Between soft shell and hard shell
A waterproof softshell sits between the two categories. It uses a stretch face, a membrane and a soft backer, so it moves and sounds like a softshell while shedding rain like a light hard shell. Brands choose it for active riders, ski tourers and hikers who want one jacket for changeable weather. Named platforms in this space include Polartec® NeoShell, covered on our NeoShell jacket page.
What changes compared with a standard softshell
| Standard softshell | Waterproof softshell | Hard shell | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Waterproofness | Water-repellent only | Waterproof with taped seams | Waterproof with taped seams |
| Stretch | High | Moderate to high | Low to moderate |
| Breathability | High | Good | Good to very good |
| Seam treatment | Stitched | Taped for waterproof claims | Taped |
| Noise | Quiet | Fairly quiet | Can be crisp |
Construction and development notes
- Seam sealing: a membrane softshell is only waterproof if the seams are taped, which adds cost and limits some seam types. See seam-sealed construction
- Zippers: water-resistant zippers and storm flaps keep the front opening dry
- Stretch and tape: tape must flex with the fabric, so tape type and width are chosen with the stretch level
- Hood and cuffs: structured hoods and adjustable cuffs matter as much as the fabric for real-world protection
- Ventilation: pit zips or back vents offset the lower breathability of a membrane build
Typical spec ranges
| Item | Typical range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fabric weight | Roughly 250 to 350 g/m² | Depends on backer and face |
| Waterproofness | Commonly 5,000 to 10,000 mm or higher hydrostatic head | Higher with higher-grade membranes; method set in the tech pack |
| Breathability | Method-specific; lower than unlaminated softshell | Match the test method to the public claim |
| Seam tape | Stretch-compatible tape, width set by seam type | Tape map defined at pattern stage |
Industry-typical ranges for orientation. Confirmed values come from the selected fabric and test plan.
What to send for a quote
- Tech pack, sketch or a reference garment (photos and measurements are fine to start)
- Size range, sizing market and quantity per style and colour
- Fabric direction: hard shell, softshell or a named Polartec® platform, plus target price
- Required features: hood type, pockets, vents, zippers, insulation, reflective details
- Testing needs (for example hydrostatic head, breathability, seam strength, wash tests)
- Sample timeline and bulk delivery window
Trademark note: Third-party branded membrane and fabric names belong to their respective owners and are used here only as buyer search terminology. Material access, authorization, labeling rules and public performance claims are confirmed for every program.
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