Rain Jacket vs Softshell — Which Do You Need for NZ Tramping?
Rain jackets and softshell jackets are both popular outer layers — and they're frequently confused. Understanding what each one actually does makes it much easier to choose the right combination for NZ tramping.
What a Rain Jacket Does
A rain jacket (hardshell) is a fully waterproof outer shell. It stops rain completely, blocks wind, and is designed to be worn in active precipitation. The trade-off: it's less breathable than a softshell during high-output activities.
A rain jacket is non-negotiable for NZ tramping. NZ weather changes fast, rain can arrive at any point on any track, and being caught without waterproof protection in NZ backcountry is a genuine safety risk, not just a comfort issue.
What a Softshell Jacket Does
A softshell is a stretchy, breathable outer layer that provides wind resistance and light weather resistance — but is not fully waterproof. It excels during high-output activities in variable conditions: it breathes better than a hardshell, moves more freely, and handles light drizzle without soaking through immediately.
The key point: a softshell cannot replace a rain jacket in sustained NZ rain. It will wet out and leave you damp. It's designed for conditions where you're generating a lot of heat and want weather protection without overheating — not for standing in driving rain.
When to Use Each
Rain jacket: In rain, wind, and any sustained wet condition. Worn over everything else. Non-negotiable in your pack on any NZ tramping trip regardless of forecast.
Softshell: On active, dry-to-variable days when you need wind protection and light weather resistance without the restriction of a hardshell. Many trampers wear a softshell as their primary outer layer on fine days, stowing the rain jacket for when it's actually needed.
Together: The most versatile tramping layering system for NZ. Softshell as active outer layer in good conditions; rain jacket over everything when rain arrives.
Do You Need Both?
For three-season NZ tramping: ideally yes. In practice, many trampers get by with just a rain jacket — using it as their primary outer layer in all conditions. This works but is less comfortable in active use on warm, dry days due to reduced breathability.
For trampers who do one or two trips per year in varied conditions: rain jacket only is practical. For regular trampers who want the most comfortable system across a range of conditions: both.
Best Options at Dwights
Rain Jackets
- Peak XV Tornado (RRP $349.99) — Best value NZ-designed hardshell. The core recommendation.
- Rab Firewall Mountain (RRP $499.95) — Technical lightweight hardshell with excellent breathability.
- Rab Kangri GTX (RRP $899.95) — GORE-TEX Pro premium option.
See our full Best Hiking Jackets NZ guide.
Softshell Jackets
- Rab Borealis Jacket (RRP $229.95) — Best technical softshell for tramping. High stretch, wind resistant, excellent breathability.
- Rab Borealis Hoody (RRP $199.99) — Hooded version of the Borealis.
- Rab Vapour-Rise Alpine Light (RRP $369.95) — More technical active shell for demanding conditions.
- Spika Highpoint Softshell (RRP $109.99) — Hunting-focused softshell, practical for NZ bush use.
- Rab Windgather Hooded Jacket (RRP $189.95) — Lightweight windshell/softshell for active use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a softshell as a rain jacket in NZ?
No — not reliably. A softshell will handle light drizzle for a short period, but in sustained NZ rain it will wet through and leave you cold and damp. Always carry a proper waterproof rain jacket in your pack on any NZ tramping trip, regardless of what you're wearing as your outer layer.
Is a softshell warmer than a rain jacket?
Typically yes — softshell fabrics trap more warmth than thin hardshell fabrics. On cold dry days, a softshell is often warmer than a rain jacket. On wet days, a rain jacket keeps you dry and a wet softshell provides very little insulation. For a NZ tramping day with variable conditions, the rain jacket wins on practicality.
What's the difference between a softshell and a fleece?
A fleece is an insulating layer — excellent at trapping heat, but not wind or weather resistant. A softshell provides wind resistance and light weather resistance at the cost of some insulation. For NZ tramping, a fleece is the mid-layer and a softshell replaces or complements it as a more weather-resistant active outer. See our fleece and midlayers guide for more.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a rain jacket and a softshell jacket?
A rain jacket (hardshell) uses a waterproof membrane to block rain entirely — it's the right choice for sustained NZ rain. A softshell is a stretchy, wind-resistant, and water-resistant outer layer that handles light rain and wind but is not waterproof. For NZ tramping, a rain jacket is essential; a softshell is an additional option for dry but cold and windy conditions.
Do I need both a rain jacket and a softshell for NZ tramping?
Not necessarily. Most NZ trampers carry one waterproof shell and rely on layering underneath for warmth. A softshell is useful if you want more versatility for dry but cold conditions where a hardshell feels too restrictive. For budget trampers, a single quality hardshell covers most scenarios.
Is a softshell waterproof?
No — softshells are water-resistant (they handle light rain and spray) but not waterproof. In sustained NZ rain, a softshell will eventually soak through. Always carry a waterproof hardshell when tramping in NZ regardless of whether you also have a softshell.
When should I wear a softshell instead of a rain jacket?
Softshells excel in cold, dry, and windy conditions — ski touring, cold dry alpine days, or active tramping where you want more stretch and breathability than a hardshell provides. In any real NZ rain, switch to a hardshell.
Can I use a softshell as a mid layer under a rain jacket?
Yes — a softshell makes an excellent mid layer under a hardshell, adding warmth and wind resistance while the hardshell handles rain. This is a common and effective layering strategy for NZ alpine and cold-weather tramping.
Where can I buy rain jackets and softshells in NZ?
Dwights stocks hardshell rain jackets and softshell jackets for NZ tramping and outdoor use. Browse at /collections/rain-jackets.