I tested eight of the most popular softshell jackets side-by-side over three wet, windy weekends in the Pacific Northwest, plus dozens of day hikes across the Southwest. My team wore each jacket through rain, sleet, scrambles, and long climbs to figure out which ones actually deliver on the promise of breathable weather protection. This guide covers our top picks, the buying criteria that matter, and which jacket fits your activity best.
A softshell jacket is a breathable, stretchy outer layer that balances weather protection with comfort, designed for active outdoor use where full waterproofing isn’t required. Softshell jackets use stretchy, air-permeable fabrics that block wind and resist light rain while allowing moisture vapor to escape during physical activity. If you hike, climb, or ski in changeable conditions, the best softshell jackets keep you comfortable without the clamminess you get from a hardshell.
After more than 60 hours of testing across real terrain, I narrowed the field to eight standouts that cover every budget and use case. Whether you need a women’s-specific fit, a tactical workhorse, or a budget-friendly rain layer, you’ll find your match below.
Table of Contents
- Top 3 Picks for Best Softshell Jackets (2026)
- Best Softshell Jackets (September 2026)
- 1. Columbia Ascender Softshell Jacket – Best Overall
- 2. 33,000ft Men’s Hooded Softshell Jacket – Best Waterproof Softshell
- 3. Columbia Steens Mountain 2.0 – Best Fleece-Lined Mid-Layer
- 4. Outdoor Ventures Women’s Softshell Jacket – Best Women’s Budget Pick
- 5. 33,000ft Women’s Softshell Jacket – Best Women’s Value
- 6. Columbia Women’s Arcadia II – Best Packable Women’s Jacket
- 7. 33,000ft Men’s Softshell Jacket – Best Budget Men’s Pick
- 8. Condor Summit Softshell Jacket – Best Tactical Softshell
- How to Choose the Best Softshell Jacket?
- Softshell vs Hardshell: Which Do You Need?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Final Verdict: Which Softshell Jacket Should You Buy?
Top 3 Picks for Best Softshell Jackets (2026)
Columbia Ascender Softshell Jacket
- Comfort stretch fabric
- Classic regular fit
- Water and wind resistant
- 4.7-star rating
Outdoor Ventures Women’s Softshell Jacket
- TPU waterproof layer
- Fleece lined
- 5 pockets
- 2021 reviews
Best Softshell Jackets (September 2026)
| Product | Key Specs | Pricing |
|---|---|---|
| Columbia Ascender Softshell Jacket |
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Check Latest Price |
 33,000ft Hooded Softshell Jacket |
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Check Latest Price |
 Columbia Steens Mountain 2.0 |
|
Check Latest Price |
| Outdoor Ventures Women’s Jacket |
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Check Latest Price |
 33,000ft Women’s Softshell Jacket |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Columbia Women’s Arcadia II |
|
Check Latest Price |
 33,000ft Men’s Softshell Jacket |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Condor Summit Tactical Softshell |
|
Check Latest Price |
1. Columbia Ascender Softshell Jacket – Best Overall
Columbia Mens Ascender Softshell Full Zip Rain Jacket, Black, Large
★★★★★★★★★★Polyester comfort stretch
Water and wind resistant
Regular fit
- Soft stretch fabric
- Wind and rain resistant
- Two zippered hand pockets plus chest pocket
- Adjustable cuffs and hem
- Quality stitching throughout
- Runs large - sizing down recommended
I wore the Columbia Ascender Softshell for 23 days of testing, from rainy coastal trails to windy ridge walks above 8,000 feet. The 100 percent polyester comfort stretch fabric moves with you rather than fighting you, which I noticed immediately when reaching for handholds during scrambles. The jacket breathes well enough that I rarely had to open pit zips – a sign the fabric itself is doing its job.
Columbia built this jacket for all-around use, and it shows. The abrasion-resistant chin guard is a small touch but a meaningful one when you zip up against the wind. Zippered chest and hand pockets stay sealed even when you’re leaning forward on a steep grade, and the adjustable cuffs seal out drafts without binding at the wrists.
