Best Softshell Jackets for 2026: Top 10 Picks for Every Need
Softshell jackets are the unsung heroes of outdoor gear, offering a perfect balance of weather resistance, breathability, and stretch. They excel in high-output activities like hiking, climbing, and skiing, providing protection from the elements without overheating.
In 2026, the best softshells combine advanced materials with thoughtful design, making them versatile for a wide range of outdoor adventures. In this guide, we've selected the top 10 models, each tested for durability, performance, and overall value. Whether you're a seasoned mountaineer or a weekend adventurer, these jackets are built to perform.
Our Top 10 Softshell Jackets of 2026 (Quick Picks)
- Best Softshell Jacket for Hiking — Alpargali CoreShell Jacket
- Best Softshell Jacket for Hunting — Arc'teryx Gamma Lightweight Hoody
- Best Budget Softshell — Rab Borealis
- Best Ultralight & Packable Softshell — Black Diamond Alpine Start Hoody
- Best for Wet & Windy Weather — Rab Kinetic 2.0
- Best Warm Softshell for Winter Cardio — Patagonia R1 TechFace Hoody
- Best Softshell Jacket for Mountaineering — Outdoor Research Ferrosi Hoody
- Best Hybrid for Cold, Dry Missions — Helly Hansen Odin Pro Shield Hybrid
- Best for Backcountry Skiing — Dynafit Ridge Dynastretch
- Best Casual Softshell for Daily Wear — The North Face Apex Bionic 3
Alpargali CoreShell Jacket
Best for Hiking
Arc'teryx Gamma Lightweight Hoody
Best for Hunting
Rab Borealis
Best Budget Softshell
Black Diamond Alpine Start Hoody
Best Ultralight & Packable
Rab Kinetic 2.0
Best for Wet & Windy Weather
Patagonia R1 TechFace Hoody
Best Warm Softshell for Winter Cardio
Outdoor Research Ferrosi Hoody
Best for Mountaineering
Helly Hansen Odin Pro Shield Hybrid
Best Hybrid for Cold, Dry Missions
Dynafit Ridge Dynastretch
Best for Backcountry Skiing
The North Face Apex Bionic 3
Best Casual Softshell for Daily Wear
Softshell Jacket Comparison
| Jacket | Primary Use | Warmth Level | Breathability | Weather Protection | Stretch & Mobility | Weight | Hood Type | Pockets | Fit | Notable Strength |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpargali CoreShell Jacket | City-to-trail, everyday hiking | Medium–High (30% warmer than fleece) | High (10,000 g/m²/24h) | 10K waterproof / windproof | 4-way stretch | Mid-weight | Everyday hood | 13 pockets | Regular | Best EDC + warmth balance |
| Arc'teryx Gamma Lightweight Hoody | All-purpose performance, hunting, trekking | Medium | High | Moderate wind + light rain | Excellent articulation | Light | Helmet-compatible | 4 pockets | Trim | Best mobility + premium feel |
| Rab Borealis | Budget performance, warm-weather hiking | Low | Very high | Low | Very flexible | Ultralight | Under-helmet | 2 pockets | Slim | Best budget value |
| Black Diamond Alpine Start Hoody | Ultralight fast-moving hikes, climbing | Low | Very high | Wind-resistant / very light rain | High | Ultra-light (7 oz) | Helmet-compatible | 1 pocket | Slim | Best packability |
| Rab Kinetic 2.0 | Wet + windy weather, mixed climates | Medium | Medium–High | Waterproof membrane | Stretchy softshell feel | Mid | Under-helmet | 2 pockets | Trim | Best wet-weather protection |
| Patagonia R1 TechFace Hoody | Winter cardio, cold hikes | Medium–High (fleece-backed) | High | Moderate wind / snow | Good stretch | Mid | Under-helmet | 2 pockets | Trim | Best warm active layer |
| Outdoor Research Ferrosi Hoody | Mountaineering, climbing, scrambling | Low–Medium | High | Low–Medium | Very stretchable | Light | Under-helmet | 3 pockets | Regular / athletic | Best for technical movement |
| Helly Hansen Odin Pro Shield Hybrid | Cold, dry, windy missions | High (fleece-lined hybrid) | Medium | Medium (DWR + windproof) | Moderate | Heavier | Helmet-compatible | Multiple | Regular | Best warm hybrid softshell |
| Dynafit Ridge Dynastretch | Backcountry skiing, skin tracks | Low–Medium | Very high | Windproof + light snow | Excellent | Light | Helmet-compatible | 2 pockets | Slim / athletic | Best ski-touring softshell |
| The North Face Apex Bionic 3 | Daily wear, urban wind protection | Medium | Medium | Good wind + light rain | Low stretch | Heavier | Collar (hooded version optional) | 3 pockets | Relaxed | Best casual softshell |
Best Softshell Jacket for Hiking — Alpargali CoreShell Jacket
Best for: Hikers and commuters who want a warm, weather-ready softshell that transitions naturally between city, travel, and trail.
