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Anonymous Fri 27 Sep 2013 22:22:49 No.202966 View View Reply Original Report

Quoted By:

Guys, explain softshell jackets to me.

It seems like it's just a term manufacturers throw on to describe a softer material than the classic gore tex/tarp type material.

Is it waterproof? Is it breathable? Is it any good?

Also looking at this jacket for walks in the snow and skiing. Thoughts?
http://www.rei.com/product/855454/mountain-hardwear-snowtastic-shell-jacket-mens

Anonymous

View Same Google ImgOps iqdb SauceNAO softshell quechua bionnassay.jpg, 49KiB, 800x800

Anonymous Sat 28 Sep 2013 00:14:27 No.202997 Report

Quoted By:

Historically, softshells were designed as weatherproof fleece jackets roughly, more breathable than regular coats, or "hardshells", more flexible aswell, which not only makes them better suited for sport activities, and decently warm.

Hardshells are, in fact, softshell material with a water repellant outer layer. That's actually why hardshells aren't that breathable, because regardless of the breathability of the softshell, it's not going to be working properly because of the outer layer. And softshell just lacks the outer layer, otherwise, they are often made of Goretex.

Softshells are decent all around, but of course, they wont perform as well as more dedicated fabrics. Most aren't actually waterproof, but they'll still withstand heavy rain for quite a long time, keep you warm, breathe and be comfortable. And they're well enough for snow.

It's kinda "amateurish", like you know, something that wouldn't be bought by someone that's truely dedicated to an activity and would prefer specific gear. But honestly, after having used a shit one I bought like 50€ for four years, I'm pleasantly surprised. It's pretty much the only thing I wear all year long now, wherever I go. It really takes some very hard conditions, like entire days of rain, or extreme coldness, to have me switch to something else. Pic related.

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