Best Softshell Jacket of 2025

Reasons to Buy

• Highly durable material
• Versatile for many weather conditions
• Great fit and comfort

Reasons to Avoid

• Expensive
• Average water resistance

True to Arc'teryx's reputation for quality gear, the Gamma LT Hoody has garnered high praise and acclaim among outdoor enthusiasts. Many say its the perfect softshell jacket for a wide range of activities.

A consistent comment among users is just how light and comfortable the Gamma LT Hoody is. You can pack it down to almost nothing, making it ideal for those trips where every ounce counts. Despite its lightness, buyers report that it offers more than enough protection against the elements. The jacket's composition efficiently stands up to wind and light rain while allowing for a much-appreciated breathability during intense activity. Whether it's hiking, climbing, or casual wear, this jacket ticks a lot of boxes.

However, it's not all perfect. Some users have reported the hood being a tad too big and losing its shape over time. It appears it may not adequately shield you from more extreme weather conditions, especially when wind and rain really announce their arrival.

In terms of fit, the Gamma LT Hoody has a reputation for being true to size with a design that allows for excellent mobility, a boon for those who need a wide range of motion - climbers, rejoice. This jacket moves with you and doesn't feel restricting or uncomfortable in any way.

For storage, the jacket's got you covered with an array of handy pockets. According to reviews from customers, these pockets are conveniently positioned and offer enough space to carry essential gear without adding unnecessary bulk to the jacket.

Reacting to the price, a few buyers have indicated that the cost is on the higher side. Yet, many still believe the quality, performance, and durability of the Gamma LT Hoody offers good value for the investment.

Reasons to Buy

• Excellent wind resistance
• Waterproof up to light rain
• Highly comfortable, with adjustable hood and hem

Reasons to Avoid

• Higher price point
• Not the lightest

The Marmot ROM GTX Infinium Hoody is a product that easily stands out in the crowded market of men's softshell jackets. Its versatility is where it really shines, with uses that range from strolling in a breezy city to dealing with gusty alpine conditions.

The jacket is named after the term 'Range of Motion', which sets a clear expectation of flexibility and freedom of movement. On that front, the ROM GTX Infinium delivers handsomely. Numerous customers commend its ability to allow brisk movements without any feeling of restriction, a quality that avid hikers and climbers are sure to appreciate.

The 'GTX Infinium' part of the name is a nod to the GORE-TEX Infinium material that the jacket is made of. This material offers outstanding protection against wind, a perk that many outdoor adventurers have been grateful for. Yet, it remains breathable, ensuring you don't end up soaked in sweat during strenuous activities.

Several online reviews mention the durability of the Marmot ROM GTX Infinium Hoody. One buyer mentioned that despite months of regular use, the jacket has shown no signs of degradation, either in its colour or in its seam strength. This resilience lends it a good standing among outdoor gear that needs to endure harsh conditions.

On the comfort front, not everyone had the same experience. While some users applauded the jacket for its cozy fit and soft interior, others found it less comfortable due to its snug fit around the waist. So, if you prefer a loose-fitting jacket, you might want to consider going one size up.

The jacket also sports multiple pockets, including a chest pocket that some reviewers found particularly handy for keeping smaller items within quick reach. However, a few users expressed their wish for the pockets to be a little larger, especially for stuffing gloves or hats.

Finally, it's worth mentioning the aesthetics. Hailed for its sleek and stylish design, the Marmot ROM GTX Infinium Hoody is available in several colour options. Most buyers appreciated the look, calling it 'smart' and 'sophisticated', setting it apart from many other bulky trail jackets.

Reasons to Buy

• Impressive breathability
• Highly comfortable
• Great fit

Reasons to Avoid

• Quite minimalist

The Rab Kinetic 2.0 is a softshell jacket that has been a hit amongst outdoor enthusiasts, making waves in the camping, backpacking, and climbing communities. From our research, it's clear that this jacket stands out, not only for its innovative design but also for the functionality it offers.

