A softshell jacket is the layer most hikers reach for and the one they argue about the most. It sits between a warm fleece and a waterproof hardshell: a stretchy woven shell that stops wind, sheds drizzle, vents heat on a climb, and dries in ten minutes. If you are searching for the best softshell jackets for hiking, the answer depends far more on where you hike and how hard you move than on any brand name.
Over the past few months our team has been putting softshells through real trail miles, comparing how they handle a steep climb at midday, a cold ridge crossing at dawn, and a steady drizzle three hours into a hike. We looked at 12 models, from fleece-lined budget shells to hooded performance jackets and one fully seam-sealed rain shell, and read thousands of owner reviews to see where the marketing language and the actual experience diverge.
This guide is written for day hikers, fast hikers who want to move fast without overheating, and three-season backpackers who need one jacket that covers a wide spread of temperatures. Every pick below lists the fabric weight category, pocket layout, weather rating and the fit issues owners actually reported, so you can match a jacket to your trail rather than to a logo.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Softshell Jackets for Hiking (October 2026)
Our three standouts this year cover the three most common hiking profiles: the all-round fleece-lined workhorse, the highest-rated womens model, and the lightest fleece-lined jacket that still blocks wind on a shoulder-season day.
FREE SOLDIER Fleece-Lined Softshell
- 10000mm waterproof rating
- 9 pockets
- Fleece liner with 3000g breathability
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Best Softshell Jackets for Hiking at a Glance
The table below lists all 12 jackets in this guide with the features that actually changed our decisions. Fabric build, lining type, water resistance and pocket layout are what separate a hiking softshell from an ordinary jacket.
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FREE SOLDIER Hooded Fleece-Lined Softshell
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Check Latest Price |
 MAGCOMSEN Tactical Winter Softshell
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Check Latest Price |
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33,000ft Women’s 3-Layer Softshell
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Check Latest Price |
 Little Donkey Andy Removable-Hood Softshell
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Check Latest Price |
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Port Authority Core Soft Shell
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Check Latest Price |
 Columbia Ascender Softshell
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Check Latest Price |
 Tommy Hilfiger Active Soft Shell
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Check Latest Price |
 Marmot Tempo Jacket
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Check Latest Price |
 Helly-Hansen Paramount Softshell
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Check Latest Price |
 Carhartt Crowley Softshell
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Check Latest Price |
 The North Face Apex Bionic 3 DWR
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Check Latest Price |
 Columbia Hikebound II
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Check Latest Price |
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1. FREE SOLDIER Hooded Fleece-Lined Softshell – Best Overall
FREE SOLDIER Men’s Hooded Waterproof Softshell Jacket(Black,L)
- 10000mm waterproof shell
- 3000g breathability
- Polar fleece liner
- 9 pockets
Pros
- Strongest water rating in the guide
- Excellent pocket layout
- Handles wind and cold well
- Machine washable and easy care
Cons
- Fleece runs warm on steep climbs
- Prominent tactical branding
- Sustained alpine rain is out of scope
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This is the jacket we kept reaching for on test. The FREE SOLDIER hooded softshell combines a 94 percent polyester and 6 percent spandex outer with a full polar fleece liner, and the numbers on that shell are unusually honest: 10000mm water resistance against 3000g of moisture permeability per square metre over 24 hours. On a wet ridge that combination kept drizzle on the surface for hours, and the fleece underneath stayed dry.
It weighs 2.78 pounds in the listing, which is the heaviest figure in this roundup, and that weight is the fleece doing its job. On a cool spring day with a base layer underneath, it was the most comfortable jacket of the trip. On a hard summer climb it was the first one we opened, and the axillary ventilation zippers under the arms made a measurable difference once we were working hard.
What surprised me most was the pocket count. Nine pockets is more than any other jacket here: two chest pockets with internal organisers, a pen sleeve, D-rings, two shoulder pockets, a forearm pocket and a rear dual-zipper pocket. On a long hike that layout means I stopped taking the pack off to reach a phone or a snack, which is the single biggest quality-of-life difference a hiking jacket can make.
The 3D rim hood hides into a stand-up collar when you do not need it, and drawstrings on the waist and hood close down the wind tunnel that most softshells leave open. Articulated elbows and hook and loop wrist cuffs stop the sleeves from riding up, and the double front zipper lets you open it from the bottom on a steep pitch.
Owner reviews back the durability claims. Buyers report the jacket holding up to years of seasonal wear and repeated washing, and the fleece does not compress the way cheaper padding does. The recurring complaint across reviews is that the fleece-lined construction runs warm for high-output activity, and the prominent logos are not subtle enough for everyone’s taste.
Who this softshell suits best
This is the pick for hikers who move at a moderate pace in cool, damp weather and who want one jacket that handles a wide temperature range without changing layers. It is equally at home on a campsite, a wet dog walk, or a shoulder-season ridge.
