Introduction to Soft-Shell Apparel

he age of layering as the only mode of dress for the outdoors has ended.

The soft shell designation applies to outerwear that does the jobs performed by two or more garments (usually the insulating and outer layers) in traditional layering systems. They're soft to the touch, highly water resistant, highly wind resistant, highly breathable and often stretchable. While not 100% waterproof, soft-shell apparel delivers twice the breathability of breathable "hard shells." Soft-shell outerwear provides comfort across a wide range of conditions and exertion levels. It minimizes the need to stop and peel or add layers. Check out the latest soft-shell technology styles.

What is Soft-Shell Apparel?

Soft-shell garments were pioneered by hardcore outdoor athletes looking for a more breathable alternative to the traditional three-layer system of outdoor dress (typically composed of wicking layer, insulation layer and waterproof/breathable hard shell).

The new category of outerwear they developed (soft shell) performs what was once the job of multiple layers and provides comfort without bulk across a wide range of conditions.

A major external characteristic of soft shells is that they offer a more natural "hand" than slick and shiny waterproof/breathable hard shells. Soft-shell garments feel (and often look) more like comfortable street clothes than what many people have come to associate with seriously weatherproof outerwear. But don't be fooled—they're durable, versatile and functional garments that have revolutionized the way many athletes dress for the outdoors.

Traditional three-layer systems were developed with an emphasis on protecting you from external moisture. These systems provide 100% waterproof protection and a lesser degree of breathability.

Many outdoor enthusiasts have learned, however, that foul weather is usually not the biggest threat to their comfort. Instead, it's the perspiration trapped within the shell during aerobic activities that poses the more significant problem.

Enter soft-shell outerwear.

These garments insulate, block wind, shed light rain and snow and provide exceptional levels of breathability. They'll protect you in almost any weather condition except for sustained downpours. In a sentence, the crux of the soft-shell revolution is this:

A high level of breathability takes precedence over 100% waterproof protection.

Advocates of the new technology accept the trade with a smile. They point out that breathability should reign supreme because most people simply choose not to venture out in extreme weather conditions. In addition, soft-shell garments can be covered with next-generation, ultra-thin waterproof/breathable shells should conditions turn truly nasty.

Breathability—As explained in the section above, soft-shell garments offer much higher levels of breathability than their hard-shell predecessors. They allow outdoor enthusiasts to participate in aerobic activities longer, without getting soaked by perspiration.

Form-fitting style—Soft-shell outerwear pieces are typically shorter and fit more closely to the body than old-style shells. In addition, they're often stretchable. These design elements give you increased mobility outdoors and also create "quiet" shells. Imagine: Skiing down a backcountry chute without the sound of a hard shell flapping in the wind. Ahhh, silence!

Comfort/versatility—Traditional three-layer systems can be adjusted to meet variable conditions, but they require you to stop when you remove or add layers. These interruptions often lead to a lowering of your heart rate—and sometimes chills. Soft-shell garments breathe across a wide range of conditions, so you'll rarely need to stop. It's like climate-control that you wear.

Durability—Soft-shell garments were developed by athletes pushing the boundaries of their sports. The soft-shell apparel they developed can withstand tough use much better than most hard shells.

Soft-shell garments have become possible with the introduction of an elite handful of new high-performance fabrics. Currently, these fabrics fall into three main categories:

Stretch wovens—These are the lightest soft-shell fabrics on the market. Soft wovens are wind- and water-resistant and ideal for aerobic acitivites. The REI Mistral Jacket is crafted from a soft-woven called Schoeller® Dynamic Fabric.

Laminated stretch wovens—This category of fabric includes a stretch-woven material laminated to an inner fleece with a breathable membrane sandwiched in between. Stretch wovens offer heavy-duty weather protection. The REI One and Groove Jackets are constructed from a laminated stretch-woven called Polartec Power Shield®.

Encapsulation—These are fibers that have been encapasulated in an ultra-thin polymer film. A breathable barrier fill is placed between the encapsulated fiber bundles to create exceptionally durable and breathable materials. Patagonia utilizes encapsulated fabrics in its Regulator system garments.

Many outdoor enthusiasts feel that the benefits offered by soft-shell outerwear are almost too good to be true.

One of the most significant advantages is that you'll now have the ability to participate in outdoor aerobic activities and stay comfortable for much longer periods of time than possible with hard-shell systems.

Ever find yourself soaked from perspiration after 45 minutes of cross-country skiing or snowshoeing in your waterproof/breathable jacket? Slip on a soft-shell jacket and you'll be able to work out in a fabric that stretches, breathes and regulates your temperature.

Sound interesting? Take one of these shells out into the field as soon as possible and experience the soft-shell revolution first hand.

Check out the latest soft-shell technology styles.