15 Best Softshell Jackets Of 2021
In This Article
When you are an adventure lover, owning the proper gear for outdoor activities is a must. And that’s when a softshell jacket comes to the rescue. It is made of stretchy fabric that makes it breathable and comfortable to move around while having fun.
A softshell jacket is not like raincoats/regular jackets; this outdoor clothing is perfect for those who love ice climbing, hiking, cycling, backpacking, or skiing. This jacket has versatility, and protects you from the cold wind, light snow, and other weather conditions. They offer freedom of movement, warmth, and work as an insulating mid-layer to maintain a comfortable body temperature when performing high-energy outdoor activities. You can even use this water-resistant jacket as your daily wear in chilly or snowy weather. So, enjoy your adventure trips, but first, choose the right gear from our list of the 15 best softshell jackets.
Top Picks
15 Best Softshell Jackets Of 2021
1. Columbia Ascender Softshell Jacket
Are you searching for a winter-ready jacket? Then get this softshell jacket that is made of 100% polyester and is perfect for any outdoor event. It will keep you warm and dry, thanks to its wind and winter-resistant features. This versatile jacket not only repels cold wind but also gives you a stylish appearance. With adjustable features and modern classic fit, this activity gear comes with two zippered hand pockets and one chest pocket to store small items along with keeping your hands warm. You can adjust the collar (wear it up or down), and this softshell jacket allows comfortable movement during hiking, mountain climbing, and other activities.
Pros
- Durable
- Lightweight
- High-quality
- For everyday wear
- Machine-washable
Cons
- Might have a synthetic smell initially
2. ARSUXEO Winter Softshell Jacket
Keep yourself warm and dry with this softshell jacket that is perfect to wear while cycling in the winter climate. Featuring three layers, this jacket’s exterior layer is windproof and waterproof that keeps moisture out and prevents stains. All while the middle layer has a waterproof stretchable function and the inner interior layer is a warm ultra-soft fleece that protects you from cold wind. This jacket also features a reflective logo and stripe designs to provide high visibility in the dark. It comes with a front zipper pocket, two side pockets, and long cuffs that provide extra coverage to your wrists.
Pros
- Breathable
- Multifunctional
- Value for money
- Sweat-resistant
- Comfortable wear
Cons
- The zippers might not be durable.
3. Sandbank Softshell Jacket
Are you looking for an all-season jacket? Well, this softshell jacket is the right choice for you! It is perfect for fall, spring, winter, and even summer to give you a stylish look. Made of 100% polyester, this jacket comes in a slim pattern, featuring long sleeves and cuffs, zipper closure, hem, neck rib collar, two side pockets, and one inside pocket. You will be comfortable wearing this stretchable jacket that comes with a round neck to keep you relaxed while you are out enjoying the weather. This clothing is hand and machine-washable, but do not use bleach as it may ruin the fabric.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Breathable
- Windproof
- Water-resistant
- Budget-friendly
Cons
- May not be long-lasting
4. Amazon Essentials Softshell Jacket
Try this softshell jacket that comes with high-quality comfort and fit, making your adventure trips more fun. With 100% polyester lining, this jacket has a water-resistant exterior to keep you safe during light rain and features a front zipper pocket for storing small items safely. It includes adjustable cuffs, zip pockets, and a comfortable stand-up neck collar. It will let you stretch without blocking your movements while you are on your adventure.
Pros
- Durable
- Affordable
- Lightweight
- For daily wear
- Machine-washable
Cons
- May not have inside pockets
5. Starter Softshell Jacket
Get this amazing softshell jacket that will keep you dry during rainy weather because of its water-resistant feature. It will even keep your mobile or small items secure in its exterior zippered chest pocket. This jacket is built for on-field performance, which means it will make for comfortable wear during outdoor activities like mountaineering, hiking, cycling, and climbing. This sports gear will allow you to move and stretch while you are on your adventure. You can easily carry it anywhere, and it is machine-washable.
Pros
- High-quality
- Fitting is good
- Sleek and stylish
- Value for money
- For everyday wear
Cons
- The initial smell might take some time to fade away.