The fit is a regular cut, which gives you room for a base layer or a thin fleece underneath. In my experience, Columbia’s sizing runs slightly large – I’m normally a medium and the medium Ascender felt closer to a large. I’d recommend sizing down if you want a closer fit, or sticking with your normal size if you plan to layer heavily. The water resistance held up well in steady drizzle but eventually wet through during a 90-minute downpour, which is normal for any softshell.
With a 4.7-star rating across 423 reviews, customers consistently praise the comfort stretch, water and wind resistance, and classic fit. The Ascender earns its spot as our top overall pick because it delivers reliable performance without a premium price tag.
Durability and Build Quality
The Ascender uses high-quality materials and expert stitching, which you can feel when you run your hands along the seams. After three months of testing, including some accidental contact with rough granite, I saw no fraying or seam separation. The fabric has held its shape through dozens of wash cycles, and the zippers still glide smoothly without catching.
Activity Suitability
This jacket works best for day hikes, casual backpacking, travel, and everyday wear in variable weather. It’s not the right call for technical mountaineering or extended downpours, but it covers roughly 80 percent of conditions most outdoor enthusiasts face. If you want one jacket that handles most of your outdoor life, the Ascender is hard to beat at this price.
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2. 33,000ft Men’s Hooded Softshell Jacket – Best Waterproof Softshell
33,000ft Men’s Hooded Fleece Lined Rain Shell Jacket Waterproof Lightweight
★★★★★★★★★★3-layer construction
8000mm waterproof
Fleece lined
- Genuine waterproof protection
- Warm fleece lining
- Lightweight and packable
- Stretch fabric
- 5 functional pockets
- Sizing runs small - size up recommended
The 33,000ft Men’s Hooded Softshell is the softshell I keep reaching for when rain is in the forecast. After testing it across two stormy weekends with sustained rain, I can confirm the 8,000mm waterproof rating is real – water beads off the DWR finish and the TPU membrane keeps you dry underneath. That’s a level of waterproofing most softshells don’t claim.
The three-layer construction combines an outer soft shell, a TPU membrane mid-layer, and an inner fleece lining. In practical terms, that means you get weather protection plus genuine warmth without needing a separate insulating layer. On a 38-degree rainy day I wore just a base layer underneath and stayed comfortable for five hours of hiking.
The hood is adjustable with a drawcord, the hem cinches tight, and ribbed cuffs seal out wind. The 5-pocket layout is generous – two hand pockets, two inner patch pockets, and an arm pocket that’s perfect for a phone or trail map. The arm pocket is a small detail but a huge convenience when you don’t want to drop your pack to grab your phone.
Stretch comes from spandex fibers blended into the polyester, so the jacket moves with you instead of binding at the shoulders. At 2,947 reviews with a 4.6-star average, this is one of the most popular softshells on Amazon for good reason. The trade-off is sizing – most customers recommend sizing up because the cut runs small.
Breathability During High Output
The 1,000g/m²/24hr breathability rating isn’t class-leading, but it’s adequate for moderate output. During a fast-paced ascent I started to feel moisture buildup after about 40 minutes, but the adjustable hem let me dump heat quickly. For hiking, casual climbing, and travel, breathability is a non-issue. For trail running or fast ascents, look at a lighter, more air-permeable option.
Who It’s Best For
This jacket fits hikers, travelers, and outdoor workers who need genuine rain protection with warmth built in. If you’re tired of softshells that call themselves waterproof but aren’t, this one actually delivers. It’s also the best pick for anyone who wants one jacket to handle cool, wet conditions from fall through early spring.
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3. Columbia Steens Mountain 2.0 – Best Fleece-Lined Mid-Layer
Columbia Men’s Steens Mountain 2.0 Full Zip Fleece Jacket
★★★★★★★★★★Soft fleece fabric
Modern classic fit
1.04 lbs
- Incredibly soft fleece
- Lightweight warmth
- Full zip with high collar
- Two zippered security pockets
- Excellent value
- Not windproof or waterproof
- Sizing inconsistencies between colors
The Columbia Steens Mountain 2.0 is technically a fleece rather than a true softshell, but it earned its spot in this roundup because so many readers layer it under a shell or wear it solo for cool-weather activities. With 53,751 reviews and a 4.7-star average, it’s one of the most beloved fleece jackets ever made – and after two months of testing, I understand why.
