Soft shell vs fleece jacket: Which to choose?

Gear up for any challenge. Ditch the flimsy jackets – we're talking fleece and softshell for your next adventure. Both offer warmth, but which one conquers wind, rain, and sweat like a pro?

Soft shell and fleece are not the same, although they are both popular choices for outdoor activities. This breakdown equips you with the intel you need to beat the elements and choose the right jacket for your next pursuit.

Your adventure companion: the shell jacket. Built to handle the elements and keep you moving, it's your shield against wind and rain.

Shell jackets come in two different types:

When choosing between a shell and a fleece jacket, consider these key factors:

Warmth

A fantastic insulator, fleece traps air between its fibres, creating a layer of warmth. Thicker fleece jackets offer superior warmth but come at the cost of bulkiness. For maximum warmth in extremely cold environments, fleece excels as a mid-layer under a windproof shell.

Shell jackets are built for high performance in challenging conditions, particularly wet and windy weather. Typically waterproof and windproof, these jackets lack insulation, aiming to stay lightweight and breathable for high-intensity activities.

Mobility

Fleece jackets tend to offer less flexibility compared to shell jackets, especially soft shells. Insulated fleece jackets usually feature an outer layer made of ripstop fabric which maintains tightness to prevent stretching and tearing. Additionally, the insulation within these jackets, while effective for warmth, can restrict movement as they are primarily designed for warmth during periods of low activity.

In contrast, shell jackets tend to be better for moving around. They're usually lighter and designed with cuts that allow for more freedom of movement. Soft shell jackets, especially, are made with stretchy materials so you can move freely during activities.

Breathability

Breathability is key for both fleece and shell jackets. Why? Because sweat is the enemy in cold weather. When you sweat, it evaporates and steals heat from your body, making you dangerously cold. On top of this, wet clothes lose insulating ability significantly, increasing the risk of hypothermia.

Top-notch fleece jackets boast breathable exteriors that prevent sweat build-up while keeping precious down filling contained. Look for jackets with materials like Thermal Pro®, a Polartec® fabric, that is highly durable, fast drying and breathable.

Shell jackets are equally critical when it comes to breathability. By nature, you'll likely be more active when wearing a shell, generating more heat. A highly breathable shell ensures you stay comfortable and focused on the task at hand.

Shell jackets use water-resistant or waterproof materials and often have features like taped seams to prevent leaks. They offer wind and rain protection with breathability that makes them ideal for spring weather or activities where you'll generate some heat.

Fleece, on the other hand, is primarily for warmth and breathability. While some fleece may be wind-resistant, it won't hold up against heavy rain or snow. It excels as an insulating mid-layer under a shell jacket for cold and wet conditions.

Activity

This depends on the specific activity and the elements you'll face.

For high-octane adventures like hiking or skiing, a shell jacket reigns supreme. A shell jacket acts like a protective shield, blocking wind, rain, and even snow. It remains breathable though, allowing sweat vapour to escape and preventing discomfort.

Fleece, on the other hand, is a master of comfortable warmth. It's the perfect companion for cool mornings by the campfire or light hikes on crisp autumn days. Its secret lies in the soft material that traps air, creating a layer of insulation without excessive bulk. Plus, fleece excels at breathability, making it ideal for moderate activity levels where you still generate some heat. Unlike a shell, however, fleece offers minimal weather resistance. A light drizzle might be manageable, but anything more will leave you soaked to the skin.

So, how do you decide? Think about the intensity of your activity. If you're pushing hard and generating a lot of sweat, a shell jacket's weather protection and breathability are essential. But for lower-impact adventures, a fleece offers warmth while allowing moisture to escape.

Ultimately, the best jacket isn't a single champion, but the one that best suits your needs. Consider the activity, the climate, and your desired comfort level. With the right choice, you'll be prepared to conquer the outdoors, come rain or shine.