Hardshell jackets are the "standard rain gear" familiar to most outdoor enthusiasts. However, many may be less familiar with the concept of a "softshell." Today, we'll take a closer look at the differences between hardshell and softshell jackets to help you choose the right gear for your next adventure.
Hardshell jackets are also often called "Storm Jacket" or "raincoats." They are typically made of durable, waterproof, and breathable fabrics such as Gore-Tex or eVent. It is one of the most important pieces of gear for mountaineering. With a hardshell jacket, you can effectively protect yourself from wind, rain, and snow during outdoor trips, staying dry even in harsh weather conditions.
Ultimate Protection:Hardshell jackets offer optimal protection against torrential rain and strong winds.
Lightweight and Portable: In addition to being weatherproof, modern hardshell jackets are usually very lightweight and easy to pack, taking up minimal space in a backpack.
Windproof: Even in dry weather, hardshell jackets offer excellent wind protection at high altitudes.
Comfort: Compared to softshell jackets, hardshell fabrics may feel rustling, stiff, and noisy during exercise.
Breathability:While breathable fabrics are available, they are generally not as breathable as softshell fabrics. During high-intensity exercise, heavy sweating can cause a stuffy feeling inside.
A softshell jacket is typically made of a blend of synthetic fibers such as polyester and nylon with spandex. It sits between a fleece layer and a waterproof jacket. It usually has a DWR (durable water-repellent) coating. In layering outdoor clothing, it can be used as an inner layer under waterproof rain jacket, providing warmth, breathability, and some weather protection.
From a wearing experience perspective, softshell jackets are softer, more elastic, and more comfortable than hardshell jackets. In activities like climbing or hiking (where you sweat a lot and move at high speeds), the elastic fabric of a softshell jacket allows for greater freedom of movement, and its breathability is generally superior to that of a hardshell jacket—a key difference. If the weather isn't too bad, a softshell jacket can be worn for the entire climb.
Limited Water Resistance: Most softshells offer some water resistance (suitable for light rain or snow), but are not completely waterproof. In heavy rain, water will eventually seep in.
Weight: Some softshell jackets with fleece linings can be heavier than a lightweight standard hardshell jacket.
For multi-day mountain trips or working in extreme weather conditions, a hardshell jacket is essential gear. Mountain weather is unpredictable, and keeping your body dry is crucial to preventing hypothermia.
For day trips, it's recommended to check the weather forecast before setting off. If it's raining heavily, be sure to bring rain gear for safety. In windy terrain where it doesn't rain, a hard-shell jacket can be used as a windproof layer. However, it's important to note that a hard-shell jacket should not be used alone as a thermal layer. Generally, in cold weather, it's recommended to wear a insulated jacket (such as a down jacket or lightweight fleece jacket) under a hard-shell jacket. 3-in-1 jackets on the market were developed to address the insufficient warmth of outdoor jackets.
Softshell jackets offer advantages such as waterproofing, breathability, windproofing, comfort, and elasticity. Generally, in sunny weather, softshell jackets are often used as the outermost layer for multi-day hiking trips or as a middle layer during high-altitude rest periods. However, in extreme weather such as heavy rain, it's usually recommended to wear a softshell jacket under a hard-shell jacket. Softshell jackets are generally available in thick and thin versions. For summer hiking, a thin softshell jacket is a good choice, offering sun protection and wind protection.
| Feature | Hard Shell Jacket | Soft Shell Jacket |
| Excellent (Fully waterproof) | Fair (Water-resistant/DWR only) | |
| Good (but can trap sweat) | Excellent (Highly breathable) | |
| Excellent (Total block) | Good (Wind resistant) | |
| Low (Stiff, noisy) | High (Soft, stretchy) | |
| High (Thin & light) | Medium (Can be bulky) | |
| Heavy rain, snow, extreme wind | Active hiking, climbing, light drizzle |
