Best Men's Softshell Jackets

Updated February 2022
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BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and all opinions about the products are our own. Read more  
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We buy all products with our own funds, and we never accept free products from manufacturers.Read more 
Bottom Line
Pros
Cons
Best of the Best
Carhartt Men's Crowley Jacket
Carhartt
Men's Crowley Jacket
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Most Durable
Bottom Line

This slim-fit jacket is weather-resistant and comfortable but some users have some sizing concerns.

Pros

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
Arctix
Men's Maverick Softshell Jacket
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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
Tommy Hilfiger
Men's Active Soft Shell Jacket
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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
Columbia
Men's Ascender Softshell Front-Zip Jacket
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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
The North Face
Men's Apex Bionic 2 Jacket
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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.

HOW WE TESTED

We recommend these products based on an intensive research process that's designed to cut through the noise and find the top products in this space. Guided by experts, we spend hours looking into the factors that matter, to bring you these selections.

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38
Models
Considered
151
Consumers
Consulted
10
Hours
Researched
Category cover

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.

Other Products We Considered
The BestReviews editorial team researches hundreds of products based on consumer reviews, brand quality, and value. We then choose a shorter list for in-depth research and testing before finalizing our top picks. These are the products we considered that ultimately didn't make our top 5.
TSLA
Men's Softshell Athletic Jacket
Little Donkey Andy
Men's Softshell Jacket with Removable Hood
Little Donkey Andy
Lightweight Hooded Softshell Windbreaker Jacket
Columbia
Men's Ascender Softshell Jacket
Amazon Essentials
Men's Water-Resistant Softshell Jacket
Starter
Men's Water Resistant Soft Shell Jacket
Port Authority
Men's Core Soft Shell Jacket
Weatherproof
Men's Water & Wind Resistant Soft Shell Jacket
Marmot
Men's Tempo Softshell Jacket
Under Armour
Men's Barrage Soft Shell Jacket
See more
Our Top Picks
Carhartt
Best of the Best
Carhartt
Men's Crowley Jacket
Bottom Line
This slim-fit jacket is weather-resistant and comfortable but some users have some sizing concerns.
Shop Now
Arctix
Best Bang for the Buck
Arctix
Men's Maverick Softshell Jacket
Bottom Line
This jacket stands out for its soft, stretchable fabric and the design of its various pockets.
Shop Now
Tommy Hilfiger
Top Pick
Tommy Hilfiger
Men's Active Soft Shell Jacket
Bottom Line
We love this fashionable pick for its durability in various climates and its elegant, attractive design.
Shop Now
Columbia
Top Pick
Columbia
Men's Ascender Softshell Front-Zip Jacket
Bottom Line
This dependable choice from a reputable name is available in a vast range of sizes to suit every body type.
Shop Now
The North Face
Top Pick
The North Face
Men's Apex Bionic 2 Jacket
Bottom Line
Users enjoy this jacket for its fit, style, and comfortable material that keeps them sheltered from the wind and rain.
Shop Now