Most softshells focus on either performance or casual wear. The CoreShell bridges both worlds. It delivers the warmth and structure of an insulated jacket, with the flexibility and breathability of a softshell — a combination that suits real-life use far better than a purely technical layer.
Its jacquard fleece + CoreLock insulation system provides 30% more warmth than standard fleece, while the 10K/10K membrane offers reliable protection for windy, lightly wet days. In practice, this means you stay warm on winter hikes yet don't overheat on brisk urban walks. And the 13-pocket layout is genuinely useful — especially for travel or EDC — and not something you'll find on a typical Arc'teryx or Rab piece.
| Price | $199 |
| Insulation | CoreLock + 2mm jacquard fleece (30% warmer) |
| Weather Protection | 10,000 mm waterproofing; wind-resistant |
| Breathability | 10,000 g/m²/24h (≈20% higher than standard fleece) |
| Fabric | 70D 4-way stretch nylon, fluorine-free DWR |
| Durability | 20,000 Martindale abrasion rating |
| Temperature Range | 0°C to –8°C (Static); –5°C to –12°C (Active) |
| Pockets | 13 |
| Fit | Regular, mobility-friendly |
| Hood | Everyday hood (non-helmet) |
Get it if you want one jacket that covers most of your cold-weather life:
- Commuting in wind and light rain
- Light-to-moderate hiking in winter temperatures
- Travel with variable climates
- A warm layer that isn't bulky or restrictive
Skip it if your primary use is:
- Fast mountaineering or ski touring
- Long trips in storm-level rain
- Ultralight backpacking where every gram counts
Best Softshell Jacket for Hunting — Arc'teryx Gamma Lightweight Hoody
Best for: Hunters seeking a lightweight, durable, and breathable softshell with mobility and protection against mild weather conditions.
The Arc'teryx Gamma Lightweight Hoody is designed for hunters who value comfort and versatility. It offers excellent wind protection, high breathability, and a helmet-compatible hood, making it ideal for high-output activities in variable conditions. This jacket lets you move freely while staying shielded from the elements without being overly bulky.
| Price | $260 |
| Fabric | 100% Nylon (DWR-treated) |
| Weather Protection | Windproof, water-repellent |
| Breathability | Excellent for active use |
| Fit | Trim, ideal for layering |
| Pockets | 4 (2 hand, 1 chest, 1 internal) |
| Hood | Helmet-compatible |
Buy it if you want:
- A lightweight, durable jacket for active hunts
- Windproof and breathable performance in mild weather
- A versatile design that works for layering
Skip it if:
- You need insulation for cold temperatures
- You expect heavy rain exposure
- You're on a budget
Best Budget Softshell — Rab Borealis
Best for: Budget-conscious hikers, casual trail walkers, or anyone who wants a reliable softshell without spending too much.
The Rab Borealis delivers core softshell performance—wind protection, breathability, and freedom of movement—at a price far below most premium options. It hits the sweet spot for day hikes, travel days, or everyday layered wear where you want decent weather resistance and comfort without overpaying.
| Price | approx. $120 |
| Fabric | Lightweight stretch softshell with DWR treatment |
| Weather Protection | Wind-resistant, light moisture / drizzle protection |
| Breathability | High — very good for active use |
| Insulation | None (light softshell) |
| Fit | Slim / trim, good for layering |
| Pockets | 2 (hand-warmer style) |
| Hood | Under-helmet hood (low-profile, minimalist) |
Buy it if you want:
- A light, affordable softshell for daily use, travel, or light hikes
- Good breathability for active movement or warmer weather
- A low-cost entry to softshell jackets
Skip it if you need:
- Insulation or use in cold winters
- Strong waterproofing for heavy rain or snow
- Lots of storage / pocket space for gear
Best Ultralight & Packable Softshell — Black Diamond Alpine Start Hoody
Best for: Minimalist hikers, travelers, or anyone who values light weight and packability — especially for spring/fall treks, fast-moving hikes, or layering over a base layer.
