Summer Soft Shell Round-Up

Summer Soft Shell Round-Up

Soft shell for summer? Yes, here's a selection of eight top soft shell tops that we think are better suited to warmer conditions ranging from hooded, full-on mountain shells through to more minimal garments that work well for faster-moving stuff like running, biking and light hiking.

None of them are full membrane soft shells made completely from a fabric like Gore Windstopper or Polartec PowerShield because we reckon non-membrane and mixed-up hybrid soft shells work better in hot conditions where breathability is as important as weather protection.

Most of them are made from what's known as double-weave fabrics - closely woven, often stretch polyamide or polyester fabrics which have a different texture inside to the outside to help moisture move outwards.

Why Soft Shell?

One last thought, you might not think you need a soft shell, but they're brilliant on days when you need more wind protection and water than you'd get with a microfleece, but more breathability than with a fulll wind or water-proof shell. And the stretch built into many of these tops makes them brilliant for upper body mobility when climbing or scrambling.

And because they all have subtly different designs and characteristics, you can choose one to suit your personal priorities. Hoods are great for general mountain use, for example, but tend to flap around if you're running or biking. Pull-ons are lighter, but offer less venting and so.

Anyway, on with the show, here are nine of our favourite summer-friendly soft shells in a nutshell...