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Somewhere in between a wind jacket and a rain layer, a softshell is a specialized piece of gear generally intended for outdoor use in dry and windy weather. They offer breathability, wind and water resistance, and a touch of warmth for cool weather.
If you can't swing the price of the Arc'teryx models, check out the Rab Borealis. It's less protective in truly wet weather, but it dries quickly and is exceptionally breathable and comfortable.
We've tested over 65 different women's softshells since 2012, and this review features 9 softshells that cater to a wide range of outdoor activities and needs. We tested these jackets thoroughly while climbing, scrambling, hiking, running, and paddling across the desert southwest, the Rocky Mountains, and the Sierras.
We love the Arc'teryx Gamma Hoody for its exceptional performance and for striking a good balance between stormworthiness, technical features, comfort, and breathability. It offers excellent wind protection and decent water resistance while remaining breathable during aerobic activities in cooler temperatures. We found Arc'teryx's patented Wee Burley fabric to be abrasion-resistant, durable, and stretchy enough to permit great mobility. The cut is flattering, and the jacket includes features such as Napoleon-style harness-compatible pockets, mesh lining for extra ventilation, and a two-way cinched helmet-compatible hood that ensures a great fit for a range of activities, whether climbing, hiking, or ski touring.
This jacket is heavier than other active shells we tested and is best for cooler alpine temperatures. The cuffs are non-adjustable, which may or may not be helpful depending on whether you prefer gauntlet-style gloves or cuffs that cinch over your gloves. If you're looking for a durable, weather-resistant softshell for alpine climbing, peak bagging, cool-weather hikes, or ski touring, the Gamma is unmatched. If you're seeking a lighter-weight yet weather-ready jacket with adjustable cuffs, the Rab Kinetic 2.0 may be better suited. We also like the Arc'teryx Gamma Lightweight Hoody as a warm-weather alternative. It's less weather-resistant and more breathable, great as a windbreaker on summer adventures.
We were impressed by the Gamma Hoody for its exceptional mobility, breathability, and weather resistance, altogether an unmatched technical layer for alpine approaches, peak bagging, exposed climbing, and mountaineering. The durable fabric and smart design ensure long-lasting performance. Credit: Kate Pitts
The Rab Borealis is ultralight, wind-resistant, breathable, and highly stretchy. It delivers some of the best airflow of any jacket in our lineup and doubles as a sun shirt or wind shirt. It has excellent features for the price, including a pocket that doubles as a stuff sack, so you can clip your jacket to your harness or keep it handy in your daypack. It is one of our favorites to move in, thanks to the ultra-stretchy fabric that feels weightless in trailside yoga and covers the full span of our ape index in expansive climbing moves. Even though it isn't very water-resistant, it dries quickly. “I loved this as a sun protective layer,” our head tester said. “It's well-ventilated and comfortable to wear on hot days.”
SPECIFICATIONS
Type
Active
Fabric Weight Class
Lightweight
Material
Lightweight Matrix single weave with 2-way stretch (85% nylon 6 15% elastane) with PFC-free DWR
Measured Weight (Size: XS)
7.75 oz
Number of Pockets
2 exterior zip hand
Though the Borealis is a great jacket, we have a few concerns. Its water resistance is below average compared to others in our test, and it wetted out entirely during our shower test. However, it dries quickly and offers lightweight, breathable wind and UV protection. If you want more severe rain protection, the Rab Kinetic 2.0 is equally mobile but more stormproof. Use it as a breathable shell in your layering system with a great rain jacket for an ultimate weather-ready kit for stormy days.
When the weather runs amok, you want a jacket you can trust. The Rab Kinetic 2.0 is a great option for staying dry when a little black rain cloud washes out your plans. This is a jack-of-all-trades hybrid for those who want the breathability of a softshell but need wet-weather protection closer to a hardshell's performance. If you're looking for a layer for alpine or multi-pitch climbing, alpineering, sea kayaking, or hiking, this ingenious mid-layer is a great addition to your kit if you live in a rainy climate or daily afternoon thunderstorms are the norm. “The hood's snug fit and its brimmed rim offered great protection for my face when strong winds started blowing rain from multiple directions,” our lead tester remarked. This exceptionally waterproof softshell may keep you from taking a raincheck when conditions appear uncertain, and we think it is an excellent investment for any outdoor adventure gear collection.
