3. Choosing the wrong size
Softshell should be neither too tight nor unnecessarily loose. When trying it on, remember that you will often wear functional underwear and a fleece sweatshirt underneath the jacket or trousers. The right size must allow comfortable layering while not restricting movement.
4. Washing with fabric softener
Fabric softener is one of the biggest enemies of functional clothing. It gradually damages the water-repellent DWR finish and can reduce the breathability of the material. Use only special detergents intended for technical textiles.
5. Expecting too much from packability
Softshell is more comfortable and warmer than hardshell, but this versatility comes with a slightly larger volume. If you are looking for the smallest possible jacket to pack into a backpack as an emergency layer, hardshell will usually be more compact.
Softshell – one jacket, a thousand uses
Softshell has become popular because it combines comfort, wind protection, high breathability and sufficient resistance to light rain. Whether you are choosing a women’s softshell jacket, softshell trousers, children’s softshell or equipment for mountain hiking, it is always worth considering your planned activities and the conditions in which you will use the clothing most often.
Kilpi softshell clothing is developed in the Czech Republic and its properties are continuously tested in real conditions together with the brand’s ambassadors. Thanks to this, it offers a balanced combination of functionality, comfort and durability that you will appreciate during sport and everyday time outdoors.
Explore the complete range of Kilpi softshell jackets and choose the model that best suits your outdoor adventures.
