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We put top softshell jackets from brands like Patagonia, Arc'teryx, Outdoor Research, Rab, and others to the test in different types of terrain and through all possible weather conditions.
Credit: Kate Pitts
By Zach Lovell ⋅ Review Editor ⋅ Updated June 2, 2025
Fans of year-round adventure activities like hiking, climbing, running, or skiing are always on the hunt for the unicorn of all layers: breathable weather protection. Enter the softshell jacket. Although you won't find the highest level of weather resistance in a softshell, it can be enough to keep you dry during short spells of rain, and I find them infinitely more comfortable once the sweat picks up. The GearLab team has been testing softshell jackets since 2011; in that time, we've collectively worn over 150 different models. I've gone from the backcountry trails and snowy peaks of Colorado to remote crags and glacial valleys of the Sierra Nevada to assess weather protection, breathability, mobility, and versatility.
The best softshell is the Arc'teryx Gamma Hoody. Our women's test team loves the women's version of the Gamma and I, along with other men on our test team, feel the same about the men's Gamma. I appreciate this jacket for its incredible breathability, weather protection, and mobility. However, I know not everyone can (or is willing to) splurge on Arc'teryx. Both test teams also loved the men's Rab Borealis and the women's Borealis, which is a fraction of the price of the Gamma. Although it's not as weather resistant, it is still very breathable and has a cut that offers a great range of motion.
Editor's Note: We updated this review on June 2, 2025, to add specific recommendations on who each jacket would be best for based on our testing experience with each model.
Who this is best for: The Arc'teryx Gamma Hoody is a versatile, reliable layer that is a good option for those who have a multisport repertoire, including climbing, hiking, backcountry skiing, or even boating on windy days. I compared opinions among the testing team, and we unanimously agree it's a great all-around option, thanks to its ability to offer the right amount of weather protection without getting too stuffy, which can be a hard balance to strike. If you're often moving between varying weather conditions and want a softshell that can adapt to the elements and physical output, this jacket is a solid pick.
Why we love it: This hoody delivers exceptional comfort and features solid construction that stands up to the elements and is characteristic of Arc'teryx garments. It provides decent protection from cold and rain, and I especially appreciate having it in my pack during surprise storms. While it's not bulletproof by any standards, the StormHood and adjustable hem go a long way in protecting me from mild wind and precipitation. The design is also easy to layer, whether you want to add an insulating jacket underneath or a more stormproof jacket overtop. Lastly, I love the aesthetic appeal. Arc'teryx's signature paneling creates a sleek, tailored look that I appreciated almost as much as the performance.
Should you buy it? While the Arc'teryx Gamma Hoody excels in many ways, its slim, athletic fit might not suit everyone. You may need to size up if you prefer a roomier fit, and especially if you plan to layer heavily. The lack of an exterior chest pocket is a small feature I miss. Opening the main zipper to access the interior pocket means losing warmth and potentially letting the weather in. However, there are two exterior hand pockets that can work in a pinch. At the end of the day, the Gamma is the jacket I most often toss in my bag when I'm not sure what to expect for the day. Though it's on the pricier side, the durability, comfort, and year-round utility make it well worth the cost.
Number of Pockets: 2 exterior hand, 1 interior chest | Measured Weight: 17.3 oz (S)
Which Gamma Model is Right for You?
The Arc'teryx Gamma line has three different options that can be confusing to sift through. This model, the Gamma Hoody, is the midweight option that blends weather resistance and breathability and serves as an all-arounder for varied conditions. The lightest version in the series is the Gamma Lightweight Hoody, which is excellent when it comes to breathability but will have even less weather protection than its heavier sibling. The best warmth and water protection is going to come from the heaviest option in the collection, the Gamma MX, which is also the least breathable.
We greatly appreciated the performance of the Arc'teryx Gamma Hoody, which delivers all around, though its slimmer fit may be trickier to size.
Who this is best for: If you need a jacket that can handle a wide range of conditions and activities, the Women's Arc'teryx Gamma Hoody is one of the best options you'll find. Whether you're hiking, climbing, ski touring, or just heading into town, this softshell offers the right blend of technical performance and everyday wearability. The goldilocks combination of breathability, wind resistance, and freedom of movement found in the Gamma makes it one of my favorite jackets. I find it particularly well-suited for cooler alpine conditions where you will encounter wind and moisture, whether in the form of precipitation or sweat.