SPECIFICATIONS
Type
Active/hybrid
Fabric Weight Class
Midweight
Material
Proflex: recycled polyester knit face 3L with PU membrane and recycled polyester backer
Measured Weight (Size: XS)
9.30 oz
Number of Pockets
2 exterior zip hand
Although we love the Kinetic's impressive water and wind resistance, the jacket is less packable than we'd prefer for technical adventures where it is easy to drop or lose gear, like when rock climbing or paddling. Having a stow-away pocket with a loop to clip to your harness can be very helpful on long rock climbing routes. The Kinetic doesn't have its own stash pocket, so if you need to clip-and-go your jacket mid-route, you'll have to plan ahead and get a stuff sack specific for the job. If this is an important feature for you, check out the Black Diamond Alpine Start or Rab Borealis, which both pack into a pocket with a sturdy loop for attaching to your harness.
Are you seeking a softshell that you can wear daily, rather than just for extreme adventures? The Cotopaxi Yermo Hooded can seamlessly fit into your everyday layering system. We love the slim fit and “outdoorsy chic” edginess of this softshell. Its minimalist look can pair up or down for life in town or day hikes in moderate weather. Plus, this jacket has practical features we want for daily use or travel. It is lightweight and easily compressible for your gym bag or carry-on, and there are pockets galore. Lead tester Kate Pitts remarked, “One of my favorite features is an internal chest pocket that perfectly fits my passport or small wallet while I am traveling. I love how it keeps essentials handy while the jacket doesn't appear bulky. I feel like a put-together and savvy traveler when I wear it to the airport.”
The Cotopaxi Yermo jacket features a wonderfully soft brushed interior, making it one of the most stylish and coziest jackets we would love to wear daily when there's a chill in the air. However, it doesn't perform well in a rainstorm and tends to retain more moisture than a jacket like the Rab Kinetic 2.0 or Arc'teryx Gamma. The Yermo is perfect for its intended use: providing mild weather protection and practical pockets for everyday wear and outdoor fun in dry climates. Just choose a different jacket for alpine storms or unpredictable wilderness conditions.
A half-pound of solid performance, the Arc'teryx Gamma Lightweight Hoody is a lithe softshell that offers premium wind and weather protection. Rain or shine, it blew every other lightweight softshell out of the water with slightly more weather resistance and a rain-blocking, helmet-compatible hood. It is even breathable enough to be a svelte sun shirt when fast packing. The Fortius 1.0 softshell fabric stretches, delivering UPF 40+ protection for sunny days and burly durability while rock climbing. It also does a great job of staving off the wind chill when clouds form and the day turns cooler. The lightest jacket in the Gamma line, it is the first in our pack for warmer seasons or sunny ridges where weather may creep up beyond the ridge.
Although it offers excellent breathability and protection from wind and high UV, it is not as weather-resistant as the heavier-weight softshells in our lineup. It will repel water long enough to reach for your rain gear, but it is not going to save you from getting wet once the clouds truly break. If you like the athletic fit, consider the heavier Gamma for improved storm resistance or the Kinetic 2.0, which is also less prone to wetting out in a storm.
It is easy to find a flow state of mind and body. The Gamma Lightweight Hoody balances a svelte and lithe fit with second skin stretch. Credit: Kate Pitts
In the shadow of winter, a chill in the air sets our priorities when selecting gear as we focus on keeping our bodies cozy and dry. The Patagonia R1 CrossStrata Hoody is an unprecedented technical layer that delivers an excellent balance of warmth, breathability, and comfort in an ultralight and packable fleece-lined softshell. An incredibly versatile piece perfect for mountain women, it breathes when you bag up the peaks and staves off the cold on windy days of paddling on alpine lakes. Regulating body temperature while exercising in cold temps can be a challenge, especially when extra layers are needed to protect against the elements like wind or a cold drizzle. The Patagonia R1 CrossStrata offers premium temperature regulation for just such days. “I loved wearing the R1 CrossStrata. Weather can change fast in the mountains, and this layer rode out the changes from sunny, high-alpine UV heat to when chilly storms rolled in,” our lead tester said. An ultra-soft, lightweight fleece lining is paired with a burly softshell on the outside, so you don't have to worry when you go from cozy coffee vibes at camp to scuffing your elbows at the local crag.
