HOW TO SOFTSHELL JACKETS | EXPERT ADVICE + REVIEW 8 SOFTSHELLS
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- Опубликовано: 30 июл 2024
- In this How To Expert Advice video I explain everything you need to know before buying a softshell jacket. I talk about materials, how they work and how to take care of your softshell. As a bonus I tested 8 softshells. The reviews are on my website. Links below. Enjoy the video!
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I am an INDEPENDENT gear reviewer/journalist. I am NOT PAID for my reviews, I don't have any affiliate deals (jet) and I don't have advertisements on my website. The products that I review are sent back to the manufacturer after publishing. Please support my way of independent reviewing and subscribe to my RUclips-channel, like my Facebook page and follow me on Instagram and Twitter. Thanks in advance!
Cheers, Gijs
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📝THE SOFTSHELLS I REVIEWED📝
➡️ Link to the softshells I reviewed for your convenience
Earlier this year I got an assignment to review 8 softshells for the website of my former magazine Op Pad. They allow me to publish the reviews in English on my website. They are online now in English on www.outdoorguru.com. Which ones? See list below. I couldn’t do a reviewvideo on the 8 softshells since most are sent back already to the manufacturers. But I do think that a softshell is one of the garments that belong in every outdoor sports wardrobe. Therefore I made a Softshell Tutorial Video as an extra. In this tutorial I explain what a softshell is and what the difference is with a hardshell. I talk about different types of softshell, about DWR-coatings and sustainability. And off course how you should take care your softshell. I hope you like it!
The softshells I tested are very different by nature and not all brands were able to deliver a softshell for this review, for various reasons. Brands who are not included are for example Patagonia, Mammut, Fjällräven and Jack-Wolfskin. I didn’t forget them!
WHAT SOFTSHELLS?
These are the softshells that I reviewed and are on my website:
Arc'Teryx Gamma LT Hoody bit.ly/34lIs7m
Haglöfs Skarn Hybrid Jacket bit.ly/2OKilQS
icebreaker HyperiaLite Jacket bit.ly/34fJwda
Norrøna Falketind PrimaLoft60 Jacket bit.ly/2QOodLD
Ortovox Pala Jacket bit.ly/2qzaEFs
Rab Kinetic Plus Jacket bit.ly/35yks1b
Gore Wear Gore C5 Windstopper Thermo Trail Jacket bit.ly/2pO1vs9
Vaude Skarvan Jacket bit.ly/2XJEJ0S
The article on how I tested is here: bit.ly/33kljRs
For my Dutch-speaking followers: all softshells have a Dutch page that links to the website of Op Pad. You find it here: bit.ly/2Dg8PQs
#howto #softshell #outdoorgurugearreviews #tutorial #expertadvice
Hey Gijs, just found this channel, and I have to say how much I enjoyed this video it was super informative and helpful.
I’ve subscribed so now I’m gonna binge all the videos you’ve posted recently, can’t wait to see what else you come out with.
Hope all is well with you and your family.
Stay safe and cheers from Australia 🇦🇺
Hi Samuel, Thank you! This helps. Life is a bit slow at the moment... The C-19 situation is getting to me from time to time and not being able to travel and test stuff in the Alpes makes it difficult and It is hard to turn my head around it. At the moment I am working on a few watches, a bike and a few tents so you just motivated me to be quick 🙃. Enjoy the Outdoors and Stay Safe! Cheers, Gijs
@@OutdoorguruGearReviews 😄 It’s a pleasure 😛.... I think it’s like that everywhere though the virus has made everything bad.
Excellent presentation, with really useful information - it was really helpful and informative. Thank you!
Hi Orwic, Thank you for the compliment 🙏. Enjoy the Outdoors and Stay Safe! Cheers, Gijs
Thank you, this was truly helpful !
You are welcome Zdzislawa 🙏! Enjoy the Outdoors and Stay Safe! Cheers, Gijs
Thank you! Great video!
Happy that you like it Boris. Enjoy the Outdoors and Stay Safe! Cheers, Gijs
Very nice explanation. Thanks.
Thank you so much 😊 . Enjoy the Outdoors and Stay Safe! Cheers, Gijs
I have owned a Paramo smock for some time. Paramo uses a different “pump” layering system in their jackets, which means the clothing gets wet but excess water is pushed back out. Have you ever tried one? The inventor of NikWax, who is called ‘Nick’ created Paramo.
