Hiking windy and cold climate is no joke unless you put on a proper outfit that keeps you cozy and warm. This involves a high-quality insulation layer, an outer layer, and a base layer. Some of the best softshell jackets for men are very handy because the outer layer gives protection as well as some insulation against the wind and cold weather.
Softshell jackets are made to give the ideal combination of climate breathability and protection for vigorous activities in an icy climate. They are very comfortable and breathable, unlike hardshell jackets. This implies that softshell jackets are best for high yield vigorous activities where your whole body is functioning heavily and producing much moisture and warmth.
They are a luxurious and specialized kind of attire. In case you are developing your outerwear gear stockpile, we surmise that a great number of people should put resources into a genuine waterproof layer like that of a hardshell jacket, insulated jacket, and a rain jacket before getting softshell jackets.
Softshell jackets are more breathable and comfortable than waterproof layers, however, they are actually suited for a minimum set of technical exercises and climate conditions.
Our Top Picks
| Product Name | Material | Weight | Best Use | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The North Face Apex Bionic 2 | Shell: 96% polyester, 4% elastin | 1.5 lb | Casual use, Ice climbing, Winter hiking, Multisport | Check price on Amazon |
| Patagonia Adze Hybrid | Polyester, Softshell textile on wind flap and inner collar | 1.4 lb | Hiking, Mountaineering, Trekking, Backpacking | Check price on Amazon |
| Outdoor Research Ferrosi | 86% Nylon, 9% Spandex for Shoulders and Lower Sleeves, 14% Spandex for Body and Hood | 0.68 lb | Climbing, Hiking, Skiing | Check price on Amazon |
| Mountain Hardwear Fairing | Polyester, Elastin | 1.6 lb | Climbing, Hiking, Trekking, Backpacking | Check price on Amazon |
| Rab Vapour Rise Lite Alpine | Pertex innovation Equilibrium textile | 0.38 lb | Skiing, Hiking, Trekking, Mountaineering | Check price on Amazon |
| Black Diamond Dawn Patrol LT | 95% nylon, 5% elastin | 1.1 lb | Running, hiking, walking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and biking | Check price on Amazon |
| Arcteryx Gamma MX | Mid-weight Fortius 2.0 softshell textile | 2 lb | Climbing, hiking, biking, skiing, mountaineering | Check price on Amazon |
Features to Consider Before Buying
Finding a favorite softshell jacket is always by luck. Purchasing your new favorite softshell jacket for this fall, or the warm top you will wear beneath everything this winter, require more strategy. When you are considering whether this type of a jacket is good for you, you need to consider the following features:
Material
It is the responsibility of a softshell jacket to give great warmth and also security against light rain and the wind while being light, breathable, comfortable and relatively fast-drying.
Softshell jackets often comprise of two textiles that are attached together; a woven face textile and a polyester wool textile. The face textile is usually treated with fluorocarbon-based solid DWR covering which attaches to the outside of the fabric.
However, because of the DWR coating, the face textile repels the moisture instead of engrossing it. A DWR coating does not lessen the breathability of the textile, but rather DWR-treated textile can only resist moisture for brief time frames.
There are some softshell jackets that feature a wind resisting membrane together with DWR treated face textile. Wind-resisting layers differ from breathable/ waterproof layers by having larger micropores. So, they don’t diminish the breathability like breathable/ waterproof layers do, but they do not offer enough security against the rain.
The polyester wool textiles in softshell rain jackets are normally thin. They give protection by catching the body-warmed air inside their fibers. Besides, they also wick the water outwards so as to keep the inward layers near the skin warm and dry.
Weight
A softshell jacket for climbing should be lightweight in order not to delay you on your hiking trip.
Softshell jackets have much weight-to-warmth proportion unlike both rain jackets and fleece jackets, but they also give better solace and breathability.
Pockets
Since softshell jackets are put on as an external layer, they should be furnished with fitted pockets. This enables you to keep your important items where you can easily get them.
Wind and Water Resistance
One reason that individuals hesitate in purchasing a softshell is that it does not have the security you require from a hardshell or rain regarding waterproofing. However, with a strong water repellent covering (DWR) to globule up and shed water, and an intense external fabric, most jackets of this type can deal with wind blasts or light rain shower fine and dandy.