While the CrossStrata offers excellent wind resistance and holds some warmth on your skin, it shouldn't be your sole insulating layer when the weather could turn bone-chilling. Take a look at our advice down jackets to round out your layering system. If the CrossStata's slim fit is not your style, the Mountain Hardwear Chockstone Alpine LT offers some of the best mobility in our tests, and we like that its pockets that are more suited for wearing a harness.
We love the double chest pocket on Patagonia's R1 CrossStrata, featuring a button closure for a phone and a secure front zip for cash or keys. Credit: Kate Pitts
Product Comparison Table
"You are the sky. Everything else is just the weather." - Pema Chodron Credit: Kate Pitts
How We Tested
Our team tested these jackets side-by-side in various climates, from blustery days spent peak bagging in the Sierras to surprisingly frigid days sea kayaking along the Pacific Coast. In this testing round, we put nine softshell jackets to the test, shimmying up granite chimneys and jamming in Yosemite multi-pitch. We even wore these jackets in the shower to test how they performed under pressure (water pressure, that is). After more than 200 hours of rigorous testing, we've accumulated expert advice about the best softshell jackets to match your needs.
We use five different performance metrics for scoring the women's softshell jackets in our tests:
Weather Protection (30% of total score weighting)
Breathability (30% weighting)
Mobility (25% weighting)
Weighting (10% weighting)
Versatility (5% weighting)
A durable softshell can endure the wear of pack straps and rock scrambles over time. Credit: Kate Pitts
Why Trust GearLab
This review is brought to you by a team of amazing women headed up by Kate Pitts and Mary Witlacil. For over a decade, Kate was a National Park Service backcountry ranger, educator, and SAR professional at Rocky Mountain, Bryce Canyon, Yosemite, Grand Canyon, and Haleakala. She is now a wilderness guide and yoga teacher in Yosemite. You will likely find her on her yoga mat in the mornings, followed by an adventure climbing, ultralight backpacking, or scuba exploration into the deep blue wilderness. She appreciates the softshells protecting her on high mountain passes, windy Yosemite multi-pitches, and granite domes, or when she's off on a blustery boat ride in a wetsuit. Her joy is deeply rooted in the natural world, come rain or shine, and she treasures the words of John Muir: “In every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks.”
Mary spends her summers alpine climbing in Colorado and California. When she can get away, she chases sunshine the rest of the year in Colorado and across the deserts of Utah, Arizona, and California. A true outdoor enthusiast, when she isn't rock climbing, this gal can be found swinging ice tools, climbing mountains, backpacking, riding bicycles, or sitting on a rock gazing at the clouds.
Every journey into the wilderness invites you to embrace the elements from your body's center of awareness, made even easier when your temperature is well-regulated.
Analysis and Test Results
The primary purpose of a softshell jacket is to provide comfort through breathability and flexibility while still offering some degree of weather protection. Softshells are less stiff, noisy, and suffocating than hard shells, making them more comfortable to wear despite offering less overall weather protection. Softshells are great for cooler temperatures due to wind, dry snow, or intermittent rain. To help you make an informed decision, our team of women tests our softshells in varied conditions and diverse activities throughout the four seasons. We also run each jacket through a battery of objective tests to assess performance in each metric, compiling our field test experience with our test data so that we can offer side-by-side comparisons and present you with options that help you make the best choice for your needs and objectives.
Worse Value
Better Value
What's the Best Value?
If you can afford a specialized item like a softshell, you still want to make the most of your money — who doesn't? We love the Rab Borealis for balancing excellent features and affordability. This active softshell moves lithely through your entire range of motion and is ridiculously comfy, all without breaking the bank. If you don't need a jacket with technical features, you can get the 33,000ft Fleece Lined jacket for a super affordable price — just know it's not as versatile and weather-resistant as the pricier softshells, and it's heavier with a lesser range of motion.
At a price much lower than other premium brands, the Rab Borealis is ultralight, breathable, and wind resistant. Credit: Kate Pitts
For jackets designed to handle a bit of inclement weather, you'll have to pay more (we're looking at you, Arc'teryx). But even at the higher prices, there can be great value in the product. For example, the fleece-lined Patagonia R1 CrossStrata Hoody impresses across all metrics and comes in at a reasonable mid-range price point. The Rab Kinetic 2.0, though it doesn't have a budget price tag, still offers great value for the amount of weather protection and overall performance it provides.
