Imagine this: you’re deep in the woods, the air is crisp, and you’re tracking your quarry. But then, the wind picks up, or a light rain starts to fall. Suddenly, your current jacket feels too warm, or worse, it soaks through. Choosing the right hunting softshell jacket can make the difference between a successful hunt and a miserable day. It’s a common problem for hunters – so many jackets promise the world, but which one actually delivers when you need it most?
Finding that perfect balance of warmth, breathability, and weather protection is tricky. You want something that moves with you, not against you, and keeps you comfortable through changing conditions. That’s why we’re diving deep into the world of hunting softshell jackets. In this post, we’ll break down what makes a great softshell for the field.
By the end of this read, you’ll understand the key features to look for, how to match a jacket to your hunting style, and what to avoid. Get ready to discover how to pick a softshell that becomes your trusted hunting partner, keeping you focused on the hunt, not on your gear.
Our Top 5 Hunting Softshell Jacket Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Hunting Softshell Jacket Detailed Reviews
1. TACVASEN Men Winter Waterproof Snowboard Softshell Parka Jacket Tactical Hoodie Rain Jackets Fleece Lined Mutil-pockets Ski Coats Army Green L
Rating: 8.9/10
Conquer the cold and stay dry with the TACVASEN Men Winter Waterproof Snowboard Softshell Parka. This versatile jacket is built to keep you warm and protected, whether you’re hitting the slopes or just braving a chilly day. Its army green color and tactical design make it a stylish and functional choice for any adventure.
What We Like:
- The soft fleece lining is super warm and cozy, making it perfect for winter.
- It’s lightweight and breathable, so you won’t feel weighed down.
- The waterproof and windproof material keeps rain and wind out, so you stay dry and comfortable.
- Lots of pockets! You can stash your phone, keys, wallet, and more.
- Adjustable hood, waist, and cuffs help you seal out the cold.
- It even has a special hole for your headphones.
What Could Be Improved:
- The forearm pocket might be a little small for larger phones.
- While it’s water-repellent, heavy, continuous rain might eventually soak through.
This jacket is a fantastic option for anyone who needs reliable warmth and protection. It’s a great value for its features and performance.
2. NAVEKULL Silent Hunting Clothes for Men Soft Shell Outdoor Jacket Water Resistant Windproof Camo Fleece Hooded Tactical Quiet Coat Military Army Lightweight Training Tree Camouflage Hiking Jackets
Rating: 8.5/10
The NAVEKULL Silent Hunting Clothes for Men Soft Shell Outdoor Jacket is built for serious outdoor enthusiasts. This jacket is designed to keep you warm, dry, and hidden in the wilderness. Its soft shell material is comfortable and quiet, which is essential for hunting. The unique camouflage pattern helps you blend into your surroundings, whether you’re in the mountains or the woods. This jacket is a great option for anyone who loves spending time outdoors.
What We Like:
- The jacket is made from a soft and comfortable material that won’t make noise.
- It’s water-resistant, so you’ll stay dry in light rain or snow.
- The fleece lining keeps you warm by trapping body heat.
- The high-density fabric blocks out cold wind, acting as a great windbreak.
- It features a unique camouflage pattern perfect for blending in.
- The hood can be rolled up to be more compact.
- A two-way zipper makes it easy to open and close.
- There are plenty of pockets to store your hunting gear.
- Underarm vent zippers help you cool down when you’re active.
- Adjustable wrist cuffs with hook and loop closures provide a snug fit.
- Two hook and loop patch panels on the arms let you add patches.
- It’s versatile and suitable for many activities like hunting, hiking, camping, and more.
What Could Be Improved:
- The water resistance might not be enough for heavy rain.
- The jacket might be too warm for milder weather conditions.
This NAVEKULL jacket offers excellent protection and comfort for all your outdoor adventures. It’s a reliable choice for staying hidden and protected in various environments.
