Lot of confusion prevails in defining a soft shell jacket. In fact, it is a balance between a hard shell and a fleece. But several questions are left unanswered on what it is, and why it is so important for outdoor activities.
Soft Shell Comparison with Hard Shell
The main difference between them is the outer texture. In a hard shell, it is smooth and shiny, when one compares it to a soft shell, which, in a lot of ways, resembles a sweat shirt. This thin line of difference makes one jacket ideal for certain activities than the others. This though depends upon the amount of perspiration required, the level of breathability and the exertion expected.
Water Resistance
One needs to keep in mind that soft shells are water resistant and not water proof. The fabric is made up of tightly woven materials, which are known to provide the additional level of breathability, and in turn, prevent it from being 100% water proof. But these jackets are great for light rain or drizzle. On the other hand, soft shells with more membranes are more water resistant. As far as the fairer sex is concerned, the soft shell jackets are an instant hit. If one goes through the winter jackets for women online collection, one can find a plethora of options so need to select wisely.
When to Wear?
One is bound to find dozens of uses as far as their soft shell jacket is concerned. The versatility and the athletic feature are the basic features. You could spot them for hiking or backpacking. There are also great for ski hiking mainly for the properties of resistance and mobility.
Choosing the Right Soft Shell?
Soft shells tend to vary in their insulation capacity, wind resistance and stretch. So, you need to understand, which works the best for you. If one plans to use their soft shells in cold climates, then it is best to choose a jacket, which has a thin layer of polyester fleece, but you need to keep in mind that the additional layer affects the additional mobility. They are made with varied level of thickness taking into account the various climate seasons into play.
Online Option:
The price of the online mode is relatively cheaper than the offline mode, and your considerable amount of time as well as effort is saved. But one should opt through the reviews of various brands before one takes the plunge.
Before you venture to buy the soft jackets, you need to take your valuable time and explore the varied levels of difference before you make the correct decision. Whatever form of jacket you choose, the first and foremost thing which you need to undertake is get the correct measurements. In this regard, you could avail the services of a professional or you can undertake it yourself, as well.
So all the best!
Author’s Bio
The author is a online clothing consultant, who has provided his tips to many winter wear companies. Currently, she is with the Woollen-Wear group.