Buyers have praised the Rab Kinetic 2.0 for its remarkable breathability, a feature highly appreciated by hikers and climbers alike. One key feature they often mention is the high level of comfort the jacket provides during physical activities - this is largely down to its flexible fabric, which allows for a full range of movement without feeling restrictive.

Light rain? No worries! People loved the fact that this softshell jacket repels water pretty well for unexpected drizzle or light showers. This proves its versatility; it's not just a cold-weather jacket, but a trusty companion for unexpected weather changes.

However, some users did express concerns about the jacket's limited insulation. It seems the Rab Kinetic 2.0 may not be the best option for extreme cold weather. That being said, the general consensus appears to be that it performs incredibly well as a mid-layer, with many recommending it for layering up against colder climates.

The jacket's lightness is another point which has had a very positive reception. Many reviewers felt that the lightweight nature of the Rab Kinetic 2.0 made it perfect for backpacking and other activities where minimal weight is a big plus. They also appreciated the fact that it's highly packable, fitting snugly in a backpack without taking up too much space.

One potential downside brought up by some users was regarding the hood. While it provides ample coverage, some have mentioned it may be a bit too big, especially for those users not wearing any headgear or climbing helmet.

Finally, comments on durability paint a picture of a solid, well-built jacket. Buyers seem to find that the Rab Kinetic 2.0 can take a beating, and holds up well, even when faced with harsh outdoor elements.

Reasons to Buy

• Wind resistant and breathable
• Water repellant
• Durable and abrasion resistant
• Comfortable fit
• Great value for money

Reasons to Avoid

• Not ideal for heavy rain
• Difficult to pack into small spaces
• Limited color selections

The Outdoor Research Ferrosi Hoody, a well-respected budget jacket in the outdoors world, has won many fans due to its solid performance and affordable price. Constructed with breathable, quick-drying fabric, it offers a great deal of comfort when you're on the move. Whether you're prepping for a camping adventure or gearing up for your next climbing expedition, this jacket promises to be a reliable companion.

The Ferrosi Hoody stands out among the crowd predominantly due to its exceptional mobility. Thanks to its lightweight fabric and athletic fit, it provides unrestricted movement, making it perfect for all sorts of outdoor activities—from hiking, backpacking, to climbing. You can easily stash your essentials in the zip-up pockets, which have been strategically placed for easy access even when wearing a harness or a backpack.

When it comes to weather resistance, while the Ferrosi Hoody might not offer the same level of protection as a full-blown hardshell, it does remarkably well against wind and light rain. The hood and cuffs are adjustable, allowing you to seal out cold gusts and drizzle, but for heavier downpour situations, you might want to look for something more robust or layer up with a dedicated waterproof layer underneath.

In terms of durability, some online reviewers have noted that the Ferrosi hoody holds up well to abrasive rock surfaces and rough use. This is thanks to its tough blend of ripstop Cordura and nylon, which is not only strong but also stretchy.

However, some users have commented that the sizing is a bit off, with the jacket running slightly larger than expected. It's advisable to check the size guide thoroughly to ensure the right fit.

Additionally, few users have expressed their wish for the jacket to have more insulation. The Ferrosi Hoody is built more for breathability and wind protection than for warmth. You might need to layer up with a mid-layer for colder circumstances.

Lastly, although the jacket is primarily designed with functionality in mind, it doesn't compromise on style. Available in a range of colors, the sleek, stylish design ensures you won't look out of place in urban settings—something that many wearers have praised.

Reasons to Buy

• Built with a windproof and water resistant material
• Excellent mobility attributed to a relaxed fit and stretch fabric
• Durable and can stand up to some rough treatement
• Comfortable to wear through long periods
• Has a good thermal insulation

Reasons to Avoid

• May fit larger if you prefer a snug fit
• Not ideal for heavy rain
• Hand pockets can be blocked while wearing a backpack

The North Face Apex Bionic 3 is a crowd favorite when it comes to softshell jackets for men. It's a solid, all-arounder with a price point that doesn't break the bank.