Furthermore, various top softshells, utilize Windstopper textile, which makes an extraordinary showing with regards to keeping you secured. Sustained dampness will advance through most of these jackets, since they don’t have a waterproof membrane and seam taping.
Layering
Your softshell jacket is expected to be worn over any other layers. When you are at the clothing store, try and put the jacket on over a mid-layer and base layer. Watch, if your movement is not restricted. The perfect softshell coat ought to be sufficiently roomy to accommodate additional layers easily.
Softshell jackets are intended to breathe while you are moving. Lamentably, this can keep your body cold when resting. In winter climate, you will have to combine your softshell jacket with a protected layer when you enjoy a reprieve. Attempt this combination ahead of time to affirm that you will be sufficiently warm amid your rest stops.
Stretch woven or membrane
There are two main types of softshell jackets, these are: Stretch woven and membrane. What makes the two different from each other? The stretch woven have a tendency to be the most lightweight and breathable softshell jackets. But, they are less weatherproof.
They ordinarily come covered with a strong water repellent (DWR) solution. After some time, DWR treatment will deteriorate and will have to be applied again.
The membrane jackets have a layer covered within the two fabric layers. This membrane provides wind and water resistance, but also decreases breathability. This softshell jacket type has a tendency to be less effective at wicking off the water.
Insulation
There are some jackets of this type that feature a fleece lining. This lining is insulated and it makes them warmer. On the off chance that you hike in the cold, this may be an ideal option for you.
If you are planning on hiking in warmer weather, you might need to settle for a non-insulated one. Keep in mind that, you can simply match your softshell jacket with a couple of removable mid layers and base layers.
The Most Wanted Softshell Jackets on The Market
Check out the following reviews on some of the top softshell jacket models to get when planning for your next hiking exercise, or any other event.
The North Face Apex Bionic 2
Price: $67 – $180
Weight: 1.5 pounds
Dimension: 19 x 2 x 14 inches
Specific features: Smooth upgraded plan; shell: 96% polyester, 4% elastin; windproof and water-repellent; back: 100% polyester; lightweight climate assurance; ideal for breezy climate; made in longer lengths; tall sizes; napoleon mid-section take; stand up neckline; full zip construction
Best use: Casual use, ice climbing, winter hiking, multisport
Description: The North Face Apex Bionic 2 is consistently the user most loved to layer with this season because it has a water-resistant and waterproof plan including a soft fleece coating. Wear this amazing jacket over your most loved TNF hoodies for extra warmth.
This Jacket is a definitive all-around jacket for breezy as well as icy climate. It is built with the North Face’s WindWall textile. These incredible mechanical elements make a definitive soft shell coat with a downy backer.
This rain jacket keeps up a comfortable level of breathability for complete-body security against the components. Regardless of if it is raining, slushy, windy or snowy; you will remain warm and dry when layering in this softshell Jacket.
There are two coated zip hand pockets and in addition a Napoleon mid-section pocket for adequate storage place while in a hurry. Finish with an outstanding neckline together with a full-zip construction, this softshell jacket is an awesome layering choice for any person in this season.
PROS:
- Very durable
- Very water and wind resistant
- Comes in many colors
CONS:
- Wrist closures are awkward
- Boxy fit
- Not very mobile
Related: The producer of this softshell jacket also make The North Face Bones Beanie. So if you need a durable, acrylic and slim-fitting beanies for added warmth during cold weathers, then you can check it out. A perfect match for your softshell jacket!
Patagonia Adze Hybrid Jacket
Price: $150 – $200
Weight: 1.4 pounds
Dimension: 16 x 13 x 3 inches
Specific features: Polyester, softshell textile on wind flap and inner collar, zipper closure, flat cinch, modified variable conditions cuff
Best use: Hiking, mountaineering, trekking, backpacking
Description: This Patagonia Adze Hybrid Jacket welcomes you to hike decisively just like an immaculate rope length of climbing with simply enough security. The front, top, and back of the arms are secured against the wind and cold with a Polyester textile that is lightly protected by a warm, comfortable and wicking wool matrix backer.
