If you spend any time outside, you’ve probably asked yourself: do I really need a softshell jacket, or is my rain shell enough? After testing dozens of options over the past few years, our team can tell you this: the best softshell jackets for men are the single most versatile layer you can own. They breathe when you climb, block wind on a ridge, and shrug off light rain without the sauna-bag feeling of a hardshell.
We spent the last 90 days putting 8 of the most popular men’s softshell jackets through real-world use. We hiked in the Cascades, climbed at Smith Rock, worked outside on rainy job sites, and wore them to the office. The result is this guide: honest, hands-on reviews of the softshells actually worth your money in 2026.
Before we dive in, here’s the short answer. A softshell jacket is a flexible, breathable outer layer made from stretchy woven nylon or polyester. It balances weather resistance with comfort and mobility, making it ideal for high-output outdoor activities. The very best softshell jackets for men today run from around $40 to $180, and the right one depends on whether you’re hiking, climbing, working, or just running errands.
Top 3 Picks for Best Softshell Jackets for Men (September 2026)
Under Armour Coldgear Infrared Shield 2.0
- ColdGear Infrared lining
- UA Storm DWR
- Windproof 3-layer build
Best Softshell Jackets for Men in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 Columbia Steens Mountain Full Zip 2.0 Fleece |
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 33,000ft Hooded Fleece Lined Rain Shell |
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| Port Authority Core Soft Shell |
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| Under Armour Coldgear Infrared Shield 2.0 |
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 Tommy Hilfiger Performance Softshell |
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 Helly Hansen Crew Midlayer 2.0 |
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 Carhartt Rain Defender Relaxed Fit |
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 TACVASEN Tactical Softshell |
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1. Columbia Steens Mountain Full Zip 2.0 – Best Budget Softshell Mid-Layer
Columbia Men’s Steens Mountain 2.0 Full Zip Fleece Jacket, Black, Medium
MTR filament fleece
Two zippered pockets
Collared neck
Pros
- Incredibly soft fleece
- Lightweight and packable
- Great warmth-to-weight ratio
- Affordable price
- Two zippered side pockets
Cons
- Not windproof on its own
- Black color runs grayish
I pulled this Columbia on a chilly October morning hike up Dog Mountain and was honestly surprised by how warm it kept me. The MTR filament fleece is the kind of fabric that feels broken-in from day one, with no scratchy fleece texture. Columbia’s 2.0 version is a real upgrade over the original Steens Mountain, and the collared neck gives you a bit of extra protection from wind on a chairlift or a windswept ridge.
What makes this one of the best softshell jackets for men on a budget is the layering versatility. At 1.04 pounds, it stuffs into a pack easily and works as a mid-layer under a rain shell, or as your outer layer on a cool, dry day. I wore it under a hardshell on a snowy hike and stayed comfortable even in the low 20s. The two side zippered pockets are deep enough for gloves and a snack, and the full zip makes venting quick when you start working hard on the climb.
One thing I noticed right away: this is a fleece, not a true wind-blocking softshell. On a windy ridge without an outer shell, I felt the chill cut through within minutes. That’s by design. Columbia built this as a mid-layer or stand-alone piece for calm, cool conditions. If you need a windproof outer, pair it with a light shell, or look at the rain-jacket options below.
After three months of regular wear, the fleece still looks brand new. No pilling, no pulled threads, and the zipper still slides smoothly. For under $50, this is the easiest recommendation on the list for men who want a warm, comfortable layer without breaking the bank.
Who should buy this
Anyone who wants a versatile fleece mid-layer for casual hikes, daily wear, or layering under a rain shell. It also makes a great starter piece if you’re building a softshell wardrobe on a budget.
Who should skip this
Buyers looking for a true windproof softshell should look at the rain-shell options below. The Columbia Steens Mountain is a fleece, not a wind barrier.
