Best Softshell Jackets for Women of 2023

Reasons to Buy

• Excellent wind resistance
• Great breathability
• Durable with high-resistance to abrasion
• Comfortable and customizable fit
• Good value for the price

Reasons to Avoid

• Not 100% waterproof
• Limited color choices
• Smaller fit may not be suitable for those who prefer extra space

The Important Specs

• Fit: Trim fit, Hip Length
• Gender: Women's
• Pockets: Two hand pockets, one inner chest pocket
• Material: Wee Burly double weave softshell
• Adjustability: Adjustable hem drawcord, Laminated cuffs

Review Roundup

The Arc'teryx Gamma Hoody is a serious contender when it comes to the best softshell jackets for women. With its exceptional build quality, it's tailor-made for those seeking protection from the elements without sacrificing comfort and mobility.

This jacket offers stellar wind resistance and water repellency, making it a faithful companion for those outdoor adventures. That quick scramble up a drizzly trail or windy ridge? No problem. The Gamma Hoody holds its own, even during unexpected weather changes.

Its breathability is another standout feature. Buyers have repeatedly praised the Gamma Hoody's ability to dissipate heat and manage moisture. Whether they were rock climbing or hill walking, users found they stayed comfortably cool and dry.

The Arc'teryx Gamma Hoody also gets solid points for having a flattering, athletic cut that doesn't impede movement. It offers ample room in the shoulder and arm areas, accommodating a wide range of motions. This design thoughtfulness is a big plus, especially for activities requiring a lot of arm movement like climbing or skiing.

Despite its slim profile, this jacket doesn't skimp on storage, a feature appreciated by many buyers. They love the two hand pockets, large enough to stuff gloves or a beanie. And the inner zipper pocket is an added boon for stowing away essentials safely.

However, some users have raised concerns about its durability. There were occasional reports of the zipper snagging or the fabric showing signs of wear after a few rough outings. Nonetheless, many consider these small compromises for the overall performance and versatility this jacket offers.

Reasons to Buy

• Breathable and wind-resistant material
• Durable, can withstand outdoor activities
• Versatile: great for hiking, biking or just casual everyday wear
• Plenty of easy-to-reach pockets

Reasons to Avoid

• Not fully waterproof, only water-repellent
• May not fit well if you have a larger build
• Hood does not have a drawstring adjustment

The Important Specs

• Hood: Fitted, not adjustable
• Pockets: Two hand pockets, one arm pocket, all secure zip
• Material: 86% nylon, 14% spandex 90D stretch woven ripstop
• Weather Suitability: Spring, Fall, Mild Winter

Review Roundup

The Outdoor Research Ferrosi Hooded Jacket is a top pick among outdoor enthusiasts. From the softshell fabric to the features it carries, many women backpackers, hikers, and climbers have found it to be a reliable addition to their outdoor gear. Not only does it provide a remarkable performance, it also offers a mix of comfort, durability, and versatility.

In terms of material, customers seem to be impressed with the fabric blend of nylon and spandex. This combination results in a lightweight jacket that is breathable and also has a nice stretch to it - activities like rock climbing or trekking are made more comfortable with this flexibility. The ripstop fabric used in the body and hood of the jacket adds more points for durability. It's made to resist harsh weather, windy situations, and rough terrains that all outdoor adventurers encounter.

When speaking about features, numerous reviewers highlight the pocket design of the Ferrosi. It has a sleek look but does not skimp on functionality - it includes two zippered hand pockets and one zippered chest pocket. The hand pockets are also strategically positioned higher to still be accessible when wearing a backpack or a harness, which is a smart and applauded detail by a lot of consumers.

The adjustable hood is another favored feature. It fits comfortably around a helmet and can also be tightened to protect against wind or rain. A few users, however, have reported that it can cover the eyes when cinched up and can hinder sight slightly.

