Softshell or shell jacket - what's the difference?

Is a softshell jacket the same as a shell jacket? It's time to clarify, once and for all, the differences between the two types of jackets.

A perfect jacket that meets all your needs. Does it exist? For those who want a soft and flexible windbreaker, the softshell jacket might be the dream, while for others it's the shell jacket that can withstand both wind and rain. Which one you should invest in is not obvious because it largely depends on what activity you intend to use the jacket for. A jacket that works for everything is almost impossible to find, so you must first choose a model according to your activity. Depending on whether you will be hiking, cycling or climbing, the material also plays a big role, as it determines the jacket's durability and weight.

To make it a little easier to understand the difference between a softshell jacket and a shell jacket, we've enlisted the help of the experts at Haglöfs.

Biggest difference

Softshell: A softshell jacket is soft, light and usually more breathable than a shell jacket. This type of jacket is designed to allow you to move freely without getting too sweaty.

Shell jacket: The uses of a shell jacket are endless, but the most important function is to keep both wind and water out. It is usually more durable than the softshell jacket and this means that you can wear it even in slightly more severe weather conditions. It is also a little harder in the experience of the fabric itself.

Haglöfs l.I.M. Proof Jacket is a lightweight shell jacket made of stretchy polyamide. Recommended price 1 595 SEK.

Activity

Softshell: Very useful and can be used for different types of mobile activities, you can easily just wear a t-shirt underneath. The softshell jacket should sit tighter on the body than the shell jacket and is perfect for an activity where you get sweaty and need to be mobile. For example, cycling to and from work is a great opportunity to wear a softshell jacket.

Shell jacket: is optimal to wear with several layers underneath, so that you can regulate how warm you need to be. The model does not need to be quite as tight on the body as softshell. For example, a nylon shell jacket is durable and suitable for hiking in mountainous areas where you need a durable jacket. If you're thinking of doing freeride or powder skiing in the Alps, this type of shell jacket is perfect. A good example of a shell jacket for spring is the Haglöfs Grym Evo jacket.

Layers and membranes

Softshell: A softshell jacket can have several layers of fabric such as an outer and inner layer, and a membrane on the outside. All layers are usually softer in quality than the shell jacket.

Shelljacket: Kan have up to a total of three layers of fabric and a membrane. Examples of membranes include Gore-Tex or Haglöfs own membrane Proof, and it is the membrane that ensures that the jacket is waterproof and windproof.

The Grym Evo shell jacket is an optimal shell jacket for long and tough hikes that require more durability in a Nordic climate. Recommended price 3 495 SEK.

Materials

Softshell: There is a wide variety of what we call softshell. Softshell jackets from Haglöfs are usually made of either woven nylon, polyamide or polyester combined with elastane. Nylon jackets are more durable and work great for hiking and freeride/mountaineering, but at the same time they are also slightly heavier and not as stretchy as a softshell jacket is supposed to be. A polyester jacket is somewhat lighter.

Shell jacket: Kan be of different types of material with different weaves, but a shell jacket in nylon or polyamide often has a thicker weave and structure that makes it less stretchy and flexible. It is also the different membranes that make the jacket feel stiff in its quality.

Waterproofing

Softshell: Kan can withstand some rain and wind (with DWR impregnation), but it usually has a lower water column and no taped seams. However, there are softshell jackets that are made from a double weave that can withstand a little more wetness.

Shell jacket: Because the outer fabric of the shell jacket is laminatedras with the membrane, it allows the jacket to withstand more rain than a softshell model. The higher water column of the shell jacket also helps when it comes to waterproofing. But what makes most shell jackets fully waterproof is that they have taped seams, unlike the softshell jacket.

SHOP: All softshell jackets

READ MORE: How to wash your shell jacket