---
type: "fabric"
name: "Softshell"
slug: "softshell"
fabric_family: "laminate_coated"
construction: "laminated"
subtype: "laminated"
typical_fibers:
  - "Polyester"
  - "Nylon"
weight_gsm: "200–400 g/m²"
price_tier: 3
url: "https://www.fabricatlas.com/fabrics/softshell"
updated: "2025-09-08T02:28:19.080157+00:00"
---

# Softshell

Softshell is a versatile, laminated fabric known for its comfort, breathability, and water resistance, making it ideal for outdoor and active wear.

- **Fabric Family**: Laminate Coated
- **Construction**: Laminated
- **Subtype**: laminated
- **Typical Fibers**: Polyester, Nylon
- **Weight**: 200–400 g/m²
- **Thickness**: 0.5–1.5 mm
- **Typical Width**: 150 cm
- **Price Tier**: $$$ (3 of 5)

## About Softshell

Softshell fabrics are typically constructed using a combination of polyester or nylon face fabrics laminated with a breathable membrane or coating. This construction allows for excellent stretch and flexibility while providing a barrier against wind and light rain. The inner layer is often brushed for added warmth and comfort against the skin, making softshells suitable for a variety of outdoor activities.

## Stretch Properties

- **Warp Stretch**: 10%
- **Weft Stretch**: 20%

## Performance Properties

- **Air Permeability**: 5 CFM
- **Hydrostatic Head**: 3000 mm
- **Spray Rating**: 80
- **Evaporative Resistance (Ret)**: 5
- **Thermal Resistance (Rct)**: 0.2
- **UPF Rating**: 30

## Appearance & Hand

- **Luster**: Semi Matte
- **Opacity**: Opaque
- **Surface Texture**: smooth
- **Hand & Drape**: Fluid

## Performance Features

- Moisture Wicking
- Windproof
- Breathable
- Lightweight

## Common Finishes

- DWR Durable Water Repellent
- Anti Static
- Anti Pilling

## Common Applications

- Jackets
- Pants
- Activewear
- Outdoor Gear
- Casual Wear

## Common Uses in Detail

### Outdoor Jackets & Pants

Its laminated construction blocks wind and light rain while remaining breathable, making it a top choice for hiking and trail jackets and pants. The soft inner surface adds comfort during high-output activities where rigid waterproof shells would feel restrictive.

### Activewear & Training Gear

Fitted running tights, training hoodies, and gym tops benefit from its four-way stretch and moisture-managing properties. The fabric moves naturally with the body, wicks sweat away from the skin, and dries quickly, keeping athletes comfortable during intense workouts.

### Casual Everyday Wear

Beyond performance use, its clean drape and refined surface texture suit casual jackets and everyday outerwear. The fabric offers enough weather resistance for light urban conditions while remaining comfortable and stylish enough for commuting, travel, and daily casual wear.

## Care Instructions

Machine wash cold with similar colors. Do not bleach. Tumble dry on low heat. Iron on low setting if necessary.

- Machine Wash 30
- Do Not Bleach
- Tumble Dry Low
- Iron Low

## Additional Information

Softshell fabrics are particularly popular in the outdoor apparel market due to their balance of comfort and protection. They are often used in layering systems for cold weather activities.

- **Regional Names**: Softshell, Windstopper (Gore-Tex)
- **Sourcing Regions**: China, Vietnam, Bangladesh, Turkey
- **Testing Standards**: AATCC 22 (Water Repellency), ISO 811 (Water Resistance), ISO 12945 (Pilling), ISO 11092 (Breathability)

## Fibers in This Fabric

- [Nylon](https://www.fabricatlas.com/fibers/nylon.md)
- [Polyester](https://www.fabricatlas.com/fibers/polyester.md)

## Similar Fabrics

- [Lining Taffeta](https://www.fabricatlas.com/fabrics/lining-taffeta.md) — Laminate Coated
- [Shade Cloth](https://www.fabricatlas.com/fabrics/shade-cloth.md) — Laminate Coated
- [Bonded Fabric](https://www.fabricatlas.com/fabrics/bonded-fabric.md) — Laminate Coated
- [Conveyor Base Fabric](https://www.fabricatlas.com/fabrics/conveyor-base-fabric.md) — Laminate Coated
- [Felt-Backed Fabric](https://www.fabricatlas.com/fabrics/felt-backed-fabric.md) — Laminate Coated

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*Source: [Fabric Atlas](https://www.fabricatlas.com/fabrics/softshell) — HTML version of this page.*