Softshell

Featured Group Test

Group Test Windproofs and ultralight softshells

When you want some protection from the elements, but a full shell would be overkill, a thin windproof is the obvious choice. Not just for runners, these versatile lightweights are equally handy for climbers and hillwalkers; in fact we can't think of anyone who wouldn't want one. In this comparative review we put 9 to the test.

22 6 Dec, 2022

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Latest Reviews

These are reviews from the UKC editorial team

The North Face Casaval Hoodie

This lightly insulated hoody is sold as a mountaineering jacket - and it's great for that, says Rob Greenwood; but it's a lot more besides. In the last few months he's barely taken it off...

3 28 Mar

Montane Dynamic XT Thermal Mountain Trousers - warm legs guaranteed

Close-fitting, stretchy, and very very snug, these winter-only softshell trousers are equally good for snowy hillwalks and climbing, says Dan Bailey.

17 Feb

Sprayway Softshells - Zennor and Maelor

Technical mountain jackets are great in their place, but if you're just out for a walk in chilly autumn or winter weather you might prefer something snug, simple and comparatively affordable. Chris Scaife and Carolina Smith check out these men's and...

2 29 Nov, 2022

Jöttnar Asger HS lightweight hoodless softshell

Lightweight, quick-drying, and really breathable on the move, the collared version of this popular lined...

7 12 Apr, 2022

66°North Skaftafell jacket

Existing on the hazy boundary between fully waterproof and merely very water-resistant, and blurring the windproof/softshell/hard...

3 22 Feb, 2022

Jöttnar Valen 4S Trousers

The Valen 4S softshell trousers are tough, stretchy and smartly tailored, says Dan Bailey. They're a versatile weight for spring,...

2 Feb, 2022

Montane Krypton Softshell Hoodie

With a robust softshell fabric that combines a weather-resisting face with a snug furry inside, the Krypton works as either a...

5 26 Oct, 2021

Latest News

These are announcements direct from manufacturers

The Rab Guide to Summer Softshells

Softshells are the ideal outer layer for Spring and Summer weather. In this article, Rab run us through a few of their key softshell designs. From lightweight, packable windproofs to a boundary blurring new design, there's something to suit practi...

18 Jun, 2018

New Berghaus climbing softshells have a hard edge

New from Berghaus for spring/summer 2017 are the Fast Climb jacket and pant. Extending the renowned Extrem range with lightweight, durable summer gear, the Fast Climb products are softshells designed to give protection from the elements,...

23 Mar, 2017

Rab Kinetic Plus Jacket (Mens and Womens)

The Kinetic Plus is a new super lightweight waterproof stretch softshell from Rab. Designed using Rab's own Proflex™ fabric, the Kinetic Plus provides unrivaled freedom of movement thanks to the built-in stretch of this new fabric.

10 Mar, 2017