Why we love it: This jacket impressed everyone on the testing team with its outstanding balance of comfort, technical features, and weather protection. The abrasion-resistant Wee Burley fabric provides excellent durability and an impressive amount of mobility. The breathable mesh lining and cinchable and helmet-compatible hood ensure temperature regulation and coverage that works over (or under) almost any additional layers, making it a key piece to use in varied environments, especially in cooler alpine settings. Thoughtful touches like the flattering silhouette and harness-compatible pockets are just the cherry on top of this softshell.
Should you buy it? The Gamma Hoody comes with a higher price tag and is relatively heavier than some other options, which may give some buyers pause, as weight and price are often two of the main considerations when buying a technical jacket. The fixed cuffs may also be a deterrent, as you can't adjust them to cinch down around your glove. That said, this jacket's ventilation, comfort, and fit are incredible, and I reach for the Gamma on a near-daily basis. If you're looking for a dependable softshell that performs well across multiple activities and seasons, and can even crossover into casual-wear, the Gamma Hoody stands out as a highly capable and stylish choice.
Number of Pockets: 2 exterior hand | Measured Weight: 15.05 oz (XS)
The Borealis was updated since our test period. It now features two zippered hand pockets instead of chest pockets, and a large percentage of its fabrics are recycled. It also now uses a PFC-free DWR coating.
Who this is best for: The Rab Borealis is a relatively lightweight softshell that has great breathability augmented by thoughtful ventilation features, and would be a great choice for people looking for a layer that prioritizes moisture management over weather protection. It is offered at a more accessible price than many premium options, but I was still impressed with its overall performance, so it is a good option for active users on a budget. The minimalist design works well, and the comfortable fit makes it ideal for a wide range of activities, from high-output climbs to day hikes, and it even works well in casual urban outings. Because it's a much lighter, thinner fabric, it's better suited for those who prioritize comfort and breathability on warmer days or during intense efforts.
Why we love it: I was impressed with the Rab Borealis for its exceptional breathability, and my fellow testers agreed. Thanks to Rab's Matrix fabric, the jacket manages to almost never feel stuffy, and the chest pockets have a mesh backing that offers additional ventilation when unzipped if you need it. The jacket allows for full freedom of movement without bunching, whether worn with a harness or under a backpack. I also appreciated its sleek look, which transitions seamlessly from trail to town. Overall, it's a lightweight, versatile layer that delivers strong performance without breaking the bank.
Should you buy it? Despite the many pros of the Borealis, there are a few things you should note before making a purchase. By nature, such a breathable fabric doesn't offer much by way of water resistance, and the lack of hood or sleeve adjustability may be limiting for some users who are looking for more storm protection. That said, its quick-drying fabric helps mitigate the downside of getting wet, and the lightweight build makes it easy to carry as part of a layering system. Just make sure to bring extra layers, like a hardshell jacket, if you're expecting heavy rain or wind. All told, these are limitations I was happy to work around during my testing, and the Borealis stands out as a high-value piece of gear.
Number of Pockets: 2 exterior chest | Measured Weight: 9.7 oz (M)
Who this is best for: The Rab Borealis jacket is ideal for active women seeking a lightweight, highly breathable softshell. It is so breathable, in fact, that I used it for both sun and wind protection. It's perfect for climbing, hiking, especially in variable (but dry) conditions where freedom of movement and breathability are key. Its packability and built-in stuff sack make it easy to keep close at hand on fast-paced or minimalist outings. It doesn't offer the greatest protection against precipitation, so it's not a great fit if you live in an area with a rainy climate.
Why we love it: This softshell stands out for its remarkable ventilation and movement; I was doing alpine yoga in this jacket after summiting. I gave this jacket to a few other reviewers to try out, and all were impressed by the ultra-stretchy, featherweight fabric that provided a barely-there feel during activity, and exceptional freedom of movement for climbing. Its ability to function effectively as both a sun and wind shirt makes it incredibly versatile, and small touches like the jacket-packing pocket for harness attachment are much appreciated bonus features at this price point.