The Kinetic 2.0 is comfortable, durable, and more water-resistant than many of the jackets in our test. If you value more water resistance from your softshell, the extra price tag may be worth it to you. Credit: Kate Pitts
Weather Protection
A softshell jacket will never be as impenetrable to water and wind as a hardshell because hardshells are waterproof and windproof. Softshells are only water and wind resistant and are designed to be more breathable for long days of adventure. Softshell weather protection is excellent for warm spring skiing, climbing shady multi-pitch, and hiking in the fall when you're unlikely to encounter a heavy storm. When evaluating the weather protection of each jacket, we consider the garment's ability to fend off wind chill, resist water, retain warmth, and provide sun protection.
When to Wear a Softshell
Softshells are great for the shoulder seasons when temperatures fluctuate or for winter aerobic activities when you need breathability to avoid getting chilled by sweat. They are perfect for those days when a heavy ski jacket or hardshell is too hot. Some models we tested are more water-resistant than others, but for serious precipitation, they're all less reliably waterproof than a rain jacket. Overall, softshells are ideal for mild weather when you need wind, snow, or light rain coverage, but you're unlikely to need full-on storm protection.
The Rab Kinetic 2.0 offers exceptional wind and water resistance. However, with extended exposure to moisture, it will eventually absorb water, proving to be more water-resistant than waterproof, just as the manufacturers claim.
In alpine climbs, where a storm can race up to surprise you behind a ridge, the lightweight Rab Kinetic 2.0 offers wind and rain resistance you can trust and that won't leave you “squalling.” Credit: Kate Pitts
Our testers loved the Arc'teryx Gamma, noting this is the softshell they'd choose whenever it is icy, wind-blasted, or cold out and their activities are going to make them sweat. With incredibly durable fabric, the Gamma offers almost complete wind protection yet still has an impressively high degree of breathability.
Shower testing the Gamma. Its DWR coating beads off precipitation during light rains or quick-passing alpine squalls. We found the DWR coating resilient through a summer season of use, and it can be reactivated by a wash and cycle in the dryer. Credit: Kate Pitts
The lighter version in the Gamma series, the Gamma Lightweight, is even more breathable and weighs about half as much, but it is slightly less impervious to water. However, it offers excellent wind protection and beads nicely after light or spotty rains.
A DWR coating on the Arc'teryx Gamma Lightweight Hoody beads moisture in light rain that is easily brushed off the fabric, buying you some time to get to shelter if the skies really open up. Credit: Kate Pitts
For chillier seasons, the Patagonia CrossStrata's ultra-light zig-zag fleece lining offers welcome insulation when temperatures drop. The Cotopaxi Yermo is one of the lightest softshells in our lineup with a lining and can also serve as both a softshell and a warm micro-grid midlayer in your layering system.
The CrossStrata and the Yermo both feature soft fleece grid-patterned interiors that offer warmth and some breathability.
The 33,000ft Fleece Lined is one of the most insulated jackets in our lineup. However, with its heavy weight and subpar weather resistance, it is best suited for wintry commutes in town or camp but isn't practical for remote wilderness adventures.
For chilly days at camp, the 33,000ft has a thick fleece lining and handy arm pocket. However, it is bulky and not as weather resistant as we would like for backcountry travel. Credit: Kate Pitts
Breathability
One big reason people get a softshell jacket is for their breathability. If you need serious weather protection, go with a waterproof hardshell. But if you're gonna be tearing it up in the backcountry on the weekend, a hardshell can make you feel all sweaty and suffocated. This is where the softshell shines. It hits the sweet spot between letting your upper body breathe and protecting you from the weather so you can move freely during your adventures without feeling swampy.
Breathability vs. Protection
Remember that you ultimately want a breathable softshell that can withstand a decent amount of weather and keep you warm when needed. We ask a lot of our softshells, and your preferred outdoor pursuits will dictate the right balance of protection to support your endeavors.
We tested each softshell jacket thoroughly in a variety of challenging conditions, including sun and shade, rain, snow, wind, deserts, and mountains. By testing during different activities designed to elevate heart rate and induce sweating, we found that jackets constructed with a thinner material were often more breathable. The Black Diamond Alpine Start Hoody is a great example, featuring a lightweight and stretchy Schoeller fabric that ensures you can move well without being stifled by sweat. Thicker, more weather-resistant, or warmer options often have to sacrifice breathability to deliver those attributes.
