Soft Shell

The functions of the layers in softshell

In general, softshell consists of three layers, each of which has its own function. The inner layer, which is in direct contact with the skin or upper clothing, is usually made of cotton or wool and is intended to keep the wearer's skin warm and dry. The middle layer works as thermal insulation. Originally, wool was used for this layer, but nowadays, it is more common to use fleece. The outermost layer is the "shell" of the fabric's name. This "shield", often with a special coating, is intended to protect the wearer from water and wind.

As the name suggests, softshell can be seen as the counterpart to hardshell. These fabrics have similar properties, but hardshell is completely waterproof and therefore better suited to the most extreme conditions. On the other hand, softshell is much more comfortable because it is made of more flexible materials that can easily move with the wearer. Additionally, softshell is warmer. Hardshell is therefore more often used to make protective clothing for a cold, wet environment. Softshell, on the other hand, is the ideal material for winter clothing that needs to feel comfortable, such as an everyday jacket or a jacket for an active winter sports vacation.

One great advantage of softshell is that the fabric breathes. This is not always the case with fabrics designed to keep someone warm. Because this material breathes, perspiration evaporates, allowing the wearer to feel fresh while staying warm. Ultimately, this is why clothing made of this fabric is worn: everything you don't want to deal with, such as rain and wind, will not penetrate the jacket. At the same time, the material keeps body heat inside the winter jacket while it flexes comfortably.

More layers for warmth and comfort

The production of softshell was essentially inspired by the fact that people wear multiple layers of clothing in the winter months. A shirt with a warm sweater on top and a good winter jacket, plus a rain jacket during a shower, protects better against the cold than just one of those layers. If multiple clothing layers are woven into one fabric, the wearer will likely feel more comfortable. In addition, manufacturers can ensure that each layer does exactly what is expected of it. This way, those who wear softshell clothing can fully benefit from all the protective properties of the materials used.

Softshell is one of the newer types of fabrics in our range. Around the turn of the century, the fabric was developed at the request of outdoor enthusiasts who were looking for the warmth that fleece provides, but with water-repellent properties. Before the fabric was invented, winter sports enthusiasts relied on the 60/40 parka, which consists of 60 percent cotton and 40 percent nylon. However, because of the composition of softshell, perspiration dries quickly. Additionally, the outer layer of the fabric is coated with a material that improves its water-repellent property in most cases.

Although it is not only winter sports enthusiasts who have embraced the softshell jacket. Running on a cold day, going grocery shopping, and cycling to work or school are all much more enjoyable with a jacket made of this material. As regards comfort, it is definitely a bonus that the fabric is lightweight and therefore does not weigh down the person wearing it. Although softshell is almost always used for jackets, the material is certainly also suitable for making pants. Ski pants, for example, are often made of the fabric. It is also suitable for bags and backpacks.

Making Softshell Clothing

When making clothing from softshell, we strongly advise against using pins to secure the various pattern pieces. The holes created by pinning are not always visible afterwards, but they do cause the fabric to lose some or all of its water-repellent properties. Fabric clips or even tape are better options. A microtex needle and strong thread are highly recommended when sewing softshell. Use the longest stitch length available to create as few stitches as possible. In most cases, finishing with trimmings is not necessary because softshell hardly frays.

Because the waterproof property of the fabric often comes from the coating, it is advisable not to wash the fabric too often. If necessary, for example, if the fabric no longer smells so pleasant, softshell can be machine washed at 30 degrees, but do not use fabric softener. For small stains, it is often better to clean the fabric with lukewarm water by hand. The fabric can be put in the dryer, but to maintain its water-repellent properties, it is better to let it air dry. There are sprays available that can be used to recoat softshell that has been washed frequently.

Buying Softshell Online

Looking for a sturdy, comfortable fabric for a warm winter jacket? Then you can't really go wrong with softshell. At Quality Textiles, we offer various types of the fabric. Although the material is popular with winter sports enthusiasts, it is also certainly possible to use it as a normal clothing fabric. For example, the fabric is ideal for making pants to wear outdoors during winter. If you're looking for clothing to wear indoors during the coldest months of the year, then take a look at our range of high-quality fleece and jogging fabrics.