3. ReFire Gear Men’s Soft Shell Military Tactical Jacket Outdoor Camouflage Hunting Fleece Hooded Coat
Rating: 9.1/10
The ReFire Gear Men’s Soft Shell Military Tactical Jacket is a super versatile coat designed for all your outdoor adventures, work, or just hanging out. It comes in different camouflage patterns to help you blend in, plus solid colors to fit any situation. This jacket is built to keep you comfortable and protected no matter what the weather throws at you.
What We Like:
- It’s waterproof and windproof, so you stay dry and warm even in bad weather.
- The softshell fabric and warm fleece lining make it comfortable and cozy.
- The military tactical design includes a big hood, lots of pockets for your gear, and vents under the arms to stay cool.
- Adjustable cuffs and a drawstring waist and hood let you get a perfect fit.
- You can add your own morale patches to the large arm patches.
- It’s great for many activities like hunting, hiking, camping, and even just for everyday wear in fall, winter, and spring.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users found the sizing ran a little small, so ordering a size up might be a good idea.
- While it’s windproof, very extreme cold might require additional layers underneath for extra warmth.
This ReFire Gear jacket is a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable and comfortable coat for outdoor fun or everyday use. It offers good protection and plenty of features for its price.
4. RSZGSWS Men’s Military Tactical Jackets Camouflage Softshell Fleece Fall Windbreaker Waterproof Outdoor Hooded Rain Coats
Rating: 8.8/10
Conquer any adventure with the RSZGSWS Men’s Military Tactical Jacket. This versatile jacket is built for the outdoors, offering protection from wind and rain. It’s a great choice for anyone who enjoys camping, hunting, or just needs a reliable coat for chilly or wet weather.
What We Like:
- Waterproof and windproof: Keeps you dry and protected from the elements.
- Softshell and fleece lining: Provides warmth and comfort, making it suitable for cooler weather.
- Hooded design: Offers extra protection for your head and face.
- Durable: Made to withstand outdoor activities.
- Versatile: Can be used for various outdoor sports like hiking, hunting, and skiing.
- Tactical style: Features a rugged, military-inspired look.
What Could Be Improved:
- Limited color options: The camouflage pattern might not appeal to everyone.
- Sizing can be tricky: It’s important to check the size chart carefully.
- Bulkier than some: While warm, it might not be as lightweight as some other raincoats.
This jacket is a solid option for staying comfortable and protected outdoors. It offers good value for its features and durability.
5. WINRKERY Men’s Softshell Jacket Fleece Windproof Waterproof Thermal Tactical Coat Outdoor Jacket Hiking Camping
Rating: 8.9/10
Conquer any weather with the WINRKERY Men’s Softshell Jacket. This rugged yet comfortable coat is designed for all your outdoor adventures, from chilly hikes to demanding work. Its brown camouflage pattern adds a touch of tactical style, making it a versatile addition to your wardrobe.
What We Like:
- Keeps you warm and dry with its fleece lining and water-repellent shell.
- Lots of pockets make it easy to carry your phone, wallet, and other gear.
- Adjustable features like the hood and cuffs help block wind and rain.
- Breathable material and underarm vents prevent overheating during activity.
- Works great for hiking, camping, work, or just everyday wear.
What Could Be Improved:
- The XX-Large size might not fit everyone perfectly, so check the sizing chart.
This jacket offers excellent protection and comfort for a wide range of activities. It’s a reliable choice for anyone who loves the outdoors.
Your Guide to the Best Hunting Softshell Jacket
Hunting requires gear that works as hard as you do. A good softshell jacket is a hunter’s best friend. It keeps you comfortable and protected in changing weather. Let’s explore what makes a great hunting softshell jacket.
Key Features to Look For
1. Weather Protection
A good softshell jacket should shield you from wind and light rain. Look for jackets with a DWR (Durable Water Repellent) finish. This coating makes water bead up and roll off the fabric. Some jackets also have a windproof membrane. This is great for staying warm on breezy days.
2. Breathability
When you’re moving, you sweat. A breathable jacket lets moisture escape. This keeps you from getting clammy and cold. Look for jackets with pit zips. These are zippers under your arms. You can open them for extra ventilation.