I know and no I have not. I'll try to contact them. Good tip! Thanks. Enjoy the Outdoors and Stay Safe! Cheers, Gijs
Thanks for very informative review and advices! Can you please tell me which DWR in your opinion is the best?
Petar, No I can't. Reason 1) Maybe the best is not invented yet.... Ok, that is being a smart ass😁. Reason 2) I can't decide for you if you want to go sustainable best or durability best. There are many very durable DWR-coatings on jackets that wil last long but are harmful to nature. There are some sustainable ones that are nature friendly and 'durable'. Both Vaude and Fjällräven have a descent history by now on the more nature friendly ones. Most other brands are in de 'long lasting' C6-category. I recently tested 8 hardshells and I have and very good results on Vaude and a bit less on a Fjällräven jacket. The C6-DWR from Arc'Teryx, Rab, Haglofs... etc. are performing fine. In the end it is what you want and the budget. 3) Be aware that DWR-coatings are disappearing after a while and that you will have to impregnate, even with the C6-ones. 4) And this should be done with an environmental one so... maybe go for a sustainable one in the first place? 5) Go for a brand that has a good open website that tells about there eco-point of view. 6) Buy a jacket that fits, is comfy and will last you a long time: that is sustainable too! Hope this helps. Cheers, Gijs
@@OutdoorguruGearReviews Thanks for your quick and detailed answer. It helps to overthink some decisions. I will check something more sustainable, definitely.
Am looking for a soft shell and come across your video.. great information and love the way you reply to comments.. am 6ft but slim so sizing can be hard and not sure if softshell is better tighter.. I got a medium base layer so it's touching skin but unsure on a softshell.. do I go for a medium softshell so it's tighter or a large which could be more roomy.. thanks if you reply !
Hi TDM, I like it not to wide since it gives a lot of air that I need to warm. And that costs energy. But to tight in not good also. Maybe it is best to visit a shop and just fit it. Or use a online retailer that has a very good size system. Where are you from? Cheers, Gijs
Hello! What is the model RAB you are using in this video? Thanks in advance!
It's a Rab Alpha Flux jacket: ruclips.net/video/xW8IdMQGTWA/видео.html Enjoy the outdoors and Stay Safe! Cheers, Gijs
My question is, when to use softshells, as opposed to a synthetic isolated jacket.
Example: Arc'teryx Gamma vs Arc'teryx Proton (even though Im a Rab fan)
Im looking for something to use for winter hiking and easy mountaineering with a backpack, from -5C down to -30C temps (20F to -22F)...
I have a merino baselayer, on top I usually wear an active hooded fleece, its light and very breathable, and I need a jacket to go on top. One that helps me stay warmer, remains breathable, and blocks the wind.
Not sure if a breathable softshell or a breathable synthetic isolated jacket would be more ideal as I'm not sure when to use either.
Whats the RAB you're wearing??
I am reading the comments last one first so: Hi again 😉. There is no difference between a softshell for summer/spring or wintertime. It is just thicker and warmer. So look for a softshell that is warm enough and blocks the wind and is water repellent. The Arc Gamma range is quite wide so I need a more precise name from you to see correctly. In winter I mostly use a thin baselayer, a second 'base' layer and a softshell. The hardshell and downjacket are in the backpack. The hardshell is most of the time not breathable enough for me and I get steamed up when being very active. If you like Rab....Take a peak at the Rab Vapour-Rise Summit Jacket or the Scimitar Jacket. Enjoy the Outdoors and Stay Safe! Happy 2024!! Cheers, Gijs
Very informative about softshell jackets. Like the tip of using a cardboard box 👍👍
Dear Mark, You are welcome and thanks for the compliment. Enjoy the Outdoors and Stay Safe! Cheers, Gijs
Quite the expert there...thanks!
I'm looking to buy the Natrix from Haglofs softshell jacket. It is difficult to choose online. Any advice? I'm 170cms and 74kgs, quite active and of a stocky build I'd say. Would you advise the S or the M?
What size Rab are you wearing there? Thanks.
I would go for medium. I am your lengt but 10 kg lighter so M would work for you better. Enjoy the Outdoors and Stay Safe! Cheers, Gijs
@@OutdoorguruGearReviews Thanks for your swift reply. Appreciated.
Do you mean the M for Haglofs, or for both Haglofs and Rab?