Safe to say, the Outdoor Research Ferrosi Hooded Jacket performs well as an intermediate layer or light jacket during warmer weather, but its light material is not designed for frigid temperatures. A number of reviews mention that it doesn’t have insulated or fleece-lined components to fully trap heat, but it does a decent job at maintaining your body heat. Most users feel the need to layer up when temperatures drop.

For style and fit, various comments remark that the Ferrosi has a modern, athletic, and flattering cut. The jacket is available in a range of vibrant colors to muted pastels and has a true-to-size fit. Though, a number of customers advise to size up if you're planning to wear bulky layers underneath.

In spite of a few minor issues, most women found the Outdoor Research Ferrosi Hooded Jacket a comprehensive blend of comfort, versatility, and durability. Its ability to perform well under different weather conditions and outdoor activities has earned its well-deserved standing in the outdoor gear market and garnered mostly positive feedback from its users.

Reasons to Buy

• Excellent wind resistance
• High breathability for high-exertion activities
• Versatile for different seasons
• Packable and light, convenient for backpacking

Reasons to Avoid

• Not the warmest option for colder climates
• Price might be high for some budgets
• Minimalistic features might not suit everyone

The Important Specs

• Hood: Adjustable, helmet-compatible
• Pockets: 1 chest pocket
• Zippers: YKK Vislon zippers
• Material: Nylon Schoeller with NanoSphere Technology
• Size Range: XS-L
• Adjustability: Hem drawcord

Review Roundup

The Black Diamond Alpine Start is a softshell jacket that continues to impress with its top-tier performance. This women's jacket sports a sleek, appealing style while providing substantial protection against the elements.

Once out in the wild, wearers can't help but admire its lightweight design. It's noticeably lighter than the usual softshell jackets but does not sacrifice its durability to achieve this. The compact design also makes it a perfect companion for backpacking or climbing adventures where each piece of gear's weight matters.

Many customers praised the Alpine Start's versatility. This piece serves a dual purpose, offering both a protective layer against wind and light showers and breathable fabric to avoid overheating. Users found this balance exceptional, especially on demanding hikes and climbs where the weather can change rapidly.

The adjustability also garnered positive feedback. Users remarked about the easily adjustable hood and cuffs, allowing for a near-custom fit. The hood is reported to accommodate a climbing helmet easily, reflecting the product's attention to the needs of climbers.

Material quality and durability are another strong suit for the Black Diamond Alpine Start. Made from Schoeller stretch-woven fabric with NanoSphere Technology, the jacket resists weather, adapts to movements, and stands up to general wear and tear. These high marks in resilience echo throughout online reviews.

A few customers did note some dissatisfaction, specifically concerning the fit across the chest. Some found it a bit tight, suggesting potential discrepancies in sizing. Others wished for extra pockets other than the single chest pocket provided.

Despite these minor issues, the majority of user feedback emphasizes satisfaction with the Black Diamond Alpine Start's performance. Users rave about its ability to protect and adapt to challenging outdoor situations while maintaining comfort and style.

Reasons to Buy

• Great fit and versatility
• Resistant to wind and water
• Excellent breathability
• Durable and abrasion-resistant
• Affordable price point

Reasons to Avoid

• Not suitable for extreme weather conditions
• No hood adjustability
• Limited color options

The Important Specs

• Fit: Slim fit
• Hood: Under helmet hood with high collar and flexible polymer peak
• Zips: YKK VISLON front zip with internal storm flap
• Pockets: 2 YKK zipped, mesh-lined pockets
• Material: Lightweight Matrix single weave with DWR

Review Roundup

The Rab Borealis women's softshell jacket is a budget-friendly outdoor accessory that's got rave reviews from backpackers, campers, and climbers alike. It's renowned for balancing a good price with impressive performance and quality. Right off the bat, users noticed its lightweight design and packability, making it an excellent choice for trips where weight and space are at a premium.

