When it comes to gearing up for outdoor activities, choosing the right jacket is essential to comfortably face sometimes harsh weather conditions. Two types of jackets dominate the market: the hardshell and the softshell. But what is the difference between these two technologies, and which is the best choice for your needs?
Hardshell jacket are designed to provide maximum weather protection thanks to their waterproof and windproof construction. In contrast, softshell jackets prioritise comfort, high breathability, and a certain degree of warmth.
Hiking, ski touring, mountaineering, climbing… The choice will depend on your activity, the weather conditions, and your thermal insulation needs. Let’s explore their characteristics and how to make the right choice for your next adventure!
What Is the Difference Between Hardshell and Softshell?
When choosing a technical jacket for your outdoor activities, you will often face a crucial decision: hardshell or softshell? These two types of jackets have distinct characteristics and cater to different needs depending on the weather conditions and the intensity of your activity.
- A softshell jacket is designed to provide comfort, warmth, freedom of movement, and high breathability, while also offering protection against wind and light rain.
- A hardshell jacket, on the other hand, prioritises maximum weather protection with a waterproof, breathable, and windproof construction.
Let’s take a closer look at their differences and how to choose the best option for your needs.
What Is a Softshell Jacket?
Definition and Key Features
A softshell jacket combines moderate weather protection with good thermal insulation and excellent breathability. Unlike hardshell jackets, softshells are more flexible and stretchable, making them ideal for activities that require a high degree of freedom of movement.
They are typically made of three layers:
- An outer fabric that is wind-resistant and lightly water-repellent.
- A breathable membrane that helps wick away body moisture.
- An inner lining made of fleece or brushed fabric for optimal warmth.
To learn more about this type of jackets and when to wear them, check out our detailed guide on softshell garments.
Technologies Used (Polartec, Gore-Tex Infinium, etc.)
Some softshell jackets incorporate advanced technologies such as Gore-Tex Infinium or Polartec to enhance wind resistance while maintaining high breathability. Unlike hardshell membranes, those used in softshells are not fully waterproof, but they provide an excellent balance between comfort and light protection.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Comfortable and stretchable
- Windproof protection
- Breathable, ideal for intense activities
- Warmth thanks to the lining
Cons:
- Not fully waterproof (cannot withstand heavy rain)
- Heavier and less packable
What Is a Hardshell Jacket?
Definition and Key Features
A hardshell jacket is primarily designed to provide maximum protection against rain, snow, and wind. It is often used as a third layer in combination with an insulating layer (fleece or down jacket) for better protection against the cold.
Materials and Membranes (Water-Repellent, Stretch, Lined, etc.)
Hardshell jackets are built to withstand extreme weather conditions thanks to the use of technical membranes and durable materials. They typically feature a waterproof and breathable membrane, such as Gore-Tex, eVent, or Pertex Shield, which prevents water from entering while allowing body moisture to escape.
Depending on their construction, hardshell jackets are classified into three types:
- 2-layer hardshell: The membrane is laminated onto a durable outer fabric, with a separate floating inner lining for comfort. This design is often more affordable but slightly heavier and less breathable.
- 2.5-layer hardshell: The membrane is directly bonded to the outer fabric, with a protective internal coating instead of a full lining. This construction reduces weight and bulk, making it ideal for day trips where backpack weight is a key factor.
- 3-layer hardshell: The membrane is sandwiched between an ultra-durable outer fabric and an inner lining. This design provides exceptional durability and optimal weather protection, making it ideal for mountaineering and long expeditions.
Unlike softshells, hardshell jackets are often rated by their waterproof level, measured in water column. You will find jackets with ratings of 10,000 mm (light rain), 20,000 mm (heavy rain and snow), and beyond, ensuring protection against moisture.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Waterproof and windproof
- Resistant to extreme conditions
- Durable and abrasion-resistant
- Lightweight and packable
Cons:
- Does not keep you warm
Detailed Comparison: Hardshell vs Softshell
| Criteria | Softshell | Hardshell |
|---|---|---|
| Waterproofness and Breathability | Water-repellent but not fully waterproof | Waterproof |
| Wind Resistance | Provides good wind protection | Optimal wind protection |
| Thermal Insulation and Comfort | Good warmth, more comfortable | No thermal insulation, requires a base layer |
| Use | Hiking, climbing, cycling, ski touring, day outings | Mountaineering, skiing... in extreme conditions |
So, When Should You Use a Hardshell or Softshell Jacket?
Weather Conditions and Activity Intensity
The choice between a hardshell or softshell jacket mainly depends on the type of activity and the expected weather conditions.
If you're heading out for an intense mountaineering, skiing, or high-altitude hiking session, a hardshell jacket will be your most reliable companion, especially in extreme conditions. Don't forget to layer properly underneath to provide the warmth that the jacket alone cannot offer.
If you're planning a hike or a casual outing in milder conditions with little to no rain, a softshell jacket should be sufficient. It will provide the warmth you need while maintaining comfort and breathability.
In Short
The best choice depends on your activity and the weather conditions:
- For a hike or a day outing in dry weather: opt for a softshell jacket for its comfort and high breathability.
- For a high-altitude expedition or heavy rain: choose a hardshell with a high-performance waterproof membrane.
- For a balance between both: some hybrid jackets combine both technologies to adapt to all conditions.
Choose from Men's and Women's Jacket Models
There are numerous models tailored to different outdoor activities. Leading brands offer specific jackets with various technologies and levels of protection. Be sure to try on multiple models to assess their comfort, breathability, and compatibility with your t-shirt or other layers.
Whether you choose a softshell or a hardshell, the key is to select a jacket that meets your needs and suits the weather conditions you'll be facing.
So, softshell or hardshell? Make your choice based on your next adventure!