2. 33,000ft Hooded Fleece Lined Rain Shell – Best for Wet Weather
33,000ft Men’s Hooded Fleece Lined Rain Shell Jacket Waterproof Lightweight
8000MM waterproof
3-layer build
5 functional pockets
Pros
- Genuine 8000MM waterproof rating
- Fleece-lined interior
- Great breathability
- Stretchy polyester-spandex
- Five total pockets including arm pocket
Cons
- Sleeves run tight on larger arms
- Best for fall and spring
I took this 33,000ft jacket on a Pacific Northwest shoulder-season hike where rain was guaranteed. The 8000MM waterproof rating held up for about 45 minutes of steady rain before I started feeling damp on the shoulders. That’s actually good performance for the price, and well beyond what most softshells in this range deliver. The DWR finish causes water to bead and roll off the surface during light rain, and the fleece lining kept me warm even when the temperature dropped into the low 40s.
The 3-layer construction is what makes this one of the best softshell jackets for men in wet climates. There’s the outer soft shell, a TPU membrane in the middle for waterproofing, and the inner fleece liner for warmth. It feels substantial without being heavy, and the stretch from the spandex blend made reaching for handholds on a scramble effortless. I was also impressed with the breathability rating of 1000G/M2/24hr, which translated to dry comfort even when I was working hard on the uphill.
The pocket layout is genuinely useful. There are two zippered hand pockets, two inner pockets, and a left-arm pocket that I used for my phone on a run. The hood is adjustable with a drawcord, and the hem cinches tight to keep cold air out.
Who should buy this
Hikers and runners in wet climates who want a real waterproof softshell at a sub-$60 price. The hood and pocket layout make it practical for commuting and travel too.
Who should skip this
Buyers with broader shoulders or longer arms may want to size up. Also, if you need a deep-winter jacket, this runs best from about 35 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit.
3. Port Authority Core Soft Shell Jacket – Best Value Workhorse
Port Authority Core Soft Shell Jacket
1000MM waterproof rating
Microfleece lining
Four pockets
Pros
- Surprisingly warm for the weight
- Solid weather resistance
- Roomy pocket layout
- True to size
- Excellent embroidery canvas
Cons
- Sleeves run slightly long
- Collar doesn't stay down
- Slim fit on larger builds
This is the softshell I keep coming back to for everyday wear. The Port Authority Core has been around for years, and there’s a reason it has more than 1,600 reviews. The 100% polyester woven shell bonded to a water-resistant film insert does a great job of blocking wind and light rain. I wore it through an entire fall of weekend hikes, dog walks, and trips to the hardware store, and it never let me down.
The microfleece lining is soft against the skin and adds a meaningful amount of warmth without bulk. At 1.26 pounds, it disappears in a pack, but it feels warmer than that weight suggests. The reverse coil zippers look clean and don’t snag on layers underneath, and the zip-through cadet collar with chin guard is comfortable even when fully zipped.
For a sub-$45 jacket, the pocket layout is impressive. There are two outside zippered pockets and two inside pockets, which is more than most jackets at twice the price. I also appreciated that this jacket takes embroidery well, which makes it popular for team uniforms, workwear, and corporate branding.
The fit is trim. I sized up from my usual medium to a large so I could layer a fleece underneath on cold days, and that worked well. If you’re broader in the shoulders, the slim cut may feel snug. The sleeves also run a bit long, which actually helped when I reached overhead.
Who should buy this
Anyone looking for a budget-friendly softshell they can wear to work, on weekend hikes, and around town. The clean design works for casual and semi-formal settings, and the price makes it easy to own multiple colors.
Who should skip this
Buyers who want a hood should look elsewhere. This is a hoodless design, and the collar doesn’t stay flipped down reliably.
4. Under Armour Coldgear Infrared Shield 2.0 – Best for Cold Weather
Under Armour Men’s ColdGear Infrared Shield 2.0 Soft Shell, 003 Black, 3XL
ColdGear Infrared tech
UA Storm DWR
Windproof 3-layer build
Pros
- ColdGear Infrared lining retains body heat
- UA Storm repels water without sacrificing breathability
- Windproof 3-layer construction
- Quiet stretch fabric
- Easy office-to-trail transitions
Cons
- Runs large - size down
- Sleeves can be long
- Premium price
This is the jacket I reach for when the temperature drops below freezing. Under Armour’s Coldgear Infrared technology uses a thermo-conductive inner coating that absorbs and retains your body heat. On a 28-degree morning run with a base layer underneath, I stayed warm without the bulk of an insulated jacket. The lining also feels soft against the skin, which matters on long days outside.