Should you buy it? As I mentioned above, wet weather performance isn't a strong point for the Borealis; its water resistance is limited, and it saturated quickly in our shower test. Still, it dries almost as fast and offers excellent wind and UV protection, making it a reliable layer for dry but breezy days. If rain protection is a concern, you'll want to take a look at one of these women's hardshells. While there are some other models in this review that might provide better all-around protection, the Rab Borealis stands out for delivering above-average performance and exceptional freedom of movement at a price that is accessible for most people.
Number of Pockets: 2 exterior hand | Measured Weight: 7.75 oz (XS)
No matter where and when we used it, our testers loved the freedom of movement the Rab Borealis offered, even if there weren't extraordinary amounts of warmth or weather protection to pair with it.
Decent breathability relative to weather protection
Wide range of motion
REASONS TO AVOID
Lacks a chest pocket
Hood on the smaller side
Potential for fabric bunching
Who this is best for: The Rab Kinetic 2.0 is a softshell that can handle wet weather without breaking a sweat. As always, there is a tradeoff between breathability and weather protection, and the Kinetic errs on the side of protection. It's ideal for hikers, climbers, or multi-day trekkers who anticipate damp conditions but want more mobility than a traditional hardshell, and more breathability than a truly water-proof rain jacket. On me, it has a slightly looser cut, making it a good option when I want to prioritize comfort and freedom of movement. It also leaves room to add layers underneath, which is great if you are active in cooler environments.
Why we love it: The Kinetic 2.0 ranks among the most weather-resistant softshells I've tested, showing minimal water penetration during real-world use in short rain storms and in a controlled “rain” test in the shower. Rab has put a lot of effort into the Kinetic, tweaking and improving the design with each iteration, and it shows. The updated version offers better breathability, helping this jacket strike an impressive balance between storm protection and active performance. The wide range of motion afforded by the looser cut design can be a plus, and adjustable hems and arms allow you to dial in the fit when you need to seal out the weather. After repeated use, this jacket proved dependable and confidence-inspiring on back-to-back trips.
Should you buy it? While the Kinetic shines in many areas, there are a few convenience points that could be better. First, it lacks a chest pocket. While this may seem like a small loss, it is a common feature many users rely on, particularly when wearing a backpack with a hip strap or harness, which renders hand pockets less accessible. The under-helmet hood may also be a drawback for those who prefer an over-helmet hood, but if you're not doing any climbing, you probably aren't wearing a helmet and might appreciate a closer-fitting hood. Lastly, due to the looser cut everywhere else, there is excess fabric which has the potential to bunch up around the abdomen and wrists. However, these minor complaints are mainly fit preferences and do not impact the real draw of this jacket: weather protection. If avoiding moisture (whether from rain or sweat) is your main concern, the Kinetic 2.0 will keep you dry in most scenarios and deserves serious consideration.
Number of Pockets: 2 exterior hand | Measured Weight: 11.6 oz (M)
Who this is best for: The Rab Kinetic 2.0 is the best jacket for women who frequently venture into unpredictable (or predictably rainy) climates. Whether you're alpine climbing, sea kayaking, or hiking in areas known for sudden storms, this jacket is built to keep you dry and comfortable without the clammy feeling that can come with a true rain jacket or the stiffness and bulk of a hardshell. It strikes a great balance of weather protection while still being impressively breathable. However, it is always a tradeoff between the two features, and the Kinetic is best used when you're more worried about moisture from outside rather than inside.
Why we love it: The women's Kinetic 2.0 offers standout wet weather performance, but during testing, I used it in just about any weather conditions and was happy with the overall performance. With a breathable yet waterproofed fabric, taped seams, and impressive wind resistance that holds up in harsh conditions, it's ideal for carrying you through surprise summer storms and windy summits. I love that its stretchy construction supports full mobility, even for high-reach activities like climbing, and a few of my fellow testers praised the plush, breathable interior, and they're right, it feels great against the skin. The snug-fitting hood can be a pro or a con depending on your preferences, but I found it adds another layer of protection, and the small opening effectively shields the face from wind and rain when storms roll in.
Should you buy it? While the Kinetic performs exceptionally in bad weather, but on par with its weather resistance, it isn't the most lightweight, compact, or easy to stow. It lacks a built-in stow-away pocket and doesn't include a clipping feature for harnesses or packs; details that might matter if you're into more technical sports with tight storage options, like rock climbing or paddling. Still, if you want a jacket that offers wet-weather protection closer to what you'd expect to see from a hardshell, but more comfortable, the Kinetic 2.0 remains a standout choice.
