INSIGHTS

What is a softshell jacket?

Softshell jackets are built for those who push the limits, from outdoor adventurers to military personnel and law enforcement.

A hybrid between a sleek athletic jacket and a warm fleece, softshells typically feature a smooth, water-resistant outer layer crafted from durable nylon or polyester. Unzip it to reveal a soft, brushed lining —  that's what "softshell jacket" means. This lining traps heat to keep you comfortable, even in chilly conditions.

This guide will dissect the trusty softshell, revealing the science behind its weather resistance, breathability, warmth, and the variety of styles and range of features available.

How do softshell jackets work?

The secret lies in the materials. The rugged outer shell, often nylon or polyester, is tightly woven to form a dependable barrier against wind, snow, and light rain. Imagine it as a microscopic fortification, repelling moisture with a Durable Water Repellent (DWR) coating. But unlike bulky shells, softshells prioritise breathability. The weave allows sweat vapour to escape, keeping you comfortable during exertion. It's like a silent, built-in ventilation system.

The inner lining acts like your own personal thermal layer, often fleece that traps body heat for essential warmth. This creates a jacket that excels in thermoregulation — how the body maintains its internal temperature — while still offering weather resistance.

Softshell jackets are the epitome of performance-driven design, engineered for those who demand the best from their gear in demanding situations. So, conquer the elements with confidence, knowing you have a partner built to go the distance.

ThruDark's pick: Veles Gilet - graphene-enhanced, soft-shell well suited for advanced technical pursuits owing to its light weight and versatile build.

Men's Soft Shell Jackets

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SHROUD

SHROUD

£260

ThruDark Men's Wraith Long Sleeved Navy Blue Bomber Jacket.
ThruDark Men's Wraith Long Sleeved Navy Blue Bomber Jacket.
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WRAITH BOMBER JACKET

WRAITH BOMBER JACKET

£245

ThruDark Men's Wraith Grey Hooded Jacket.
ThruDark Men's Wraith Grey Hooded Jacket.
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WRAITH HOODED JACKET

WRAITH HOODED JACKET

£265

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ORYON WINDGUARD JACKET

ORYON WINDGUARD JACKET

£175

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CENTURION ALPINE JACKET

CENTURION ALPINE JACKET

£260

ThruDark Men's Black Long Sleeved Bomber Jacket.
ThruDark Men's Black Long Sleeved Bomber Jacket.
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WRAITH BOMBER JACKET

WRAITH BOMBER JACKET

£245

Are softshell jackets waterproof?

Softshells typically have Durable Water Repellent (DWR) treatment on their outer layer. This coating creates a barrier that effectively beads up light rain and snow, keeping you dry for short periods.

However, this DWR treatment is not a permanent solution. Extended exposure to heavy rain or submersion will eventually overwhelm the coating, leading to water penetration.

The bottom line: While softshell jackets offer a degree of weather resistance, it's crucial to understand they are not completely waterproof. For serious waterproofing needs, a hardshell jacket remains the undisputed champion.

ThruDark's pick: Shroud - An oversized, hooded, pile fleece lined, Cordura® armoured overcoat designed to protect against any cold and wet weather.

Are softshell jackets warm?

Softshells are built for breathability and flexibility. Most softshells provide some warmth, especially with a fleecy lining, the point of a soft shell is as a shield against the elements, not a solution for polar adventures.

Proudly championing an Apex Award for innovation, the Centurion Alpine Jacket makes use of three different Polartec® technologies to create a soft-shell optimised for climbing, abseiling and all-round active pursuits. Each Polartec® fabric has been chosen specifically to maximise function and create a layer that packs insulation with mobility and breathability.

So, do softshell jackets keep you warm? They'll keep you comfortable in the right conditions, but for serious cold, layering is key. Ultimately, the right jacket for you depends on the mission. If you need to move fast and stay comfortable, a softshell is a great option.

Are softshell jackets warmer than fleece?

In the unforgiving world of outdoor gear, both fleece and softshell jackets fight the cold, but they use different tactics. Fleece is the insulation specialist, its thick, fuzzy material a champion at trapping heat. While some softshells do have a fleece lining for a warmth boost, it's not their top priority. So, for pure thermal protection in frigid conditions, fleece jackets take the crown. Think of a softshell as a windproof shield with a built-in thermal base layer — effective, but fleece offers a more substantial layer of warmth for those bone-chilling expeditions.

ThruDark's pick: Wraith Hooded Jacket - a light, insulated jacket. Designed for everyday aesthetic with a technical edge, the Wraith Hooded Jacket is between worlds - a nexus of smart fabrics, form and functionality.

Which softshell jacket is right for me?

Softshells are the ultimate fusion of comfort and functionality. They prevent you from becoming sweaty, yet they're tough enough to shrug off wind and light rain. Plus, they come in a myriad of styles, from sleek gilets to armoured overcoats ready for anything nature throws your way.

Choosing the right softshell jacket depends on how you plan to use it. Here's a breakdown to help you decide:

1

Activity level:

If you'll be doing high-activity pursuits like hiking or biking, prioritise breathability. Look for jackets with vents under the arms or on the back to allow heat to escape.

2

Weather conditions:

Softshell jackets are water-resistant, but not waterproof. If you expect rain or snow, consider a jacket with a water-repellent (DWR) finish.

3

Temperature:

Softshells come in different weights. A lightweight softshell is ideal for cool mornings or evenings, while a midweight jacket will provide more warmth.

Endeavour

THRUDARK NEWS

How To Wash And Clean A Soft Shell Jacket
How To Wash And Clean A Soft Shell Jacket

How To Wash And Clean A Soft Shell Jacket

Here at ThruDark, we understand the value of top-level equipment. That's why we've created this guide specifically for washing your soft shell jacket. Keep reading for intel on every step to keep your trusted shield performing flawlessly in the field.
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