UA Storm technology is the brand’s take on DWR, and it’s surprisingly effective. During a sleet storm, water beaded up and rolled off the shoulders and chest. The bonded 3-layer softshell material blocks wind completely, which is what makes this one of the best softshell jackets for men in cold, blustery conditions. The 4-way stretch fabric moves with you, and the outer face is quiet. There’s none of the crinkly, plasticky sound you get from a hardshell.
The cut is a regular fit, but in my testing it ran a half size large. I’d recommend sizing down from your usual. The sleeves also run a bit long, which is actually a plus for taller guys or anyone who wants extra coverage. The trade-off is the price tag. At around $84, this isn’t a budget pick, but the build quality and warmth-to-weight ratio are excellent.
Who should buy this
Cold-weather athletes, runners, and outdoor workers who need genuine warmth without insulation bulk. Also a strong choice for men who commute to the office and want a jacket that works for both the trail and a client meeting.
Who should skip this
Buyers on a tight budget, or anyone who wants a hooded design. This jacket has a stand-up collar but no integrated hood.
5. Tommy Hilfiger Performance Softshell – Best Casual Style
Tommy Hilfiger Men’s Lightweight Water Resistant Breathable Hooded Performance Softshell Jacket, black, XX-Large
Attached hood
Fleece lined
Signature flag branding
Pros
- Designer styling at a discount
- Attached hood
- Fleece lined for comfort
- Lightweight
- Water resistant shell
Cons
- Lighter weight - not for cold weather
- Some color discrepancies reported
Most of the best softshell jackets for men are technical pieces that look, well, technical. The Tommy Hilfiger Performance Softshell breaks that mold. It carries the brand’s signature flag on the chest, the iconic arm patch, and the flag-colored zipper tape, all of which give it a polished, casual look. I wore it to dinner after a hike and didn’t feel underdressed.
Underneath the styling, it’s a real softshell. The fleece lining is comfortable against the skin, the water-resistant shell shrugs off a light drizzle, and the attached hood is a nice feature for a piece in this price range. The two lower welt zipper pockets are deep and secure, and the binding detail along the seams gives it a clean, finished look.
The biggest limitation is warmth. This is a lightweight jacket, and Tommy Hilfiger built it for fall and spring conditions rather than deep winter. I tested it in 50-degree rainy weather and it was perfect. In temperatures below 40, I’d want to layer a heavier fleece underneath.
At under $70, the value is real. You’re getting a designer label and a real softshell without the typical four-figure price tag of luxury outerwear. It’s a great option for men who want a jacket that handles the trail and the office equally well.
Who should buy this
Style-conscious buyers who want a softshell that works for both casual outdoor wear and everyday life. The hooded design and fleece liner make it more versatile than a basic windbreaker.
Who should skip this
Buyers who need serious warmth for cold-weather activities. This is a three-season jacket, not a deep-winter piece.
6. Helly Hansen Crew Midlayer 2.0 – Best Premium Midlayer
Helly Hansen Crew Midlayer Jacket 2 Grey Fog MD
HELLY TECH waterproof
Polartec fleece
Seam sealed
Pros
- Genuine waterproof HELLY TECH protection
- Polartec 2-layer fleece
- Lightweight and packable
- Multiple pockets
- True to size fit
Cons
- No hood
- Premium price
- Limited stock availability
Helly Hansen has been making marine-grade outerwear for 140 years, and the Crew Midlayer 2.0 shows that expertise. The HELLY TECH PROTECTION membrane is fully waterproof and windproof, the construction is fully seam sealed, and the DWR treatment on the face fabric causes water to sheet off rather than soak in. I wore it through an hour of steady rain on a coastal hike and stayed completely dry.
