As workwear specialists, we at Unishore Workwear regularly get the question: what exactly is a softshell? A softshell is a multifunctional garment specifically designed for active professionals who need flexibility and protection against changing weather conditions. What is unique about this material is its construction from different layers that are tightly pressed together. The outer layer is woven and smooth, making it durable and effectively blocking wind and light precipitation. The inside, however, is often finished with a soft fleece material, which provides a comfortable feel against the skin and retains necessary body heat.
The popularity of the softshell jacket in the workplace has grown enormously in recent years. While traditional jackets are often stiff and restrict movement, the modern softshell work jacket excels in elasticity. The material stretches smoothly with every movement you make, whether you are on scaffolding, in the cabin, or performing logistical tasks. This makes it a favorite choice for professionals in construction, industry, and logistics.
In addition to jackets, we are seeing this technology increasingly in other garments. A comfortable softshell trousers, for example, offers the same benefits for your legs: windproofness, a high degree of freedom of movement, and excellent breathability. It is the ideal choice for anyone who works outdoors and refuses to compromise on comfort.
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Is a softshell jacket waterproof?
One of the biggest misconceptions is that softshell jackets are completely waterproof. In practice, they are almost never 100% waterproof, but they are highly water-repellent. The outer fabric is treated with a coating that ensures water droplets initially bead off the jacket. For a brief, light rain shower or a bit of drizzle during your work, a water-repellent softshell jacket offers more than enough protection. You stay dry without having to immediately grab a heavy rain jacket.
However, when you are dealing with prolonged or very heavy precipitation, a softshell will ultimately not be sufficient. The fabric will eventually become saturated, allowing moisture to penetrate the jacket. In such situations, you really need a different type of jacket, such as a specialized rain jacket, a technical shell jacket, or a thick winter jacket.
There are, however, some exceptions on the market. Certain types within the waterproof softshell jackets category are equipped with a special membrane and taped seams, meeting the EN 343 standard for waterproof workwear. But even with these certified models, the outer fabric can become saturated during extreme, hours-long downpours, which reduces breathability and can eventually lead to leakage.
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What is the difference between a softshell and hardshell jacket
To make the right choice for your workwear, it's important to understand the difference between a softshell and a hardshell. A hardshell jacket, popularly known as a shell jacket, functions as a waterproof protective layer. These jackets do not have a built-in lining or insulation layer, making them very thin and light. The main purpose of a hardshell is to offer absolute protection against extreme rain and strong winds thanks to a fully wind and waterproof membrane.
A softshell, on the other hand, is designed for maximum comfort, stretch, and high breathability during active exertion. Where a hardshell can feel stiff and rustle during movement, a softshell is soft, flexible, and silent. You wear a softshell as a comfortable outer layer in changeable weather, while you specifically put on a hardshell when the skies open and you need to work for extended periods in pouring rain.
A big advantage of hardshell jackets is that they are often designed to allow a lining, fleece, or even a softshell to be zipped in or worn underneath.
Read our blog about the differences between shell jackets and softshell jackets
What do you use a softshell for?
You primarily use a softshell as a versatile outer layer during dynamic work or outdoor activities where you move a lot. Because the fabric breathes excellently, excess body heat and perspiration can easily escape. This prevents you from becoming clammy and cold during physical exertion. At the same time, the construction ensures that cold wind is kept out.
For professionals who frequently deal with harsh winds in the workplace, windproof softshell jackets are an indispensable garment. They protect you against the notorious 'wind chill factor', keeping your body temperature at a good level without having to wear a thick, awkward winter jacket. It is the ultimate jacket for the Dutch in-between seasons.
Up to what temperature can you wear a softshell?
Generally, a standard softshell is most suitable for temperatures between 5 and 15 degrees Celsius. In this temperature range, the jacket offers just enough insulation against the fresh outdoor air, while the breathability ensures that you don't get too hot when you are actively working. This makes it the perfect jacket for spring and autumn.
Should the temperature drop further towards freezing point, you fortunately don't have to immediately put your favorite type of clothing in the closet. Nowadays, padded, extra-lined versions and special winter softshells are also available. By choosing lined softshell jackets, you enjoy the familiar flexibility and windproofness, combined with a warm thermal lining that protects you during the colder winter months.
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Do you sweat quickly in a softshell?
The short answer is: no, quite the opposite. One of the strongest features of this material is its superior breathability, which fundamentally distinguishes it from traditional plastic rain jackets or heavy winter parkas. When you perform heavy physical work, your body produces heat and vapor. The microscopic pores in the softshell material allow these vapor molecules to escape outwards.
This keeps the climate inside the jacket dry and comfortable. It is important that you wear the correct base layers; preferably combine your jacket with a breathable thermal shirt or a fleece vest instead of cotton, so that moisture transport is not blocked after all.