Black Diamond's Alpine Start Hoody is breathable and feels weightless in the sun and high UV, so you don't have to take it on and off when you need to focus on keeping your grip on the big wall. Credit: Kate Pitts
Along with the Black Diamond Alpine Start, two other ultra-stretchy and thin active softshells in our lineup offered great breathability: the Rab Borealis and the Arc'teryx Gamma Lightweight. If you're working hard and your core temperature is rising, these are all perfect layers for cutting the wind on brisk mornings, windy summits, or high on a wall. The Borealis especially provides a surprisingly excellent barrier to the wind, yet has one of the best on-the-move ventilation systems through its wide mesh pockets. These models also double as decent sun hoodies, although the Gamma Lightweight is the only one of these three that lists a UPF (40+).
When your core temperature is elevated and you need some cooling airflow, opening up the pocket zippers on the Rab Borealis adds some breathability. Credit: Kate Pitts
Lightweight material and mesh pockets make the Gamma Lightweight Hoody feel like next to nothing. Credit: Kate Pitts
The Arc'teryx Gamma is a unique jacket that defies traditional categorization. It has a thicker lining than most active softshells, offering more insulation without providing the same level of warmth as most technical softshells. Its excellent ventilation through the pockets makes it nearly as breathable as the thinnest jackets in our review. It's also durable enough for climbing scratchy granite cracks and long alpine routes while providing good wind and water protection without compromising breathability.
The Gamma features a robust, durable material and mesh pockets for ventilating heat. Credit: Kate Pitts
The Mountain Hardwear Chockstone Alpine LT features a four-way stretchy fabric that, while not the most breathable, makes it an excellent choice for fall or winter layering. Its low-bulk design easily layers over a thin fleece or underneath a waterproof shell or thicker puffy jacket.
The Chockstone Alpine LT is an excellent layer for cooler seasons, and its stretchy fabric easily layers over or under other components of your layering system. Credit: Kate Pitts
Despite being so light, the Yermo offers one of the best balances of comfortable layering and sweat handling for cooler weather. The brushed fleece grid lining is more than ultra-soft as it both adds warmth and ventilates. This lining doesn't weigh much or bulk up the fit like the heavier fleece lining of the 33,000feet, which is not very breathable.
Grid fabrics, such as the soft lining of the Yermo, trap air to provide insulation, while the air pockets within the grid promote airflow and wick away sweat. Credit: Kate Pitts
Another great option, if you want a warmer jacket that can still deliver breathability, is the Patagonia CrossStrata. Its technical zig-zag fleece inner provides a moisture-wicking liner to ventilate body heat, manage sweat, and keep you warm in stiff breezes.
The ultra-soft and fleecy hug of the Patagonia R1 CrossStrata Hoody vents heat on the summit push and warms us from the inside on the mountaintop. Credit: Kate Pitts
Mobility
To fully enjoy activities such as climbing, skiing, and trail running, it's crucial to have a softshell jacket that allows free movement. A jacket that shackles your movement creates unnecessary tension when your body and mind want to enter the flow zone. We look for softshells that are comfy, fit well without being bulky, and have stretchy fabric that lets you move freely without sacrificing coverage.
Mobility is critical for a softshell; we reviewed several stellar options that exemplify unimpeded mobility. Spoiler alert: the top performers in this category were all active or hybrid/active softshells. Active softshells offer excellent mobility because they are typically made with 4-way stretchy fabric, allowing freedom of movement. The Borealis features 4-way stretchy fabric and a well-tailored design that enables unencumbered mobility while climbing — just what you need when you crave a little wind protection while high up on a wall or ridgeline.
The Rab Borealis moves like a second skin through our full range of motion. Credit: Kate Pitts
The Mountain Hardwear Chockstone Alpine LT's 4-way stretch fabric moved effortlessly with our skin for a scramble or a roped-up climb. This jacket also features a higher pocket design that makes pockets easy to access while wearing a backpack's hip belt or a harness.
Features like elastic cuffs, a highly adjustable hood, and harness-compatible pockets enhance the mobility of the Chockstone Alpine LT. Credit: Kate Pitts
The Black Diamond Alpine Start has stretchy material, comfortable cuffs, an “alpine” gusseted fit, and a helmet-compatible hood, which provides incredible mobility. It's so weightless we barely noticed its fit.
The BD Alpine Start accommodates your climbing helmet, no problem. Credit: Kate Pitts
The Yermo is one of our favorite pieces for stretching. Its design accommodates our full range of motion, and the brushed lining makes it ultra-soft, so we love using it for yoga and outdoor activities. One standout feature that enhances mobility is the thumb loops, which help keep the sleeves from riding up as we stretch or layer the jacket.