One exceptional feature that people consistently praise is its wind and water-resistant characteristics. This jacket offers unique protection, handy for transitional weather or when sudden showers surprise you mid-hike. However, some people noted it's not completely waterproof, so it might not be the best choice for those intense, soaking rainstorms on a campsite.

Users also praised the Rab Jacket for its comfortable, athletic cut design, which still leaves room for layering. A prevailing trend among the reviews was the love for the mobility it offers. From climbing mountains to scrambling over rocks, users praised its intense durability and stretchiness. It seems this jack-of-all-trades stays comfortable and flexible without sacrificing its basic protective role.

Several reviews applauded the thoughtful design elements of the Borealis, such as the low-bulk cuffs and the snug-fitting under-helmet hood. These aspects keep potential discomfort and chafing at bay while melding well with other gear.

As for breathability, the Rab Borealis received mixed feedback. Some buyers loved how breathable the jacket is, helping prevent overheating during rigorous activities, while a few others found it a bit warm.

A frequent gripe among the users has been its lack of warmth. While the Rab Borealis offers excellent wind and light rain protection, it's not designed to provide thermal comfort in the cold. Users recommend adding fleece or thermal layers underneath for those chillier outings.

Lastly, buyers were split on the sizing. Some found it fits true to size, while others wished they had sized up for a comfortable fit. So, if you're planning to layer underneath, consider opting for a size larger.

Reasons to Buy

• Impressive wind resistance
• Highly breathable
• Good water repellency
• Surprisingly durable
• Comfortable to wear all day
• Adjustable fit
• Great value for the price

Reasons to Avoid

• May not fare well in heavy rainfall
• Fit may not be comfortable for all body types
• Limited color options

The Important Specs

• Hood: Adjustable, helmet-compatible
• Fabric: Four-way stretch woven with brushed back
• Finish: Durable Water Repellent (DWR)
• Closure: YKK Vislon AquaGuard front zipper
• Pockets: Two hand pockets, one chest pocket, and two internal drop pockets

Review Roundup

The Black Diamond Dawn Patrol Shell is a favorite amongst women who love backcountry skiing. Known for both its style and functionality, this jacket is a staple in any outdoor enthusiast's wardrobe.

One of the first things people note about the Dawn Patrol Shell is its fit. Shaped specifically for females with a slight taper at the waist, it provides a slimmer fit but still leaves plenty of room for the layers you’ll need in colder climates. Users have highlighted that it fits true to size and can effortlessly accommodate a mid-layer underneath.

Weather resistance is a significant factor to consider when purchasing a softshell jacket, and users report that the Dawn Patrol Shell excels in this aspect. The jacket's durable, water-resistant finish helps keep the snow out on powder days, and the wind-resistant material shields against strong Alpine gusts.

Something else to love about the Dawn Patrol Shell is its flexibility and breathability. The fabric stretches in tune with your moves, making it a good match for energetic activities. Users have commended it on being comfortable for long wears, attributing this to the jacket's excellent breathability. Even after some intense ski runs, users have mentioned that the jacket has held up well, without trapping body heat or moisture.

Many purchasers have praised its utility, loving the several pockets which offer dedicated spaces for essential items. A hidden bonus is the internal drop pockets, which are a great place to stash your gloves or skins.

The jacket also comes with pit zips, a feature users have found extremely useful for releasing heat quickly. However, some users have highlighted issues with the zippers. Particularly, they can be a bit tricky to use with gloves on, which can be a setback in frigid environments.

Another slight downside mentioned by a few reviewers is the hood. While it is designed to fit over a ski helmet comfortably, users have found it to be a bit roomy when not wearing a helmet; it tends to obscure peripheral vision.

Overall, customers say the Black Diamond Dawn Patrol Shell is a great investment for backcountry adventures. Some drawbacks are mentioned, but they're not deal breakers by any means. Users believe the excellent weather resistance, comfort, and overall design make it a winner in their books.