A softshell jacket fills the gap between a fleece and a hardshell — more weather-resistant than fleece, more breathable than a waterproof shell, and comfortable enough to wear as your primary layer on most NZ trail days. On high-output days where a hardshell would leave you sweating but a fleece offers too little wind protection, a softshell is the right tool.
Our softshell range is led by Rab — technical outdoor clothing with serious credentials in variable mountain conditions. Rab softshells use wind-resistant outer fabrics, DWR water repellency, and stretch constructions that move with you on technical terrain.
When to Choose a Softshell
- High-output activities in cool, dry conditions: Trail running, scrambling, fast-paced day walks — a softshell breathes better than a hardshell and won't leave you overheating on climbs.
- Shoulder seasons: Autumn and spring days where light wind and occasional drizzle are the main hazards, not sustained heavy rain.
- As a mid-layer with a hardshell over: Some softshells work well as a warm, stretchy mid-layer under a waterproof shell in cold conditions.
When not to choose a softshell: For sustained NZ rain or exposed alpine conditions where waterproofing is non-negotiable, a hardshell waterproof jacket is the right choice. Softshells are water-resistant, not waterproof — there's a meaningful difference in serious conditions.
What to Look For
- Stretch fabric: Four-way stretch panels allow unrestricted movement on scrambles and steep terrain. More important for technical use than casual walking.
- DWR treatment: Durable Water Repellent coating causes light rain and drizzle to bead off the surface. Reproof annually with a spray-on DWR treatment when water stops beading cleanly.
- Wind resistance: The main weather protection advantage of a softshell over fleece. Look for a tight face fabric that blocks wind without sacrificing breathability.
- Fit: Softshells should fit close enough to layer cleanly under a hardshell if needed, with enough room through the shoulders and chest for unrestricted movement.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between a softshell and a hardshell jacket?
A hardshell jacket has a waterproof-breathable membrane (such as GORE-TEX) and is fully waterproof. A softshell uses a stretch, wind-resistant fabric with a DWR coating — it's water-resistant for light rain and drizzle, but not waterproof in sustained rainfall. Softshells are more breathable and comfortable for active use; hardshells are non-negotiable in serious NZ conditions. For most NZ multi-day tramping, a hardshell is the core investment — a softshell is a complement for drier, high-output days.
Can I use a softshell jacket for NZ tramping?
Yes — on the right days. A softshell is an excellent choice for active day walks, trail running, and high-output activity in cool, dry conditions where a hardshell would feel restrictive. For multi-day tramping or any route with a serious chance of sustained rain, always carry your hardshell as well. In NZ, weather changes quickly — a softshell alone is not enough insurance for an overnight trip.
Is a softshell jacket warm enough for NZ winters?
A softshell provides wind resistance and light insulation — it's not designed as a standalone cold-weather jacket. For NZ winter conditions, layer a merino or synthetic base layer, fleece or insulated mid-layer, and use the softshell as an active outer layer in dry conditions. In genuinely cold or exposed alpine conditions, swap the softshell for a waterproof hardshell and carry an insulated jacket as your mid-layer.
How do I care for a softshell jacket?
Machine wash on a gentle cycle with a technical wash detergent — avoid fabric softener, which clogs the DWR treatment and reduces water repellency. Tumble dry on low or hang to dry. To reactivate the DWR coating, tumble dry on low for 20 minutes after washing — heat reactivates the DWR. When water stops beading cleanly on the surface, reproof with a spray-on DWR product. Store clean and dry.
What Rab softshell jackets does Dwights stock?
Dwights stocks the Rab softshell range — technical outdoor softshells built for active use in variable mountain conditions. Rab's softshells feature stretch construction, wind-resistant face fabrics, and DWR treatments suited to NZ's unpredictable weather. Browse the collection below to compare options across the range.