Number of Pockets: 2 exterior hand | Measured Weight: 9.30 oz (XS)
Who this is best for: The Patagonia R2 TechFace Hoody is warm, water-resistant, and impressively breathable. With more insulation than what is found in some other models, this is a great softshell to wear in cooler temperatures and transitional seasons. It's particularly well-suited for backpackers, climbers, or even just everyday users who want a cozy sweater-like jacket that brings together comfort and protection. Whether you're out on a hike or simply around town, this jacket delivers dependable performance when temps drop.
Why we love it: Surprisingly, the TechFace Hoody earned one of the best weather protection scores in our testing. It offers top-tier water resistance and excellent breathability-to-warmth ratio. The grid-patterned fleece-lined interior effectively channels moisture away from the body while offering great comfort next to the skin, and the DWR-treated nylon shell kept me almost completely dry even directly under the showerhead in a controlled “rain” test, but it's worth noting that the parts that did get wet took a long time to dry. Lastly, its heat retention makes it a standout for chilly conditions. It's my go-to piece to throw on for all-day comfort and protection, whether I'm on the move or chilling around town.
Should you buy it?The R2 TechFace Hoody excels in warmth and comfort, and has an abundance of pockets, including two interior and two exterior chest pockets, so you don't run out of storage options even when wearing a climbing harness or a backpack with a hip strap. However, it has limited adjustability compared to some other softshells, which may be a drawback for those who want a tailored fit or need more control in variable technical conditions. For example, if you need more adjustability for climbing or skiing, you may want a waist cinch and adjustable cuffs. But if adjustability isn't a deal breaker, the Patagonia R2 remains my favorite jacket to wear in wet, chilly weather.
Number of Pockets: 2 exterior chest, 2 exterior hand, 2 interior | Measured Weight: 17.5 oz (M)
We loved the breathability of the Patagonia R2 TechFace Hoody, with a grid-patterned fleece guiding moisture away from the body. The mobility was also particularly freeing.
Who this is best for: The Patagonia R1 CrossStrata Hoody is an excellent option for women who enjoy active mountain pursuits in shoulder season conditions when the days are a bit cooler. Its lightweight and versatile design makes it perfect for high-output activities like climbing, hiking, or paddling, and the extra insulation makes it warmer than many other softshell options. If you're seeking a breathable yet warm layer that's easy to pack and transition with you from alpine mornings to windy lakeside afternoons, this one's for you.
Why we love it: The CrossStrata Hoody delivers outstanding temperature regulation, thanks to its breathable insulation and cozy fleece lining. The cut is quite comfortable from the start, and the stretchy construction allows for a full range of arm/shoulder mobility (enough for some lakeside yoga). The combination of these two features means that I can wear this jacket when working hard on an ascent or relaxing at the campfire. And the convenience features are nothing to sniff at either. It features an effective pocket design, with two at the chest and two at hip level, that keeps storage options open even when worn in combination with a harness. The hoody doesn't fit well over a helmet, but I appreciated the close-fitting face opening, which kept me comfortable and protected from the wind.
Should you buy it? The CrossStrata does have some limitations. Even though it is insulated, it is still a mid-weight softshell jacket, and is not designed to be used in extreme cold; for that, you may want to check out an insulated jacket. Additionally, it has a slim fit that may not work for everyone, and it lacks the full cuff and waistband adjustability found in more technical outer layers. That said, if the fit works for you, and you're looking for breathable comfort and reliable weather resistance in a sleek, packable form, the CrossStrata Hoody is a stellar choice.
Number of Pockets: 2 exterior hand, 2 exterior chest | Measured Weight: 10.80 oz (XS)
The Patagonia R1 CrossStrata Hoody offers weather protection and an excellent range of motion, plus far better warmth retention than most in its class.
Who this is best for: The Black Diamond Alpine Start Hoody is ideal for anyone prioritizing minimal weight and maximum packability. Whether you're climbing, hiking, or backcountry skiing, this layer is so lightweight that it's hard to find a reason not to toss it in your pack, just in case. It makes it easy to stay prepared without feeling weighed down, and it's especially well-suited for days when wind and light weather threats loom but full-on insulation or rain gear would be overkill.
