10 jackets for spring made of softshell and 5 reasons why this material is so popular

Very soon the last snowdrifts will finally give way to rain and gusty winds. In such weather it is desirable to have a reliable jacket. Among the huge choice of materials today stands out softshell – a real protector from the vagaries of spring. Together with the stylist we study its history, advantages and understand how to choose a jacket and not to make a mistake.

stylist, designer, founder of accessories brand OKATAVA

“Softshell is a multi-layered material. On top – a dense synthetic fabric with water-repellent impregnation. On the underside – soft and cozy fleece. And between them – breathable membrane, which absorbs sweat and does not let moisture inside”.

At all times man had to look for protection from cold, wind and moisture. For centuries he had only natural materials at his disposal, obtained by hunting, farming and cattle breeding: skins of forest and sea animals, wool, cotton and linen, natural rubber. Our ancestors took it for granted that their clothes did not always protect them from rain and wind, and were heavy and uncomfortable.

The revolution was revolutionized by petrochemicals, which made it possible to create lightweight and practical artificial materials. Our today’s hero was also born in the laboratories of a company producing clothes for outdoor activities. It was given the name Softshell. Literally translated, it means “soft shell”.

Advantages of softshell

Softshell is one of the most popular and popular materials used in the production of outfits for outdoor activities. It combines comfort, high level of weather protection and style. This innovative material has many advantages. Softshell clothing will be an ideal choice for people who lead an active lifestyle. In these things will be comfortable and on a walk around the city, and during extreme sports. Let’s analyze the main advantages of the material.

1. Protection from rain

The upper synthetic layer repels moisture and does not let it get to the fleece lining. In heavy rain, the material may get wet, but it will dry quickly on the body.

BASK TORNADO V2 Jacket, 17,825 RUB.

2. Wind protection

Another important feature of the material. It provides a reliable barrier against cold gusts of wind, making this softshell jacket the ideal choice in these weather conditions. It will be equally comfortable for a yachtsman in a storm, a mountain climber on a mountain peak or a passerby walking along the Neva embankment. In softshell you will feel comfortable in any conditions.

3. Keeping you warm

The inner fleece layer keeps you warm. At the same time, it does not allow you to overheat during active outdoor recreation. The material breathes well. You will not sweat a lot in it.

Chukcha Jacket, 14,999 RUB / LAMODA

4. Lightweight and lightweight

This softshell jacket can be folded into a small bundle and stowed in a backpack when the weather turns to sunshine. By the way, the developers had to work longer on reducing weight and volume than on other properties. Materials that protect against wind and moisture have always been heavy and bulky.

5. Durability

This synthetic material can withstand physical stresses well. It is flexible and durable. In addition, a softshell jacket is resistant to dirt. A fresh stain from the top layer can be easily wiped off with a napkin.

Types of softshell

Clothing made of this material is perfect for the off-season. It will come in handy not only for a sailor or mountaineer, but also for an ordinary city dweller. Especially in Russia, where spring and fall can be very cool, blowing wind and rain. Therefore, you should choose a thing, focusing on the climate in your region and your activity.

Residents of the south is quite suitable lightweight jacket made of two-layer softshell. Usually it is made of synthetic coating, pressed with fleece. Such clothes are comfortable in dry, windless weather.

Coolzone three-layer softshell jacket, 7500 RUB.

If it’s unpredictable outside, you need a three-layer softshell with a breathable membrane. It will protect you from wind and moisture. At the same time, the body will breathe and be in comfort. The thickness of the fleece also varies. It can be dense, protecting from subzero temperatures, or thin, not intended for frost.

The properties of the membrane are also of great importance. What are the nuances here? Pore membrane perfectly breathes, protects against wind. However, it more often gets wet. Poreless membrane protects well from rain, but breathes worse.

Polartec power shield membrane can be called optimal, which will suit fans of extreme recreation, as well as residents of northern and north-western regions. It will protect you from wind speed up to 50 km/hour, save you from rain and will not make you sweat.

How to find your softshell?

After choosing the pile length and membrane, you need to focus on other details. For example, the hood, which is simply essential during wind and moisture. Its size should be adjustable to ensure a snug fit to the head. Many models allow you to wear a helmet under the hood, which is very important for fans of extreme entertainment and cyclists.

Men’s jacket Colmar Adventure Purity, 29 900 RUB / “Sport Marathon”.