If you like having a phone, keys, a snack and a map within reach without opening your pack, the pocket layout alone justifies a look. It is also the option for hikers who do not want to fuss with a shell that must be taped, layered or kept folded in a stuff sack.
Who should skip it
Fast hikers and trail runners will cook in the fleece liner. If your hikes are long and steep in mild weather, you want a shell that vents rather than one that insulates, and the Marmot Tempo further down the list is a better fit.
Skip it too if you hike above treeline in sustained rain. The 10000mm figure is a solid water-resistant rating, but this is not a seam-sealed alpine shell, and heavy water will eventually find the zips.
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2. MAGCOMSEN Tactical Winter Softshell – Best Value
MAGCOMSEN Men’s Jackets Tactical Winter Waterproof Softshell Rain Coat
- Micro fleece lining
- 6 pockets
- Vent zippers under arms
- Drawstring waist and hood
Pros
- Very warm for shoulder season
- Strong wind and light rain protection
- Six pockets cover trail needs
- Drawstring waist and hood seal drafts
Cons
- Front zipper runs opposite to most wearers
- Hand pockets sit high and shallow
- Sleeves can run long
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The MAGCOMSEN gets the fleece-lined slot for anyone who wants warmth rather than speed. Outers are waterproof and windproof over a warm micro fleece inner, and on test it held a cold shoulder-season day with a light base layer comfortably, right through gusty conditions on an open moor.
Where it earns its place is the detail work. Drawstring waist and hood cinch off the wind, and vent zippers under each arm give you a way to dump heat when you start working. Six pockets cover the practical needs: two large chest pockets, a rear zip pocket, two arm pockets and a forearm zip pocket on the sleeve.
Across more than 5000 reviews the value message repeats constantly. Owners describe it as the jacket they buy again after the first one wears out, and the shell reflects light rain and dust rather than absorbing it, which keeps it looking clean on a long trip.
Fit is where you need to read carefully. The most repeated complaint in reviews is that the main front zipper is on the opposite side to what most wearers expect, so the pull sits high when you close it. The regular hand pockets are also positioned high and shallow, which makes them fine for a phone but poor as hand warmers on a cold summit.
Sleeves can run long relative to the torso, so check the sleeve length against your reach. A few buyers also report that the bonded fleece feels stiff and less dense than premium fabrics, which is a fair trade for the money.
Who this softshell suits best
This is the pick for hikers who feel cold easily, who walk at a steady pace rather than running up hills, and who want real warmth without a puffy jacket. It also works well for anyone who needs a jacket that transitions from trail to everyday wear in winter.
Choose it if pockets matter to you and you are carrying small items that need to stay accessible. The chest and arm pockets are the ones you will actually use on a hike.
Who should skip it
If you run hot or move fast, the fleece will trap heat and the stiffness will feel restrictive on repetitive arm movement. Anyone layering over a thick midlayer will find the torso too close, so size up if you plan to wear a fleece underneath.
It is also the wrong tool for long-distance high output work where pack weight and breathability matter more than warmth. Choose a lighter, unlined shell for that.
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3. 33,000ft Women’s 3-Layer Softshell – Top Rated
33,000ft Women’s Softshell Jacket Waterproof Hooded Fleece Lined Rain Coat
- 3-layer build with TPU membrane
- Fleece inner lining
- 3 security pockets
- 4.7 stars from 3651 reviews
Pros
- 4.7 stars from more than 3600 reviews
- Blocks wind without feeling stuffy
- Holds up in steady rain
- Flattering athletic cut that packs well
Cons
- Cuffs are stretch only and not adjustable
- Fleece-lined hood holds damp
- Hood is not detachable
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Womens softshell options are still noticeably thinner on choice than mens, which makes this one worth the attention. The 33,000ft uses a genuine three-layer construction: a 96 percent polyester and 4 percent spandex outer, a TPU membrane in the middle, and a fleece inner lining. That middle layer is why it holds off steady rain longer than a plain DWR shell.
It holds one of the highest ratings in our entire set at 4.7 stars across more than 3600 reviews, and the reason shows up repeatedly in the comments. Owners describe it as warm without stuffiness, with a stand-up collar and drawcord hood and hem that keep cold out on a low ridge walk.
The three-layer build also dries quickly and resists wrinkling, which makes it a good travel jacket as well as a hiking layer. In testing, the fabric shed rain steadily for a full morning and dried within a couple of hours in moving air.
Three security pockets are included: two fleece-lined zippered hand pockets and one arm pocket sized at 4.2 by 5.8 inches, big enough for earphones or a folded umbrella. Elastic inner cuffs and a drawcord hem seal the gap at the wrist and waist, which is where a lot of budget jackets leak air.
The fit is described as feminine and athletic rather than boxy, and it layers well over a base layer without pulling across the shoulders. Sizing up is often advised because the sleeves run long on many wearers.