Why we love it: The Alpine Start stands out for its nearly weightless feel, breathable construction, and impressive freedom of movement. I love how easily it packs into its own pocket, and on climbing days, I would readily clip it to my harness without feeling the added weight or bulk. While it won't keep you dry in a storm, it provides excellent wind protection and outperforms similarly light jackets when skies turn slightly wet. It's a just-right barrier that keeps you moving comfortably without overheating or restricting motion.
Should you buy it? The fit of the Alpine Start Hoody may not be for everyone. It has a looser cut that allows for a full range of motion, but may cause bunching in key areas, and the single chest pocket may not be enough for gear-heavy users. This isn't the softshell for those who need ultimate warmth or weatherproofing. But, in defense of the jacket, that's not what it's made for. It is meant to be a barely-there layer, and in this aspect, it performs well. For how insubstantial it feels, it exceeded my expectations in terms of water resistance and effectively blocked out the breeze in windy conditions. If you're looking for the lightest, most breathable softshell for high-output days in shifting conditions, the Alpine Start Hoody is tough to beat.
Number of Pockets: 1 exterior chest | Measured Weight: 6.9 oz (M)
Who this is best for: The Arc'teryx Gamma Lightweight Hoody is ideal for women who want a technical softshell for fast-and-light adventures in mild to moderate conditions. Whether you're hiking, climbing, or simply trying to travel light without sacrificing weather protection, this piece shines. I personally love to use it for high-output activities in warmer to transitional seasons (when I know I'll work up a sweat). If you need a light-duty combination of breathability, sun protection, and mobility, this is a great choice.
Why we love it: The Gamma Lightweight Hoody delivers an impressive mix of comfort, flexibility, and a surprising amount of abrasion resistance for how insubstantial it feels. The compact package provides decent wind and weather protection relative to its weight, and the Fortius™ 1.0 fabric provides UPF, great stretch, and maintains a breathable and quick-drying feel. Its helmet-compatible hood and streamlined, athletic cut make it a versatile option that transitions well from trail to crag. It's the lightest jacket in the Gamma series, and one of the pricier options in this list, but it manages to hold its own in terms of durability and performance. All told, it lives up to the expectations I have when I make an investment like this.
Should you buy it? This hoody offers fantastic mobility and comfort, and, weighing in at just half a pound, the Gamma Lightweight is great for anyone who is looking for an ultralight jacket to fill that niche. It's not the best option for extended rain or severe weather. Moisture will soak through the fabric after an extended time, and if you need to prepare for heavier precipitation, you'll want to reach for your real rain gear. On the other hand, if every ounce counts and wind/sun protection matters most, the Gamma Lightweight is my top recommendation.
Number of Pockets: 2 exterior hand | Measured Weight: 8.60 oz (XS)
We greatly appreciated the freedom of movement afforded by the Gamma Lightweight Hoody, also offering exceptional breathability.
Credit: GearLab Team
How We Tested
Softshell testing starts just like every category at GearLab, with a thorough evaluation of what's on the market to curate the best possible lineup, seeking to understand all the various branding claims so we can verify them (or call them out) in our tests. Then the rigorous and detailed testing of each product begins. We took these jackets along for activities ranging from early spring crack climbing, chilly ice climbs, and windy days on the paddle board on a high alpine lake. We consider nitpicky details of comfort and usability while wearing each jacket, so we can truly determine which one is the best. Next, we do some more objective testing in a controlled setting to augment our findings with measurable data. We then synthesize and analyze the information to deliver the well-rounded appraisals of the pros and cons of each jacket that you find here.
We assessed the performance of these softshell jackets in 5 key metrics:
Weather Protection
Breathability
Mobility
Weighting
Versatility
We tested every softshell jacket in our review in real world environments, ensuring our testing process was as thorough as possible.
Credit: Kate Pitts
Why Trust GearLab
Our outdoors gear experts are led by wilderness guide Kate Pitts and IFMGA Mountain Guide Zach Lovell. For over a decade, Kate served as a backcountry ranger, educator, and search and rescue professional with the National Park Service in Rocky Mountain National Park, Bryce Canyon, Yosemite, Grand Canyon, and Haleakala. Now a wilderness guide and yoga instructor in Yosemite, she starts her mornings on the mat before embarking on adventures like climbing, ultralight backpacking, or scuba diving. She relies on softshell jackets on a daily basis, whether ascending a windy granite dome in Tuolumne or scrambling a high-alpine ridge.
