For outdoor apparel purchasing managers and brand owners, a detailed understanding of the materials and types of waterproof softshell jackets used in production helps in tailoring designs, determining quality, and pricing when manufacturing custom
As a professional outdoor clothing manufacturer, I will provide an in-depth analysis of the fabric composition of rain jackets and explore how different fabric blends can meet the needs of specific markets—from high-visibility safety softshells to concealed hunting garments.
Unlike standard fabrics, The composite fabric is not a single material. It is a multi-functional composite fabric that falls between a "hardshell" (traditional waterproof jacket) and a "fleece." Its design philosophy is to sacrifice a little extreme waterproof performance in exchange for excellent breathability, comfort, elasticity, and warmth. Most high-performance softshell fabrics use a "sandwich" structure, bonding three layers of materials together through a heat-pressing process.
Abrasion and Tear Resistance: Suitable for traversing jungles or construction sites.
4-Way Stretch: Added spandex (Spandex/Elastane) for excellent range of motion.
DWR Treatment: Water-repellent finish; water droplets roll off in a lotus leaf effect.
Silent (for Hunting): Brushed or specially woven for extremely low noise during friction.
Color: Easily dyeable, ideal for high-brightness fluorescent yellow/orange (safety clothing) or high-definition camouflage (hunting).
Polyester: Cost-effective, colorfast (ideal for brand promotion), and quick-drying.
Nylon: More abrasion-resistant and durable, ideal for harsh environments.
Spandex (Elastane): Almost all softshell fabrics contain 4-10% spandex. This gives softshell jackets their signature "soft" elasticity, allowing for freedom of movement.
Material: Typically TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) or ePTFE membrane.
Windproof: 100% blocks cold wind and maintains body temperature.
Breathable: Allows sweat molecules produced by the body to escape through the membrane, preventing stuffiness.
Water Resistance: Provides some water resistance (typically between 3000mm and 10000mm), able to withstand moderate rain and snow.
Material: Typically polar fleece, micro-fleece, or grid fleece.
Functions: Usually uses micro-fleece and brushed knit fabrics to lock in air for warmth while wicking away moisture and providing a soft, skin-friendly feel.
Softshell fabrics are revolutionizing the workwear industry. Traditional safety clothing is bulky, stiff, and inflexible. Today, flexibility is paramount. By using high-saturation polyester dyes combined with reflective glass bead technology, manufacturers can produce high-visibility softshell jackets that meet ANSI/ISEA standards. The inherent elasticity of the fabric makes softshell safety jackets ideal for construction workers and logistics personnel, allowing them freedom of movement in various situations, freeing them from the constraints of rigid PVC raincoats.
Furthermore, waterproof hi vis softshell jacket offer excellent temperature regulation. They keep workers warm in the early morning while ensuring good breathability to prevent overheating during strenuous physical labor.
When producing outdoor sports products, we meticulously adjust the material composition, focusing on enhancing the fabric's sound insulation and weatherproofing properties.
For hunting, noise reduction is paramount. Ordinary nylon fabric is too noisy. Therefore, we use brushed polyester fabric to create a quiet and waterproof hunting jacket. While its rainproof performance may not be as good as a hiking softshell jacket, it is sufficient to provide the concealment needed for tracking prey.
However, in extreme conditions, buyers often request waterproof hunting jackets with sealed seams. For this, we upgrade the waterproof membrane inside the softshell fabric, enhancing its waterproof performance and ensuring hunters remain dry and comfortable while maintaining agility during the hunt.
We often receive questions from retail buyers: "Why choose a softshell instead of a hardshell?"
It depends on the specific activity. The best hardshell ski jackets are designed for extreme alpine environments—they act like a fortress against blizzards, utilizing robust three-layer GORE-TEX® or similar technology. However, hardshells can be "squeaky" and less breathable.
In contrast, softshell jackets offer approximately 80% the waterproofing of hardshells, but with 100% more breathability and comfort. They are ideal for spring skiing, hiking, or everyday business wear where a full-on adventure jacket isn't necessary.
Softshells aren't just for mountains and construction sites. The smooth polyester surface of softshell fabrics is an ideal carrier for sublimation printing.
Today, major brands are demanding softshell fabrics for patterned raincoats. By applying a DWR (Durable Water Repellent) coating to stylish printed softshell fabrics, fashion brands can create products that combine the look of trendy streetwear with the performance of professional outdoor gear.
Understanding the materials used in softshell jackets helps you make more informed purchasing decisions. Whether you need a rugged, durable softshell safety jacket for a uniform contract or a stylish patterned raincoat for a retail collection, the key lies in lamination processes and fabric blends.
As a professional outdoor apparel manufacturer, we specialize in customizing these fabrics to meet your specific price and performance requirements.
Ready to develop your next softshell collection? Contact our production team today for a quote and fabric samples.
If you are looking for this fabric to make garments, you can communicate with your supplier using the following terms:
Spring/Autumn: 280gsm - 300gsm (grams per square meter).
Winter: 320gsm - 360gsm (thicker fleece).
Standard configuration: 5000/3000 (water pressure resistance 5000mm / breathability 3000g/m²/24h).
High-end configuration: 10000/5000.
Surface treatment: Teflon DWR or equivalent water-repellent treatment is required; otherwise, the fabric will become heavy and lose its breathability after absorbing water.