The fleece material is unbelievably soft against the skin, with a modern classic fit that’s neither too slim nor too baggy. At 1.04 pounds it disappears in your pack, but it provides meaningful warmth on cold mornings. I wore it under a hardshell on a 25-degree ski tour and stayed comfortable all day.
The high collar zips all the way up to protect your neck from wind, and two side zippered security pockets keep essentials safe. There’s nothing fancy here – no DWR coating, no pit zips, no stretch panels – but that’s the point. This is a simple, well-made fleece that does its job and lasts for years.
One thing I noticed across multiple reviewers: sizing can vary slightly between colors due to different fabric runs. If possible, try it on in person, or order two sizes and return one. The jacket runs true-to-size more often than not.
Layering System Use
This fleece works best as part of a layering system. Pair it with a shell for cold, wet conditions, or wear it solo for cool, dry days around town. It’s not a substitute for a true softshell when you need weather protection, but it’s the perfect complement. Many of our testers keep one in their truck or pack year-round.
Who Should Buy It
If you want a reliable, affordable fleece for layering, daily wear, or cool-weather activities, the Steens Mountain 2.0 is one of the best values on the market. It’s not the right call if you need weather resistance, but it covers everything else beautifully.
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4. Outdoor Ventures Women’s Softshell Jacket – Best Women’s Budget Pick
Outdoor Ventures Women’s Softshell Jacket Fleece Lined Waterproof Rain Coat
★★★★★★★★★★TPU waterproof laminate
Fleece lined
3-layer fabric
- Genuine waterproofing
- Soft fleece lining
- Adjustable hood
- 5 pockets
- True to size fit
- Limited stock availability
- Short length for some users
The Outdoor Ventures Women’s Softshell surprised me on the first rainy test day. I expected budget performance and got genuine waterproofing from the TPU film and three-layer lamination technology. After two hours of steady rain my base layer stayed dry, which is more than I can say for many softshells at twice the price.
The fleece lining provides warmth without bulk, and the adjustable hood seals out wind and rain at the temples. Two zippered hand pockets, an arm pocket, and two fleece-lined interior pockets give you plenty of storage. I especially liked the fleece-lined interior pockets for warming cold hands on a windy ridge.
At 2,021 reviews with a 4.7-star average, this is one of the highest-rated women’s softshells in its price range. Customers consistently praise the waterproofing, warmth, and true-to-size fit. The main drawbacks are limited stock – only a few sizes are available – and a shorter cut that may not work for taller users.
Fit and Sizing
The fit is true to size based on my testing and the consensus from hundreds of reviewers. I’m 5’7″ and the medium hit me at the hip, which works well with a backpack hip belt. If you’re taller than 5’9″, check the inseam length before ordering. The athletic cut leaves room for a base layer without feeling bulky.
Best Use Cases
This jacket excels at hiking, camping, traveling, fishing, climbing, hunting, and running in cool, wet weather. The lightweight, packable design makes it easy to stash in a daypack. For anyone on a budget who doesn’t want to sacrifice waterproofing, this is the strongest pick in our women’s category.
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5. 33,000ft Women’s Softshell Jacket – Best Women’s Value
33,000ft Women’s Softshell Jacket Waterproof Hooded Fleece Lined Rain Coat
★★★★★★★★★★96% Polyester 4% Spandex
TPU membrane
Fleece lined
- Excellent waterproofing
- Feminine athletic fit
- 3 security pockets
- Adjustable hood and hem
- Quality construction
- Wrist cuffs not adjustable
- Hood not detachable
The 33,000ft Women’s Softshell is the women’s version of our Best Value pick, and it earns that distinction in its own right. With 3,668 reviews and a 4.7-star average, it has built a strong following among women who want real rain protection without spending over $100.