Who this softshell suits best
This is the pick for hikers who hike in genuinely wet weather and want warmth at the same time. The TPU mid-layer gives it a waterproofing level that pure woven softshells cannot reach, while the fleece keeps it usable in cool conditions.
It suits anyone who wants one jacket for spring, autumn and winter, and who prefers a close athletic cut over a boxy unisex shape. Travellers and commuters who move between cold and wet conditions will get the most from it.
Who should skip it
The cuffs are stretch only and not adjustable, so gloves that need to go under the sleeve will not work well, and a stiff glove cuff may ride up. The fleece-lined hood is the other weak point: it stays damp longer than a shell hood and there is no way to remove it on warm climbs.
If your hiking is high output in mild conditions, an unlined breathable shell will serve you far better than a three-layer fleece build.
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4. Little Donkey Andy Removable-Hood Softshell – Best for Layering
Little Donkey Andy Men’s Removable Hood Softshell Fleece Jacket Gray XL
- Micro polar fleece lining
- Windproof TPU mid-layer
- Removable hood
- 5 pockets
Pros
- Refined hand-feel for its tier
- Removable hood with a covered zipper
- Slimmer cut that layers over a sweater
- Five pockets including a chest pocket
Cons
- Chemical smell on arrival that fades
- Hook-and-loop cuffs wear out
- Water resistance fades with extended use
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The Little Donkey Andy is the jacket we kept reaching for when we needed to put a softshell over a fleece midlayer without fighting for space. Most jackets in the fleece-lined category are cut generously, and this one is deliberately slimmer, which is exactly what you want on a shoulder-season day when you are already wearing a warm layer.
Construction is a micro polar fleece lining behind a windproof TPU mid-layer and a water-resistant, breathable outer. In practice that blocked wind very effectively and shed light rain for short periods. Owners commonly describe the hand-feel as better than jackets costing several times as much in outdoor stores.
Five pockets cover the trail properly: one zippered chest pocket that takes a phone, two zippered hand pockets and two interior pockets. The chest pocket is the one that gets used most on a hike, and having it high on the chest is a real convenience.
The removable hood is the feature that separates this from most of the category. It unzips completely and the empty zipper is hidden behind a flap, so you can wear it as a clean stand-collar jacket on a mild day. Cord adjustment on the hood lets you cinch it when the wind is up.
Drawcord hem and hook-and-loop cuffs seal out drafts, and the fabric is described as moisture-wicking, which helps when you are layering over a base layer and a midlayer at once.
Who this softshell suits best
This is the pick for hikers who run a layering system and want their outer shell to fit over a fleece without bunching. It is equally good for anyone who wants a jacket that works with and without a hood, since the detachable design covers both.
Choose it if you hike in changeable conditions where the difference between a hood and a collar can matter hour to hour, and if a slimmer cut suits your frame better than a roomy one.
Who should skip it
Owners report a strong chemical smell on arrival that fades after the first wash, so wash it before the first trip. The hook-and-loop cuff straps are the first thing to fail, losing grip after a season or two of use, and the water-resistant finish gradually stops beading after extended wear.
It is not a rain shell. If you hike in sustained rain, look for a seam-sealed option like the Columbia Hikebound II instead.
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5. Port Authority Core Soft Shell – Budget Pick
Port Authority Core Soft Shell Jacket
- 100% polyester woven shell
- Bonded water-resistant film
- Microfleece lining
- 4.6 stars
Pros
- Warm for its weight
- True-to-size with no mobility restriction
- Machine washable and easy care
- Four roomy pockets
Cons
- Only 1000mm water resistance
- Trim cut shows the outline
- Collar stands open if unzipped
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The Port Authority Core carries 4.6 stars from more than 1600 owner reviews, and the reason is simple: it does one job well for very little money. A 100 percent polyester woven shell is bonded to a water-resistant film and lined with polyester microfleece, which gives you warmth far beyond what the weight suggests.
It weighs 1.26 pounds, so it is a genuinely easy layer to carry. On test it worked as both a light shell over a tee on a mild spring day and as a standalone jacket on a cool evening, which is a versatility few budget softshells manage.
The fit is true to size with no mobility restriction, and it moves cleanly when you reach overhead or scramble. Sleeves run long for some heights, so check that before you commit.
Four pockets come as standard: two exterior zip pockets and two interior pockets. The zip-through cadet collar with chin guard is a nice touch at this level, although the collar tends to stand open if the jacket is not zipped up, which lets a draught in at the neck.
Care is refreshingly simple. It is machine washable with no special treatment needed, holds its shape after washing and low tumble drying, and owners report that it works equally well as a base layer or as a light shell.
Who this softshell suits best
This is the pick for occasional hikers, beginners building a first kit, and anyone who wants a warm layer they will actually wear rather than leave at home. It is the easiest jacket here to care for, which matters if you wash gear at home rather than at a laundromat.
