And the Ferrosi has 4-way stretchy fabric, and the lack of bulk means that it's a fantastic option for layering over a thin fleece or under a big puffy. The Black Diamond Alpine Start is a lightweight and supremely breathable active softshell. The deep partial front zipper offers good venting. Truth be told, these drawbacks are minor, and this plush hybrid, water-resistant, softshell is an impressive and lightweight jacket to add to your mountain repertoire. Our Editors independently research, test, and rate the best products. The Alpine Start offers great wind protection and breathability so you can climb comfortably without getting sweaty as you move up the wall. How can we improve GearLab? These drawbacks aside, this hoody is a great lightweight wind layer that moves and breathes well for all manner of alpine activities. Given that mobility is critical for a softshell, we reviewed several stellar options that exemplify unimpeded mobility. This jacket was designed with alpine climbing and cool-weather mountain activities in mind, but it would be well-equipped as a light jacket for travel, hiking, or any activity where you move from warm to cool temps. The Proton has a soft fleece lining for added warmth, while the Ferrosi boasts unbeatable mobility. Americas Best Backpacking and Outdoor Adventures, Lightweight Soft Shell $75, 9 oz. No ads. It is everything a hybrid should strive to be.
Another great option, if you want a warmer jacket that still delivers on the breathability front, is the Arc'teryx Proton FL. It is also not the most versatile jacket, mostly because it is not as warm as some of the other technical softshells. Material on GearLab is copyrighted. They aim to split the difference between comfort and weather protection, all without hindering movement. A softshell is a great layer for colder temps where you're likely to encounter wind, dry snow, or intermittent rain but not an all-out deluge. The stretchy Schoeller fabric allows for unhindered mobility on or off the rock. The Arc'teryx Proton FL Hoody is a jack-of-all-trades hybrid for those who want something extra from their softshell. Wearing the Boreas in chilly wind while hiking across snow on the Ptarmigan Traverse in the North Cascades, dayhiking in the Columbia Gorge, and on cool-weather trail runs, I found it delivers a perfect blend of super breathability to prevent my shirt from getting soaked and cuts the wind just enough to keep me from feeling cold.
After more than 100 hours of rigorously testing these jackets, we've got some expert advice to offer about the best softshell jacket to match your needs. The plush fleece-lined Proton FL strikes a balance between a warm insulating layer and a breathable softshell. The Athleta Rock Ridge weighs 17 ounces and is our only casual hybrid jacket; we maintain that it is reasonably lightweight for what it offers in terms of function. Breathability is one of the top reasons people buy a softshell jacket. Just real, honest, side-by-side testing and comparison. The only jacket that bucks convention in this category is the Gamma LT. Both are great options for moving quick and fairly light. Outdoor Research Ferrosi Hoodie - Women's, Fjallraven Bertagen Stretch Half-Zip - Women's, Black Diamond Dawn Patrol Shell - Women's, impressively constructed Arc'teryx Gamma MX, exceptionally water-resistant Apex Bionic, stretchy Black Diamond Dawn Patrol is great, the world's most carefully tested and objective gear reviews, Excellent mobility, great weather resistance, breathable, durable, harness-compatible hand pockets, Lightweight, durable, breathable, affordable, premium features, quick drying, Very flexible, flattering fit, long torso, comfortable cuff, Inexpensive, stellar mobility and breathability, stow-away pocket, harness-friendly pockets, excellent fit, Insulated, highly breathable, moisture-wicking, comfortable, warm, wind resistant, Below average water resistance, baggy fit, hand pockets inaccessible with harness, Gets wet very easily, thicker fabric is heavier, Not very warm, below average water resistance, Spendy, no pocket that doubles as a stuff sack, some sleeve slippage between fleece and shell, A feature-rich, aesthetically pleasing technical softshell with great mobility, breathability, and excellent weather resistance, This lightweight and breathable jacket has an arsenal of premium features for an affordable price, This comfortable jacket will keep you protected and stylish, from climbing with friends to hanging at the coffee shop, This wicked light softshell has great mobility, is highly breathable and well-tailored - a perfect layer for fair-weather climbing or hiking, A fantastic fleece-lined hybrid that is great as an outer softshell or insulating layer, Wee Burly Double Weave (56% nylon, 34% polyester, 10% elastane), DWR finish, Body/hood: 86% nylon 14% spandex 90D stretch woven ripstop, Schoeller w/Eco-Repel Bio (93% nylon, 7% elastane), Lightweight Matrix single weave with 2-way stretch and DWR, Fortius