How should I wash a softshell jacket?
Properly washing your softshell is essential to maintain the functional properties of the fabric. You can generally wash the jacket in the washing machine on a delicate cycle at 30 degrees Celsius. Always close all zippers and Velcro fasteners before washing and turn the jacket inside out to prevent damage to the outer fabric. Use a liquid detergent and use it sparingly.
It is absolutely crucial that you never use fabric softener. Fabric softener leaves a greasy layer on the fibers of the jacket. This layer clogs the breathable pores of the membrane and can also permanently damage the elastic stretch fibers, causing the jacket to lose its fit and technical function.
Should you re-impregnate a softshell?
Yes, over time and after a number of washes, the water-repellent effect of the outer layer will slowly decrease. You will notice this when rainwater no longer rolls off the jacket in nice drops, but starts to soak into the fabric, making the outside dark and wet. This is the sign that the so-called DWR layer (Durable Water Repellent) needs to be restored.
You can easily re-impregnate the jacket with a special water-repellent spray or by using a wash-in impregnating agent during a separate wash. It often also helps to briefly tumble dry the jacket after washing (if the wash label allows it) or to iron it lukewarm; the heat activates the remaining water-repellent particles in the fabric.
What types of softshell jackets are there?
In the world of workwear, many different variants have been developed, so there is a suitable model for every specific work situation. In addition to the standard, unlined models that are ideal for spring, you can choose extra warm lined softshell jackets for the colder periods. There is also a lot of variation in the finish; for example, a softshell jacket with a hood is very popular with professionals who regularly encounter unexpected rain showers or biting wind around the neck.
For work along roads, on construction sites, or in other situations where visibility is vital, special reflective softshell jackets are available in high-visibility colors such as neon yellow and orange, equipped with certified reflective strips according to the EN ISO 20471 standard.
Do you need to work in environments with explosion hazards, heat, or chemical splashes? Then you choose certified multi-norm softshell jackets. These jackets combine the comfort and flexibility of a softshell with strict safety requirements, such as flame-retardant and antistatic properties.
View the complete Softshell Work Jackets Collection
Can you print or embroider a softshell?
As a company, you naturally want your employees to look presentable with the company logo on their clothing. Fortunately, this material is excellent for personalization. The most durable and luxurious method for this type of jacket is embroidering softshell jackets. Embroidery is durable, can take a beating, and maintains its beautiful appearance for years, even after countless washes.
Would you prefer a sleek, detailed print? Then printing softshell jackets is certainly possible, although this does require expertise. Because softshells are often elastic and treated with dyes that can 'bleed' (the color of the jacket then seeps into the logo), not every printing technique is simply suitable. Fortunately, there are innovative transfers with a built-in barrier layer that adhere perfectly to almost any softshell and retain their color beautifully. There are also softshells with dyes that do not 'bleed', such as the softshells from Helly Hansen.
Are there also softshells in large sizes?
At Unishore Workwear, we believe it's important that every professional can work in comfortable and well-fitting clothing, regardless of their build. Fortunately, modern workwear manufacturers are increasingly taking this into account. In our assortment, you will find a wide range of softshell jackets in large sizes.
Whether you are looking for size 3XL, 4XL, or even larger; the jackets maintain their ergonomic fit and elastic properties. Thanks to the handy size charts on our website, you will always find the perfect fit for your physique.
What brands offer softshells?
Virtually every respected brand in the workwear industry has embraced this garment and put its own spin on the concept. For fashionable and competitively priced options that are excellent for larger teams, you can look at the offerings from Clique softshells or jackets from Jobman softshells. If you're looking for a distinctly Dutch and sporty look, a Tricorp softshell is an absolute recommendation.
For professionals who demand the utmost from their clothing in harsh conditions, there are premium brands. Consider a robust Blaklader softshell jacket or the technically advanced Helly Hansen softshell jackets.
Other top brands are also well represented in our webshop. A Mascot softshell jacket excels in ergonomics, while a Portwest softshell is known for its excellent price-quality ratio. Finally, the innovative Snickers softshell work jacket should not be missing, as well as the high-quality models from Hydrowear and Fristads.
Where can I order Softshells?
You can easily, quickly, and reliably order your new softshell workwear through the Unishore Workwear webshop. Thanks to our enormous assortment of top brands, colors, and sizes, you will always find the jacket or trousers that perfectly suit your daily work. Moreover, with us, you benefit from fast delivery times and expert customer service that will gladly help you make the right choice.
Would you like to have the jackets immediately provided with your own company logo? Then simply add the desired print or embroidery to your order. We manage the entire process in-house, so you are guaranteed a professional end result with which your team can appear presentable and protected for years to come.