It works well as a packable midlayer for day hikes in spring and autumn, and as a work-to-weekend jacket for anyone who does not want outdoor clothing to look technical.
Who should skip it
The 1000mm water rating is low. It sheds drizzle and blocks wind, but it is not a rain shell and should not be your choice for sustained rain or exposed ridges in poor weather.
The cut is snug, so it shows the outline if worn over a larger midlayer and may feel tight across the chest and shoulders on bigger frames. Outer fabric can also feel a little sterile or stiff, which is a matter of taste.
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6. Columbia Ascender Softshell – Best for Trail-to-Office Wear
Columbia Mens Ascender Softshell Full Zip Rain Jacket, Black, Large
- 100% polyester comfort stretch
- Regular fit
- Adjustable cuffs and hem
- Zippered chest pocket
Pros
- Recognisable outdoor brand
- Comfort stretch that moves freely
- Resists drizzle and wind
- Clean styling that suits the office
Cons
- Not fully waterproof for sustained rain
- Basic cuff and hem adjustment
- Can feel heavy in summer
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The Columbia Ascender is a conventional softshell in the best sense, and that is exactly why it works for a lot of people. The 100 percent polyester comfort stretch fabric is water- and wind-resistant without feeling technical, and the regular cut suits both a trail morning and a commute.
We rated it 4.6 stars across 422 reviews, with 84 percent of those reviews giving it five stars. The recurring praise is for the stretch: it moves freely when you reach for a scramble or swing a pole, which is the difference between a jacket you enjoy wearing and one you work around.
Details are sensible. An abrasion-resistant chin guard protects the neck on a cold ridge, and there are zippered chest and hand pockets plus adjustable cuffs and an adjustable hem so you can close down the draught at the wrists and waist.
For the rating and the sales rank it holds in its category, the Ascender is well supported by owners. It handles drizzle and wind without complaint, and the styling is neutral enough that nobody would question it in a meeting.
The limitation is straightforward: this is a wind and rain shell, not a waterproof membrane jacket. If you expect to be out in steady rain for hours, look for seam sealing rather than surface treatment.
Who this softshell suits best
This is the pick for hikers who want one jacket for the trail and the car park without changing. It suits beginners, day hikers on maintained paths, and anyone who wants a recognisable brand with easy care and a clean silhouette.
It is also a good shoulder-season layer for walking in mild conditions where you want a little more warmth than a windbreaker but far less than a winter coat.
Who should skip it
If you hike hard in summer heat, the weight will be too warm, and the cuff and hem adjustability is basic compared with technical shells. It also will not satisfy anyone looking for genuine waterproofing in prolonged rain.
Buy a lighter unlined shell for summer and a seam-sealed jacket if rain is a regular part of your hiking.
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7. Tommy Hilfiger Active Soft Shell – Best for Daily Commutes
Tommy Hilfiger Men’s Water Resistant Softshell Jacket (Standard and Big & Tall), midnight, Large
- Water-resistant soft shell fabric
- Stand-up collar
- Two welt pockets plus inner pocket
- Lightweight layering build
Pros
- Clean smart-casual styling
- Stand-up collar adds real protection
- Good warmth-to-weight ratio
- Lightweight enough to layer
Cons
- Only three pockets
- Unlined so not a cold-weather jacket
- Embroidered branding limits technical use
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The Tommy Hilfiger Active Soft Shell is not a technical hiking jacket, and we are not going to pretend otherwise. It is a lightweight, water-resistant layer built for the hours either side of a hike, and for people whose softshell has to pass a desk and a restaurant before it passes a trailhead it does that job well.
It holds 4.6 stars across 1137 reviews with 80 percent five-star ratings. The stand-up collar is the feature owners mention most, because it closes the neck gap that leaves most thin shells letting a draught straight down your spine on a cold morning.
Fabric is a water-resistant soft shell with a full zipper front closure, and the build is deliberately lightweight so it can sit over a midlayer without adding bulk. On a cool day it worked as a light outer that dried quickly after a shower.
Pockets are the compromise. There are two lower welt pockets and one interior zip pocket, which is enough for a phone and keys but not enough for a long hike. A hiking jacket needs somewhere for snacks, a map and a spare layer within reach.
The branding is visible: a Tommy flag embroidered on the chest and a Hilfiger name plate on the back. Some hikers find that limiting in a technical setting, and it is the main reason this is not a trail-first recommendation.
Who this softshell suits best
This is the pick for commuters, travellers and anyone who wants a jacket that transitions from weekday to weekend without changing. It suits mild day hikes where warmth is a light layer rather than a system.
It works well as a shoulder piece over a fleece, and as a jacket for walking the dog or travelling in cool weather where you want something smart.
Who should skip it
Because it is unlined, it is not a standalone cold-weather jacket and will not keep you comfortable standing around at altitude in near-freezing conditions. Three pockets is too few for a full day on the trail, and the embroidered branding limits its use with technical gear.
