Soft Shells Reviews

Most breathable softshell jacket

Most versatile

Most protective

Lightest shell

Best softshell

Best shell makeover

Best windshell

Most breathable shell

Best protection

Killer deal

Lightest

Warmest softshell

Best value softshell

Ultrabreathable softshell

In cool conditions, ditch separate insulation and windshell pieces in favor of this light and warm softshell.

This tough, breathable softshell will carry you from summer alpine hikes to winter ski tours.

You won’t find more comfortable protection for 4 ounces than this ultralight women's windshell.

A fleecy pattern on the inside gives this lightweight softshell a supple feel.

Superior weatherproofing and durability boost the all-purpose performance of this hybrid jacket.

This softshell provides waterproof protection that won’t soak you in sweat.

This softshell's rugged construction makes it tough enough for years of fierce weather.

This airy, breathable softshell keeps pace with high-intensity workouts.

Meet the most comfortable jacket of the year. Period.

This warm, ultralight softshell wicks sweat and repels wind during race-pace efforts.

This breathable, lightweight softshell is ideal for big climbs.

This versatile softshell is optimized for ice climbing, but adaptable to most cold-weather adventures.

This jacket is a fleece, but warmer. It’s a softshell, but more breathable. It’s one of the most versatile midlayers we’ve ever tested.

This softshell is good for hiking, biking, running, and climbing, and even works as a midlayer.

This rain gear gives you the soft, stretchy feel of a softshell with the rain protection of a hardshell.

This stretchy, minimalist softshell is ultracomfortable for all-day wear and allows for unrestricted motion.

A high protection-to-weight ratio makes this softshell hoodie a no-brainer for windy trail runs and fast-and-light summit pushes.

Backpackers who are willing to pay more for added features will find a lot to like in this softshell.

If you're an ultralight obsessives or a fastpacker who wants the absolute lightest shell, this softshell is the one for you.

Eight softshell jackets with performance perks.

A softshell with strategically placed waterproof zones.

It combines windproof chest protection (perfect for descents) with a breathable backpanel (ideal for climbing).

Stretchy, butter-soft fabric makes this lightweight jacket perfect for fast-paced tours.

A touch of breathable insulation keeps you from getting chilled—or overheating—in cold conditions.

Armored fabric and windproof construction provide cozy refuge from icy gusts.

This midweight softshell strikes a balance between weather protection and breathability, all for a great price.

The lightly insulated Ephus (and women’s Eldora) packs wind and weather protection into a lightweight, low-bulk design.

Rugged, water-resistant, and breathable, this wool jacket pairs backcountry performance with frontcountry looks.

A full-featured, 800-fill goose down puffy for $220.

If you've ever suffered through a storm with a shell that leaks or makes you wet from sweat, you know why a good jacket matters. Find yours here.

A puffy perfect for volatile alpine conditions.

A performance piece that feels like a sweatshirt.

A combination of double- and single- weave nylon makes this jacket extra breathable.

A tester favorite for those all-day excursions.

If you're hard on jackets, this Mountain Hardwear is for you.

The lightest shell in our test.

This minimalist shell kept testers dry during heart-pumping activities in the wettest weather.

Stay cool with the perfect top for heat and sun.

A look back at the softshells we've loved for years that are still at the top of their class.

A synthetic puffy that rivals the weight and warmth of down.

This breathable hoodie is ideal for high-elevation or high-intensity trips.

Make a statement with this custom softshell from Wild Things.

The waterproof Marmot Nabu bridges the gap between softshell and hardshell.

The Rab Zephys/Solar pairs a multitude of features with one low price.

Explore off the beaten path with this durable softshell from Arc'teryx.

Be ready for all weather conditions with the Mammut Ultimate Light.

This ultralight adidas softshell excels in everything from daily life to daring ascents.

For cold weather activities, check out this softshell from Westcomb, a minimalist in price and weight.

The sky is the limit for this weather-resistant softshell from Outdoor Research.

A killer softshell that performs both as an outerlayer and a midlayer.

This angler-worthy jacket keeps your torso toasty and your arms free.

Warm and fuzzy on the inside, durable on the outside.

Mediating breathability and weather-proofing, the Salvo does exactly what a softshell is supposed to.

This breathable softshell combats weather like the best hardshells do.

This sleek softshell was built for speed and temperature regulation.

Feel good, look good, and perform at your best in this high-tech merino softshell.

These versatile jackets repel wind and wet.

Stay dry and comfortable on the move with these breathable softshells.

Lightweight and durable, these softshells provide solid weather resistance.

A light, packable, and good-looking softshell

Eight softshell jackets from super breathable to warm and cozy.

A softshell that's weather resistant and super breathable.