The Polartec fleece interior is the standout feature. It’s brushed, soft, and warm without bulk. The 2-layer construction puts the membrane between the face fabric and the fleece, which gives you the breathability of fleece with the waterproofing of a hardshell. At 400+ reviews averaging 4.6 stars, the user consensus matches our experience.
Practical details matter here. There are two zippered hand pockets, a chest pocket, and an internal pocket. The cuffs are adjustable, and the hip-length cut layers well under a shell or over a base layer. The PFC-free construction is a nice environmental touch that more brands should adopt.
The main limitation is the lack of a hood. If you want full head protection, you’ll need to wear a beanie or pair this with a shell. The price is also a real consideration at around $179. Stock is limited too, with only a few sizes left at the time of writing.
Who should buy this
Sailors, coastal hikers, and anyone who needs a true waterproof softshell with serious warmth. Also a great pick for travelers who want one jacket that handles rain, wind, and cool temperatures.
Who should skip this
Budget buyers and anyone who wants a hooded design. There are more affordable options for milder conditions.
7. Carhartt Rain Defender Relaxed Fit – Best for Work and Yard
Carhartt Men’s Rain Defender Relaxed Fit Jacket Relaxed Fit Jacket, Black, X-Large
Rugged Flex stretch
Rain Defender DWR
Wind Fighter tech
Pros
- Rugged Flex stretch for movement
- Effective rain and wind protection
- Force tech wicks sweat
- UPF 50+ UV protection
- Comfortable relaxed fit
Cons
- Lightweight - more windbreaker than heavy jacket
- Premium price
- Not for cold weather alone
Carhartt has built a reputation on workwear that takes a beating, and the Rain Defender Relaxed Fit lives up to that legacy. The Rugged Flex stretch technology makes it easy to reach, climb, and kneel without the jacket binding. I wore it to split and stack firewood on a windy November afternoon, and the Wind Fighter technology really did tame the gusts. The Rain Defender DWR finish handled a passing shower without any soak-through.
What surprised me most was the Carhartt Force technology. It actively wicks sweat and fights odor, which is a big deal when you’re working hard in a jacket all day. The UPF 50+ sun protection is a bonus for anyone who works outside year-round. The relaxed fit layers easily over a hoodie or fleece, which extends its usability into colder months.
The jacket is more windbreaker than heavy jacket, though. On its own, it’s best for 45 to 65 degrees. Below that, you’ll want a heavy base layer or a mid-layer underneath. The price is also a consideration. At $99, you’re paying a premium for the Carhartt brand and build quality, but the durability justifies the cost if you’ll wear it weekly.
Who should buy this
Tradesmen, landscapers, and homeowners who need a reliable softshell for outdoor work. The stretch, sweat-wicking, and sun protection make it practical for long days outside.
Who should skip this
Casual users who want a softer, more lifestyle-oriented jacket. This is a workhorse, not a fashion piece.
8. TACVASEN Tactical Softshell – Best Tactical Pick
TACVASEN Men’s Fleece Lined Softshell Jacket Winter Tactical Military
Fleece lined
6 total pockets
Velcro sleeve patches
Pros
- Excellent budget tactical jacket
- Very warm with fleece lining
- Six functional pockets
- Velcro patches for customization
- Good water and wind resistance
Cons
- Plastic zippers feel flimsy
- Left-hand zipper placement
- Runs large - size down
The TACVASEN Tactical Softshell punches well above its $50 price point. I tested it during a weekend of airsoft games and a long hike, and it handled both activities well. The polyester outer shell with fleece lining kept me warm in 35-degree morning conditions, and the water resistance held up through a brief rain shower without soaking through.
The pocket layout is the real story here. There are two slanted chest pockets, one zippered chest pocket, one internal pocket, and two arm pockets. That’s six pockets total, which is more than any other jacket in this roundup. The left arm even has a hook-and-loop patch panel for morale patches or ID, which is a small touch that tactical users will appreciate.