6. Port Authority Softshell Jacket
You won’t have to stop your adventurous activities just because it’s wet outside! Get this softshell jacket that will let you have your outdoor fun while keeping you dry. Made of 100% polyester, this jacket is made of waterproof fabric that will not allow moisture or water to enter. You can go hiking, skiing, mountain climbing, and do other fun activities wearing this jacket that will not only keep you dry but also allow you to freely move your arms and stretch effortlessly. This amazing jacket comes with reverse coil zippers, side pockets, and a stand-up collar.
Pros
- Breathable
- Long-lasting
- Travel-friendly
- Easy to wash
- Perfect for fall and autumn climates
Cons
- May not be entirely wind-resistant
7. Tommy Hilfiger Softshell Jacket
Looking for jackets with stand-up collars? Try this Tommy Hilfiger Softshell Jacket that comes with a front zipper closure with a stand-up collar to protect against cold wind. This clothing is wind and water-resistant, which means it will keep you warm and dry while you go ice climbing, skiing, mountaineering, cycling, and hiking. Also, you can keep your hands warm, thanks to its two side pockets with zippers. Plus, you can secure your mobile or other small items in an interior zipper pocket. It ensures a comfortable wear, making it perfect for everyday use.
Pros
- Durable
- High-quality
- Lightweight
- Budget-friendly
- Convenient machine-washable jacket
Cons
- May not be true to size
8. Spyder Softshell Jacket
Get this softshell jacket made of high-performance and super-quality fabric that makes for a comfortable wear. Its ultra-thin membrane does not let rain or snow penetrate the outer layer of the fabric, making it one of the best water-resistant jackets. Also, it does not allow moisture to enter, keeping you dry as well as warm during cold weather. You can easily enjoy your hiking, cycling, and other outdoor games wearing this jacket as it provides great stretchability to move around freely. This softshell coat features an inner chin guard, zippered chest, and two side hand pockets to keep your hands toasty and phone safe and secure.
Pros
- Breathable
- Offers great fit
- Lightweight
- Machine-washable
- Long-lasting material
Cons
- Expensive
9. Marmot Tempo Softshell Jacket
Feel comfortable in this versatile softshell jacket that is perfect for an adventure lover! Whether you are performing high aerobic activity or hiking with friends, this jacket will not disappoint you. It will keep you dry and warm in cold weather and repel water when exposed to mild precipitation. With stretchy fabric construction, this jacket gives you the freedom to move without making it uncomfortable and will provide your arms full mobility, thanks to its built-in angel-wing movement feature. It comes with a drawcord hem, lycra-bound cuffs, zippered pockets to warm your cold fingers, and a zippered chest pocket for storage.
Pros
- Breathable
- Lightweight
- Easy to wash
- Fits perfectly
- Premium quality fabric
Cons
- May not be windproof
10. Weatherproof Softshell Jacket
Want a jacket with wind and water-resistant features? Then get this softshell jacket that repels water and wind to protect you against weather conditions. With soft polyester construction on the outer shell, this jacket provides extreme comfort while you are out on a cold winter day. This coat uses your body’s heat to keep you warm. Rest assured, it does not overheat because of its breathable design. This softshell jacket gives a stylish appearance with its zip-up feature that goes all the way up to the collar, protecting your neck and body from wind. Also, it features two zippered side pockets, one chest pocket, an inside pocket with Velcro closure, drawcords at the waist, and adjustable Velcro cuffs.
Pros
- Durable
- Lightweight
- Comfortable fit
- Stretchable material
- Fully machine-washable
Cons
- The zippers might not last long.
11. Levi’s Hooded Softshell Jacket
Are you searching for a jacket with a hood? Try this softshell jacket with an attached hood and adjustable drawstrings, offering a classy and smart look. This jacket provides comfort, style, and warmth during the winter season, blocking moisture and cold wind. Its front closure consists of a zipper and snaps to keep you extra warm and two side pockets that make for good hand warmers. Made of 100% polyester, this cozy jacket also comes with adjustable snap cuffs, an inside zipper pocket, and two flap pockets on the chest with snaps for storing small items. You can easily clean this clothing in the washing machine.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Water-resistant
- Travel-friendly
- Provides breathability
- Supreme quality fabric
Cons
- Some might face slight fitting issues.
