Hardshell vs softshell: is one better than the other?

Chances are you've heard of hardshell clothing and softshell clothing. But what exactly is a hardshell jacket? And when do you call a garment softshell? What are the differences and are both types of garments used for the same purposes? We try to answer all these questions in this blog.

Table of contents

• A short introduction
• What is hardshell clothing?
• Is rainwear the same as hardshell clothing?
• What is softshell clothing?
• Hardshell or softshell?

A short introduction

Basically, the names themselves indicate where the main difference lies. Hardshell and softshell can translate to "hard shell" and "soft shell". This refers to the fabric. In a hardshell, it feels relatively hard and in a softshell it feels relatively soft. The terms hardshell and softshell are most commonly associated with jackets (a hardshell jacket or a softshell jacket), but there are also hardshell and softshell versions of trousers. Both types of clothing involve the outer layer of all your clothing. The layer that should protect you from the weather. Hardshell and softshell clothing deal with this to different degrees.

Hard- and softshells are good examples of (technical) clothing that occupy an important place within the 3-layer system. This sets them apart from "padded" clothing. By the latter, we mean clothing that also contains an insulating padding, such as the more casual winter jackets.

What is hardshell clothing?

Hardshell jackets and hardshell trousers score very high when it comes to protection against precipitation and wind. Hardshells also have decent breathability thanks to a special type of membrane. Gore-Tex is a well-known example of such a membrane, but it is certainly not the only one. With a membrane heat and perspiration can get from the inside to the outside to a certain degree, but precipitation and wind cannot get from the outside to the inside through the very small openings. You can read more about exactly how it works in our blog on waterproof membranes. In any case, the result is excellent protection against precipitation.

The material of hardshell clothing is generally on the stiffer side. On the one hand, this means it is not easily damaged. On the other hand, it is also hardly elastic, which is ultimately not optimal for your freedom of movement. It also doesn't usually have the most comfortable lining. However, because you wear hardshell clothing almost exclusively as an outer layer and the lining therefore comes into little direct contact with your skin, this should not pose any practical objections.

Not every hardshell is equal

Within the hardshell clothing segment, there are big differences. Especially when it comes to hardshell jackets. For instance, there are differences in the way the membrane is incorporated into the fabric, with all the consequences that entails. You regularly see this as 2L, 2.5L of 3L at hardshell clothing and refers to the number of layers that make up the fabric. In addition, many membranes also differ from each other. For example, when it comes to quality, but more so we mean that they differ in intended performance. Many membrane manufacturers have an extensive range of membranes, with some offering extra good protection against precipitation and others doing a little less, but a lot better breathability. Some manufacturers also try to make a slightly more elastic membrane.

Hardshell or softshell?

So which is the best choice for you? A hardshell or a softshell? As always, the answer to this kind of question is not so simple. In fact, it depends on a number of factors. The most important thing is to look first at the adventure you have in mind and then at the weather forecast. These will largely determine what will be the better choice for you.

In general, it is best to opt for hardshell clothing if you do not know what the weather is going to be like and there is a real chance of considerable precipitation. After all, it is very important that you do not get soaked and then hypothermia because you are not sufficiently protected against it. This is all the more true if you find yourself in a cold environment. Or if your adventure lasts several days and you have no opportunity to dry your clothes, as on some treks.

Are the weather forecasts clear and generally favourable? Then softshell clothing becomes a lot more attractive. Especially for certain activities that require a high degree of freedom of movement. Think of rock climbing or the on the technical parts of a hike. In addition, a softshell is also more comfortable to wear.

Combinations + other types of clothing

Of course, it is also possible to combine both types of clothing. For example, some outdoor sportsmen opt for the combination of softshell trousers and a hardshell jacket. This combines comfort and freedom of movement for the lower body and protection from precipitation (and hypothermia) for the upper body. For more extreme outdoor activities where a wide variety of weather types and temperatures can be expected, such as ski touring, the combination of both a softshell and a hardshell for the upper body is also an option.

There are also all kinds of other types of clothing, each of which has its ideal application. Think, for example, of an insulation jacket or a fleece vest. These can also be excellently combined with hardshell and some softshell clothing. Be sure to read our blog on the 3-layer system before making your final choice.

Hopefully, you have become a lot wiser after reading this blog. If you still have questions, you can always contact us. Our specialists will be happy to help. Do you already know which type of clothing you will go for? Then take a look at our range:

• Hardshell jackets
• Softshell jackets
• Hardshell trousers
• Softshell trousers