Air 20 (84% nylon, 16% elastane) Octa Loft knit insulation (100% polyester), Whether alpine climbing, mountaineering, or hiking, this layer is breathable, moves well, and effectively protects from the elements in style, This versatile jacket is a well-priced layer for many mild weather applications, This versatile jacket can take you on grand outdoor adventures or just around the town, This jacket is lightweight, breathable, easy to move in, and affordable - a great combination for the active outdoorswoman, A nimble, lightweight, breathable softshell that is fleece-lined and features great mobility, A breathable but water resistant hybrid with adjustable cuffs, soft fabric, and harness compatible pockets, A fairly lightweight and water resistant active softshell anorak that features quick-drying four-way stretch fabric but is abrasive against bare skin, Whether ice climbing, mountaineering, or heading to dinner with friends, this layer effectively protects from the elements in style, With incredible four-way stretch material and a generous fit, this jacket is one of the most comfortable pieces in our softshell review, An urban-styled, casual hybrid softshell that pairs synthetic insulation with plush fleece panels, though is not the most breathable or mobile, A weather-resistant casual softshell for urban adventures or staying warm around the campfire. This is less of a problem for the casual softshells, as those are meant to be worn around town, but this is a big deal if you're looking for a technical softshell for ice climbing or backcountry skiing. A garment that aims to strike the perfect balance between breathability and weather protection so you can move unencumbered on your outdoor adventures. We even wore these jackets in the shower to test how they performed under pressure (water pressure, that is). Hikes and trail runs on crappy fall and spring days, fast-changing mountain weather in summer, highly aerobic activities in winterfor all of these things, nothing beats a highly breathable, lightweight pullover or jacket. The Alpine Start features a lightweight and stretchy Schoeller fabric that ensures you can move well without being stifled by sweat. Truth be told, even though softshells claim to do everything, there are specialized niches for each style of jacket. The close cut of the hood permits wearing it under a helmet; while the hood isnt adjustable, it stays put on your head in wind. We have worn, torn, used, and abused hundreds of jackets to help you find the best layers for whatever adventures you're planning to do. Check out our other reviews for a deep dive into the best rain jackets, hardshells, windbreakers, running jackets, and down jackets. The exceptionally water-resistant Apex Bionic is one of the warmer softshells in our review, and it did well in our water-resistance test making it a great option for a winter jacket in an urban environment. It's also a great companion on alpine rock climbs, shoulder-season multi-pitches, sun-rise trail runs, and aerobic activities of any kind where temps are cool, wind is likely, and you plan to work up a sweat. (mens medium) Related: How to Layer Clothing to Keep Warm. Namely, it is neither fully waterproof nor the most breathable jacket in our review. Read review: Black Diamond Alpine Start Hoody. While the Proton is not made to be an ideal layer for activities like ice climbing, it is among the most versatile because it can be worn as an outer layer on warmer days or as an insulating layer on colder ones. With the many different types of shells and layers on the market, it can be hard to know which pieces will work best for your individual needs. It ticks nearly every box that a durable wind layer for climbing or hiking should. Minds blown.
To decide what type of softshell is ideal for you, We recommend considering the primary activities you plan to do while using your new softshell. On the flip side, if a jacket says that it's fully windproof (as opposed to just wind resistant), it's a safe bet that it won't be super breathable. Both of these layers are quite thin though for thicker liners made for more inclement weather, you'll have to pay more. We still haven't found that perfect unicorn jacket free from drawbacks, and the Alpine Start is no exception. Sizes: mens S-XXL, womens XS-XL We looked for softshells that layered and fit well, were comfortable, and those that had stretchy fabric or other features to enable movement. As a breathable but weather resistant and highly mobile softshell, the Gamma LT strikes a balance between an active and technical softshell.
The Borealis is a perfect option for alpine rock climbing, peak-bagging, and backpacking, where weight and packability are major considerations. The Borealis provides a surprisingly excellent barrier to the wind but doesn't provide the weather protection of less breathable options. Featherweight and it packs down to the size of your fist, you'll hardly notice the Alpine Start in your pack or on your harness.
