Outdoor wear windproof Softshell Fabric 2-Way Stretch 94%Nylon 6%Spandex KWS20-7007

Softshell jackets fill a much-needed void between lightweight insulating pieces and waterproof hard shells. They stretch for movement and breathe well, yet still offer better protection from the elements than a standard fleece or synthetic jacket. Below we break down what characteristics define a softshell, from their woven construction to the amount of weather resistance to expect. Softshells often are misunderstood as being warm, insulating pieces (at most they offer modest warmth) or fully waterproof (they’re usually not), so we’ve detailed the major considerations in this article. And don’t be deterred by what softshells are “not.” Their balanced design makes them a go-to jacket for a wide range of activities all year round.

First and foremost, softshell jackets are intended for high-output activities where you’re working hard. They are made with woven nylon or polyester that is stretchy, highly breathable, and decently weather resistant. These characteristics make them ideal for climbing, biking, backcountry skiing, cross-country skiing, hiking, and the list goes on. Essentially, if it’s cool outside, not too wet, and you’re working hard, a softshell is a terrific outer layer. The jackets allow enough air in and out to regulate your body heat, giving them a significant leg up on the other two shell options: hardshell jackets and rain jackets. But they offer more protection from the elements than standard insulating mid-layers like fleeces, synthetic jackets, or down jackets. Falling in that middle ground makes them a highly versatile piece that is usable in all four seasons.

Most softshell jackets offer decent water resistance that can keep you dry in light to moderate precipitation. It starts with a durable water repellent (DWR) coating on the exterior, which beads up and sheds raindrops, and the jacket’s hard-faced shell does a good job keeping moisture at bay. Softshells usually are not waterproof, however, and sustained rainfall will absorb and eventually soak through the woven fabric. This is one of the primary compromises in a softshell, but it doesn’t deter us from bringing it along on most outdoor adventures, and you can always bring along a packable rain shell as a backup.

On the other hand, some softshell jackets go one step further with panels of waterproof hardshell fabric or a full-on waterproof/breathable membrane behind the stretch-woven softshell fabric. With these jackets, you get the best of both worlds: protection from rain and snow, but also great breathability, mobility, and a comfortable next-to-skin feel.

FAQ

1. Are you a factory or trading company?

We are a factory and we have a professional team of workers, Designers, and inspectors.

2. How to get a sample?

We will prepare free samples for you. For the first-time cooperation, the postage charge would be by the customer’s account. After placing orders, we will send free samples.

3. How long to deliver the products?

LAB DIPS takes 2-4 days;

STRIKE OFF takes 5-7 days;

10-15days for sample development.

Plain dye color: 10-15 days.

Printing design: 5-10 days.

For an urgent order, could be faster, please send an email to negotiate.