Why Your Softshell Shouldn't Be Waterproof Media
Published: 4 days ago
A softshell that claims to be waterproof doesn't breathe, so you end up baking in your own steam like a potato in foil. A proper softshell breathes, lets the heat out and dries fast after a soaking.
So what should a proper softshell have? Windproof fabric and a water-repellent treatment that handles light rain. Ventilation zippers that let out extra heat on the move. A hood and a high collar so you can zip up and stay warm out of the wind when you stop. And enough room underneath for warm layers, so the same jacket works from cool summer days to winter.
If you carry a pack or wear a plate carrier, check the details too. Raglan sleeves keep the straps from chafing your shoulders, and pocket zippers on the sides stay out of the way of your chest rig.
For proper rainy weather when you're not moving much, put a hardshell jacket or a rain poncho on top.
A good softshell isn't cheap. But you'll notice the details once you start using it, and chances are it'll be your go-to outdoor jacket and on your body almost all the time.
So what should a proper softshell have? Windproof fabric and a water-repellent treatment that handles light rain. Ventilation zippers that let out extra heat on the move. A hood and a high collar so you can zip up and stay warm out of the wind when you stop. And enough room underneath for warm layers, so the same jacket works from cool summer days to winter.
If you carry a pack or wear a plate carrier, check the details too. Raglan sleeves keep the straps from chafing your shoulders, and pocket zippers on the sides stay out of the way of your chest rig.
For proper rainy weather when you're not moving much, put a hardshell jacket or a rain poncho on top.
A good softshell isn't cheap. But you'll notice the details once you start using it, and chances are it'll be your go-to outdoor jacket and on your body almost all the time.