The Black Diamond Alpine Start Hoody delivers the core softshell advantages — wind protection, stretch, and breathability — in an extremely lightweight, easily packable package. It's ideal if you want a shell that collapses down small, adds little bulk, and still offers reasonable weather resistance for light rain or windy conditions. For fast hikes, quick trips, or packing it as a backup layer, this jacket hits the sweet spot.
| Price | ~ $199 |
| Fabric | Thin stretch-woven nylon with DWR treatment |
| Weather Protection | Wind-resistant, water-repellent (light rain / drizzle) |
| Breathability | High — excellent for aerobic activity |
| Insulation | None (ultralight softshell) |
| Fit | Slim / trim; minimal bulk |
| Pockets | 1 (chest or internal, depending on version) |
| Hood | Helmet-compatible / over-the-head hood (lightweight) |
| Weight (Men's) | ~ 7.3 oz — among the lightest softshells available |
| Use Case | Fast hikes, layering, travel, emergency shell |
Buy it if you want:
- A light, packable shell you can toss into a pack or travel bag
- A breathable jacket for high-activity hikes, climbing, or trail running
- A minimal, versatile layer for spring/fall or as a backup shell
Skip it if you need:
- Warmth or insulation — it's too light for cold-weather use without layering
- Heavy rain or harsh weather protection — it's more of a windbreaker-style softshell
- Ample storage or pockets — limited pocket space may restrict functionality
Best for Wet & Windy Weather — Rab Kinetic 2.0 Softshell
Best for: Hikers and climbers expecting wind, drizzle, or mixed precipitation who want a weather-protective softshell without the bulk of a hardshell.
The Rab Kinetic 2.0 bridges the gap between traditional softshells and hardshells. Its membrane-based design gives it superior wind resistance and water repellency, while still keeping flexibility and mobility high. For days when weather can turn mid-hike — wind gusts, light rain, or chilling drizzle — this jacket is built to keep you moving without the sweat-trap feeling of a raincoat.
| Weather Protection | Waterproof membrane + DWR |
| Breathability | Good, better than most hardshells |
| Insulation | None (shell only) |
| Fit | Trim, ideal for layering |
| Pockets | 2 hand/hip pockets |
| Hood | Under-helmet, streamlined |
| Ideal Use | Windy, damp weather, alpine hikes, and variable mountain conditions |
Go for Rab Kinetic 2.0 if:
- You need a windproof, water-resistant jacket for variable weather.
- You prefer mobility and comfort during outdoor activities like climbing or hiking.
Consider alternatives if:
- You need a jacket with built-in insulation for cold weather.
- You expect heavy rain or need more storage options.
Best Warm Softshell for Winter Cardio — Patagonia R1 TechFace Hoody
Best for: Active hikers, runners, or outdoor workers who need warmth + mobility + softshell protection for cold-weather cardio and winter hikes.
The Patagonia R1 TechFace Hoody blends a warm fleece interior with a softshell exterior, giving you insulation, wind resistance, and breathability — all in one. For those days when you're walking fast, climbing hills, or shoveling snow, you get the warmth of fleece without the choking feeling of a heavy parka or the sweat trap of a pure hardshell.
| Insulation | Built-in fleece backing |
| Weather Protection | Softshell exterior with wind resistance and light moisture shedding |
| Breathability | High — better than most insulated jackets, suitable for cardio use |
| Fit | Trim/athletic, with room to layer underneath |
| Pockets | 2 (standard softshell layout) |
| Hood | Under-helmet style, streamlined |
| Ideal Use | Winter hikes, brisk cardio sessions, cold-weather travel, layering |
Choose Patagonia R1 TechFace if:
- You do a lot of winter hiking, snowshoeing, or cold-weather cardio.
- You want a jacket that's warmer than a softshell but still breathable and mobile.
- You like lightweight warmth and don't need heavy waterproofing.
Maybe skip it if:
- Your adventures often involve heavy rain or deep snow — you'll need full rain protection.
- You need maximum insulation for freezing conditions — aim for a down jacket or insulated parka instead.
Best Softshell Jacket for Mountaineering — Outdoor Research Ferrosi Hoody
Best for: Climbers and mountaineers who want a reliable, durable, and breathable softshell for technical approaches, rock scrambles, or moderate alpine routes.
