The Difference Between Hard and Soft Shell Ski Jackets

When it comes to technical ski layers, there are many different options to consider, including hard shells and soft shells.solfshell Understanding the differences between these two types of jackets will help you choose the right one for your next day on the snow.solfshell solfshell

A soft shell is the outdoor clothing equivalent of the perfect hoodie: it is stretchy, lightweight, and comfortable to wear.solfshell solfshell It is also wind and water resistant, making it ideal for a variety of cold-weather activities.solfshell Soft shells are best suited for use as an outer layer when the weather is breezy or squally, or in dry conditions where light rain is likely to occur.solfshell

The term “soft shell” can be a little confusing, as it is a broad category that encompasses a range of fabrics and garments, and there is a great deal of overlap between the different choices.solfshell Essentially, however, soft shells fall somewhere on the protection/breathability continuum: on one end of the scale are membrane fabrics such as Gore Windstopper and Polartec Power Shield which offer very high levels of weather resistance but not particularly breathable.solfshell At the other end of the spectrum are woven soft shell fabrics (often referred to as ‘double weave’ in tech speak) which use closely woven Nylon/Polyamide fabrics without a membrane and which, as a trade off, tend to be much more breathable.solfshell

Despite their seemingly technical nature, soft shells are very versatile and are a go-to choice for many of our customers, whether they’re rock climbing on blustery crags, mountaineering in the backcountry or hiking on squally days, or even if they just like to enjoy a casual hike or bike ride in the local woods!

Soft shells are also popular for school-aged kids as they can be used in a range of everyday activities such as walking the dog and taking daily adventures.solfshell solfshell They are a great choice for the kids who like to get outside and play in all kinds of weather, and they are particularly useful in autumn and spring when it can be chilly or windy but still warm enough to be enjoyable.solfshell solfshell