The pockets of such a jacket should be placed as conveniently as possible to hide your hands in them during bad weather. The cuffs should be adjustable and allow you to wear gloves under them. If necessary – tightly fit to the wrists.

The hem of the jacket must be adjustable. During bad weather, it is unacceptable that the clothes flutter, let the wind through and lose heat.

Women’s jacket Outventure, 6999 RUB / “Sportmaster”.

It is very important to choose the right jacket in size. It should not be too loose, or, conversely, tightly fit to the body. The size should be chosen so that you can wear an extra thin sweater under the jacket. When trying on, pay attention to the ability to freely move your arms and shoulders, sufficient length of the sleeves.

Another important point is the color. Here it is worth considering not only your own tastes, but also the conditions in which you plan to wear the jacket, as well as the possibility of combining with other elements of the closet. It is desirable to pay attention to the basic shades. These include: black, gray, dark blue, olive and sand. They combine well with many elements of the closet.

Jacket insulated Avese, 5690 RUB / Lamoda

When choosing a softshell color, you should also take into account its practical purpose. For example, for the urban environment will suit a calmer and more universal palette. For active recreation in nature, you can choose shades that mask dirt and dust.

In short, thoughtfulness and attention to detail will help you choose a reliable companion that will accompany you on all your adventures, protect you from bad weather and help you enjoy the joyful moments of the outdoors.

How to care for softshell?

A softshell jacket is a sophisticated, high-tech product. With proper use, this garment will serve faithfully for many years. But it also has weaknesses.

The main enemies of softshell are high temperatures and open fire. In this jacket you can not sit close to the fire or grill kebab. Spoil it can not only strong heat, but also smoke.

In addition, you can not treat the jacket with insect repellents. They will destroy the water-repellent coating. The only consolation is that mosquitoes and gadflies will not bite into softshell.

Women’s jacket Northland, 7499 RUB.

You can’t wash the jacket with normal detergents. To save water-repellent impregnation, you need to use special means for membrane, which can be found in many sports stores.

It is best to wash softshell by hand. In the machine, the jacket can be washed, but with observance of the following rules. Use the washing mode “manual” or “delicate” with a small spin speed or without it at all. The temperature should be no higher than 30 degrees. Before placing the jacket in the machine, you need to zipper and turn the product inside out. In no case do not use bleach and stain removers with chlorine. Conditioners and antistatic agents are also forbidden.

If any stains remain after washing, it is necessary to use a special stain remover for membranes.

Men’s softshell jacket Outventure, 6999 RUB / Sportmaster

Softshell jacket should dry on shoulders at room temperature or outdoors. In no case, do not dry it in a special machine, on a radiator, near a heated oven or fire. This your jacket will not survive. It will lose all its wonderful properties.

If you follow these simple rules, your jacket will serve for decades, preserving its unique properties. It will become your faithful companion both on a nice spring day and in rainy, chilly weather. Softshell will go with you on a morning jog in the nearest park, on a walk along an ecological trail, climb an unreachable mountain peak. He’ll be a trusted friend everywhere.

Women’s jacket BASK BREEZE, 13 800 RUB.

How to combine softshell?

Softshell is an indispensable element of a closet for everyone who appreciates comfort, functionality and style. This material uniquely combines durability and flexibility to provide exceptional weather protection. At the same time, it remains lightweight and breathable. Having a softshell jacket in your arsenal ensures that you are ready for any weather challenge.

This material is great for both outdoor activities and everyday wear. Whether you’re hiking, climbing a mountain peak or just walking around town, softshell jackets will keep you protected and comfortable. Thanks to modern designs they are not only functional, but also look stylish, easily fitting into any image. The variety of styles, colors and styles allows you to find the perfect option for everyone, regardless of preferences and lifestyle.

Northland Men’s Jacket, 9499 RUB.

For outdoor activities such jackets are perfectly combined with thermal underwear, sports pants or leggings and sneakers. Such an image will give you comfort and freedom of movement during physical activity.
In everyday life, a softshell jacket can be worn with jeans and simple cotton T-shirts or sweaters to create a relaxed casual look. Complete it with waterproof boots or sneakers.

For work and city walks, softshell goes well with more formal clothes. Shirts, chinos pants or sweaters are suitable here. They will create a smart casual style.

During hiking and tourism, the jacket can be worn over basic clothing, as well as combined with trekking pants and quality footwear.