{"id":51162,"date":"2026-06-10T18:28:06","date_gmt":"2026-06-10T18:28:06","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/ecojersey.com\/blog\/?p=51162"},"modified":"2026-06-10T18:28:07","modified_gmt":"2026-06-10T18:28:07","slug":"types-of-softshell-jackets","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/ecojersey.com\/blog\/types-of-softshell-jackets\/","title":{"rendered":"Types of Softshell Jackets and Their Uses"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Understanding the various types of softshell jackets is crucial for building successful commercial ranges or selecting the most appropriate outdoor garments for your activities. While hardshell jackets focus on maximum protection from the elements, softshell jackets balance wind protection, water-resistance, breathability, and range of motion. This balance of function is one of the reasons softshell jackets are so popular. Additionally, the softshell category has been one of the most rapidly expanding. This variety and expanding constructions, weights, fabrics, and features have been designed for a range of activities, performance requirements, and conditions. This guide provides information on the different types of softshell jackets, what the features and construction methods mean, and practical application to help select the right softshell jacket.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What is Unique About Softshell Jackets?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Before exploring the different softshell types, it is important to understand the softshell category and what separates it from other jackets. The construction of softshell fabrics is a composite construction. This is typically a bonded fleece or jersey knit and stretch outer woven and bonded.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As a result, softshell jackets typically do not require a mid-layer. They are designed to move better with your body than conventional shells do. Consisting of a softshell fabric, these jackets combine all the previously discussed properties with highly breathable insulation. This fabric is not only more breathable than standard hardshells, but also stretches and thus, allows more freedom of movement. The fleece lining allows softshell jackets to be warm enough on their own for moderately cool weather. No mid-layer is required.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It is also essential to understand the limitations of softshell jackets. As previously mentioned, softshell jackets, like all other water-resistant jackets, are not entirely waterproof. Because of this, a hardshell jacket is a better choice for prolonged, heavy rain. As a result, softshell jackets are better for mostly dry to very lightly wet weather where breathability and stretch are more important than their relatively low waterproofing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The choice between softshell and hardshell, really comes down to the intensity of the activity and the expected weather conditions. In hardshells, breathability and movement are greatly restricted, but absolute waterproofing is achieved. In lightweight, variable weather softshells are optimum, but for prolonged heavy rain or very extreme alpine conditions, hardshells are imperative. Understanding this choice is important for both the designer and the consumer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Different Types of Softshell Jackets and Their Uses<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Each type of softshell jacket is tailored for a certain level of activity, weather, and performance. It is also positioned differently in the outdoor apparel market. Because of these factors, the softshell category offers brands a great business opportunity for versatile outdoor apparel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Softshell Jackets for Active Users<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Active softshell jackets are designed to be breathable and lightweight, perfect for sustaining activities like running that create lots of body heat and sweat. They have thin, stretchy jackets (200-280 GSM) and have little to no insulation to combat body heat.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Active softshell jackets also have close, flexible fits to the body and little to no exterior features. They are best for high pace activities like trail running, ski touring and cycling.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

They also have a wide market for many different activities, making them the first jacket of a technical outdoor apparel line. If you are looking for active softshell jackets, check out our softshell jackets manufacturing<\/a> to see what we can offer and to contact our team.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Softshell Jackets with Insulation<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

These types of softshell jackets have an added layer of insulation. They also have a bonded fleece inner to offer more warmth, in addition to the wind resistance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

