The softshell jacket is an essential piece of equipment for outdoor sports, necessary waterproof clothing for activities such as mountaineering and hiking.
Single-layer softshell jackets are typically suitable for spring and autumn, while three-in-one softshell jackets are better suited for cold winters or high-altitude areas.
The core of a softshell jacket lies in its waterproof technology fabric. Currently, the two famous waterproof fabrics globally are Gore-Tex and eVent. Gore-Tex is widely favored in the market for its outstanding overall performance, while eVent is popular for its excellent breathability and is extremely popular in the domestic market.
The design of softshell jackets mostly bases on the body shape of Western people, so the sleeves are usually longer and looser. In East Asia, many well-known outdoor brands design softshell jackets not only with excellent quality but also well-suited for Asian body types. Here are some recommended latest models of softshell jackets from renowned outdoor brands in China, Japan, and Korea:
**BLACKYAK/Outdoor Sports Men's GORE Waterproof Jacket with Hood Versatile Coat SVM003**
The laminating process of softshell jackets can be divided into 2L, 2.5L, and 3L. The 3L fabric consists of a polyester outer layer, a membrane, and an inner lining, all tightly bonded into one layer, reducing friction between the membrane and the inside, which increases its durability and sturdiness, providing stronger protection. Many professional-level softshell jackets use the 3L laminating process, such as Gore-Tex's Gore-Tex Pro 2.0 and eVent's blue label products.
Two key indicators to measure the performance of a softshell jacket are the waterproof index and breathability index. Generally, a waterproof index of 5000mm is sufficient for light to moderate rain, 10000mm can withstand moderate to heavy rain, 20000mm is suitable for heavy to torrential rain, and 30000mm can combat extreme harsh weather.
The design of softshell jackets mostly bases on the body shape of Western people, so the sleeves are usually longer and looser. In East Asia, many well-known outdoor brands design softshell jackets not only with excellent quality but also well-suited for Asian body types. Here are some recommended latest models of softshell jackets from renowned outdoor brands in China, Japan, and Korea:
1. KOLON SPORT Men's and Women's Waterproof Fleece Three-in-One Detachable Stand Collar Outdoor Softshell Jacket
This softshell jacket features a 2-level waterproof jacket design to effectively resist wind and rain, suitable for variable climates. Its durable and wear-resistant design offers comprehensive protection. The three-in-one design adapts to various outdoor environments, offering options such as Polartec fleece, Primaloft cotton clothing, softshell, or down lining, with a waterproof index reaching 5000mm+.
This softshell jacket features a 2-level waterproof jacket design to effectively resist wind and rain, suitable for variable climates. Its durable and wear-resistant design offers comprehensive protection. The three-in-one design adapts to various outdoor environments, offering options such as Polartec fleece, Primaloft cotton clothing, softshell, or down lining, with a waterproof index reaching 5000mm+.
2. montbell Japan Fall 2024 Super Lightweight Waterproof Men's Softshell Jacket
Montbell's Rain Hiker softshell jacket is a single-layer design suitable for couples. It uses 2-layer DRY-TEC waterproof technology fabric, not only windproof and waterproof but also with excellent breathability to effectively resist rain and snow while releasing body heat to maintain comfort. It weighs approximately 252 grams.
Montbell's Rain Hiker softshell jacket is a single-layer design suitable for couples. It uses 2-layer DRY-TEC waterproof technology fabric, not only windproof and waterproof but also with excellent breathability to effectively resist rain and snow while releasing body heat to maintain comfort. It weighs approximately 252 grams.
BLACKYAK's BAC series GORE three-layer waterproof jacket is suitable for spring, autumn, and winter. It can be worn alone or layered with fleece jackets, thermal softshells, cotton coats, or down jackets for extra warmth. The jacket features high-quality GORE TEX 3L waterproof and breathable fabric, with all seams sealed with waterproof taping, and is equipped with a fully waterproof zipper externally to ensure tight protection, effectively dealing with various weather changes.
**Polaris PRO Pelihot Extreme Hard Shell Storm Jacket eVent Professional Waterproof Climbing Jacket for Men and Women**
"Polaris PRO" is a versatile hard shell storm jacket that uses blue label eVent waterproof breathable fabric, designed for extreme challenges. Its unique "direct breathability technology" provides excellent waterproof and breathable performance while enhancing wind resistance and durability. Equipped with a RECCO avalanche rescue system for quick and precise location in emergencies, it is the best choice for alpine adventurers.
**KAILAS MONT LT Hard Shell Storm Jacket GTX Lightweight Windproof Waterproof Outdoor Climbing Hiking Jacket for Men and Women**
The MONT LT is a lightweight multi-purpose hard shell storm jacket by KAILAS, designed for windproof and waterproof long-lasting protection. Its excellent breathability and easy-to-store qualities provide hikers and adventurers with an outstanding outdoor experience, ensuring ease when facing changing mountainous climates.
**Toread GORE-TEX 3-in-1 Mountaineering Jacket Windbreaker**
This Toread 3-in-1 storm jacket uses Gore-Tex fabric, with a down inner lining, providing excellent windproof, waterproof, and breathable performance. It contains 90% down fill, 75% down content, and 600+ fill power, ensuring good warmth in various outdoor environments.
**Nordisk Hurricane 2.0 gore-tex Storm Jacket Waterproof Outdoor Mountaineering Coat for Men and Women NWJEH0601S**
Nordisk's Hurricane 2.0 is a high-end storm jacket from the PICH series, featuring Gore-Tex 3L waterproof breathable fabric. Its waterproof index reaches above 18800mm, and breathability index is 10800g/m².24h, making it an outdoor product that combines functionality and comfort.