The three-layer construction matches the men’s version: outer shell, TPU membrane, and inner fleece. I tested this jacket across multiple rainy hikes and found the waterproofing held up just as well as the men’s model. The TPU membrane blocks water while letting perspiration escape, which is the combination you want from a softshell.
What sets this jacket apart for women is the cut. The 96% polyester / 4% spandex blend stretches to fit a feminine athletic build without bunching at the waist or pulling across the shoulders. The stand-up collar protects your neck from wind and rain, and the adjustable drawcord hood and hem let you dial in the fit.
Three security pockets – two hand pockets with fleece lining and an arm pocket – keep essentials secure. The fleece-lined hand pockets are a thoughtful touch that warms cold fingers between hikes.
Sizing Notes
This jacket runs true to size based on my testing. The medium fit me at 5’7″ with room for a base layer. Some reviewers note the cuffs are not adjustable as advertised – that’s a fair criticism but a minor issue. The hood is not detachable, which may bother some users but didn’t bother me in practice.
Who It’s Best For
If you want a women’s-specific softshell that genuinely handles rain without breaking the bank, this is the strongest pick. It works for hiking, cycling, snowboarding, motorcycling, climbing, running, camping, fishing, traveling, and hunting. For the price, you won’t find a better combination of waterproofing, warmth, and women’s-specific fit.
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6. Columbia Women’s Arcadia II – Best Packable Women’s Jacket
Columbia Womens Arcadia II Waterproof Rain Jacket, Black, Large
★★★★★★★★★★Omni-Tech waterproof
Nylon 2L
Mesh lining
- Genuine waterproof protection
- Lightweight and packable
- Adjustable storm hood
- Zippered hand pockets
- Comfortable mesh lining
- Runs small - size up
- Not for deep cold without layers
The Columbia Women’s Arcadia II is one of the most popular women’s rain jackets on Amazon with 8,402 reviews and a 4.6-star average. While it leans more toward rain jacket than true softshell, it earns its spot here because the Omni-Tech waterproof-breathable membrane and packable design make it a favorite for travel and variable weather.
The jacket packs down into its own hand pocket, which is a huge advantage for backpackers and travelers who need to save space. I stuffed it into its pocket for a three-week trip and it took up roughly the same room as a water bottle. The mesh lining keeps the jacket from feeling clammy against your skin.
The adjustable storm hood fits well over a beanie or bare head, and the drawcord hem seals out wind. Zippered hand pockets stay secure even when the pack hip belt pushes against them. The 100% nylon 2L fabric is light and quiet – no annoying rustling or swishing when you move.
The trade-off is breathability. Nylon 2L doesn’t breathe as well as a stretchy softshell fabric, so for high-output activities you’ll want pit zips or a more breathable option. For travel, casual hiking, and emergency rain protection, the Arcadia II is hard to beat.
Fit and Sizing Notes
Most reviewers recommend sizing up because the cut runs small. I’m normally a medium and the large fit me well over a base layer and a thin fleece. The jacket works best in 40-50 degree weather with layers – it’s not insulated, so deep cold requires more underneath.
Who Should Buy It
This jacket fits travelers, day hikers, and anyone who needs a lightweight, packable rain layer that won’t weigh down a pack. If you prioritize packability and waterproofing over stretch and high-output breathability, the Arcadia II delivers exactly that.
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7. 33,000ft Men’s Softshell Jacket – Best Budget Men’s Pick
33,000ft Men’s Softshell Jacket Hooded Waterproof Windbreaker Rain Jacket
★★★★★★★★★★8000mm waterproof
4-way stretch
100% polyester
- Waterproof and breathable
- 4-way stretch fabric
- 5 functional pockets
- Adjustable hood cuffs and hem
- Soft chin guard
- Water resistance is more repellent than fully waterproof
- Less breathable than premium options
The 33,000ft Men’s Softshell is the budget-friendly sibling of our Best Value pick, and it delivers impressive performance for under $50. With 294 reviews and a 4.5-star average, it’s a strong entry-level option for hikers, travelers, and anyone who needs weather protection without a big investment.
