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The 3 Best Softshell Jackets of 2018

Stay warm and cozy with the season's best softshell jackets.

Author:: Backpacker Magazine
Publish date:: Nov 10, 2018

Serious endeavors call for serious breathability. Whether you're hiking, climbing, or skinning up a peak in the backcountry, a comfortable, versatile softshell should be part of everyone's kit, and strides in materials and construction mean that the compromises of swapping out your hardshell are minimal. Grab one of these three jackets and get moving.

If you’re the climb-in-any-season type, you’ll appreciate this cozy number. The Impendor is the warmest softshell in the test, thanks to a heavy-duty polyester knit and a windproof membrane that make it ideal for cold days at the crag (or ice climbing). Read The Full ReviewBuy Now-

If you’re the climb-in-any-season type, you’ll appreciate this cozy number. The Impendor is the warmest softshell in the test, thanks to a heavy-duty polyester knit and a windproof membrane that make it ideal for cold days at the crag (or ice climbing). Read The Full ReviewBuy Now-

Start with what we love about softshells—enhanced breathability, lots of stretch—then toughen it up to handle sharp winter gear, and you get this jacket.Read The Full ReviewBuy Now-

There’s nothing fancy about this hardworking softie, but in this case, the basics—great temperature regulation, decent weather protection, four-way stretch, thoughtful features— are all you need.Read The Full Review-

The North Face Impendor Softshell

If you’re the climb-in-any-season type, you’ll appreciate this cozy number. The Impendor is the warmest softshell in the test, thanks to a heavy-duty polyester knit and a windproof membrane that make it ideal for cold days at the crag (or ice climbing).

Read The Full Review

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Check out the rest of the 2018 Winter Gear Guide

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