More versatile when it comes to varying temperature ranges, they are heavier than the active softshell jacket. Therefore, they are suitable for moderately active people in the cool to cold outdoors, such as people who are winter hiking, cold weather camping, working outdoors in the cold, and those who spend the day at ski resorts. Insulated softshells are great at keeping you warm when you are inactive, and they also help prevent overheating when you are moderately active.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Insulated softshells can also help reduce the number of layers needed. From a consumer perspective, this jacket can serve the purpose of both a mid-layer and an outer layer. Because of this versatility and purpose, our team of outdoor jackets manufacturing<\/a> specialists are excited to produce a wide range of styles for this softshell jacket. We encourage you to reach out about your unique product ideas and requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Windproof Softshell Jackets<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Windproof softshell jackets are designed to provide wind blockage. To achieve this, they utilize a face fabric that is woven tightly and a windproof membrane which provides a treatment that allows for no penetration of cold air through the jacket, even during long exposure to wind and wind chill.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Windproof softshells are an excellent choice for outdoors activities where the main challenge is wind chill, and rain is not as much of a concern. Because of this, softshell jackets that are windproof use a fabric that is more rigid than the fabric found in active softshells. Because of this change, there is a trade off of a little bit of stretch and breathability. However, this trade off allows for a better ability to block wind.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Windproof softshell jackets can serve as the outer layer in a clothing system with a base layer and mid-layer fleece. In this system, a softshell jacket completes the system with the ability to block wind, resist light precipitation, and is much lighter and less rigid than a full hard shell jacket.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Stretch Softshells<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Stretch softshells can be made to have as much freedom of movement as a high elastane jacket. Stretch softshells can be made with four-way stretch fabric. Stretch softshells are made to be used on technical pursuits, like climbing, mountaineering, ski racing, and fast running.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because stretch softshells are made with some of the most advanced fabric constructions, they often have a high price point. Stretch properties are made with elastane in both the warp and weft directions of the face fabric. As a result, the fabric does not lose its elasticity after repeated use.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Stretch softshells are the best options to use for climbing and alpine outerwear. If you are looking to develop stretch softshells for technical outdoor apparel, reach out to our manufacturing team to help you with your design.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Softshells for Skiing and Snow Sports.<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Like softshells, ski softshell jackets have ski specific construction and design like helmet compatible hoods, powder skirts, sleeve pass pockets, and articulated design for ski movement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ski softshells also have softshells and fabrics for heavier and thicker softshells, around 320 to 400 GSM. They have better wind and weather resistance and insulation than lighter softshells. These softshells are great for resort skiing, freestyle skiing, and ski touring for moderate weather conditions. These softshells are better than a full hardshell which can be too heavy and restrictive for the conditions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We cover all production steps of ski specific softshells from fabric selection to bulk production in our ski wear manufacturing<\/a> services. Contact us to make your ski outerwear designs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hiking softshell jackets provide the breathability needed for movement and the weather resistance timber hiking requires. They are usually mid-weight and range from 260 to 320 GSM.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hiking softshell jackets have useful design features for the trails like, many pockets, hoods and hems that can be adjusted, articulated elbows, and design that allows for a natural range of movement. These softshells for hiking systems and provide the outer layer that helps the system to the elements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If your hiking or trekking outerwear brand needs support with hiking apparel manufacturing, we can help you with every step of the process from the creation of the tech pack to the manufacturing of garments in bulk and the finishing step of quality control.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Urban and Lifestyle Softshell Jackets<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Urban and lifestyle softshell jackets integrate softshell technology into fashion-oriented designs with refined shapes, a minimalist approach to design, and hues that fit urban and outdoor color palettes. These jackets can easily fit the city or the outdoors and provide softshell construction protection from the wind and light precipitation.
Urban softshell jackets have a wider market appeal than strictly technical outdoor jackets. These jackets serve customers who prefer the style of urban apparel to outdoor apparel, but want the protection and comfort that urban softshell jackets provide. The lifestyle softshell market is growing due to the merging of outdoor performance design and daily wear apparel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Venturing Into New Markets<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When it comes to softshell jackets, here are a few features that impact their performance and appeal as a product that you should consider.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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  • The weight of the fabric.<\/strong> For active use jackets, the fabric should weigh between 200 and 280 GSM. For hiking softshell jackets, the weight should be in the range of 280 to 320 GSM and for ski softshell jackets, 320 to 400 GSM.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Stretch.<\/strong> For general outdoor use, a softshell fabric with 2-way stretch is adequate. For technical climbing applications, 4-way stretch is required.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Wind resistance.<\/strong> Exposed softshell windproof constructions are required for mountain environments. For general outdoor applications, a wind-resistant, DWR softshell is adequate.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Hood Design<\/strong> – With helmet-friendly hoods for skiing and adjustable hoods for hiking and everyday use.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Breathability<\/strong> – Consider breathability ratings for high-intensity activities, as well as more moderate ratings for everyday use.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Insulation<\/strong> – Typically, softshells are uninsulated for high-output active use or bonded fleece\/synthetic insulation for cool, static activities.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Pockets<\/strong> – Can be tailored with hand pockets, chest pockets, or specific pass pockets for ski use.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
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    Building a Softshell Jacket Range for Your Outdoor Brand<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
    \"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