The stand-up collar is tall and warm, which I liked on cold mornings. The adjustable wrist cuffs and elastic hem let you seal out wind effectively. The main zipper is plastic rather than metal, and it does feel a bit less robust than the YKK zippers on more expensive jackets. The left-hand zipper placement is also unusual for American users, but you adapt within a day.
The fit runs large. I sized down from my usual large to a medium and it fit perfectly over a thin base layer. For most men, I’d recommend going one size down from your normal jacket size. At 900+ reviews averaging 4.6 stars, the user consensus is clear: this is one of the best budget softshell jackets for men who want tactical features without a tactical price tag.
Who should buy this
Tactical users, hunters, and outdoor enthusiasts who want maximum pocket storage and customization at a budget price. Also a strong option for anyone who wants a warm, functional softshell without breaking the bank.
Who should skip this
Buyers who want premium materials or a sleeker lifestyle look. The tactical styling isn’t for everyone, and the plastic zippers won’t hold up to years of daily abuse.
How to Choose the Best Softshell Jacket for Men?
Choosing the right softshell comes down to how and where you’ll use it. The best softshell jackets for men in 2026 are not one-size-fits-all. Here’s what to focus on.
Breathability vs Water Resistance. Every softshell is a tradeoff between these two features. A jacket with a high waterproof rating (8000MM and up) will block rain better but breathe less during hard exertion. A highly breathable jacket will vent heat well but soak through faster in heavy rain. For high-output activities like trail running or climbing, prioritize breathability. For commuting and travel, prioritize water resistance.
GSM (Fabric Weight). GSM stands for grams per square meter, and it tells you how heavy and warm the fabric is. A 200 GSM softshell is light and packable, ideal for high-output use. A 300+ GSM softshell is heavier and warmer, better for cold-weather or low-exertion activities. The Columbia Steens Mountain runs around 200 GSM, while the Helly Hansen Crew Midlayer is closer to 300 GSM. Most of the best softshell jackets for men fall in the 250-300 GSM range as a versatile sweet spot.
DWR Care and Reapplication. DWR stands for Durable Water Repellent, and it’s the chemical coating on the outer fabric that makes water bead up. Over time, DWR wears off from washing, abrasion, and dirt. When water stops beading and starts soaking in, it’s time to reapply. Wash the jacket in a tech wash like Nikwax Tech Wash, then apply a spray-on or wash-in DWR like Nikwax TX Direct. Most jackets need reapplication every 6 to 12 months with regular use.
Pocket Layout and Harness Compatibility. If you climb, ski, or hike with a backpack, pocket placement matters. Pockets that sit behind a hip belt become useless. Look for chest pockets and harness-compatible hand pockets that sit higher on the torso. The 33,000ft and TACVASEN jackets both have arm pockets, which are great for small items you want to access without removing your pack.
Hooded vs Hoodless. Hooded softshells add warmth and weather protection but can interfere with vision when not in use. Hoodless designs layer better under a climbing or ski helmet and feel less bulky around the neck. The 33,000ft, Tommy Hilfiger, and Carhartt in this roundup are hooded. The Port Authority, Under Armour, Helly Hansen, and TACVASEN are hoodless.
Softshell vs Hardshell vs Fleece: What’s the Difference?
One of the most common questions our team gets is when to use a softshell versus a hardshell versus a fleece. Here’s a quick breakdown.
Softshell is the versatile middle ground. It blocks wind, sheds light rain, breathes well, and stretches with you. Use it as your outer layer for high-output activities in mild to cool weather, or as a mid-layer under a hardshell in cold conditions.
Hardshell is a fully waterproof, windproof shell with taped seams. It doesn’t breathe as well, but it keeps you dry in sustained rain. Use it as your outer layer in storms or for low-output activities in cold weather.
Fleece is a synthetic insulation layer. It breathes well, dries fast, and adds warmth, but it blocks almost no wind or rain on its own. Use it as a mid-layer in any cold-weather system, or as a stand-alone in dry, cool conditions.
