Softshell, a short history of searches

Softshells are extremely useful products that took the outdoor, mountain, sports, everyday and, of course, workwear market by storm. What's his story? Why is it worth choosing? What to consider when buying?

Necessity is the mother of invention

We find the beginning of the development of softshell products with specialists in mountain and outdoor clothing. The basic principle of hiking in the mountains is the so-called dress code. "Onion", consisting of three layers (which we have already mentioned before and we will definitely mention them again). In this system, dressing should start with putting on thermo-active underwear, then a thermal layer (i.e. simply heating - sweatshirt, fleece, etc.) and finally - the so-called hardshell, i.e. clothes that will protect against external conditions, the main component of which is the membrane. Specialists consider it the most effective way to dress well in the mountains or to work. However, the last layer is the only one that does not have the properties of the others - the disadvantage of these products was the issue of sweat. Membrane jackets, although breathable to some extent, allowed sweat to be left on the wearer's body. Can it just remove such a layer? Resigning from wearing such clothes makes it easy for us to roll or get wet. So how often in life - between the hammer and the anvil ...

How softshell became the golden mean

To solve the problem of the lack of sweat permeability, scientists and specialists began looking for a material that would fill this gap. The final product was really supposed to combine the advantages of an “onion skin” garment - heating, breathability and resistance to external conditions, while maintaining less weight. It was supposed to be an alternative to the last layer, which is why it was called "softshell" ("soft") as a clear alternative to the previous "hardshell" ("hard").

What is softshell?

Softshell is a fabric that primarily consists of insulation on the inside and covered with a flexible material (often polyester) on the outside, ensuring resistance against wind and light (we emphasize: light) rain. With time, in order to improve the market, manufacturers also introduce membrane layers, which, according to the original designs, were supposed to be free of softshells (and we will still find such “classic” products, without any membranes). The vast majority of softshells are equipped with a DWR layer (no, this is not the favorite registration of Wrocław residents) - it is a hydrophobic coating that protects against quick soaking.

When to choose softshell?

Softshell is a guarantee of lightness and comfort. If you often go outside at work and you just need protection from the wind, the softshell will be a bull's eye - it will warm and protect you. Outside of work, it will also be suitable for a spring or autumn walk. In light conditions, a set of thermoactive underwear / T-shirt + softshell will be sufficient, in case of greater cold, an additional heating layer should be put on. However, it should be clearly stated that softshell will not work everywhere - under certain conditions it will not beat a jacket. If you work in downpours, very low temperatures or you are up for yet another hardcore - softshell will not provide you with sufficient protection.

What to look for

If you decide to use softshell remember that virtually everyone meets the requirements we discussed above. Therefore, when buying, focus on the details that make a given product stand out. Check what additional membranes a given model has, what exactly will provide you with additional protection. Take a look at the thickness of the material - manufacturers often categorize their products by thickness. Thinner ones will be intended for higher temperatures, thicker ones - for lower ones. And of course, do not forget about the cut or pockets - that is what adds comfort and freedom.

Check out the softshell sweatshirts & hoodies offer at balticworkwear.com!