In the past, you needed at least three layers to arm yourself against the adversities of winter. An insulating mid-layer was placed over the sweat-wicking vest to prevent the body from losing heat too quickly. The whole system then had to be protected from the outside against wind and rain with a hard shell. With the invention of the softshell, the two outer layers merged into one. But that's not all: softshell textiles are usually not only much more comfortable and form-fitting than the often bulky rain or wind jackets, they are also generally much more breathable and transport more moisture away from the body. This is essential, especially in winter, as the body can otherwise quickly lose its warmth. However, softshell is more of a generic term and does not correspond to an exact definition of the material.
Three layers against water and wind
The "soft shells" are available in a wide variety of designs: particularly light or windproof, highly insulating or as water-repellent as possible. However, most softshell materials have one thing in common: they almost always have a three-layer construction. The robust outer material is usually water-repellent and protects the material from abrasion. It is designed to absorb particularly little moisture and is therefore impregnated with a DWR (Durable Water Repellent) treatment. On the inside, a more or less thick, insulating layer prevents the body from losing heat. And in between? The middle layer gives the softshell material its special properties. Particularly windproof, breathable or water-repellent. However, the thickness of the insulating layer is crucial in winter. Thinner jackets are most suitable for milder days or high intensities. Thick softshells are used on cold days or for less intensive rides.
Softshell jackets can be used in a variety of ways
However, the range of uses for a softshell jacket can be greatly extended by combining it with the right underwear, for example. Thick or thin, depending on the weather. As versatile as modern softshell clothing may be, there is one thing it is unfortunately not: truly waterproof. In a downpour, none of the eight test models can replace a classic rain jacket. But as long as the temperatures are below zero and the rain is falling in the form of snow, these eight multi-talents will keep you well equipped for your winter tour.
Here are the test results of the eight softshell jackets:
ENDURA Equipe Thermo Jacket
Conclusion Zip at the collar is clearly noticeable; cut in the chest area and armholes for heavier riders; water-repellent at the front and rear; good vapour permeability. BIKE judgement²
:
Very good
Price 165 Euro
Info www.endurasport.com
Weight¹ 445 grammes
Sizes S-XXL
Country of manufacture China
GONSO Free
Conclusion Very casual cut; rear lifts when the back pockets are loaded; high tendency to flutter; pockets positioned to the side; waistband very narrow and inflexible; completely water-repellent. BIKE judgement²
:
Good
Price 130 Euro
Info www.gonso.de
Weight¹ 475 grammes
Sizes S-XXXL
Country of manufacture not specified
GORE BIKE WEAR Oxygen WS SO Jacket
Conclusion Relatively casual cut for Gore; bulges out a little at the front; lifts slightly at the rear; collar cut very wide; reference for visibility; water-repellent all round. BIKE judgement²
:
Very good
Price 220 Euro
Info www.gorebikewear.de
Weight¹ 470 grammes
Sizes S-XXL
Country of manufacture Turkey
LÖFFLER Men's Bike Zip-Off Jacket WS
Conclusion Casual to body-hugging fit; rear lifts up; bulges slightly at the front; sleeves can be zipped off; large rear pocket with side access; highly water-repellent. BIKE judgement²
:
: Very good
Price 200 Euro
Info www.loeffler.at
Weight¹ 400 grammes
Sizes 46-60
Country of manufacture Austria
MAVIC Cosmic Wind Jacket
Conclusion Race-orientated, close-fitting cut; rear lifts when loaded, wide cuffs; very good vapour permeability; typical Mavic front zip, but poorer moisture protection. BIKE judgement²
:
Very good
Price 250 Euro
Info www.mavic.com
Weight¹ 360 grammes
Sizes S-XXL
Country of manufacture Turkey
PEARL IZUMI Elite Softshell Jacket
Conclusion Casual cut; tight, rigid collar; lifts a little at the rear when loaded; open cuffs; sluggish front zip is the biggest drawback; water-repellent all round. BIKE judgement²
: Very good
Price 150 Euro
Info www.paul-lange.de
Weight¹ 465 grammes
Sizes S-XXL
Country of manufacture Vietnam
SCOTT AS Plus Premium Jacket
Conclusion Close-fitting cut, well adapted to your posture on the bike; very comfortable cuffs; lots of reflective material for good visibility on the road; good all-round protection against wet conditions. BIKE judgement²
:
Very good
Price 250 Euro
Info www.scottsports.com
Weight¹ 560 grammes
Sizes S-XXL
Country of manufacture Lithuania
VAUDE Me Kuro Softshell Jacket II
Conclusion Casual cut; sleeves for strong arms; very wide collar; bulges a little at the front; great features with clever back pocket and lots of reflective material; good all-round protection against rain. BIKE judgement²
:
Very good
Price 160 Euro
Info www.vaude.com
Weight¹ 535 grammes
Sizes S-XXL
Country of manufacture Vietnam
¹BIKE measurement, ²The BIKE judgement is independent of price, BIKE judgements: super, very good, good, satisfactory, with weaknesses, unsatisfactory.
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