The Yermo never impeded our mobility a bit. Credit: Kate Pitts
Thoughtfully designed thumbholes enhance the jacket's flexibility, allowing it to move seamlessly with our bodies as we climb or stretch, providing both comfort and alignment in the fit with our movements. Credit: Kate Pitts
The Gamma Lightweight was another favorite for mobility, with a tailored fit and second-skin stretch. There is no excess fabric to snag while climbing, and the stationary hem moves comfortably under a harness.
Gusseted underarms ensure that the hem doesn't lift during overhead extensions. Credit: Kate Pitts
No softshell has a more plush fabric than the Rab Kinetic 2.0. It feels buttery on the skin when you move. It has a looser cut without ever feeling too baggy or bunchy. Our lead tester guides yoga in the backcountry and loves the Kinetic as a windy-day layer for stretching on the trail or tackling multiple pitches of big climbing moves. We also loved it for paddle boarding in cool temps.
The Rab Kinetic 2.0's velcro cuffs give the wrists a comfortable and tailored fit, so the jacket sleeves don't slide or bag when you reach for a hold. Credit: Kate Pitts
Weight
Our body wisdom tells us that the “lighter our pack, the happier our back.” Our team's experience supports the idea that it's best to carry no more than 25 percent of your body weight on the trail. Of course, this can be difficult to follow when carrying heavy equipment such as ropes, trad racks, or pack rafts. Using ultralight gear helps protect your body from stress injuries and reduces the risk of acute injuries from slipping due to an oversized pack. The jackets in this review ranged from around 6 ounces at the lightest to 21 ounces at the heaviest. Most were tested in size extra small. Whether you're meticulous about weighing all your gear or new to planning with ultralight gear, our lineup includes several with excellent performance-to-weight ratios.
The Black Diamond Alpine Start Hoody is the lightest-weight softshell in our review, weighing a scant 6.1 ounces. This jacket is so lightweight that you'll almost forget you have it with you, and it can be stuffed into its chest pocket for clipping it on your harness or stowing it in the bottom of your pack when not in use.
The Black Diamond Alpine Start is a lightweight and supremely breathable active softshell. Perfect for blocking the wind on top of long multi-pitch routes. Credit: Mary Witlacil
We often associate ultralight gear with wearing out ultra-fast, but not so with the Alpine Start,Borealis, and Gamma Lightweight — they buck the trend by being ultralight and ultra durable. The Borealis is a breathable and wind-resistant option for alpine rock climbing, peak-bagging, and backpacking, where weight and packability are significant considerations. The Gamma Lightweight, as its name suggests, is incredibly lightweight, and yet the fabric and design of the jacket are quite durable. For a mere 8.6 ounces, it offers compact, easy-to-carry UV protection and an adjustable and protective hood.
Stuff the Rab Borealis into its own pockets for a stuff sack you can clip to your harness, backpack, or paddleboard. Credit: Kate Pitts
The Kinetic 2.0 offers unmatched weather protection and is the most water-resistant jacket in our review for a mere 9.3 ounces.
With technical fabric and features that give you the wherewithal to weather windy summits, the Rab Kinetic 2.0 will keep you dry without weighing you down. Credit: Kate Pitts
At 9.3 oz in an XS, the Kinetic 2.0 packs about the size of a Nalgene. Credit: Kate Pitts
The Patagonia R1 CrossStrata and the Cotopaxi Yermo are quite lightweight considering they feature fleece inner linings. If you want a softshell that can double as a cozy mid-layer, neither of these models will weigh you down.
The Yermo weighs 11.7 ounces in size extra small and is light and compact in your bag. Credit: Kate Pitts
The 21-ounce 33,000ft Fleece Lined is not a technical jacket, but it works for casual, around-town use where you're not working up a sweat. However, it's quite bulky and takes up quite a bit of space in a pack.
Affordable but cozy, we love the 33,000ft's fleece hug for chillaxin' at camp. Credit: Kate Pitts
Versatility
We assess versatility by considering features, durability, style, and ease of use across various activities and climates. Many of the softshells we tested have excellent features that we thoroughly enjoy and regularly use. The jackets that ranked highest in this category were ideal for a wide range of activities and could handle different weather conditions. They were durable, withstanding the abrasion of climbing granite walls and sandstone cracks, and wouldn't disintegrate when used with crampons and ice tools. We also considered style. While style is subjective, it is important -— no one wants to pay top dollar for an ill-fitting or unattractive article of clothing. Some of our favorite pieces in this review could seamlessly transition from the trail or crag to dinner with friends (as long as you don't mind rocking brightly colored gear at the pub), a clear bonus in our book.
