Combine warmth, breathability and stretch thanks to our technical fabrics designed to give you total freedom of movement during your hiking and outdoor activities.
True allies for mountain outings, Cimalp men's Softshell jackets are built for those who refuse to choose between protection and being lightweight. Combining cutting-edge technology with comfort, our winter and mid-season selection offers exceptional durability for all your outdoor adventures.
What is a softshell jacket and why is it essential?
In the world of technical clothing, the term "Softshell" (literally "flexible shell") refers to a versatile hiking jacket that sits midway between a classic fleece and a rain jacket (hardshell).
The secret of this formidable product lies in its specific three-layer construction heat-bonded, designed to provide all-round protection without sacrificing comfort:
- The outer face: Made from ultra-abrasion-resistant technical fabric (ideal against backpack friction), this material benefits from a treatment that makes it water-repellent.
- The intermediate membrane: This is the heart of the technology. This invisible film is windproof. It blocks icy gusts while boasting high breathability to let perspiration escape during effort.
- The inner face: A soft microfibre fleece lining lines the inside of the garment. It traps the warm air generated by your body for an immediate sensation of warmth.
Thanks to this combination, the men's softshell jacket often replaces two garments at once. It's an excellent choice for keeping your kit lightweight.
Men's waterproof or warm Softshell jacket: which to choose for the conditions?
It is essential to understand your jacket's capabilities so you can face the weather with confidence.
The difference between waterproofing and water repellency : A softshell jacket is not a 100% waterproof jacket. It is highly water-repellent. In practice, if you are caught in a lightweight shower or light snow during your walk, water will bead and run off the surface of the fabric without penetrating it. However, in the case of heavy, sustained rain, water will eventually get through the seams (which are generally not heat-sealed on a softshell). For extreme conditions and storms, a waterproof jacket (Hardshell) remains essential in your pack.
The ultimate barrier against wind and cold : Where the softshell truly excels is in its thermal and windproof function. Wind is the primary cooling factor in the mountains. By blocking cold air, a warm men's softshell jacket keeps your body temperature stable. Whether you're on an autumn trek or snowshoeing in the depths of winter, it provides perfect insulation in dry or slightly damp conditions.
How to choose a softshell jacket for hiking and sport?
To find the best softshell jacket for your needs, several technical criteria should guide your online purchase:
The importance of the hood : Are you torn between a blouson with a classic stand-up collar or a hooded model? A softshell jacket with a hood (especially if the hood is adjustable) offers valuable extra protection against cold draughts at the neck and ears. It's ideal for changeable weather. If you often wear a helmet (skiing, mountaineering), check compatibility or opt for a hoodless version to avoid any discomfort.
Freedom of movement above all : Brisk walking, trekking or climbing demand a wide range of movement. Go for a jacket made with stretchy fabric. This elasticity ensures the garment follows your every move without riding up above the belt or pulling at the shoulders.
ventilation and moisture management : If your activity is very intense, your body will generate a lot of heat. Make sure the model you choose offers excellent breathability. The presence of underarm ventilation zips is a major advantage for regulating temperature without having to remove your jacket during a steep ascent.
What is the best men's softshell jacket for your activity?
There is no single perfect model, but rather a product designed to offer the best compromise for your use:
- For active hiking and trekking: Go for a lightweight model, highly abrasion-resistant at the shoulders, offering maximum breathability.
- For static activities or winter: Opt for a jacket with a thicker internal fleece lining to maximise warmth.
- For everyday or professional use: More and more men are adopting this technical garment for the city or as a softshell work jacket. Its tailored cut and understated colours (such as black, navy blue, grey or forest green) make it an elegant, snag-resistant and very comfortable jacket for working outdoors.
The 3-layer system: how to wear your softshell?
To get the most out of your technical garment, you need to integrate it intelligently into your outfit.
In 80% of cases, particularly in spring or autumn, the softshell is worn as an outer layer (the 3rd layer). Simply pull it on over a breathable base layer or technical t-shirt. It will be more than sufficient to protect you from the wind and the chill.
When temperatures drop drastically in the depths of winter or a storm is raging, it can be transformed into a formidable mid layer. Worn under a down jacket or a hardshell, it acts as an ultra-high-performance fleece pullover, trapping warmth while blocking cold air infiltration.
Care: how to preserve the water repellency of your jacket?
A quality technical garment requires special care to preserve its water-repellent and breathable properties season after season.
To keep your jacket performing at its best:
- Low-temperature wash: Machine wash at 30°C using a gentle detergent or a product specifically designed for outdoor garments. Make sure to close all zips and velcro fastenings before washing.
- Enemy number one: Absolutely avoid fabric softener and conditioner! These products clog the microscopic pores of the membrane and instantly destroy the breathability of the jacket.
- Drying and reactivation: Air dry where possible. Over time and with friction, water may stop beading on the outer fabric. Periodically reactivate the water repellency by applying a specific waterproofing spray to the clean fabric.
Where to buy a quality men's softshell jacket and at what price?
By choosing Cimalp, a French outdoor textile specialist, you access the manufacturer directly. On our online store, the absence of intermediaries allows us to offer very high-tech garments at fair, accessible prices all year round.
Whether you are looking for an elegant black softshell jacket for the city or the mountains, you will find a wide choice of sizes and colours. Every in-stock item is sold and dispatched quickly by our team to guarantee your satisfaction, with delivery options tailored to your needs and regular promotions to kit yourself out for less.
Complete your outdoor kit
Versatile, resistant and comfortable, the softshell jacket is the cornerstone of your sports wardrobe. For a perfectly balanced outfit from head to toe, pair it with a men's mountain t-shirt which will provide an initial layer of moisture management.
Explore our full expertise and latest arrivals through these different technical selections, designed for both men and women:
Need even more targeted protection for extreme conditions? Feel free to browse all our men's hiking jackets to find the ideal protective layer for your next expedition.