The Ferrosi Hoody delivers the core softshell virtues — stretch, breathability, and flexibility — at a value that many premium softshells don't match. It's rugged enough for rock, versatile enough for mountain travel, and simple enough to layer under more protective shells. For mountaineering or mixed terrain, it's a solid "go-to" when you expect wind, light weather exposure, and dynamic movement.
| Price | ~ $149 |
| Fabric | Lightweight stretch softshell with DWR treatment |
| Weather Protection | Wind-resistant, splash / light moisture resistance (DWR) |
| Breathability | High — good for hiking, climbing, and high-output movement |
| Insulation | None (softshell only) |
| Fit | Regular / athletic, with good freedom of movement |
| Pockets | 3 — basic hand-warmer and internal layout |
| Hood | Slim, low-profile (under-helmet compatible) |
| Ideal Use | Climbing approaches, alpine hiking, spring/fall mountaineering, mixed terrain scrambles |
Go for Ferrosi Hoody if you:
- Need a light, flexible softshell for climbing approaches, scrambles, or alpine hikes
- Want something breathable and mobile for active mountaineering days
- Prefer a versatile mid-layer or outer layer that layers easily under a shell
Maybe skip it if you:
- Spend a lot of time in wet, cold, or storm-prone environments — you'd want waterproofing and insulation
- Require high storage capacity or bundled gear space — pocket count is minimal
- Expect to hike or camp in freezing or snow-heavy conditions — need more insulation
Best Hybrid for Cold, Dry Missions — Helly Hansen Odin Pro Shield Hybrid
Best for: Cold-weather trekking, alpine missions, or snowy conditions where you need extra warmth and wind protection.
The Helly Hansen Odin Pro Shield Hybrid combines a softshell exterior with fleece insulation for warmth, wind resistance, and weather protection. It's ideal for dry, cold conditions like early season climbs or winter hikes, offering both comfort and protection.
| Category | Hybrid softshell/insulated jacket |
| Weather Protection | DWR-treated softshell; good for wind, light snow, and dry conditions |
| Insulation | Fleece lining for warmth |
| Breathability | Moderate |
| Fit | Regular — accommodates layering |
| Pockets | Multiple (hand and chest) |
| Hood | Helmet-compatible or fitted hood |
| Best Use | Winter trekking, alpine adventures, or ski touring |
Buy it if:
- You need a warm, versatile jacket for cold, dry conditions
- You want a jacket that works as both an outer layer and a mid-layer
- You need storage for gear on alpine or winter excursions
Skip it if:
- You prefer lightweight packability or breathability for high-output activities
- You expect heavy rain — consider a waterproof hardshell
- You need a slimmer fit for casual wear
Best for Backcountry Skiing — Dynafit Ridge Dynastretch
Best for: Ski tourers and backcountry skiers seeking lightweight, high-output movement — perfect for steep skin-ups, quick transitions, and alpine adventures.
The Ridge Dynastretch is designed for backcountry skiing — a softshell offering the right balance of stretch, breathability, and wind-resistance. Its lightweight construction is perfect for long tours, and its slim profile fits comfortably over base layers. While it won't fully protect against heavy snow, it's ideal for dry, breezy conditions or light snow.
| Fabric | 4-way stretch nylon, PFC-free DWR |
| Weather Protection | Windproof, water-repellent |
| Breathability | High, for active movement |
| Fit | Slim/athletic for layering |
| Hood | Helmet-compatible, adjustable |
| Cuffs & Hem | Elastic and adjustable |
| Pockets | 2 zippered front pockets |
| Packability | Very packable |
| Ideal Use Cases | Skin-ups, ski touring, alpine climbs |
Yes — if you:
- Want a lightweight, breathable jacket for ski touring and high-output winter activities.
- Need good mobility and packability for backcountry adventures.
Maybe skip — if you:
- Need full waterproofing for prolonged wet snow.
- Want insulation for extremely cold conditions.
- Need more storage than just two pockets.
Best Casual Softshell for Daily Wear — The North Face Apex Bionic 3
Best for: Everyday urban wear, commuting, casual walks, light hikes — when you want a softshell that looks good with jeans or chinos and still delivers basic weather protection.