Of the technical softshells, we found that the Arc'teryx Gamma MX boasted a stellar mobility to warmth ratio. Casual softshells offer great features for urban adventures but are durable enough to use in the backcountry, while hybrids attempt to triangulate between sub-categories and move between seasons. Some of the models we tested are more water-resistant than others, but these pieces are not as dependably waterproof as rain jackets in a severe storm. It has a flattering cut while not skimping on the features you want out of a softshell, including Napoleon-style harness-compatible pockets that are mesh-lined for extra ventilation and a two-way cinched helmet-compatible hood for an excellent fit while climbing, hiking, or ski touring. If you're checking out a softshell at your local gear shop and you're not sure how breathable it will be, look for mesh-lined pockets. This jacket offers exceptional wind and water resistance. Overall, softshells are ideal for mild weather when you need some coverage from wind, snow, or light rain, but you're unlikely to need full-on storm protection.
When it is fully zipped, the collar is too snug and stiff to be comfortable, and it poked us in the neck. In this testing round, jackets were put to the test shimmying up granite chimneys and jamming in Indian Creek splitters. Each year, the technology continues to get more innovative and the designs more varied, so our review features a diverse array of jackets, including active, technical, and casual softshells, as well as a few hybrids, to offer a multitude of options for your favorite outdoor pursuits. The new hood is fully fleece lined and more spacious than previous iterations. While it is a little heavier than our favorite trail running jackets, the Gamma LT provides excellent breathability and warmth for cool weather trail runs. The Fjallraven Bertagen Stretch Half-Zip is another lightweight active softshell, weighing only 13 ounces. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and we never accept free products from manufacturers.
We paid attention to how well each jacket performed relative to its retail price and considered their value in terms of jacket features, weather protection, and the niche they fill in your backcountry kit. If you're looking for a lightweight jacket that is ideal for long granite routes, then an active softshell like the Gamma LT, Borealis, First Ascent, or Ferrosi are the ones for you! This includes activities such as climbing (rock, ice, mixed, or alpine), skiing (backcountry or cross-country, although for alpine/downhill, you'll want something warmer), snowshoeing, mountaineering, trail-running, peak-bagging, or hiking. All that aside, if you need a cozy mid-layer with breathable insulation, the Proton is an excellent choice. A softshell is a great way to stay warm on sunny winter days while multi-pitch climbing in Eldorado Canyon, CO, or wherever you may roam. Rab claims this jacket is waterproof, but it wetted out in monsoon storms and isn't waterproof enough to trust it in an all-out rainstorm. You wouldn't even know the Borealis was on your harness except for how pink this one is! Each of these jackets provided more warmth than all but the best technical softshells without sacrificing too much in terms of breathability or mobility. We love the Rab Borealis for striking a similar balance between excellent features and affordability.
This jacket is a perfect companion on windy days, multi-pitch rock climbs, or high on alpine walls in the summer.
Active softshells offer great mobility because they are typically made with 4-way stretchy fabric and are designed to allow freedom of movement. That said, the stretchy Black Diamond Dawn Patrol is great for some applications like downhill skiing (when paired with extra insulation) and casual snowshoeing on a packed trail. Unfortunately, technical and casual softshells don't earn the highest marks in this category. Given that the Kinetic 2.0 attempts to triangulate between a shoftshell and a hardshell, there are some minor things lost in translation. It is also pretty pricey. All of our hybrid and casual jackets earned competitive marks in this category. The jackets that weigh in the 20-ounce range are the less technical offerings in our review. The mens Boreas and womens Aurora are ideal for all of those pursuits. Meanwhile, it has fantastic ventilation in the pockets, making it almost as breathable as the thinnest jackets in our review. Hopefully our review will help guide you to the best softshell for your next adventure. It is breathable and weather resistant, but warm; durable without sacrificing mobility; and all with a flattering fit! Whether you need a layer for alpine or multi-pitch climbing, insulation for ice climbing, or a breathable but decently warm layer for backcountry or cross-country skiing, mountain climbing, or hiking, this ingenious mid-layer is a great one to add to your kit.
GearLab is founded on the principle of honest, objective, reviews. When hybrids are well executed, they tend to be the most versatile of the jackets in our review, but sometimes adding bonus functionality backfires and makes them uncomfortable or less useful than the jackets they're trying to mimic. By contrast, casual softshells are more ideal for winter and shoulder-season layering in urban environments. You can unzip these during strenuous activity to help dump heat. After looking On the hunt for a new women's ski jacket? To be honest, there is very little this jacket can't do: it is lightweight, has great mobility, and with an ultra-soft fleece lining, it is super cozy, even next to bare skin. The Alpine Start also performed impressively well in this category.