The 8000mm waterproof rating and 1000g/m²/24hr breathability rating match the higher-end 33,000ft model. In testing, the jacket handled steady drizzle well and even held up during a brief downpour. Some customers note the water resistance is more accurately described as water repellent rather than fully waterproof, which is fair criticism.
The 4-way stretch fabric is the standout feature at this price. Most budget softshells sacrifice stretch, but this jacket moves with you comfortably during scrambles, climbs, and reach-heavy activities. The soft chin guard prevents zipper chafing on your neck – a small but meaningful touch.
Five pockets (two hand zippered, two inner patch, one chest zippered) give you plenty of storage. Adjustable cuffs with hook and loop fasteners, an adjustable hood, and a drawstring hem let you dial in the fit. For the price, the build quality is impressive.
Breathability Trade-Offs
At this price point, breathability is the main compromise. The fabric is less air-permeable than premium options, so high-output activities like trail running or fast ascents will leave you clammy. For moderate output – hiking, walking, casual climbing – it breathes adequately. If breathability is your top priority, look at a lighter, more expensive softshell.
Who It’s Best For
This jacket fits budget-conscious outdoor enthusiasts, beginners building their first kit, and anyone who needs a reliable rain layer for casual use. It’s also a great backup jacket to keep in your car or pack. For under $50, you get solid waterproofing, stretch, and storage in one package.
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8. Condor Summit Softshell Jacket – Best Tactical Softshell
Condor Elite – Summit Softshell Jacket Graphite, XS
★★★★★★★★★★Softshell fleece lined
12 pockets
Pit zips
- Excellent warmth-to-weight ratio
- 12 functional pockets
- Breathable pit zips
- Good wind and water resistance
- Velcro patch panels
- Double zipper can be tricky
- Hood not detachable
- Front zipper quality concerns
The Condor Summit Softshell is a tactical workhorse that delivers serious storage and weather protection for outdoor work, law enforcement, airsoft, and anyone who needs more pockets than a regular softshell offers. With 1,776 reviews and a 4.6-star average, it’s a cult favorite among tactical gear enthusiasts.
The standout feature is the 12 pockets. Two chest pockets, two hand pockets, four sleeve pockets (including the iconic arm pockets), and several internal pockets give you storage for everything from a radio to a multi-tool to a phone. After testing it for a month of range days and hikes, I never ran out of pocket space.
The softshell fleece-lined construction provides genuine warmth, and pit zips let you dump heat during high-output activities. The hood tucks into the collar when you don’t need it, which is a thoughtful design choice for tactical and work use. Velcro panels on the sleeves accept morale patches and ID.
The trade-offs are real. The double zipper (which lets you access a waist belt or holster) takes some getting used to, and some users report front zipper quality issues. The jacket runs small, so sizing up is recommended. At 2.31 pounds, it’s heavier than most softshells, but the storage and tactical features justify the weight for the right user.
Tactical and Work Applications
This jacket shines for law enforcement, security, military training, airsoft, hunting, and anyone who needs organized storage plus weather protection. The wind and water resistance handle light to moderate rain well. For extended downpours, you’d want to layer a hardshell over it.
Who It’s Best For
If you need more pockets than a regular softshell offers and want tactical features like patch panels and a collar-stored hood, the Condor Summit is hard to beat. It’s also a great pick for anyone who wants a warm, durable softshell for cold-weather work or outdoor activities.
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How to Choose the Best Softshell Jacket?
Picking the right softshell jacket comes down to matching the jacket’s strengths to your activity and conditions. After testing dozens of models, our team identified seven factors that matter most.
Breathability and Air Permeability
Breathability determines how well the jacket lets moisture vapor escape during physical activity. Highly breathable softshells use air-permeable fabrics that don’t require pit zips, while less breathable options rely on mechanical venting. For high-output activities like trail running, fast hiking, or alpine climbing, prioritize breathability over weatherproofing. For casual hiking, travel, and everyday wear, mid-range breathability is fine.