Our testers are experts in their respective outdoors sports.
Our review team spends countless hours in the great outdoors, making them the ideal athletes to examine softshell jackets.
Our gear reviewers are experts in a variety of outdoor sports, allowing them to test softshell jackets in various settings.
Zach climbs, skis, and guides all over the world, from the arid deserts of the American West to the glaciated peaks of the European Alps. Undoubtedly, his favorite layer is the softshell jacket, which he consistently packs for every climb, ski tour, or hike throughout the year. This versatile garment is essential for Zach, as it provides the right balance of protection and comfort in diverse conditions. Whether facing chilly winds or unexpected weather changes, he relies on his softshell jacket to keep him comfortable and agile in mountainous environments.
Our gear reviewers have taken these softshell jackets far and wide, to some of the largest alpine terrain in the world.
Our review team ensured each jacket was pushed in harsh environments.
Our GearLab team has taken softshell jackets all over the world, from the Himalayas to Patagonia.
The softshell review team also includes Mary Witlacil and Ryan Huetter. Mary is a passionate outdoors enthusiast who particularly enjoys alpine climbing in California and Colorado. When she's not rock climbing, you can find her swinging ice tools, scaling mountains, backpacking, cycling, or simply enjoying the views. After college, Ryan moved from the Pacific Northwest to California's Sierra Nevada and has since climbed globally, including over 20 big wall routes in Yosemite and Fitz Roy in Patagonia. Softshell jackets are an essential part of every tester's gear, a reliable accessory no matter what adventure lies ahead.
Our GearLab team has a keen eye for detail, carefully analyzing every product's performance during weeks of testing.
Every reviewer took detailed notes every step of the testing process.
What it looks like when a group of detail-oriented people turns their keen eyes to softshell jackets for several weeks of intense testing aimed at delivering comprehensive, comparative insights and useful results.
How to Choose the Best Softshell Jacket
Today, the softshell jacket category is pretty loosely defined, including everything from minimalist windbreakers to insulated options that feel like two jackets combined into one. So, the first step in your shopping journey is to determine which type of softshell best suits your needs. I'll begin by discussing layering considerations before exploring the design trade-offs you should keep in mind before making a purchase.
There are many types of softshell jackets available today, but rest easy knowing there's the right option for you and your needs.
Credit: Zach Lovell
Men's Softshell Jackets
I conducted a thorough and exhaustive review of men's softshell jackets, and the following chart summarizes my overall findings, identifying the best softshell options for men.
Women's Softshell Jackets
Our women's review team took on the challenge of honing in on the best softshell jackets for women. The chart below shows the final scores, summarizing which models are considered the top performers among softshell options for women.
How to Layer a Softshell
Softshell jackets are versatile, and I value them especially for their layering applications. Generally, layering decisions are influenced by four key factors: breathability, weather protection, warmth, and fit or cut. Slimmer-fitting jackets are typically worn closer to base layers, while looser options are often used as outer layers and leave more room for insulating layers in between. More breathable softshells are best worn near the skin, with options that ventilate less best serving as outer layers.
There are a variety of ways to layer a softshell jacket, some options like the Arcteryx Gamma Lightweight Hoody are slimmer fitting and best worn closer to the base layers.
Credit: Zach Lovell
Warmth, usually provided by fleece insulation, is generally maximized when worn close to the body, though some may prefer a different approach. Weather protection is ideally placed on the outermost layer, but it's important to note that softshells are limited in their protection compared to hardshells in severe weather conditions. In inclement weather, a hardshell should always be worn over a softshell for optimal protection.
Looser fitting and more weather-resistant softshells are better when worn as an outermost layer, like the Patagonia Dirt Roamer, which is perfect for logging miles on a mountain bike.
Credit: Zach Lovell
Water Resistance, Warmth, and Breathability
As a general rule, I find that when a garment is more breathable, it is also less weather-resistant or warm. No matter the marketing claims tossed about, this is almost invariably the case. Even on high-end garments with increased weather resistance, waterproofing, or insulation features, I expect to see some reduction in breathability to match.