Thanks once again.
That's a really great video and article to go with it. Thank you for sharing it with us.
I know it's not on the list, but what is the Patagonia SoftShell with your logo on it? Thanks again
Hi Cormac, Nice question! I could not find it so I'll have to come back to you. Cheers, Gijs
@@OutdoorguruGearReviews hi! Any news about the patagonia softshell name model? Thanks
@@AlessandroTodisco Chips.... I totally forgot. So Sorry! I will do it today.
I can't find it online anymore.... this is what is on the label: patagonia women's M, rn51884, sty83370fa14... it's windstopper material.
@@OutdoorguruGearReviews Thanks anyway :)
Nice and informative....👍
You are welcome 🤗 Mihai! Enjoy the Outdoors and Stay Safe! Cheers, Gijs
Could you tell us what's the best way to reapply DWR. It's just never like a new product.
Hi Jon, It never will be.... I use Nikwax Tech Wash and TX Direct but I think Granges performs likewise. Enjoy the Outdoors and Stay Safe! Cheers, Gijs
I have also heard/read that the dirt and grime that accumulates in the fabric and membrane can also build bridges for water molecules, allthough I am not sure hether this explanation is scientifically proven or water going through is only a result of the outer face fabric wetting out. As soon as I have found some scientific aerticles about this, I can send them to you, if you want.
I also still dont understand why heat activates the DWR coating. Presumably it helps to align the hydrophobic parts of the molecules to the fabric's outer surface, but this should only work if the fabric itself is hydrophile or the coating is still at least 60 to 70 % functional, shouldn't it? Anyways, I still live your in-depth style of reviewing gear. May you share how you built the DWR test apparatus and the sources wherer you took your parameters from? And how do you test air permeability and water vapour permeability apart from just blowing through?
Dirt and building bridges for water monucules is I think true. Why DWR works with heat I don't know but I think it is re-arranging the structure again. Like metal that has a memory for heat. I am not a physicist, was never good at it at school. But the coating must be there, not worn out. Then it doesn't work anymore.
DWR apparatus: I searched for Spray Test Machine and found a lot of data from manufacturers and I copied it with wood, piping and other stuff from the hardware store. That is also how I found the reference-cards: spray test rating in google.
Air permeability and water vapour permeability: at my former magazine we did this in a lab in Swiss, later at Gore. A few of years ago I stared using automated soup warming kettles...and water that is turned into vapor at 70 en 90 degrees Celsius. It is not 100% accurate but as a reference and compare method it works fine. I'll do a tutorial on hardshell in e few weeks and I'll show you this. But with not windproof soft shells the blow by mouth way is my favorite. It's a bit like tasting wine: do it a lot and you get the feel (taste) for it.
Can you make a softshell jacket more waterproof by spraying it with a dwr?...or what kind of waterproofing do I use?
Hi Jeremy, A softshell has a DWR coating when you buy it. After a while it wears down and putting a fresh one helps. Grangers and Nikwax have them. Take a peek here: kit.co/Outdoorguru/maintenance-stuff-for-gear-and-footwear 😄. Enjoy the Outdoors and Stay Safe! Cheers, Gijs
Absolutely brilliant information, just in time as I'm about to wash my hard shell and was going to use Nikwax in the washer but not now I'll spray on instead inside a cardboard box :) many thanks for this video I'm sure it will help many others like me.
Dear Wints66, You make me smile ;-).Thanks for the feedback! Putting the jacket on cardboard or old towel on the floor works fine too. I just like the box better. Don't use newspaper paper since the ink might leave traces on the jacket... There is so much I did't tell ;). Enjoy the outdoors! Gijs
Maybe I am missing something. I am not certain what the obsession is with DWR Coating. If I have a garment that is supposed to be waterproof or somewhat waterproof that stops repelling water after being washed several times, I spray it down with Scotchgard. The garment is still breathable and I have often found it is more water repellent than before after using Scotchgard. Have I been doing this all wrong with my jackets? I never knew anything about reactivating a DWR Coating before. And I have even used Scotchgard to make a jacket or hoodie that I like which does not repel rain water resistant and that has worked well for me. I have even made my jogging shoes water resistant because I hate running in the rain and feeling water on my feet and having hang my shoes up to dry for a couple of days. Is there anything bad about using Scotchgard instead of relying on a DWR Coating? If my garments were still not breathable after using Scotchgard, I would have used that product again. I love the information you conveyed but am worried I am doing something wrong or there is something I am not understanding about using Scotchgard. I keep it on hand to use on any garments. I am starting to worry I am making a mistake by doing that. I work at university and am often have to travel about the campus on foot regardless of the weather conditions. If not for that, I probably would have never thought of using Scotchgard. And I am not advocating or advertising for whatever company makes that product. I just worry after watching your video if I am doing something wrong by using it.