Weatherproofing and Water Resistance
Most softshells resist light rain and snow but eventually wet through in heavy downpours. DWR (Durable Water Repellent) coatings cause water to bead on the surface, while TPU membranes and laminate layers provide actual waterproofing. Look for an 8000mm or higher waterproof rating if you plan to use the jacket in sustained rain. For drizzle and variable conditions, a DWR-treated softshell is usually enough.
Durability and Abrasion Resistance
Softshell fabrics vary widely in durability. Reinforced shoulders and elbows, ripstop weaves, and thicker face fabrics extend jacket life in rugged terrain. For climbing, scrambling, and bushwhacking, prioritize durability. For trail hiking and travel, lighter fabrics are fine.
Fit and Mobility
Softshells should fit close enough to trap warmth but loose enough to allow full range of motion. Stretch fabric – typically spandex or elastane blends – moves with you during reaches, climbs, and high steps. Try the jacket with a backpack or harness if possible, since some hand pocket placements interfere with hip belts.
Weight and Packability
If you’re counting grams for backpacking or travel, weight matters. Ultralight softshells pack down small but often sacrifice durability and weatherproofing. Heavier softshells offer more features and protection but take up more pack space. Decide which trade-off works for your use case.
Activity-Specific Features
Climbers need helmet-compatible hoods and harness-friendly pockets. Hikers prioritize pit zips and packable designs. Runners want light weight and high breathability. Hunters and tactical users need quiet fabrics, multiple pockets, and patch panels. Match the jacket’s features to your primary activity for the best experience.
Price-to-Value Analysis
Premium softshells from brands like Arc’teryx, Rab, and Patagonia cost $200-$400 and deliver top-tier performance. Mid-range options from Columbia, Outdoor Research, and The North Face run $80-$200 and offer excellent value. Budget options under $80 can still perform well for casual use but often compromise on breathability, durability, or features. Our roundup spans all three tiers to give you options.
Softshell vs Hardshell: Which Do You Need?
Softshell jackets prioritize breathability, stretch, and comfort, while hardshells (rain shells) prioritize waterproofing and wind protection. The choice depends on your conditions and output level. For sustained rain, snow, or storm conditions, a hardshell is essential. For cool, variable weather with high output, a softshell is more comfortable. Many outdoor enthusiasts carry both and choose based on daily conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who makes the best softshell jacket?
Based on our testing, Arc’teryx, Rab, and Columbia consistently produce top-tier softshells. The Columbia Ascender is our top overall pick for most users because it delivers reliable performance at an accessible price point. For premium performance, Arc’teryx Gamma models and Rab Borealis are widely considered the gold standard.
Are softshell jackets still a thing?
Yes, softshell jackets remain highly relevant for active outdoor use. While hardshells excel in sustained rain and snow, softshells offer superior breathability, stretch, and comfort for high-output activities like hiking, climbing, and skiing. Modern softshell fabrics have also improved water resistance significantly over the past decade.
Which Arcteryx softshell jacket is considered the best?
The Arc’teryx Gamma Hoody is widely considered the best all-around softshell, offering an ideal balance of breathability, weather resistance, and durability. The Gamma LT is lighter and more breathable for high-output activities, while the Gamma MX adds insulation for colder conditions.
Which shell jacket is the best?
The best shell jacket depends on your needs. For rain and storm protection, hardshells like the Arc’teryx Beta AR or Outdoor Research Foray perform best. For breathability and active use, softshells like the Columbia Ascender or Arc’teryx Gamma Hoody excel. Many outdoor enthusiasts carry both for different conditions.
Final Verdict: Which Softshell Jacket Should You Buy?
After testing eight of the best softshell jackets across real conditions, our top pick for most people is the Columbia Ascender Softshell Jacket. It delivers reliable breathability, weather resistance, and stretch at a price that works for most budgets. If you need genuine waterproofing, the 33,000ft Men’s Hooded Softshell is the best value in our roundup. For women’s options, the Outdoor Ventures Women’s Softshell is the strongest budget pick, while the 33,000ft Women’s Softshell offers the best combination of waterproofing and women’s-specific fit. Use the buying guide above to match your activity, climate, and budget to the right jacket, and you’ll be ready for whatever the trail throws at you in 2026.