Imagine wearing a trash bag as a jacket. It will probably keep moisture off your inner layers like a champ, which is great and exactly what you want. But if you start moving in that trashbag and begin to sweat, you will soon find this moisture has nowhere to exit and it ends up sitting against your skin, creating a clammy feeling and wetting any absorbent layers from the inside out. It quickly becomes apparent why so many outdoor athletes seek garments with high-performance breathability; without it, things can get hot and sticky really fast. However, too breathable, and your jacket will let in moisture from precipitation, allowing you to get wet anyway. The danger of this, beyond simple discomfort, is that once you are wet, it's very easy to get chilled in alpine conditions, and damp layers should be avoided as much as possible.
Options without insulation are likely to dry more quickly than jackets that do offer insulation, which is commonly fleece in the world of softshells.
Credit: Zach Lovell
This trade-off between breathability and weather protection is a fundamental challenge in outdoor apparel design. Manufacturers strive to balance these competing properties, but it's just as important for consumers to understand that no single garment can excel in all areas simultaneously. For this reason, I recommend taking the time to realistically evaluate your range of activities; the right softshell may mean something very different for different shoppers. Beyond this, before heading out for your next hike/climb/paddle day, asses your specific plans, try to anticipate effort levels, and check the weather.
While it is unlikely to find a waterproof jacket that also boasts incredible breathability, many options find a happy medium between weather resistance and ventilation.
Credit: Kate Pitts
Softshell jackets shouldn't be considered a substitute for genuine hardshell/rain gear when facing more than a brief thunderstorm, nor should they replace proper insulating layers in extremely cold conditions. See our favorite rain jackets and insulated jackets for more severe conditions.
All of our jackets were put through various water resistance testing, and while several offer great protection for shorter periods, a softshell shouldn't replace a true hardshell/rain jacket.
Credit: Zach Lovell
One of the softshell's primary strengths is its breathability. This is ideal for times when you plan to be sweaty in mildly wet or cold environments, where it can provide some warmth and weather protection without feeling like that trash bag I talked about earlier. When choosing a softshell, consider two key questions: What activities will you be doing, and in what climates? Then, determine which layers you plan to use alongside your new softshell. If you have a fleece layer that you take with you everywhere, or live in a warmer climate, you probably don't need an insulated softshell. Alternatively, if you know you will run into some wind or light rain, but nothing worse, you can go with a softshell that prioritizes ventilation and breathability. Otherwise, you'll want to bring a bomber hardshell that you can throw on top of everything if the weather gets nasty.
Do you need a softshell that prioritizes breathability? Or are you recreating in more stormy areas and need something with a bit more water resistance?
Credit: Kate Pitts
Packability and Weight in a Softshell Jacket
Finally, it's essential to evaluate weight. There are some scenarios where every ounce counts, and packability is key, and in these cases, the numbers speak for themselves. We measure the weight of each jacket ourselves to make sure you have accurate numbers to compare. BUT… not everyone needs ultralight everything. For users who mostly stick to day hikes and car-camping type activities, you probably won't notice the extra few ounces and may gain a bit more warmth and weather protection.
No surprise, the bulkiest layers were also typically the heaviest.
Credit: Zach Lovell
We recommend first considering your planned activities and the climates you'll be in, then assessing how much weight matters to you. While warmth and premium weather protection often come with added weight, breathable softshells are relatively lightweight as a whole. It is also important to think through how you will carry extra items when engaged in your activities. Will you have a pack? Will you be storing items at your waist to a belt? Do you need a way to attach the jacket for safekeeping to your body, or can you trust you'll have a pocket to stash it into when needed? Some jackets are designed to stuff easily into their own pockets and may come with an additional loop to make it easy to attach them to a belt or the outside of a pack. This can be very useful, depending on your adventure plans for the day.
Layers that packed down the smallest also typically offered less in the ways of features or weather protection performance.
Credit: Zach Lovell
Conclusion
I am a huge believer in the merits of a great softshell jacket; they are an exceptional class of outdoor garments. They hit that sweet spot of breathability better than any other type of jacket I've worn. The hard part isn't deciding whether you should have one in your layering system, it's choosing which one. Rest easy knowing we've done the hard part for you: testing the market's top models in real-world settings. Now, all you have to do is find the right option for you based on your fit, activity, and carry needs, as well as your budget.
—Zach Lovell, Kate Pitts, Mary Witlacil, and Ryan Huetter