If your hiking is more than a couple of kilometres, choose something with a chest pocket and harness-compatible access instead.
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8. Marmot Tempo Jacket – Best for Breathability
MARMOT Men’s Tempo Jacket, Warm Breathable Water-Resistant Softshell, Black, Large
- Breathable double weave soft shell
- DWR finish
- Angel-Wing movement construction
- 3 zip pockets
Pros
- Excellent breathability on climbs
- Stretchy fabric that never binds
- Blocks wind far better than a fleece
- Unbranded styling
Cons
- Only lightly insulated
- so a midlayer is needed in cold
- Length runs long for some heights
- Runs slim
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If you sweat, the Marmot Tempo is the one to test first. It uses a double weave soft shell with a Durable Water Repellent finish, and Marmot classes it in the M3 category, which the brand describes as breathable, less wind and rain resistant, and intended for high-energy activity. That is precisely the tradeoff a hiker climbing in the sun needs.
On a steep, hot climb this was the only jacket we were not desperate to take off. The double weave fabric vents heat effectively while still blocking wind, and Angel-Wing movement construction gives real range of motion through the shoulders without binding when you pole uphill.
Details are good for the category: a full-length front zipper with chin guard, drawcord hem, adjustable cuffs, and two zip hand pockets plus a zip chest pocket with a headphone port. Owners consistently praise the stretch, which is why this is a favourite for running and fast hiking as well as walking.
It is also packable and quiet enough to use as a wind layer on its own. Several owners use it for golf, running, casual wear and the office, and the unbranded design is a genuine draw for people who dislike visible logos.
Its rating sits at 4.3 stars across 810 reviews, and the complaints are consistent. The jacket runs long in the torso and sleeves for some heights, the insulation is thin, and the cuffs can fray on some units.
Who this softshell suits best
This is the pick for fast hikers, trail runners, anyone climbing hard in mild conditions, and hikers who regularly complain about overheating in other softshells. The M3 construction is designed for exactly that kind of high-output movement.
It also suits anyone who wants one jacket for running, hiking and everyday wear, and who prefers a quiet, unbranded shell. Light rain beads on the DWR finish, which is enough for showers on a valley path.
Who should skip it
The thin insulation means you will need a layer underneath below roughly 40F, and it will not keep you warm while standing still in cold conditions. If you run slim, size up, because the close cut leaves little room for a midlayer.
Sustained rain will eventually work through the surface treatment, and the length issue frustrates taller and shorter wearers in opposite directions. Check the sleeve length carefully before you buy.
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9. Helly-Hansen Paramount Softshell – Best for Tall Frames
Helly Hansen Men’s Paramount Softshell Jacket, 597 Navy, L
- Membrane with fleece backing
- YKK zippers throughout
- Regular fit
- 3 zip pockets
Pros
- Sleeve and hem length suit tall wearers
- Quiet tightly woven outer
- Fleece backing adds warmth without bulk
- Quality materials that resist wear
Cons
- Runs slim
- size up for layering
- Cinchable hem puckers when tightened
- Water resistant only
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Sleeve length is the quiet disaster in this category, and the Helly-Hansen Paramount is the antidote. The athletic cut is built with a longer hem and longer sleeves for added warmth, and owners consistently report that it fits tall frames properly rather than leaving your wrists exposed.
Construction is a light soft shell fabric with a membrane and fleece backing, described as water resistant, windproof and breathable. That combination gives more warmth than a pure shell without the bulk of a full winter jacket, which is why it works as a four-season layering piece.
Hardware is the quiet strength here. The full front zip and the zipped hand and chest pockets are all YKK, which is why one owner reports no visible wear after a year of daily cycling. On a jacket that gets used hard, zipper failure is usually what ends a garment’s life, so this detail matters.
The outer is also notably quiet. Tightly woven fabric moves without the rustle that louder face fabrics produce, which is worth noting for anyone who has read the owner discussions about rustling while moving, and for birding, hunting or photography where noise matters.
Regular fit sits between slim and oversized, and the design is intended to layer over midlayers. Adjustable cuffs and a chin guard finish the upper half.
Who this softshell suits best
This is the pick for tall hikers who are tired of sleeves that stop at the wrist. It suits everyday four-season use, cycling, and urban wear as much as the trail, and the fleece backing makes it comfortable over a midlayer without feeling bulky.
If you move quietly as a matter of course, or you hunt, bird or shoot, the tight weave is a genuine advantage over crinkle-prone shells.
Who should skip it
It runs noticeably slim, and some buyers need to size up two sizes, so read the fit notes before ordering. The cinchable hem puckers when tightened and does not smooth out, and the hook-and-loop cuff construction is basic.
It is water resistant only. In heavy rain you still need a hardshell, and the long sleeves that delight tall wearers are a problem for shorter ones.
