Made from nylon, spandex, and polyester materials. Features front zipper closure and stand neck collar. Outer shell is water-repellent and equipped with wind fighter technology. Inner lining is soft and retains heat. Four different color choices available.

Cons

Runs small, and users have experienced tightness around the arms and armpits. Recommended to size up.

Best Bang for the Buck

Arctix

Men's Maverick Softshell Jacket

Most Comfortable

This jacket stands out for its soft, stretchable fabric and the design of its various pockets.

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Most Comfortable

Bottom Line

This jacket stands out for its soft, stretchable fabric and the design of its various pockets.

Pros

Lightweight and comfortable. Tightly woven face resists wind and water. Stretchable fabric offers a good range of motion. Features mesh pockets inside and zippered hand-warmer pockets outside. Machine washable.

Cons

Snug fit. Some buyers feel this jacket is not warm enough or does not resist wind very well.

Tommy Hilfiger

Men's Active Soft Shell Jacket

Sleek & Stylish

We love this fashionable pick for its durability in various climates and its elegant, attractive design.

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Sleek & Stylish

Bottom Line

We love this fashionable pick for its durability in various climates and its elegant, attractive design.

Pros

Polyester and spandex material blend. Stand-up neck collar protects from cold, strong winds and rain. Boasts front zipper closure, 2 side zipper pockets, and an inner pocket for safekeeping of personal items. Weather-resistant and machine washable.

Cons

Some users have experienced the size labeling to be inconsistent with actual sizing.

Columbia

Men's Ascender Softshell Front-Zip Jacket

Trusted Brand

This dependable choice from a reputable name is available in a vast range of sizes to suit every body type.

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Trusted Brand

Bottom Line

This dependable choice from a reputable name is available in a vast range of sizes to suit every body type.

Pros

Made from 100% polyester. Wind- and water-resistant shell provides protection from the elements at all times of the year. Keeps wearer dry and warm, and is ideal for layering. Lightweight yet effective. Suitable for machine washing.

Cons

Some quality concerns regarding zippers. Runs small.

The North Face

Men's Apex Bionic 2 Jacket

Most Versatile

Users enjoy this jacket for its fit, style, and comfortable material that keeps them sheltered from the wind and rain.

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Most Versatile

Bottom Line

Users enjoy this jacket for its fit, style, and comfortable material that keeps them sheltered from the wind and rain.

Pros

Breathable, water-resistant, wind-resistant, and exhibits impressive warmth and heat retention without being overly hot. Boasts front zipper closure, protective stand-neck collar, and zipper pockets. Standard slim fit is flattering and stylish. Great choice for layering.

Cons

Sleeves are too long. Material feels stiff to some. Zippers sometimes break.

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First Reviewed

August 06, 2018

Models
considered

Hours
researched

Written by Melissa Nott

Updated February 2022

During spring and fall when temperatures aren’t too hot or too cold, you probably want to be wearing a softshell jacket. They’re lightweight enough that you won’t sweat in moderate temperatures but are still wind-resistant and can be layered for extra warmth. When you decide that you want a softshell jacket, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind, like what brand you want or how thin or thick you want it to be. A thick jacket might sound better but in reality, if you prefer to layer or want an extra base for winter months then a thin jacket can be great.

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