If you've ever shopped for jackets and outerwear or put together a layered outfit for a cold-weather day, you've probably come across the term “soft shell jacket.” “What is a soft shell jacket?” You likely ask yourself. What does it do? Is it warm? Can I wear it with a layered look?
We get it! There are a lot of questions surrounding these popular outerwear options. Fortunately for you, we are here to answer them. We'll talk about what makes a soft shell jacket so special, and why you may want to consider it for your business or big outdoor event.
Blankshirts.com has your back when it comes to finding the best wholesale deals on outerwear, as well as knowing how to use them effectively. Whether you're getting together for a group hike in Colorado Springs or preparing your team for the winter in Seattle, you can count on us to deliver the soft shell jackets you need to stay comfortable in the cold. But first, let's talk about these mysterious jackets that seem to be all the rage.
What Exactly is a Soft Shell Jacket?
A soft shell jacket is a comfortable outerwear option that is something between a light jacket and a performance layer. Unlike a heavy winter coat for extreme cold or a slick rain jacket for precipitation, a soft shell jacket bridges the gap between the two. While providing some insulation, the primary feature of a soft shell jacket is its flexibility. Sure, it's not going to be your go-to option for a blizzard, but for a brisk walk through the park or a morning commute downtown, the soft shell jacket makes an excellent in-between option.
A standout feature of these casual jackets is the outer shell, which often helps protect from wind and light moisture. The outer layer is made from a tightly woven material that prevents moisture from seeping in and wind from piercing the inner layers. However, these types of jackets are not intended to be used for extreme weather. Instead, you can kind of consider them your go-to option for the majority of the year, where temperatures aren't too hot or too cold, but you still need an extra layer of protection against the wind and light moisture.
This jacket became a popular option in performance arenas because it provides protection from the elements while delivering flexibility, breathability, and freedom of motion for its wearers. Essentially, this piece serves as performance outerwear that can be worn casually, professionally, or in athletic and fitness settings.
What Makes Soft Shell Jackets Special?
Because it's designed for action, a soft shell jacket is ideal for performance situations. The hallmark of a high-quality soft shell jacket is its ability to balance protection from the elements with breathability, performance capabilities, and flexibility for motion. This isn't going to be a hard shell jacket, which is intended for situations that demand full water or windproofing. Instead, a soft shell jacket is intentionally constructed with stretchy, breathable material that can protect from light rain and wind without feeling restrictive or stuffy by trapping moisture inside.
The inner layer of most soft shell jackets consists of a micro fleece or knit material that provides warmth and insulation without feeling restrictive or being too bulky. The material of the inner lining feels soft on the skin, delivering the level of comfort you'd expect from something like your favorite hoodie or crewneck sweatshirt. Meanwhile, the outer layer construction helps prevent the wind and light rain from reaching you.
The combination of light weather protection and soft insulation makes them a versatile option for high-motion activities or occupations. Think valet drivers, hospitality workers with outdoor service areas, event organizers, or concert venues. Or if you're into athleticism and motion-oriented lifestyles, a soft shell jacket is excellent for outdoor recreation like hiking, biking, or running everyday errands around town.
Why Do Buyers Love Soft Shell Jackets?
The essence of a solid soft shell jacket is its multi-layered construction, which provides versatility and adaptability. Businesses and brands that want to add custom logos to their outfits, soft outer shells are ideal for adding embroidery or other customization methods, while the inner lining helps keep your crew comfy and warm. At the same time, this construction doesn't feel heavy or stiff, making it the ideal option for situations that demand some protection, but not the full money.
Because they are easily customizable and adaptable to a wide variety of weather conditions and functionality demands, soft shell jackets are a solid all-around option. They're built for action, with unrestricted flexibility for motion, breathability for comfort, and insulation for warmth.
In short, why people buy soft shell jackets can be boiled down into these simple reasons:
- Flexibility for motion
- Unrestricted, non-bulky builds
- Easily customizable materials
- Light protection from the elements
- Lightweight feel for comfort
- Adaptability and versatility for a variety of weather conditions
These are just a few of the reasons why folks love soft shell jackets. Of course, you can find your own reason to incorporate these versatile outerwear options into your wardrobe or dress code.
Are Soft Shell Jackets Warm?
Yes! Soft shell jackets are specifically designed to provide light layers of insulation to protect against cool temperatures. These jackets provide warmth thanks to their inner lining, typically made of fleece or a soft material that helps retain heat.
The outer layer of a soft shell jacket is made using a tightly woven material to help provide a light moisture barrier. This feature also helps prevent wind from piercing the material and reaching your skin.
So, you can count on a soft shell jacket to keep you nice and warm in slightly cooler temperatures. However, if there's going to be a blizzard outside, a soft shell jacket might not be sufficient, depending on the weather.
What are the Most Popular Soft Shell Jackets?
The list of the most popular soft shell jackets could go on forever. But fortunately for you, we won't make you go through the entire catalog. So, here are a few highlights that you may want to check out for your business or big event.
If you're looking for a classic design that's action-ready and customization-friendly, check out the Port Authority J317 Core Soft Shell Jacket. This handy soft shell jacket features a 100% polyester woven shell bonded to a water-resistant film insert, helping to protect you from the wind and rain. Meanwhile, the inner liner of 100% polyester micro fleece is insulating yet breathable. This makes them an excellent choice for corporate merchandise or work uniforms.
The Team 365 TT80 Men's Leader Soft Shell Jacket is all about performance with its 96% polyester and 4% spandex blend. This material provides incredible flexibility, with 3000 mm waterproofing and 1000 g breathability rating. In other words, the other team doesn't even stand a chance when you're rocking these incredible performance soft shell jackets.
Looking for the ideal outerwear to feed your inner rebel? If you see yourself as a fighter, then you may want to give the Independent Trading EXP52BMR Lightweight Bomber Jacket some attention. This bad boy is the culmination of retro design and modern innovation, with its 100% polyester fabric with an interior water-resistant coating. It's basically just asking for a fight, but it can definitely win.
Some days you just need a little something extra. For those days when the rain and wind are threatening to dampen your spirits, you'd better hope you have the Port Authority J335 Hooded Core Soft Shell Jacket ready to go. This jacket is your best friend on a lightly rainy day, with a 100% polyester woven shell bonded to a water-resistant film insert and a 100% polyester micro-fleece lining. Throw in the built-in hood, and you're ready to rock and roll.
Where to Buy Soft Shell Jackets?
Right here at blankshirts.com, of course! We have a full catalog of the best-selling soft shell jackets, whether you're shopping for yourself or the entire crew. Now that you know the answer to the question: “What is a soft shell jacket?”, we make it easy to find all the versatile, performance-ready, soft shell jackets you could ever need. Check out the full collection for you and your business today.
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