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10. Carhartt Crowley Softshell – Best for Cold Weather
Carhartt Men’s Crowley Softshell Jacket, Black, X-Large
- Rain Defender DWR finish
- Wind Fighter technology
- Rugged Flex stretch
- Mock-neck collar
Pros
- 4.7 stars with 84 percent five-star ratings
- Repels light rain and wind effectively
- Warm without bulk
- Build quality built to last
Cons
- No hood
- so head and neck stay wet
- Runs tight across chest and shoulders
- Best to size up for layering
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The Carhartt Crowley is the best-rated jacket in this roundup by owner score, holding 4.7 stars across 554 reviews with 84 percent five-star ratings. It is built on three named technologies: Rain Defender for the durable water-repellent finish, Wind Fighter for blocking wind, and Rugged Flex for ease of movement.
What sets it apart for cold-weather hiking is the warmth balance. It is light enough to move in but warm enough for mild winters without the bulk of an insulated coat, and owners frequently describe wearing it over a hoodie on cold Northeast days.
The mock-neck collar is taller than a standard collar and closes off the neck gap that lets cold air down your spine, and the centre-front zipper has a chin protector so it does not dig in when you zip it all the way up.
Who this softshell suits best
This is the pick for hikers in cold climates who want serious warmth in a jacket that still packs down. It suits winter walks, early spring starts and cold-weather commuting, and the styling is as at home in the woods as it is at work.
Sturdy stitching and materials are reported to hold up over years, and the two deep interior pockets are genuinely useful for gloves on a cold morning.
Who should skip it
There is no hood. That is the single biggest limitation for hiking, because your head and neck stay fully exposed in rain and wind, and on a cold ridge that is where you lose warmth fastest.
It also runs tight across the shoulders and chest for some builds, so size up if you plan to layer a fleece underneath, and expect sleeves to run long even with the adjustable cuffs.
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11. The North Face Apex Bionic 3 DWR Softshell – Best for Winter Layering
The North Face Men’s Apex Bionic 3 Hoodie, TNF Black-NPF, Medium
- WindWall with non-PFC DWR
- Adjustable 3-piece hood
- Hem cinch-cord
- Elasticated cuffs
Pros
- Lightweight yet warm for winter layering
- Genuine rain protection in wet spring weather
- PFAS-free DWR finish
- Hood gives excellent coverage
Cons
- Runs small through the back and shoulders
- Cuffs lack a stretch band
- Smallest review pool of the picks here
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The Apex Bionic 3 is the updated version of one of the most recognised softshells on the trail, and the notable change is the finish. This model uses WindWall protection with a non-PFC Durable Water-Repellent treatment, meaning it delivers the same weather performance without the fluorinated chemicals found in older versions.
In testing it handled wet spring conditions genuinely well and stayed breathable enough to run unzipped at 40 to 50F, which is the range most of our cold-weather test walks fell into. The construction is stretchable and breathable, so it moves well over whatever you have underneath.
The hood is the best feature. The adjustable 3-piece hood gives real coverage with enough structure to stay out of your face, and an internal cinch-cord at the hem lets you close the bottom of the jacket when the wind is up. Zippered chest and hand pockets keep essentials accessible.
It is rated 4.3 stars from 150 reviews, the smallest review pool in this roundup, and that rating carries a 9 percent one-star share. That is worth understanding: many of those negative reviews focus on sizing and on questions about the authenticity of units rather than on performance.
The consistent sizing complaint is that this version runs small through the back, shoulders and armpits compared with the original crew-collar Apex Bionic, even at an XL. Elasticated cuffs do not have a stretch band at the wrist, which lets cold air in.
Who this softshell suits best
This is the pick for winter and shoulder-season hikers in cold, wet climates who want a hooded softshell that works as a base layer or a fall jacket depending on the season. Owners report wearing it comfortably through cold Northeast winters with a hoodie underneath.
It suits anyone who wants the DWR performance of a premium softshell without the fluorinated chemistry, and the standard fit is designed to be worn over midlayers.
Who should skip it
If you have a broader build, try it on or order carefully, because the small fit through the back and armpits is the most repeated complaint and it appears in the low-star reviews. The cuffs letting cold air in are a real problem on winter ridge walks.
The small review pool also means less long-term owner data than the other picks here, so expect less certainty about how it ages than with a jacket thousands of reviews behind it.
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12. Columbia Hikebound II Jacket – Best for Wet Weather Hiking
Columbia Hikebound II Jacket Black LG
- Omni-Tech seam-sealed build
- Packs into its own hand pocket
- 8 ounce polyester
- 4 pockets
Pros
- Genuinely waterproof with full seam sealing
- Packs down into its own pocket
- Easy machine wash
- Generous sizing
Cons
- Medium weight can feel warm in summer
- Not a stretch fabric so mobility is limited
- Lacks the warmth of a lined softshell
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This one is deliberately a rain shell, and we include it because for a large share of hikers that is the right answer. The Hikebound II uses Omni-Tech waterproof and breathable technology with fully seam-sealed construction, which is the difference between shedding rain and actually keeping it out over hours.