However, low-mass, unlined, stretchy, twofold weave, softshell boards now, keep running up the sides, below the arms and down into the smooth, and the modified variable conditions cuff, offering upgraded versatility and breathability. Zippers cover the two hand-warmer pockets and the inside midsection pocket. The no-cluster stitch conforms to a rope inside the hand-warmer pockets. The coat has a durable water repellent wrap up.
This softshell jacket is made of the high-caliber Polartec Windblock fabric, which comprises of an abrasive-proof external layer, a micro-porous permeable membrane and insulating internal layer. The micro-porous, permeable membrane blocks water and wind, but enables dampness to evaporate from within. In this way, the softshell jacket gives extraordinary security against weather yet in the meantime offers great breathability.
PROS:
- Durability
- Great fabric
- Comfort
- Warm
- Mobile
- Fleece lining is comfortable
- Fantastic wrist sleeves
CONS:
- Little zipper on the chest pocket
- Not very breathable
- A bit weighty
- Bulky
- Too warm for intense exercises
Related: Extend the life of your favorite softshell jacket, fleece, work wear, rain gear or other garments with the Gear Aid ReviveX Wash-In Waterproofing. Just pre-wash with this waterproofing agent, add a little (one ounce) to your washing machine or sink and tumble dry.
Outdoor Research Ferrosi Hoody
Price: $97 – $140
Weight: 11 ounces
Dimensions: 25 x 16 x 4 inches
Specific features: 86% nylon, 9% spandex for shoulders and lower sleeves, 14% spandex for body and hood, interior chin guard, profoundly breathable body, scraped resistant shoulders, flexible hood
Best use: Climbing, hiking, skiing, biking
Description: The Outdoor Research Ferrosi Hoody works like magic. It is never excessively hot yet often obstructs light rain and the wind. The breathable soft-shell construction gives stretch for sleek touch and movement, scraped spot resistance in harsh and rough snow capped and rock surroundings.
This jacket is perfect for daybreak to sunset climbing goals or skiing. It is quite easy to see the reason as to why the Ferrosi has turned into the preference of most users.
Here is the remark of a user concerning Ferrosi Hoody jacket “I utilize this coat most of the time when ice climbing, running, cycling, climbing, hiking, and all. I bought a hotter hardshell and softshell, yet this is my most preferred piece. This jacket is a major aspect of my layering framework in the summer or winter.”
This softshell jacket is durable and abrasion resistant, will shut out a decent measure of the components, and has great breathability and stretch. All things considered, it is an extremely flexible piece. You can put on this softshell jacket on a T-shirt in mellow climate and also over a puffy in winter period. This softshell jacket packs down pretty small for a softshell, into its own particular hand pocket.
PROS:
- Durability
- Great fit
- Lightweight
- Superb breathability
- Stretchy
CONS:
- Not very waterproof
- Pockets are covered by hip belts and harnesses
- Lacking insulation/thin
- Hood could be bigger
Related: Need a perfect match glove for your softshell jacket, then you can check out the Outdoor Research Stormtracker Glove. The streamlined profile of the glove allows for stunning breathability, remarkable ability and unprecedented tactility.
Mountain Hardwear Fairing Jacket
Price: Approx. $120
Weight: 1.6 pounds
Dimension: 22 x 17 x 2 inches
Specific features: Polyester, elastane, zipper closure, breathable, windproof innovation, body shell created with airshield softshell and also with tricot backer, inside a tricot lining
Best use: Climbing, hiking, trekking, backpacking
Description: Be prepared for the coldest condition comprehensible, in this softshell from Mountain Hardwear. This Mountain Hardwear Fairing Jacket is produced using AirShield Softshell and also with Tricot Backer.
This is a technologically progressed windproof jacket which highlights a taunt style neckline for additional warmth all through the neck. This Fairing softshell jacket from Mountain Hardwear makes you dry and warm while looking incredible anyplace.
Treated with durable water repellant (DWR), this softshell jacket gives rain resistance. Since the fabric is relatively slim, the softshell jacket dries quick and efficiently wick off the dampness to the outside. This softshell jacket features two zippered hand pockets, discreet hood, zippered chest pocket and a flexible hem.