Hi Mattrenko, You are not missing anything! Scotchguard is one of DWR treatments that I talk about to get the DWR coating back on the product again. But.... for long Scotchguard is made with flourocarbon; that is why it works that well. We don't want these anymore since they are bad for nature and us. I can't find the exact specs of Scotchguard on the 3M website but maybe read this article protectmeproducts.co/au/is-scotchgard-safe/ and replace the Scotchguard for a more nature friendly one. I hope this helps. Cheers, Gijs
@@OutdoorguruGearReviews That helps much. Thanks.
Can i use Softshell jacket under down jacket when is extrem cold Weather.
Hi Laki, You can but.... maybe down under the softshell if it fits. De pends on situation. Is it for hiking, ski or during stops? Let me know! Enjoy the Outdoors and Stay Safe! Cheers, Gijs
Hi I'm starting out hill walking in the uk in all seasons and am torn between a typical laying system or a do it all smock like the buffalo smocks or montane extreme smock which don't need reproofing ,your input would be much appreciated thank you 😀 great vids 👍
Hi Samuel, Thank you for the comment and the compliment 😉. I do understand your question but the answer is quite complicated. If you like, give me a call. Details are on the website. Enjoy the Outdoors and Stay Safe! Cheers, Gijs
Any tutorials on waterproof bottoms for hiking...? Hopefully not only over trousers!
Hi Termüjin, So no rain trousers but what do you mean. On what kind of bike? When I mountainbike in the rain I don't use waterproofs and on trekkingbikes I do use over trousers.... A little more info would help. Enjoy the Outdoors and Stay Safe! Cheers, Gijs
Hello! What is the Rab jacket that you wear?
Hi Lostre, Most asked question😀. It's a second gen of this one: ruclips.net/video/xW8IdMQGTWA/видео.html
Thanks for a good video. What jacket are you wearing? It’s has a nice fitting!
Hi, I am sorry for my late response but I was on holiday and took my time. The yellow one? It is the Rab Kinetic Plus Jacket. Enjoy the Outdoors and Stay Safe! Cheers, Gijs
@@OutdoorguruGearReviews No worries, thanks for your reply. I meant the blue Rab jacket that you’re wearing on the video.
That is this one: outdoorguru.com/outdoorgear-en/down-insulated/rab-alpha-flux-jacket-review/@@katnisskatiebell8681
Really good video and good reviews. Really helpful.
I just thought, as the dwr comes off by time on any softshell, it's not such a big disadvantage of for example the ortovox Pala. You need to do re-impregnate from time to time with any model.
Is that right?
Yes, that is correct ;-)
@@OutdoorguruGearReviews so the Pala was my desicion ;)
Great video! What would you wear if it’s cold and windy to cut out the wind chill? Thanks!
Hi Marc, Under the softshell you mean? I mostly wear one or two layers of merino wool. Vary on thickness depending on the temperature. Sometimes a fleece like the Rab Superflux Hoodie. I hope this helps😉. Enjoy the Outdoors and Stay Safe! Cheers, Gijs
@@OutdoorguruGearReviews so a soft shell will help with wind protection? I thought you can just use a hard shell for that?
No, a softshell is a more breathable then a hardshell and not waterproof. It blocks wind though.
@@OutdoorguruGearReviews ok I thought I could get away with just a hard shell but I need something more breathable. When I’m wearing my hard shell for wind protection, I get hot. I’m assuming it’s because of the lack of breathability.
That is true. But breathability is also influenced by other things. Check my other videos on this ➡ ruclips.net/p/PL9c3ns5GtFgeAPCUYsaMXMiZt5jgesNJI
It is so impressive how environmentally conscious you are
Thanks Ryan. I try to do my best here 🤗. Enjoy the Outdoors and Stay Safe! Cheers, Gijs
What is the name of the soft shell you're wearing? It looks like a very comfortable bit of kit.