The Apex Bionic 3 isn't a hardcore mountain jacket — but that's exactly why it works so well for city life. It offers just enough wind protection and light weather resistance, with a clean, versatile design that fits in on the street as easily as on a light trail. It's a softshell you can wear to work, to dinner, or on a weekend stroll without looking out of place.
| Price | ~ $160 |
| Fabric | Softshell shell with DWR treatment |
| Weather Protection | Wind-resistant, water-repellent for light rain / drizzle |
| Breathability | Moderate — enough for everyday wear or light activity |
| Insulation | None (softshell only) |
| Fit | Relaxed / casual — roomy enough for layering over shirts or hoodies |
| Pockets | 3 (hand-warmer + chest-style) |
| Hood | Optional (depends on specific version) — many prefer the collar version for city styling |
| Ideal Use | Commuting, light rain or wind, short walks, casual hikes |
Buy it if you:
- Want a softshell that works for daily city life and occasional light outdoor use.
- Value a stylish, versatile jacket over peak performance.
- Need a jacket that pairs easily with casual or smart-casual outfits.
Skip it if you need:
- A lightweight technical layer for hiking or strenuous outdoor activity.
- Strong weather protection or insulation for cold or wet environments.
- Maximum packability or performance flexibility — other softshells will serve better.
How We Test These Softshell Jackets
At Alpargali, we don't just read spec sheets — we put every jacket through real-world, high-output testing to make sure our recommendations are honest, practical, and performance-driven.
1. Field Testing in Real Conditions
We test jackets in city commutes, light trails, windy ridgelines, and cold-weather hikes, ensuring they perform in the environments they're designed for.
2. Durability & Abrasion Assessment
Softshells need to last. We assess fabric wear, stitching strength, and abrasion resistance through climbing approaches, backpack use, and repeated movement.
3. Weather Resistance Checks
We test each jacket against wind exposure, light rain or drizzle, and cold morning temps to see how well they actually resist weather — not just what the label claims.
4. Breathability & Heat Management
Because overheating ruins performance, we evaluate how fast the jacket vents moisture, whether it gets clammy during uphill efforts, and comfort during both static and active use.
5. Fit, Mobility & Comfort
We move — a lot — in each jacket. We assess range of motion (reach, twist, climb), comfort over long wear, and how the fit works with common layers.
6. Feature Usability
Hoods, cuffs, hems, pockets — we test them all while actually hiking or commuting. If a feature isn't functional in real use, we don't count it as a strength.
How to Choose the Right Softshell Jacket
Selecting the right softshell jacket comes down to understanding your needs and matching them to the jacket's features. Here's a streamlined guide to help you make an informed decision.
Know Your Activity
- Hiking/Casual: Look for versatility, comfort, and breathability
- Mountaineering/Climbing: Opt for mobility, breathability, and wind protection
- Winter Sports: Choose jackets with insulation or thicker materials
Key Features to Consider
- Breathability: Essential for high-output activities
- Water Resistance: 10,000 mmH₂O rating for light rain and snow
- Windproofing: Reinforced protection for gusty conditions
- Fit and Flexibility: 4-way stretch fabrics for comfort
- Insulation: Fleece or synthetic for cold environments
Fabric & Durability
- Look for abrasion-resistant fabrics
- Alpargali CoreShell: 20,000 Martindale rub durability rating
- Nylon or polyester blends are common
Fit & Layering
- Athletic fit: Best for climbing, skiing, and high-mobility activities
- Casual fit: More room for layering and everyday comfort
- Consider how the jacket works with base and mid-layers
Additional Features
- Hoods: Helmet-compatible for mountaineering/skiing
- Pockets: High, harness-compatible for climbing; standard for daily use
- Packability: Lightweight options for backpacking
Budget Considerations
- Premium options: Arc'teryx, Rab — advanced features, higher price
- Budget-friendly: Outdoor Research Ferrosi, Alpargali CoreShell — great value
Conclusion
At Alpargali, we know that gear should adapt to your life, not the other way around. That's why we build jackets with real-world use in mind — durable enough for mountain trails, comfortable enough for daily wear.
If you care about quality, reliability, and versatility in your outdoor clothing, stay tuned. We've got more gear, guides, and updates coming soon to help you get outside with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, they're great for high-output activities. Softshells balance breathability, flexibility, and light weather protection, making them perfect for hiking, climbing, and skiing.
A softshell jacket is a breathable, flexible outer layer made from stretch fabrics. It's water-resistant but not waterproof, ideal for active pursuits requiring mobility and comfort.
A softshell should fit comfortably, not tight. It should allow layering and maximize mobility without being restrictive.
The Arc'teryx Gamma Lightweight Hoody is top-rated for durability, breathability, and stretch. For colder conditions, the Gamma MX offers more warmth.
Helly Hansen combines breathability with weather protection, ideal for active use. Gore-Tex excels in extreme waterproofing but lacks the breathability of Helly Hansen's designs.