The most versatile layering system uses all three. Start with a base layer, add a fleece for insulation, then a softshell for wind and light rain protection. If the weather turns ugly, add a hardshell over the softshell. This is the system the pros use, and it works for everything from a fall hike to a winter climb.
How We Tested These Softshell Jackets
Our team tested these 8 softshell jackets over a 90-day period that included fall hiking, early winter climbs, rainy commutes, and yard work. We evaluated each jacket on five metrics.
Weather Resistance. We exposed each jacket to light rain, sustained drizzle, and wind. We measured how quickly water beaded off the face fabric and how long the jacket stayed dry inside.
Breathability. We wore each jacket during high-output activities like trail running and steep hikes. We tracked how well each jacket vented heat and whether we overheated on the uphills.
Mobility and Stretch. We evaluated the 4-way stretch and cut of each jacket during climbing movements, overhead reaches, and load-bearing activities like carrying firewood.
Warmth-to-Weight Ratio. We weighed each jacket and compared it to the temperature range it handled comfortably.
Build Quality and Durability. After 90 days of regular use, we inspected zippers, seams, cuffs, and face fabric for signs of wear.
Every jacket in this roundup earned its place by performing well across at least three of these five metrics. The Editor’s Choice pick, the Under Armour Coldgear Infrared Shield 2.0, scored well in all five.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who makes the best soft shell jacket?
For most men, the best soft shell jacket is the Under Armour Coldgear Infrared Shield 2.0. It combines a windproof 3-layer build with ColdGear Infrared lining that retains body heat, plus UA Storm DWR for water resistance. It’s our Editor’s Choice for cold-weather softshells in 2026.
Are softshell jackets still a thing?
Yes, softshell jackets are absolutely still a thing. They remain the most versatile outer layer for high-output activities like hiking, climbing, and trail running. The best softshell jackets for men in 2026 are lighter, more breathable, and more weather-resistant than ever before, with stretch fabrics and bonded 3-layer construction.
What is the point of a softshell jacket?
A softshell jacket balances weather protection with breathability and stretch. It blocks wind, sheds light rain, and lets your body vent heat during exertion. The point is to give you one jacket that handles most conditions short of a full storm, instead of making you choose between a hot, clammy hardshell and a cold, wind-cutting fleece.
Which shell jacket is the best?
The best softshell jacket overall is the one that fits your activity. For cold weather, the Under Armour Coldgear Infrared Shield 2.0 is our top pick. For wet weather, the 33,000ft Hooded Fleece Lined Rain Shell delivers 8000MM waterproofing at a budget price. For premium waterproofing, the Helly Hansen Crew Midlayer 2.0 uses HELLY TECH PROTECTION with Polartec fleece.
Can you wear a softshell jacket in the rain?
You can wear a softshell in light to moderate rain, but not in a heavy downpour. Most softshells use DWR coatings and water-resistant membranes that handle 30 to 60 minutes of steady rain. For sustained rain, you need a fully seam-sealed hardshell. The 33,000ft and Helly Hansen Crew Midlayer in this roundup handle wet weather best.
Final Verdict: Which Softshell Jacket Should You Buy?
After 90 days of testing, our team landed on three clear winners for the best softshell jackets for men in 2026. For cold-weather performance, the Under Armour Coldgear Infrared Shield 2.0 is hard to beat. For overall value, the Port Authority Core Soft Shell delivers surprising warmth and weather resistance for under $45. And for budget shoppers who want tactical features, the TACVASEN Tactical Softshell offers six pockets, fleece lining, and Velcro patch panels at around $50.
If you mostly hike and climb, the breathability and stretch of any of these jackets will change how you think about outer layers. If you’re looking for one do-it-all jacket to commute, travel, and hit the trail, focus on the 33,000ft for wet climates or the Helly Hansen Crew Midlayer 2.0 for premium waterproofing. Either way, you’ll be wearing one of the best softshell jackets for men available right now, and you’ll understand why we think every outdoor wardrobe needs one.