    The range of softshell fabrics provides a huge opportunity for outdoor brands to play in the softshell space as they can cover a number of customer segments and activities from just one product category. Softshell jackets generally have a good cost of manufacture to sale price ratio, making them a good addition to any active or outdoor brand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Softshells pack a lot of versatility and when combined with complementary products, create a system of jackets for all of the conditions encountered outdoors. These can be combined with windbreakers for lightweight, packable coverage or hardshells for the complete range of breathable, weatherproof jackets.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Want to create your own range of softshell jackets? Partner with us for your softshell design, from making your first sample, to bulk jackets delivered to your door.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Conclusion<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

    The range of softshell jackets now covers significant performance and price ranges from active, ultralight softshells for trail running to full, insulated constructions for softshells designed for skiing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Different types of softshell jackets can be built through these distinctions and consumers can choose jackets based on their functional needs and optimal use case.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    If you’re going on an adventure and need a reliable softshell jacket, or you’re a designer and need to develop a new softshell line, knowing the options that are available as well as the purposes that these variations serve, will help you make the best choice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    When you are ready to develop your softshell jackets, check the complete softshell jackets manufacturing options and contact to start the process now.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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    FAQs<\/h2>\n\n\n
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    What is a softshell jacket and how does it differ from a hardshell?<\/h3>\n
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    Softshell jackets utilize a single fabric layer that stretches, and that fabric offers breathability, light water repellency, and wind resistance. Hardshell jackets prioritize a waterproof and fully sealed fabric, avoiding a stretch and breathability.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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    Are softshell jackets waterproof?<\/strong><\/h3>\n
    \n\n

    Softshell jackets are fabric water repellant, and can only withstand light water. In steady or heavy rain, a hardshell jacket must be utilized.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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    What is the best softshell jacket for skiing?<\/h3>\n
    \n\n

    For comfort while skiing In softshell jackets, look for heavy fabric jackets with built-in hoods that can fit over a helmet, built-in powder skirts, and that offer articulated patterning to allow enhanced freedom of movement.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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    Can softshell jackets replace a mid-layer and outer shell?<\/h3>\n
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    In insulated softshell jackets that are fabric water repellant, a basic outer shell can be combined with a mid-layer and the jacket will suffice in cool to moderately damp climates.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

    Understanding the various types of softshell jackets is crucial for building successful commercial ranges or selecting the most appropriate outdoor garments for your activities. While hardshell jackets focus on maximum protection from the elements, softshell jackets balance wind protection, water-resistance, breathability, and range of motion. This balance of function is one of the reasons softshell […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":19,"featured_media":51201,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"tdm_status":"","tdm_grid_status":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[73],"tags":[],"post_folder":[],"class_list":["post-51162","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-outdoor-apparel-guide"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/ecojersey.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/51162","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/ecojersey.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/ecojersey.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ecojersey.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/19"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ecojersey.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=51162"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/ecojersey.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/51162\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":51203,"href":"https:\/\/ecojersey.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/51162\/revisions\/51203"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ecojersey.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/51201"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/ecojersey.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=51162"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ecojersey.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=51162"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ecojersey.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=51162"},{"taxonomy":"post_folder","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ecojersey.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/post_folder?post=51162"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}