Compared to other softshells, it has below-average water resistance, but it does dry quickly and offers great 3-season protection. The thinner Gamma LT also scores well in this category despite not being nearly as warm because it fends off light moisture and wind admirably.
Pick the Ultimate V and you're sure to be psyched, even ice climbing on cold days in the alpine. The stretchy fabric and looser fit allow for unimpeded mobility, ideal for trail-running, summer mountaineering, and rock climbing. While style is subjective, it is important no one wants to pay top dollar for an ill-fitting or unattractive article of clothing. When evaluating each jacket's weather protection, we consider wind and water resistance, as well as warmth and sun protection. Softshell jackets are an interesting gear category because they strive to do the job of multiple layers at once resist wind, repel water, provide warmth, and breathe well. The Outdoor Research Ferrosi Hoodie is a fantastic value. These softshells are not designed to keep you ultra warm or to provide premium weather protection, but they are great layers to keep you comfortable in wind or shade in otherwise warm weather. High up on an ice route is not when you want to be worried about the mobility of your softshell, which is why we love the mobility offered by the Gamma MX. However, with extended exposure to moisture, the Kinetic 2.0 will eventually absorb water like other softshells in our review, proving to be more water-resistant than waterproof, as the manufacturers claim. It has comfortable cuffs, a two-way adjustable, helmet-compatible hood, and a flattering alpine-style fit that is equally at home in the alpine or at a brewery. Like the two before it, this metric tends to favor active softshells and active/hybrids, with the Proton FL and the Ferrosi being the next lightest softshells weighing 11 ounces and 12.5 ounces, respectively. The four-way stretch fabric allows an athletic fit without inhibiting range of motion. However, it does come close to accomplishing both. That said, it is soft, stylish, well-constructed, and very water-resistant. If ice climbing is in your future, then you will want to seek out a technical softshell, as these provide the best warmth to mobility and breathability ratio. That said, given their mobility, breathability, and weather protection, softshell jackets are an ideal layer for many backcountry activities and mountain athletes. It is a feature-rich active softshell that offers great wind protection, making it a perfect option for rock climbing, peak bagging, or backpacking. The fit is a little on the boxy side, so if you're between sizes, you might consider sizing down. Softshell jackets are designed for backcountry adventures like climbing, skiing, and trail running all activities that demand unhindered movement. They proved durable and, could withstand the abrasion of granite walls and sandstone cracks and wouldn't disintegrate at the mention of crampons and ice tools. Another unstoppable contender in this category is the Proton FL. Then, it will be much easier to decide whether you need an active, technical, casual, or hybrid jacket. It moves well enough and keeps you so toasty that you likely won't notice the heft unless you have to squeeze it into your pack. Notably, this jacket can withstand dryer moisture like snow but has below-average water protection, especially when compared with the technical softshells and hybrids in our review. In our review, we do have one jacket that nearly proves the exception to this rule: the Rab Kinetic 2.0.
We also considered style. The Alpine Start Hoody proved to be the lightest-weight softshell in our review, weighing a scant 6.5 ounces. Which is great for taking the edge off the wind on an otherwise lovely day while hiking. When she can get away, she chases sun the rest of the year in Colorado and the deserts of Utah, Arizona, and California. Most of the jackets were tested in size small. It is comparatively lightweight and enables unimpeded movement, owing to Rab's ultra-plush and stretchy ProFlex fabric. I found the sleeves a little long but easily rolled up.
The Borealis is Rab's lightest weight softshell and it certainly provides in terms of premium breathability and mobility, all while being incredibly affordable. The Rab Kinetic 2.0 is an upgrade to the previous generation of the Kinetic jacket. That being said, none of the jackets we reviewed are so heavy to raise red flags. The Ferrosi is so stretchy, it will have you jumping for joy! That being said, the downsides may be irrelevant, depending on the jacket niche you seek to fill. We ended up with a diverse set of contenders whose performance spread all over the board. It is durable enough to climb scratchy granite cracks and long alpine routes while providing sufficient protection from wind and water without sacrificing any breathability. The patented Wee Burley fabric is abrasion-resistant and durable while still providing excellent mobility. Many of the softshells in this review come with excellent features that we thoroughly enjoy and regularly use.
