Best Women's Softshell Jackets

Updated October 2020
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BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and all opinions about the products are our own. Read more  
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We buy all products with our own funds, and we never accept free products from manufacturers.Read more 
Bottom Line
Pros
Cons
Best of the Best
Diamond Candy Softshell Hiking Coat
Diamond Candy
Softshell Hiking Coat
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Bottom Line

Breathes easy in hot and cold temperatures, and tested around the world for performance purposes.

Pros

A very climate-friendly option, this jacket functions well for keeping you cool and warm when needed. Great for layering. As flattering as this jacket is, it performs even better when in action.

Cons

Customers note the sleeves could be a bit roomier and the zipper could be more efficient.

Best Bang for the Buck
Kirkland Water-Repellent Wind Resistant Softshell Jacket
Kirkland
Water-Repellent Wind Resistant Softshell Jacket
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Bottom Line

Cozy, comfy, and runs a tad large to create room for light layers so you can maintain a comfortable temperature in cold weather.

Pros

Adds a pop of color to your winter wardrobe. Effectively blocks out wind, cold air and more. A versatile fit that flatters several body types. We love the brand's dedication to overall quality and focus on even small elements such as zippers and stitching.

Cons

Some customers complain that the hood is too small and unable to fit over a beanie.

Columbia Kruser Ridge(TM) Softshell Jacket
Columbia
Kruser Ridge(TM) Softshell Jacket
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Bottom Line

A figure-flattering jacket that resists water, maintains warmth and is designed by a revered brand that understands weather well.

Pros

Functions both as active wear and is even structured well enough to wear to work for some. Customers love the fit and for a variety of sizes. Works well on its own in cold, windy conditions without having to bulk up underneath.

Cons

A perfect jacket for lightweight workouts in the fall and winter, but may be a bit to warm for full endurance sports.

Wantdo Outdoor Front-Zip Windproof Softshell Jacket
Wantdo
Outdoor Front-Zip Windproof Softshell Jacket
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Bottom Line

With a fabric that conforms, this jacket is a favorite for all sizes.

Pros

Comes in multiple colors and fits, this jacket is a favorite for those who live in moderate to cold climates. We love the microfleece lining that isn't' available in other similar counterparts. Plenty of room in terms of fit, and easy to throw a sweatshirt under.

Cons

Runs rather large for most but is easy to layer with most sizes.

Charles River Apparel Softshell Jacket
Charles River Apparel
Softshell Jacket
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Bottom Line

Fitting for yoga and similar activities that require flexibility and temperature controlled fabric.

Pros

A border-line windbreakers, this jacket is lightweight and great for temperate climates. Holds up well in rainy weather. Fits curvy figures quite well. While not the best choice for extreme climates, this jacket does function well for day to day use.

Cons

A bit thin in terms of the fabric, which may not hold up well in cold weather.

HOW WE TESTED

We recommend these products based on an intensive research process that's designed to cut through the noise and find the top products in this space. Guided by experts, we spend hours looking into the factors that matter, to bring you these selections.

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30
Models
Considered
60
Consumers
Consulted
12
Hours
Researched
Category cover

Softshell jackets are the perfect layer for moderate temperatures or as a base layer during snowsports. Most softshells are wind-resistant but not waterproof so if you’re heading out in bad weather you’ll probably want to add a rain jacket on top. They’re available in all sorts of colors and shell shapes, from body-hugging to bulky. If you already have a hardshell jacket for being in the snow, then sometimes it’s best to get a softshell of the same brand – typically they’re designed to layer together.

Other Products We Considered
The BestReviews editorial team researches hundreds of products based on consumer reviews, brand quality, and value. We then choose a shorter list for in-depth research and testing before finalizing our top picks. These are the products we considered that ultimately didn't make our top 5.
Little Donkey Andy
Women's Softshell Jacket Ski Jacket with Removable Hood
Marmot
Women's Tempo Softshell Jacket
Little Donkey Andy
Women's Sanctuary Softshell Jacket
Columbia
Women's Kruser Ridge II Softshell Jacket
The North Face
Women’s Apex Bionic 2 DWR Softshell Jacket
Port Authority
Women's Core Soft Shell Jacket
Ariat
Women’s New Team Softshell Jacket
CAMEL CROWN
Womens Fleece Lined Softshell Hooded Jacket
BALEAF
Women's Softshell Outdoor Jacket
REYSHIONWA
Women's Softshell Jacket
See more
Our Top Picks
Diamond Candy
Best of the Best
Diamond Candy
Softshell Hiking Coat
Bottom Line
Breathes easy in hot and cold temperatures, and tested around the world for performance purposes.
Shop Now
Kirkland
Best Bang for the Buck
Kirkland
Water-Repellent Wind Resistant Softshell Jacket
Bottom Line
Cozy, comfy, and runs a tad large to create room for light layers so you can maintain a comfortable temperature in cold weather.
Shop Now
Columbia
Top Pick
Columbia
Kruser Ridge(TM) Softshell Jacket
Bottom Line
A figure-flattering jacket that resists water, maintains warmth and is designed by a revered brand that understands weather well.
Shop Now
Wantdo
Top Pick
Wantdo
Outdoor Front-Zip Windproof Softshell Jacket
Bottom Line
With a fabric that conforms, this jacket is a favorite for all sizes.
Shop Now
Charles River Apparel
Top Pick
Charles River Apparel
Softshell Jacket
Bottom Line
Fitting for yoga and similar activities that require flexibility and temperature controlled fabric.
Shop Now

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