3. Durability and Quietness
Hunting often means moving through brush. Your jacket needs to be tough. Look for strong stitching and reinforced areas. It also needs to be quiet. Rough fabrics can make noise when you move. This can scare away game. Soft, brushed fabrics are usually quieter.
4. Fit and Comfort
The jacket should fit well. It shouldn’t be too tight or too loose. You need room to move your arms. It should also be comfortable against your skin. Some jackets have soft linings for extra comfort.
5. Pockets and Storage
You need places to keep your gear. Look for jackets with plenty of pockets. Handwarmer pockets are a must. Chest pockets are good for calls or a GPS. Some jackets have large internal pockets.
6. Camouflage Patterns
For hunting, camouflage is important. It helps you blend in with your surroundings. Choose a pattern that matches the environment where you hunt. Different patterns work better in forests versus open fields.
Important Materials
Softshell jackets are usually made from a blend of synthetic materials. Common materials include polyester and nylon. These fabrics are strong and dry quickly. They often have a stretchy quality, which is great for movement. Some jackets have a fleece lining. This adds warmth and comfort.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Improving Quality
- High-quality DWR coating: A good coating lasts longer and repels water better.
- Windproof membrane: This adds a significant layer of protection against wind.
- Reinforced seams and stress points: These make the jacket more durable.
- Soft, brushed interior: This improves comfort and reduces noise.
Reducing Quality
- Cheap zippers: Zippers can break easily if they are not well-made.
- Flimsy fabric: Thin materials tear and wear out faster.
- Poor stitching: Loose or weak stitching can cause seams to separate.
- Lack of DWR: Without this, the jacket won’t offer much protection from light rain.
User Experience and Use Cases
A hunting softshell jacket is versatile. Hunters use them for everything from early morning stalks to afternoon sits. They are great for archery season when quiet movement is key. They also work well for bird hunting or scouting new areas. Many hunters layer them with a warmer jacket or vest when it’s colder.
The comfort and freedom of movement make a big difference. You can draw a bow or swing a rifle without feeling restricted. The breathability helps you stay dry even during strenuous activity. The quiet fabric ensures you don’t alert your quarry.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is a softshell jacket?
A: A softshell jacket is a type of outerwear that balances breathability, water resistance, and wind resistance. It’s softer and more comfortable than a hardshell jacket.
Q: Are softshell jackets good for hunting?
A: Yes, they are excellent for hunting. They offer comfort, mobility, and protection from the elements without being too bulky.
Q: What is DWR?
A: DWR stands for Durable Water Repellent. It’s a coating applied to fabrics that makes water bead up and roll off.
Q: Do I need a waterproof jacket for hunting?
A: While some hunters prefer fully waterproof jackets, a water-resistant softshell is often enough for light rain. For heavy rain, you might need a hardshell jacket.
Q: How do I care for my softshell jacket?
A: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Generally, wash in cool water with a mild detergent and avoid fabric softener. Reapply DWR treatment as needed.
Q: Can I wear a softshell jacket in cold weather?
A: Yes, you can layer a softshell jacket over a base layer and a warm mid-layer for cold weather. It acts as a great outer shell.
Q: What is the difference between a softshell and a hardshell jacket?
A: Hardshell jackets are fully waterproof and windproof but less breathable. Softshell jackets are more breathable and flexible but offer less protection from heavy rain.
Q: How important is camouflage for a hunting softshell?
A: Camouflage is very important for hunting. It helps you blend into your surroundings to avoid being seen by game.
Q: Can I use a softshell jacket for other outdoor activities?
A: Absolutely! Softshell jackets are great for hiking, camping, and general outdoor use due to their comfort and versatility.
Q: How do I choose the right size?
A: Try the jacket on if possible. Make sure you can move your arms freely and layer clothing underneath without it feeling tight.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
My name is Gareth Lewis, and I’m the voice behind CampingGuider.com.. I created this space to share my passion for camping and the great outdoors. With years of experience and countless adventures under my belt, I aim to inspire and guide fellow enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a curious beginner, my goal is to provide you with practical tips, honest reviews, and insights to help you make the most out of your outdoor escapades. Join me on this journey, and let’s explore the beauty of nature together!