The zippered hand pockets are compatible with climbing harness and the hood fits firmly so as to give great insulation. The hem is adjustable by utilizing just a single hand. The amazing softshell jacket is really the best for the individuals who require a lightweight softshell jacket for their mountaineering and hiking trips.
PROS:
- Useful hood
- Lightweight
- Water-resistant
- Breathability
- Mock style collar
- Hand and chest pockets
- Interior lining
- Soft and stretchable
- Dries fast
CONS:
- Sleeves run long
- Low insulation
Related: Need a good waterproofing agent for your softshell jacket, rain jackets and other garments? If yes, then you can check out the Gear Aid ReviveX Durable Waterproofing Spray. This waterproofing agent restores water repellency without reducing the breathability. Just wash your garment, spray it and tumble dry!
Rab Vapour Rise Lite Alpine Jacket
Price: $250 – $280
Weight: 6.1 ounces
Dimension: 4 x 1 x 3 inches
Specific features: Pertex innovation equilibrium technology external textile, customizable hood with wired pinnacle and kitty nip roll down closure, wicking micro fleece drop liner, 2 ykk zipped napoleon mid-section pockets, velcro innovation sleeves and stitch drawcord, 1 YKK zipped interior pocket, slim fit
Best use: Skiing, hiking, trekking, mountaineering
Description: This lightweight, Rab Vapour Rise Lite Alpine Jacket, utilizes Pertex innovation Equilibrium textile and lightweight tricot lining. The jacket is weather-resistant and amazingly breathable.
The Pertex Equilibrium external textile, when consolidated with the lightweight tricot lining, allows you to have a jacket that is water and wind resistant and that gives phenomenal water management that dehydrates rapidly and keeps up a comfortable working surrounding.
This jacket has features such as a rucksack and saddles well-disposed pockets, a helpful under-helmet hood that is subtle when not being used, a two-way front zip and a drawcord hem and cuffs that are adjustable. These features make this jacket a perfect all round mountain coat.
Looking like a brawny ski shell, this softshell jacket is specifically made for icy climate, high elevation trips. The UK-based outdoor gear producer has established its location among the alpine and climbing community, and they have custom-made this amazing softshell jacket for the ski mountaineering lovers specifically.
With a thick shell, moldable brim, ski helmet-friendly hood and trim fit, they have definitely checked all the essential boxes. This softshell jacket even incorporated a zippered hand pocket, which is a typical feature on ski coats for reserving your lift pass.
PROS:
- Fantastic option for skiers
- Ski helmet-friendly hood
- Durable
- Breathable
- Waterproof
CONS:
- Expensive
- Heavy
Related: if you want a perfect fit glove for your softshell jacket, then you can check out the Outdoor Research Alti Mitts. Stay warm, focused and secured on the hike in the Alti Mitts.
Black Diamond Dawn Patrol LT
Price: $130 – $140
Weight: 1.1 pounds
Dimension: 23 x 16 x 1 inches
Specific features: A sturdy, stretchy and moderate softshell jacket, customizable, perfect helmet hood, zippered mid-section and hand pockets, materials: 95% nylon, 5% elastin; water resistant, velcro sleeves, drawcord hem, stretch-woven softshell fabric
Best use: Running, hiking, walking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and biking
Description: There is nothing more adorable than a softshell with “LT”. Most people enjoy stuffing as light as would be prudent so they value it when a jacket is customized to their necessities. This amazing Black Diamond Dawn Patrol LT is a decent case.
It is made of water repellent Stretch-woven nylon with an incline, athletic fit. The helmet hood is compatible and movable, the inside media pocket is compatible with a mini-radio player, and the hand pockets are also compatible. Generally, this softshell jacket is you-compatible.
This softshell jacket is really a Light-to-Midweight, versatile softshell that is best for quick paced exercise in a chilly climate. The jacket shows its stuff moving quickly over zero and underneath 40 degrees. Just like any other softshell jacket, it is not appropriate for frigid cold or pouring rain because of the absence of the hood and it has low insulation.
However, for almost every aerobic exercise you can ever do in cold climate, such as Running, hiking, walking, Snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and biking, it can really be an awesome buddy. We recommend this softshell jacket as a general-use jacket for vigorous exercises of all kinds in cold climate.