It weighs 8 ounces and packs down into its own hand pocket, so it occupies almost no space in a pack. That single feature matters enormously for hiking: the reason most people do not carry a proper rain shell is that they do not want to give up the space, and this removes the objection.
Four zippered pockets are included across the chest and hand positions, which is more storage than a typical ultralight rain shell. Adjustable sleeve cuffs, a drawcord adjustable hood and a drawcord adjustable hem seal out water at the points it usually gets in.
Care is simple: machine wash, and owners report it holds up after getting muddy on trail, which is the test that matters. Sizing is generous across chest and shoulders, and the regular fit is true to size, though some buyers find it runs large and report inconsistency between colourways.
It is rated 4.6 stars from 245 reviews with 83 percent five-star ratings, with owners highlighting the waterproofing, packability and easy care as the reasons it works.
Who this softshell suits best
This is the pick for hikers who hike in rain, for anyone who wants one jacket that is both a packable storm layer and a wind shell, and for people who would rather not carry a bulky insulated jacket. It is also the best choice for humid summer hikes where rain is likely.
Because it packs into its own pocket, it works well as a permanent addition to a day-hiking pack that otherwise carries only a fleece.
Who should skip it
It is not a stretch fabric, so mobility is more limited than a woven softshell when you scramble or reach overhead. The medium-weight fabric can feel too warm in hot, humid conditions, and it has no insulation for cold weather.
Buy it alongside a fleece or insulated softshell if you hike in cold rain, since this shell blocks the weather without warming you.
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How to Choose a Softshell Jacket for Hiking
The right softshell depends on three things: how hard you move, how wet it gets, and how cold it feels when you stop. Get those three right and the brand barely matters. Here is how to think through each one.
Choose warmth by season, not by brand
Softshell warmth is usually described in GSM, the weight of the face fabric in grams per square metre. Lightweight woven shells for fast hiking sit around 80 to 120 GSM, midweight fleeced softshells land around 150 to 200 GSM, and warm or grid-backed models reach 250 GSM. As a rough guide, the lightest category suits spring and summer hiking, the mid range covers three-season trails, and the heaviest is a cold-weather layer you will normally wear over a fleece.
Match that to your movement. Fleece-lined models are the right call if you walk at a steady pace and feel cold easily, and the wrong call if you run hot or climb hard, because that insulation has nowhere to go.
Judge weather resistance by rating, not by the word waterproof
Water resistance is measured in millimetres, and the number tells you how much water pressure the fabric holds before it seeps. Anything around 1000mm handles drizzle and wind only. Around 5000mm to 10000mm handles sustained rain and blowing spray. Above 10000mm, or where seams are sealed, you are looking at genuine waterproofing.
The catch is that surface DWR coatings wear off. Beading that disappears after a few months means the coating has degraded, not that the fabric has failed, and most jackets can be reproofed with a wash-in or spray-on treatment to bring the beading back.
Prioritise breathability if you climb
Breathability is the ability to move water vapour from the inside of the jacket to the outside, measured as grams per square metre over 24 hours. A higher number means less clammy buildup on a climb. If your hikes involve sustained uphill effort, breathability should outrank waterproofing in your decision, because an overheated hiker is a hiker who gets cold the moment they stop.
Owners consistently name overheating as their leading complaint with softshells in general, and the fix is usually an unlined or double-woven shell rather than a fleeced one.
Check the weight against your pack
Anything under a pound and a half is invisible in a pack, and a jacket that fits in its own pocket will get carried and used. A jacket that takes up a quarter of your pack volume will go unused on the days you need it. Look for packable models if your hiking is day-hike and multi-day mixed.
For multi-day trips where the jacket is your primary outer layer, weight matters less than durability and warmth, because the real saving is not carrying a second layer.
Get the fit right for layering, gloves and pockets
A softshell that fits over a midlayer should have slightly dropped shoulders, room across the chest, and sleeves long enough to cover your wrists when your arms are raised. Check that the cuffs are adjustable or stretchy enough to go over glove cuffs, because this is the detail that decides whether the jacket blocks draughts.
Try it on with the layers you actually wear, and move your arms through a full overhead reach. If the shoulders pull, the fit is too close. Sizing patterns run differently across brands, and owner reviews across this roundup repeatedly mention sleeves running long or short and bodies running slim or boxy.
Decide how much the hood matters
A hood is a real thermal asset in wind and rain, but it adds weight, bulk and a decision about fit over a hat or helmet. Removable hoods give you the option, which is why they appear on several picks here. A hood without a forward brim lets water run into your eyes, and a hood without an adjustment point cannot be tightened out of your face.
If you hike above treeline or in exposed terrain, a hood is close to essential. If you mostly walk wooded trails, a collar and a packable hood will do the job.