Freddy, sorry I did not reply. I did not see your question but the yellow one is a Arc'Terex Atom SL hoodie. But an old one by now.... don't know if it is still available. Does this help? Cheers, Gijs
@@OutdoorguruGearReviews no man, it's a Rab... it looks very good.. please share the name :)
@@sarotrovato4672 Sorry, I thought the one of the thumbnail.... Its this one but the new version: ruclips.net/video/xW8IdMQGTWA/видео.html
Nice trip in the world of softshell fabrics. I know all this stuff but it’s nice to see in a vid from you. Personal for me is the best a Merino Basic Layer and a Hardshell jacket in bad conditions I use a second skin of merino. For trekking I love the this system. Because softshell I use but I think it’s heavyweight then Hardshell.
Also it is not really rain proof and you must coating for rain from time to time.
In first time I start to go out, I love softshell but my Experiences show me,
Hardshell is the better option for MY outdoor activities. Not for all of you!
Thanks cheers and have a great time outdoors.
I do understand. I do this also depending on expected weather conditions. But... mostly I use a thinner soft shell and a lightweight hardshell in the pack just in case.
Do You never worry what those water proof jackets makes our body? I mean if jackets or shirt is touching directly our body, what it makes our body... Can it be harmful.?
Dear Nooa, No it will not be harmful. I don't worry. Enjoy the Outdoors and Stay Safe! Cheers, Gijs
I'm confused. Rab says on their website not to iron the softshells.
Don't be confused: always look on the instruction on the wash label inside the jacket. The label on the Rab Kinetic Plus jackets states that it should not be ironed. See the picture in the review on my website. Does this help? Cheers, Gijs
@@OutdoorguruGearReviews thanks!
Very helpful articulate review
Thanks Nick!
Hi define 100%waterproof please
Got it ;-)
I wanted to add that people are afraid of washing their membrane clothes often. I’ve that it’s better to wash them more often.
Dear Florian, Thanks for the feedback and you are right. I am working on a tutorial on hardshell and it will be in that video. But.... wash when necessary like in dirty or smelly (nobody want's a smelly tentmate ;-)). Washing is not a problem for membranes but because of the DWR-coating. It doesn't last for ever. Enjoy the Outdoors! Gijs
You didnt show one
Show what? Sorry I don’t get the remark but I like to help. Cheers, Gijs
why do you guys keep saying that a hardshell is breathable when it's not? then a softshell is how? that was the moment I stopped watching this video
Hi Florin, Thanks for your comment! I like this one a lot. Let me answer shortly. A hardshell is breathable as long as it has a membrane or a porous layer in some sort of way. I have about 25 years on experience in testing hardshells with membranes and the majority does 'breath'. And I am not only talking in professional lab circumstances, also at home with very simple techniques I can show this. But... not all hardshells are the same and there are hardshells that don't breath. Also... to 'breath' the circumstances should be right too. Fun fact: I am working on a How To at the moment I will use your comment for this if you don't mind. Thanks again! Enjoy the Outdoors and Stay Safe! Cheers, Gijs
@@OutdoorguruGearReviewsHello:) I'm saying that a hardshell should not be advertised like this. I myself and friends around possess the most advanced hardshell jackets on the market, we use them for ski and trekking, but we cannot use them on high output activities (eg. Biking) because they trap sweat inside. Yeah there are zippers, but still. So you have to make a compromise and go for a softshell
@@florincozmo6397 Cool answer! A hardshell was originally a rain jacket that was just waterproof.... nobody talked about breathability since the PU-coating was... just waterproof. Hardshell and breathable are a 'invented' combination I think. I do agree. When active I hardly use hardshells, mostly just a second layer and sometimes a softshell. But... some really cool developments at Rab....Where are you from?
@@OutdoorguruGearReviews I'm from Romania. I personally use Arcteryx and Mammut, never tried Rab yet
@@florincozmo6397 Nice to know. I am testing a Rab hardsoftshell or softhardshell ;-) at the moment and I really like it. If you are subscribed you will see the review in the near future. Cheers, Gijs
How a person uses the word REVIEW in a video, when the ENTIRE time the jackets stay neatly folded!!?????!!!!!?????
Hi Jeckey, I don't think you get it. The reviews are on the website. Not folded ;-). The video is a tutorial, like I say in my intro. See the description for the reviews of the jackets. Enjoy the Outdoors and Stay Safe! Cheers, Gijs