The Arc'teryx Gamma jackets both look sharp, and the Gamma Lightweight is ultralight and nimble, making it a packable dream for three seasons of use. We love the protective bill on the hood, which fits well over a helmet. The stable hem made it one of the most comfortable jackets underneath a harness. With exceptional breathability and durability, it doubled as a sunshirt and windshirt tough enough to rub elbows with rocky substrate.
With UV 40 plus protection, we wore the Arc'teryx Gamma Lightweight Hoody as sun protection all day, especially for well-deserved “lizarding” on the summit. Credit: Kate Pitts
The heavier Gamma offers more heat retention than your average active softshell but is still lighter than your typical technical jacket. It can move between milder days of snow sports and cooler days of alpine rock climbing. We love it for shady mornings in the desert and windy high-altitude summits in the summer. We love its harness-compatible pockets and two-way adjustable, helmet-compatible hood.
We love the Arc'teryx Gamma's flattering fit and attractive color options; you can easily transition from the backcountry to celebratory drinks at the bar, looking sleek. Credit: Kate Pitts
The Kinetic 2.0 earns top marks in this category for being a silky-smooth, highly water-resistant jacket ideal for summer mountain adventures or traveling. Rab claims this jacket is waterproof, but our test team found it wetted out in severe monsoon storms and isn't waterproof enough to trust it in an all-out rainstorm. That said, it is soft, stylish, well-constructed, and very water-resistant.
A hybrid like the Rab Kinetic 2.0 offers the breathability of a softshell with added water resistance. Credit: Kate Pitts
The Chockstone Alpine LT is a highly durable softshell that can withstand the rigors of multi-day expeditions, navigate off-trail scrambles, and is exceptionally well-designed for use with a harness or a pack's hip belt.
The Chockstone Alpine LT is designed to endure the toughest conditions, demonstrating impressive abrasion resistance. Whether navigating rugged terrain or climbing a boulder, this jacket did not rip or pill during testing. Credit: Kate Pitts
The Black Diamond Alpine Start and Rab Borealis offer great wind and sun protection while rock climbing, summer mountaineering, trail running, and cycling. The Alpine Start only has one pocket (at the chest), while the Borealis has harness-compatible hand pockets.
The hand pockets on the Borealis are still easily accessible while wearing a hip belt or harness. Credit: Kate Pitts
The Cotopaxi Yermo is our favorite casual softshell for daily wear because of its comfort, fun outdoorsy style, mobility for outdoor activities, and practical pockets. Just note that it wets out quickly in a rainstorm and dries more slowly than other softshells we tested.
The Yermo comfortably fits into a layering system, as it can stretch over a fleece or be worn underneath a protective shell. Credit: Kate Pitts
How to Choose the Best Softshell Jacket for You
A softshell jacket is a versatile layer designed to provide the functions of multiple types of clothing simultaneously. They will resist wind, repel water, provide warmth, and facilitate wicking and airflow. For this reason, they are known as the “jack of all trades, master of none.” Such jackets are designed to help you comfortably confront various outdoor conditions without needing constant layer adjustments. But to do so, you typically have to sacrifice performance in some areas in order to accommodate other needs.
A high-performing softshell balances comfort, breathability, and some weather protection without limiting movement. Unlike hardshells (waterproof layers) and insulative baselayers, designed for life-saving warmth and dryness, a softshell strikes a balance between comfort and these other important priorities. As a result, these jackets are ideal for various backcountry activities and mountain sports, offering weather protection while maintaining mobility and breathability. The trade-off: they will not be as warm as puffy jackets or as waterproof as dedicated rain jackets in severe storms. Before purchasing your softshell jacket, consider the activities you love that a comfortable jacket supports, the level of protection that best suits your climate, and the features that meet the needs of your activity.
We distilled the main softshell types into three broad categories: active, technical, and casual. Active softshells function as excellent wind layers during aerobic activities but are designed with more robust mobility, breathability, and durability. Softshells do not keep you ultra warm or provide premium weather protection, but they are excellent layers to keep you comfortable in wind, shade, and light rain.