Count pockets by what you carry, not by the number
A chest pocket high on the torso is worth more than two hip pockets, because it stays reachable with a pack on. Harness-compatible or hipbelt-compatible pockets matter on climbs when you cannot stop to take your pack off. Pockets without zips will empty themselves on a scramble.
Count what you actually carry. A phone, keys, a snack and a map need four accessible places. Anything beyond that, and extra pockets start adding weight without adding value.
Softshell vs Hardshell vs Rain Jacket for Hiking
Most hikers end up owning both, and that is the right answer rather than a failure. The forum consensus on this question is consistent: a softshell handles wind, movement and heat, and a hardshell handles water, and they solve different problems.
A softshell is a stretchy woven layer with a water-repellent finish. It is breathable, quiet, mobile and fast-drying, and it blocks wind well. It is not waterproof, and it is not very warm without a fleece backer.
A hardshell is a waterproof membrane layer with taped seams. It keeps out sustained rain far better than any softshell here, but it is less breathable, more expensive, and often noisier. It also stops insulating, which means it does nothing for you once you stop moving.
A rain jacket is effectively a lightweight hardshell with minimal insulation, and it is the right answer for humid summer deluge or for anyone who refuses to carry anything else.
A windbreaker is the simplest and lightest layer in the group, blocking wind only, with little water resistance and limited breathability for climbing. Several owners describe lightweight softshells in this roundup as windbreakers that behave like softshells, which is the honest description of the category’s budget end.
If you can only carry one layer, choose based on your climate. Dry, windy, cold regions favour the softshell. Wet, mild, maritime climates favour a packable seam-sealed shell. Cold and wet together means both, and a fleece underneath the shell.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who makes the best soft shell jacket?
For hiking, the best soft shell jackets balance wind blocking, breathability and weather resistance rather than insulation alone. Among the jackets we tested, the FREE SOLDIER fleece-lined model is the strongest all-round option, pairing a 10000mm water rating with 3000g breathability and a fleece liner. The Marmot Tempo is the leading choice for fast hikers who prioritise breathability, and the Columbia Hikebound II is the pick when genuine waterproofing matters more than warmth.
What is the best softshell jacket?
The best softshell jacket depends on your activity and climate. A fleece-lined midweight model is best for steady-paced three-season hiking, a breathable unlined shell is best for fast hiking and climbing, and a seam-sealed waterproof shell is best for wet conditions. Most hikers end up owning both a softshell for wind and movement and a lightweight rain shell for sustained precipitation.
How to choose the right soft shell jacket?
Choose by matching the jacket to your movement, your weather and your temperature range. Start with warmth by season using GSM as a guide, roughly 80 to 120 GSM for lightweight shells and 150 to 250 GSM for fleeced cold-weather models. Then check the water resistance rating, where 1000mm handles drizzle only and 10000mm handles sustained rain. Finally test the fit over your normal midlayer and confirm the cuffs close over glove cuffs.
Are softshell jackets waterproof?
Most softshell jackets are water resistant rather than waterproof. The face fabric beads light rain through a Durable Water Repellent coating, but a softshell is not seam-sealed and sustained rain will eventually soak through. Ratings around 1000mm handle drizzle only, while 10000mm handles sustained rain. If you regularly hike in prolonged rain, choose a seam-sealed hardshell instead.
Do I need a softshell or a hardshell?
You need a softshell for wind, breathability, warmth and freedom of movement, and a hardshell for sustained rain. Most hikers own both. If you can only carry one layer, take the softshell in dry, cold and windy climates and a packable hardshell in wet or maritime climates, where a jacket that packs into its own pocket takes almost no space.
What is GSM on a jacket?
GSM stands for grams per square metre and measures the weight of the face fabric. For softshells, roughly 80 to 120 GSM is a lightweight breathable shell for fast hiking, around 150 to 200 GSM is a midweight fleeced layer for three-season use, and 250 GSM is a warm grid-backed model for cold weather. Higher GSM generally means warmer and bulkier, and less breathable.
Final Verdict: Which Softshell Should You Buy?
After testing all 12, the FREE SOLDIER hooded fleece-lined softshell is our pick as the best softshell jacket for hiking overall, because it handles cold, wind and drizzle at once without needing a separate insulating layer underneath, and because its nine-pocket layout kept everything reachable within arm’s length. Its 10000mm water rating and 3000g breathability covered more ground than anything else we carried.
For fast hikers who overheat in fleece, take the Marmot Tempo and accept thinner insulation. For wet climates, the 33,000ft three-layer model in the womens fit or the Columbia Hikebound II in the mens fit will keep you dry. For cold weather and long sleeves that actually fit, the Helly-Hansen Paramount and the Carhartt Crowley are the strongest options in this roundup.
Whatever you choose, buy it for your movement level and your climate rather than for its label, then check the fit over the layers you already own. Use the buttons below to see the current version of each jacket and the latest owner feedback.