Gear Science
Softshell Jacket Waterproof: The Extent of Protection Explained
In the world of outdoor apparel, the softshell jacket occupies a unique and often misunderstood space. It is the Swiss Army knife of your wardrobe—versatile, comfortable, and ready for adventure. However, for the uninitiated, one question frequently arises when standing in the aisle or browsing online: What is the extent to which softshell jackets are waterproof?
Understanding the capabilities of your gear is crucial to enjoying the outdoors comfortably. At ON THE WAY, we believe that informed explorers are happy explorers. This article aims to decode the technology behind softshell fabrics, establish what “waterproof” really means in this context, and help you decide when a softshell is the perfect choice for your journey.
The Great Misconception: Waterproof vs. Water-Resistant
To answer the core question, we must first establish a critical distinction in the textile industry: the difference between being waterproof and being water-resistant.
A waterproof jacket, often referred to as a hardshell, is designed to keep water out completely. These jackets feature fully taped seams and a laminated membrane (like Gore-Tex) that prevents water penetration regardless of pressure, even in a downpour. They are your go-to for sustained, heavy rain.
A water-resistant jacket, which is where most softshells live, is designed to protect against light moisture. They excel at shedding snow and light rain but are not built to withstand a prolonged storm.
So, to what extent are softshell jackets waterproof? Generally, softshell jackets are water-resistant and highly breathable, but they are not fully waterproof. They are designed to be a protective mid-layer or outer layer for high-exertion activities in dry or mildly wet conditions.
The Science Behind the Softshell
Why does a softshell stop rain to a certain point but not entirely? The answer lies in its construction and chemistry.
Most high-quality softshells, including those curated by ON THE WAY, utilize a multi-faceted approach to weather protection:
- The DWR Coating (The First Line of Defense): The outer surface of a softshell is treated with a Durable Water Repellent (DWR) coating. This chemical treatment causes water to bead up and roll off the fabric rather than soaking in. When you see water sitting in perfect little spheres on a jacket, that's the DWR at work. Over time, this coating wears off, but it can be reactivated with heat or reapplied to restore performance.
- The Membrane and Construction: Many Softshell jacket waterproof feature a multi-layer construction. While they often lack the fully sealed seams required for true waterproofing, they include a breathable membrane or a tight weave that blocks wind and light moisture. Some advanced softshells on the market boast impressive technical specifications. For example, certain models feature a waterproof rating of 8,000mm to 10,000mm, and some can even reach 20,000mm, which is a standard waterproof rating for serious rainwear. However, even at these high numbers, if the seams aren't taped, water can eventually find its way in.
- The Breathability Trade-Off: This is where the softshell shines. Because they are not fully waterproof, the fabric can be much more breathable. With breathability ratings often hitting 10,000g/m²/24hrs or higher, softshells allow moisture vapor (sweat) to escape rapidly. This prevents that clammy feeling you get in a hardshell when you're working hard on a trail. ON THE WAY selects softshells that maximize this balance, ensuring you stay dry from the inside as well as the outside.
Quantifying the Protection
To give you a technical answer to the extent of waterproofness, we look at the water column rating. This test measures how high a column of water can be held over the fabric before it leaks through.
- 0 – 5,000 mm: Water-resistant. Fine for light drizzle and snow.
- 5,000 – 10,000 mm: Waterproof in all but the heaviest, most persistent rain. Some high-end softshells enter this territory.
- 10,000+ mm: Waterproof. Usually reserved for dedicated hardshells, though some softshell jackets like the ones you might find from brands carried by ON THE WAY are pushing these boundaries with innovative fabric technologies.
Furthermore, it's important to note the seam construction. A jacket may have a fabric that is technically waterproof, but if the stitching holes aren't sealed (taped), the jacket will leak. Most softshells do not have fully taped seams, which is a primary reason they are classified as water-resistant rather than waterproof.
When to Choose a Softshell (And When to Layer Up)
Knowing the extent of a Softshell jacket waterproof capabilities helps you pick the right tool for the job.
✅ Choose a Softshell When:
- You are engaging in high-output activities like hiking, cycling, or ski touring where breathability is paramount.
- The weather forecast calls for sun with a chance of light showers or flurries.
- You need a versatile piece that can act as a warm, windproof, and flexible outer layer in cold but dry conditions.
🔄 The ON THE WAY Approach:
At ON THE WAY, we embrace the concept of the layering system. A softshell is the perfect "middle-weight" champion. In truly wet conditions, we recommend pairing a water-resistant softshell with a waterproof hardshell in your pack. This way, you enjoy the comfort of the softshell during your ascent, but you are prepared to throw on the hardshell during a summit stop or when the heavens open.
Caring for Your Softshell's Water Resistance
To maintain that crucial water-repellent extent, your softshell needs love. The DWR coating can wear off due to dirt and washing.
- Wash Regularly: Ironically, washing your softshell cleans the fabric and allows the DWR to work better. Always use a technical wash product and avoid fabric softener, which clogs the pores of the membrane.
- Re-activate the DWR: After washing, tumble dry on low heat or iron on a low setting. This heat reactivates the DWR coating. If water stops beading on your jacket, it's time to apply a DWR spray-on treatment.
Conclusion
So, what is the extent to which softshell jackets are waterproof? They are your ally against the elements—designed to handle the misty morning, the unexpected flurry, and the wind-whipped ridge line. They are masters of breathability and comfort, sacrificing total impermeability for versatility. While they won't keep you dry during a prolonged downpour like a hardshell will, their ability to regulate body temperature during physical activity is unmatched.
Whether you are navigating a coastal trail or facing a crisp morning commute, the right softshell keeps you ON THE WAY to your next adventure, protected and comfortable.
Explore our latest collection of high-performance Softshell jacket waterproof designed to keep you moving in comfort and style.