12. Under Armour Softshell Jacket
Keep yourself warm during cold weather and dry in mild rain with this softshell jacket. It provides great comfort when you are enjoying your snow games or aerobic activities, thanks to the stretchy material that allows freedom of movement. You can also wear it while you are hiking, mountain climbing, cycling, running, and jogging as it protects you against wind and water, keeping you dry at all times. It comes with a front zipper that zips all the way up, closing the neck collar to protect your body from chilly wind. Plus, this jacket has long sleeves to keep your hands warm and side pockets for easy storage.
Pros
- Durable
- Lightweight
- Perfect fitting
- High-performance
- Convenient to wash
Cons
- Slightly expensive
13. 5.11 Tactical Softshell Jacket
Opt for this softshell jacket that is made of 100% polyester, making it water and wind-resistant. You will experience the durable and superior performance with this jacket that will feel lightweight and is efficient for chilly weather. This winter wear comes with plenty of pockets — handwarmer pockets, three interior pockets, and one left sleeve pocket — to store personal belongings. Plus, it features three zip-out ID panels that make recreational or operational outdoor activities quite convenient and hook and loop storm cuffs that do not allow wind or moisture to enter, keeping you cozy.
Pros
- Versatile
- Breathable
- Stretchable
- High-quality fabric
- Comfortable wear
Cons
- Expensive
14. Camel Crown Softshell Jacket
Get this stylish softshell jacket that comes with an inner pocket, zippered outer pockets, adjustable cuffs, and a hood with a chin guard. While the exterior is made of polyester and spandex, the interior gives you a cozy feel due to the soft brushed fleece lining. This windproof jacket works great during rainy and winter seasons as it resists water and cold wind, keeping you dry and warm. You can wear this water-resistant apparel when you are enjoying activities like climbing, jogging, hiking, cycling, and skiing.
Pros
- Long-lasting
- Lightweight
- Stain-repellent
- Value for money
- For everyday wear
Cons
- The outer fabric might create noise when brushed against each other.
15. Dockers Softshell Jacket
Pros
- Versatile
- Water-resistant
- Breathable fabric
- Easy machine-washable
- Comfortable daily wear
Cons
- May not be long-lasting
Before you make your decision, go through our buying guide to choose the right one.
How To Choose The Best Softshell Jacket
- Versatile: Pick a softshell jacket that can be used for multiple purposes. You can wear it while you are hiking, cycling, jogging, or mountain climbing, and even use it for daily wear purposes.
- Water and wind-resistant: It is important to choose a softshell jacket that stays good under any weather condition. Whether it is cold, drizzling, or windy, your jacket will protect you from the harsh environmental change.
- Washable: Since you would be wearing these jackets mostly for outdoor activities, they tend to get dirty. It would be great if you choose machine-washable ones.
- Mobility: Get one of those softshell coats that offers you the freedom to move and stretch. Softshell jackets generally are highly mobile so that you feel comfortable while you are on your athletic journey.
- Breathable: Your jacket should be able to transport moisture. Otherwise, you will not be warm and dry while performing high energy activities as your sweat will make you uncomfortable.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are softshell jackets windproof and waterproof?
Softshell jackets are mostly windproof and water-resistant. However, a few brands do manufacture waterproof jackets as well.
2. When is a softshell jacket a better choice?
A softshell jacket is a better choice when you want to enjoy outdoor activities during cold or windy weather. This jacket also protects you from mild rains.
Softshell jackets are in high demand during the winter season as they provide comfort and mobility at the same time. Whether you want to stay at home, go out for a walk, or perform high energy activities, these jackets are the best companion as they keep you cozy and dry and come with more than two pockets to store your valuable items. Buy this versatile apparel not only for its weather protection features but also for its stylish appearance. Hopefully, our list of the 15 best softshell jackets will help you find the perfect one.
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