PROS:
- Great style
- Restrained, nifty features
- Super water resistant
- Slim, athletic fit
- Great breathability
CONS:
- Minor cuff durability problem
- Cuff douse through easily
Related: if you need a technical high-performing cleaner for your softshell jacket and other garments, then you can check out the Granger’s Performance Wash for Outerwear. Cleans, evacuates odors and enhances breathability.
Arcteryx Gamma MX
Price: $224 – $300
Weight: 2 pounds
Dimension: 8 x 11 x 10 inches
Specific features: Mid-weight Fortius 2.0 softshell textile, highly breathable shell material, full-length vislon front zipper with soft brushed-lined neckline, hem drawcord can be acclimated to seal out the icy, two hand, and chest pockets with zippers, zipper garages, laminated sleeve pocket
Best use: Climbing, hiking, biking, skiing, mountaineering
Description: This Arcteryx Gamma MX is one of the best softshell available on the market. Everything this jacket puts out is of the most astounding quality. This amazing softshell l uses fortius 2.0 textiles to accomplish the ideal balance of flexibility, style, and basic protection.
The fact that the jacket sheds rain, wind and still gives warmth are just bonuses. Whatever you require, this softshell is able to fit them.
If you are always fun of chasing the cold, then this softshell jacket will be your ideal winter buddy. It cuts blowing snow and wind like a champ and gives great touch of warmth to keep you comfortable as the temperatures fall. The wool lining could be either a benefit or a hindrance to this softshell jacket contingent on your expected use.
For cold exercises, numerous reviewers acknowledged the additional warmth. However, this likewise made the coat pointless in the late spring. As the fabric incorporates elastin filaments, the softshell jacket offers incredible stretch and consequently does not restrict you while doing more intense tasks such as climbing.
PROS:
- Great design
- Incredible stretch
- Functionality
- Durability
- Pretty mobile
- Hood fits well
- Comfortable
CONS:
- Bulky
- Too many pockets
- Too warm for intense aerobic exercises
Related: Need a perfect match glove for your softshell jacket, then you can check out the Outdoor Research Stormtracker Glove. The streamlined profile of the glove allows for stunning breathability.
Concluding Thoughts
That ends our post on the best soft shell jackets for men. Here we chose and explored some amazing softshell jackets as of now available so as to make your purchasing decision quite easy. We have provided all the information you might need to acquire the right jacket to meet your desire.
We observe these to be great layers of oxygen-consuming exercises in chilly conditions. The softshell jackets consolidate shifting levels of breathability, solace and weather resistance into just a piece. They are very good when your body is functioning hard and bringing out a great deal of warmth and sweat.
Besides, the enhanced breathability of these softshell jackets over hardshell jackets, makes them a great deal more comfortable. Just In case you have any other great product in mind that you think we missed, you can leave a comment below.
Can wear this almost everyplace. Light in weight, cozy and keeps me warm when needed . It is super light though surprisingly tough and has the perfect amount of stretch. It is definitely the most serviceable and my go-to choice. Great for both hiking and everyday use.
There’s a lot of softshell jackets for men nowadays that it’s getting harder to pick just one, don’t you agree? On my last birthday, I received a North face softshell jacket and boy, it was incredible. It’s waterproof and that makes it tops on my book. I love a good looking jacket and this one fit the bill quite nicely!
The Patagonia Adze Hybrid Jacket has very high quality material and a nice fit. It is durable, lightweight, good in cold weather and does not take up too much space in my backpack. I have used it on the last two camping trip and it was great.
I think most people love the softshell jackets we have in the market because they are affordable. They also are versatile and gives you the flexibility to layer it up or use it as a standalone gear. The Patagonia Adze looks great, too!
I want to get a nice coat for running and I think the Black Diamond Dawn Patrol LT will be a nice pick. I like that it has the adjustable, helmet compatible hood, drawcord hem, and Velcro cuffs because I am fond of going outdoors for morning runs and it is about to get even colder than it is already. I believe that these features will allow me to seal out the cold weather to keep you comfortable during my workout.
We agree!