Soft shell jackets are a must-have in any activewear wardrobe, providing an unbeatable combination of flexibility, warmth, and protection from the elements.
Whether you're hitting the slopes or exploring the outdoors during après-ski, a soft shell jacket is designed to adapt to your every movement while keeping you dry and comfortable.
Discover the features that make soft shell jackets a favorite for outdoor enthusiasts and learn how to choose the best one for your skiing adventures.
With our help, you can perfect your slope-side style.
WHAT ARE SOFT SHELL JACKETS?
Soft shell jackets are a versatile piece of outerwear, offering a balance of flexibility and weather protection. Unlike traditional hard shell jackets, which offer maximum waterproofing, soft shell jackets are designed to provide more breathability while still protecting against wind and light precipitation.
They are perfect for high-output activities like skiing, hiking, and mountaineering, where movement is crucial but protection from the elements is still necessary.
Soft shell jackets typically use flexible fabrics that stretch, allowing for ease of movement on the slopes—perfect for tackling those expert-level runs with steep gradients.
The outer layer is usually water-resistant or windproof, while the inner layer may feature a fleece lining for added warmth. This makes them ideal for layering in colder weather or wearing alone during milder temperatures.
ARE SOFT SHELL JACKETS WATERPROOF?
Checked the weather forecast for your vacay? Expecting rain? While soft shell jackets are not typically 100% waterproof like their hard shell counterparts, they are designed to offer a good level of water resistance.
Many soft shell jackets are made from fabrics such as Toray Dermizax™, which combine breathability and water resistance to keep you dry in light rain or snow. These jackets can withstand moisture exposure and allow for moisture vapor to escape, ensuring you remain comfortable and dry while tackling snowy terrain.
However, for more extreme weather conditions, you may want to consider a hard shell jacket.
ARE SOFT SHELL JACKETS WARM?
Soft shell jackets provide moderate warmth, making them an excellent choice for active use in cooler weather. Many soft shell jackets feature inner fleece or microfleece linings, which help trap body heat while still allowing moisture to escape.
This balance of warmth and breathability makes them perfect for skiing, where you might be working up a sweat on those black diamond slopes.
For particularly cold conditions, soft shell jackets can be layered with thermal or insulated clothing to enhance warmth. However, they are generally not as warm as insulated jackets or down-filled coats, making them best suited for milder cold temperatures or as part of a layering system.
BENEFITS OF SOFT SHELL JACKETS
So, what’s all the fuss about? Let’s explore the advantages of soft shell jackets in a little more detail to help you decide whether it’s an essential item for your next ski getaway.
The key benefits of soft shell jackets include:
✔ Breathability: Soft shell fabrics allow moisture vapor to escape, keeping you dry during high-intensity activities.
✔ Comfort and flexibility: The fabric’s stretch properties ensure comfort and freedom of movement.
✔ Water resistance: Ideal for light rain or snow, soft shell jackets provide protection without compromising on breathability.
✔ Versatility: Soft shell jackets can be worn as outerwear in milder conditions or layered for added warmth in colder weather.
✔ Lightweight: They offer excellent protection without the bulkiness of traditional waterproof jackets.
HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT SOFT SHELL JACKET
Choosing the right soft shell jacket depends on your specific needs and the activities you plan to engage in. Here are some key considerations to help you make the right choice:
Fit
Soft shell jackets should have a snug fit to maximize warmth retention and ensure a full range of motion. Look for adjustable cuffs and hems for a personalized fit.
Fabric
Consider the fabric type, such as Toray Dermizax™ or other advanced technical fabrics, for the perfect balance of breathability, water resistance, and stretch.
Weather protection
Depending on your location and activity, you may want to choose a jacket with higher water resistance or added insulation.
Layering potential
If you’re planning to wear the jacket in cold conditions, ensure it allows for easy layering with other garments like base layers and fleeces.
HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT SOFT SHELL JACKET
Designed to handle demanding adventures in both rain and snow, the Toray Dermizax™ fabric used in our soft shell jackets retains warmth while allowing moisture vapor to escape. This ensures you stay dry, warm, and comfortable, no matter how intense your skiing adventure gets.
Toray Dermizax™ is a marvel of fabric technology, developed through decades of expertise and rigorous testing. This highly technical fabric combines breathability, water resistance, and moisture-wicking capabilities to keep you comfortable and protected. It stands up to even the harshest conditions while remaining ultra-flexible and soft to the touch.
You can trust us. We are the experts in high-performance skiwear, after all.
6 ways to care for your Toray Dermizax™
To keep your Toray Dermizax™ soft shell fabric performing at its best, follow these care instructions:
Machine wash inside out: Use a standard powder detergent and set your machine to 30°C. Washing inside out helps protect the fabric’s surface and maintain its performance.
Avoid fabric softener: Fabric softeners can damage the technical properties of Dermizax™, so it’s best to skip them during washing.
Fasten zippers and Velcro: Before washing, make sure all zippers and Velcro are securely fastened to prevent snagging and maintain the integrity of the fabric.
Avoid dry cleaning: Dry cleaning can be harsh on technical fabrics and may affect their performance. Stick to machine washing.
Cool iron if necessary: If you need to iron, use a cool setting to avoid damaging the fabric.
Do not bleach: Bleach can compromise the fabric's technical features and color.
By following these care guidelines, your Toray Dermizax™ soft shell fabric will continue to provide the protection and flexibility you need for any adventure.
Please note: For the best care results, always refer to the individual garment labels, as specific instructions may vary slightly between pieces.
SOFT SHELL JACKETS FAQs
Can I wear a soft shell jacket in heavy rain?
Soft shell jackets are designed to handle light rain and snow, but they are not fully waterproof. For heavy rain, consider using a hard shell jacket or layering your soft shell with a waterproof layer for extra protection.
How should I care for my soft shell jacket?
To maintain the performance of your soft shell jacket, follow care instructions such as machine washing inside out, avoiding fabric softeners, and air drying. Always check the garment’s care label for specific recommendations.
Are soft shell jackets windproof?
Yes, soft shell jackets are generally windproof, making them great for outdoor activities in windy conditions. The fabric blocks wind while maintaining breathability, which helps you stay comfortable during active pursuits.
Can I wear a soft shell jacket in winter?
Soft shell jackets are suitable for winter activities in mild to moderate temperatures. For extreme cold, they can be layered with insulated pieces to boost warmth without sacrificing flexibility.
What activities are best suited for soft shell jackets?
Soft shell jackets are ideal for high-energy outdoor activities such as skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and mountaineering. They are perfect for conditions where protection from the elements is key.
Are soft shell jackets good for skiing?
Yes, soft shell jackets are great for skiing, especially in milder conditions. They offer excellent breathability and comfort, keeping you dry and warm during intense physical activity.