The jacket ticks the box for durability, thanks to its robust textile construction. Numerous customers have commended its longevity and its ability to withstand rough terrains and unpredictable weather conditions.

Another strong point that users often highlight is its windproof potential. The jacket features The North Face's proprietary WindWall fabric, which blocks out the chilly gusts effectively. Users feel comfortable and shielded even in harsh winds.

As for insulation, the Apex Bionic 3 lives up to the reputation of The North Face. The jacket's soft fleece lining provides ample warmth, performing well on crisp autumn hikes to winter urban explorations. However, some reviewers did note that it might not be sufficient for extreme sub-zero conditions.

Water-resistant not waterproof, the jacket can manage light showers, but it's not designed to protect you from heavy downpours. A few users pointed out that in steady rain, the water-resistant feature did meet its limits.

The Apex Bionic 3's breathability is acceptable but not exceptional, with some users mentioning that they did get a little sweaty during strenuous activities. This is a common pitfall with most softshells, so it's worth noting if you're someone who heats up fast.

When it comes to style and fit, customers have commented favorably on its sleek design and versatile color options. The jacket runs true to size, and there were very few criticisms about its fit. It has room for layers but won't appear baggy if you're just wearing a t-shirt underneath. Plus, its design does not scream 'hiker,' making it perfect for wear around town.

The jacket features a handy chest pocket and two hand pockets. There's no interior pocket, which a few customers noted as a drawback. But all pockets are zippered, providing secure storage for your valuables.

On the flip side, the main criticism about The North Face Apex Bionic 3 seems to be its lack of robustness when it comes to fully wet conditions and high activity sweat management. However, for the majority who want a solid, do-it-all jacket that suits their outdoor as well as urban needs, The North Face Apex Bionic 3 has consistently been a popular choice.

Reasons to Buy

• Light and warm for its size
• Can handle a reasonable dose of rain and wind
• The four-way stretch offers great mobility
• Made with highly durable materials

Reasons to Avoid

• Not the most comfortable jacket around
• Fit might be an issue for some
• No insulation means it's not designed for extremely cold conditions
• One of the pricier options

The Black Diamond Dawn Patrol Jacket has been a top choice for backcountry skiers, appreciated for its blend of comfort, durability, and functionality. Piloted by rugged fabric construction, this jacket offers tear-resistance and the ability to withstand harsh weather conditions. Although it’s not the lightest jacket around, its weight is a testament to its hardy build.

Dawn Patrol packs a real punch in terms of warmth. The stretchy woven shell material locks in heat, and its smooth fleece lining feels cozy against the skin. Reviewers often tout its breathability, great for when you're working up a sweat carving down snowy peaks.

Its utilitarian design gets a nod too. With ample pockets, including a zippered chest pocket, users can carry essential items without stuffing their backpacks. However, some online reviewers have noted that its minimalistic aesthetics may not appeal to everyone, with a few stating they would’ve preferred more color options.

Mobility is key in any outdoor activity, and Dawn Patrol doesn't disappoint. It’s cut to accommodate active movement, so twisting, reaching and bending aren’t hindered. Some wearers did mention the sleeve lengths being tad long, but this con can be easily rectified by rolling up the cuffs, or wearing gloves.

As for weather resistance, it stands sturdy against the wind and copes admirably with light moisture. However, for heavy downpours, it would be wise to keep a waterproof shell handy, according to the online customers.

Durability is another commendable feature of the Dawn Patrol, with users frequently mentioning its long-lasting quality. The rip-stop construction and high-quality stitching give confidence to even the most enthusiastic of outdoor adventurers.

Finally, on the value front, Dawn Patrol offers a solid return considering its longevity and performance. It may not be the cheapest, but most users believe the jacket is worth every cent, appreciating it as a reliable and trustworthy gear investment.