Technical softshells are ideal for specialized pursuits like ice/mixed climbing, winter mountaineering, backcountry skiing, etc. These jackets provide superior weather protection but are heavier-duty than an active softshell and are often less breathable as a result of their enhanced protective features.
Casual softshells are ideal for winter and shoulder-season layering in urban environments. While most technical softshells have a streamlined fit, casual softshells can be excellent for outdoor activities like gardening, daily wear, or urban nomadic travel. Their relaxed fit is more comfortable and accessible for wearing over thick layers you would wear in town, but might not carry into the remote wilderness. Many in this style have ample pockets to stash things like wallets or passports.
Hybrid softshells are relatively new on the scene, and they attempt to bridge the gap between different jacket types by providing extra insulation or water resistance. When hybrids are well executed, they tend to be the most versatile of the jackets in our lineup. But sometimes, adding functionality in one metric backfires and makes the jacket less comfortable for other activities.
Softshells serve as both an outer and mid-layer in your clothing system. They come in different weights, and how you layer them depends on their breathability, insulation, and fit. When used as an outer layer, lightweight softshells can be worn as an ultralight option over breathable layers to provide protection from UV rays, wind, and light rain. A trim fit is particularly advantageous for activities like climbing, as the close fit doesn't bunch or snag. If your activity spans all four seasons and the weather is cold, consider a looser-fitting softshell that can be worn over a thicker base layer.
When you need clothing that can handle stormy weather, it's essential to layer softshells underneath appropriate rain gear. Generally, you wear breathable layers closer to the body because they can help insulate without making you wet from the inside. It's important to note that softshells are not waterproof and cannot replace technical rain gear. In severe weather conditions, it's best to swap your softshell for a hardshell, rain jacket, or poncho. Softshells with fleece lining can provide extra warmth in cooler climates, but are unlikely to be sufficient if the weather turns significantly cold.
Depending on your activity, you must consider how much weight you are willing to carry in exchange for a layer's protection. Those wearing a softshell for paddling or short nature walks may not care as much about weight as a long-distance hiker counting grams or a big wall climber feeling the effects of gravity with every move. In general, the lighter your pack, the happier your back.
Minimalist and ultralight softshells are usually more packable, while lined and insulated softshells often occupy more space. Softshells designed for casual use can take up prime real estate in your pack, and bulkiness can be annoying or even dangerous in activities like climbing or canyoneering. Some softshells offer technical performance yet still pack down smaller than a Nalgene. Some are even designed to fold into their pockets, which you can then clip to a harness to carry.
When you're miles deep in the backcountry, you don't want a heavy softshell weighing down your pack. Credit: Mary Witlacil
Other Softshells to Consider
Outdoor Research Ferrosi Hoodie - This has been a favorite softshell for outdoor adventurers for decades because of its comfort and flexibility. Our testers have consistently given it high ratings for its abrasion-resistant fabric and soft, comfortable fit, making it equally at home on the trail, the crag, or basecamp. Though not fully waterproof or heavily insulated, we continue to love it as a dependable, do-it-all softshell that layers easily and packs small, offering impressive performance and value for its price.
Arc'teryx Proton SL Hoody - This is Arc'teryx's lightly insulated softshell. We previously tested it when it was called the Proton FL (Arc'teryx has changed the naming of its products several times over the past few years) and loved it as an option for when you want a bit of warmth from your still-breathable and moisture-wicking softshell. It's great for windy summits and offers good mobility for climbers or anyone moving vigorously in the outdoors.
There's a softshell for every application. We hope our review has helped you find yours! Credit: Kate Pitts
Conclusion
Softshell jackets are versatile, but each style has its own application. Active softshells are just the thing for wind protection or alpine climbing, trail running, or hiking during summer. But you'll want to turn to those technical softshells when it comes to ice and mixed climbing, winter mountaineering, snowshoeing, and skiing. If you're off on urban adventures, casual softshells can keep you warm, and many feature handy pockets for travel. In the backcountry, hybrids try to cover all bases and can traverse between seasons with ease. There are so many different types of shells and layers that it can take time and effort to determine which ones will fit your needs. To pick the perfect softshell, we suggest asking yourself, “Where will my adventure take me?” From there, you should find many valuable insights, tips, and options in this review to help you narrow it down to a great match. May you find a calm center in any weather you face!
