Gb shell what kind of fabric. Care of technological materials

In order for professional or amateur active sports or just a comfortable pastime in nature, fresh air, even if we are talking about bad weather, be it snow, cold piercing wind, drizzling rain, bring pleasure, the question arises about the right choice of high-quality outerwear, the so-called equipment It can be sports or walking. Often among the wide range of textile industry products you can find softshell suits. What are they? What weather are they good in? What are they made of? Softshell... What is it? Let's try to find answers to the questions posed above.

Softshell... What is this term and where did it come from?

The revolutionary idea of ​​replacing the three-layer clothing scheme with a lighter version, but with all the performance characteristics, based on fleece and Pertex fabric, was proposed by Buffalo partners. Although such clothing remained resistant to rain and strong winds, it nevertheless became popular among climbers. Actually, the term “softshell” for its classic version of clothing was introduced into use by the company Patagonia, which produces environmentally friendly clothes and sports equipment. Literally translated from English, the term means “soft layer,” but conceptually it implies the same minimization of the layers of clothing a person needs in the cold season. Modern production technology or innovative fabric? Softshell - what is it?

Softshell is a practical, soft-touch multi-layer material. It is based on synthetic fibers (polyurethane, polyamide, lycra, polyester, cordura), but the trend is to mix synthetics with natural fibers. It is produced by applying a durable, wear-resistant outer (front) layer to a softer, inner (back) layer that protects against heat loss. Between them there is a membrane layer. The thicker the fleece layer, the warmer the product. The softness of the underside is given by fine-fiber microfiber, which, due to internal thermoregulation and heat coming from the human body, remains dry even during intense physical activity. In this case, excess moisture formed will be removed outside. Therefore, from a practical point of view, it is more advisable to wear softshell items on a naked body.

Quality characteristics of the softshell

Among the main properties of a material that is fairly light in weight and compact when folded, the following are of paramount importance:

Waterproof (thanks to special impregnation, softshell fabric is able to repel moisture, but it will not provide 100% protection from rain);

Dirt-repellent properties;

Protection from wind gusts (this is characterized by the CFM indicator: the lower it is, the higher the protection from wind);

High breathability, no “steam effect” (since it is a breathable membrane material);

Good thermal insulation;

Elasticity (stretch softshell clothing does not restrict movement, effectively fits the human body, and fits the figure).

Classification of softshell products by material and production technology

Depending on the production technology, quality and quantity of layers, softshell products are divided into two- and three-layer ones. Three-layer: elastic top - membrane - fleece. Two-layer - fleece and top (without membrane): thermal underwear - insulation; thermal underwear - wind protection, insulation - wind protection. They are more popular. Moisture-resistant and characteristic of heavy products, the absence of a membrane or its presence with wind protection - these are light softshells.

Three-layer products are called Insulated Soft Shell. Polyester or polyamide stretch, silicone impregnation, is Non-insulated Soft Shell. Combining the properties of the two types listed above - Hybrid products.

Softshell membrane products

For membrane softshell products, the top facing layer can be:

Based on a porous, non-porous and combined membrane that protects against moisture; all products are windproof; due to the lower price category, the classic non-porous base (with or without seam sealing) has become very popular;

Based on porous or non-porous membranes that protect from wind; porous - wear-resistant, despite high stretch, breathable and waterproof properties, characterized by short-lived moisture protection; poreless - not completely purged;

Based on pore membranes, partially (up to 98%) protecting from wind speeds not exceeding 50 km/h.

The inner back layer consists of:

Thin fleece (classic);

Too thin moisture-wicking layer (light);

Long pile warm fleece (highloft).

Membraneless softshell products

Membrane-free softshell products are based on:

Dense, heavy, which are characterized by slight airflow, high thermal insulation, are suitable for moderately low temperature conditions, but do not fit well;

Lightweight, warm stretch materials, including those with fine moisture-wicking impregnation, which are wear-resistant, and in cold, windless conditions with high physical activity are fully justified.

Purpose of the softshell

The future purpose and level of physical activity of a person will directly influence the choice of one or another type of softshell clothing. Customer reviews confirm that in membrane-free products they feel very comfortable in dry weather, otherwise they may require additional wind and moisture protection in the form of windbreakers. In the off-season in urban conditions, a raincoat or leather jacket can be replaced by membrane windproof jackets, which can become indispensable when hiking, doing, for example, Nordic walking or light jogging. For winter, it is better to purchase pore versions of softshell items. Partial windproof membrane complete with a lightweight 3-layer jacket - equipment for people with a high level of physical activity (cross-country skiing, ski slopes, etc.).

In what weather is a softshell useful?

So, the choice was made in favor of softshell clothing. What air temperature is it designed for? As a rule, a person wearing a softshell product will feel comfortable at moderate temperatures. We are talking about 5-10 ºС below zero. Those who love going out into nature will not be hindered by wind, rain or snow, unless we are talking about hurricanes and downpours. In harsh weather conditions, a softshell can be an excellent addition to fleece clothing and thermal underwear.

Softshell products

At a rapid pace, practical and comfortable outerwear, sweatshirts, gloves, even shoes and sleeping bags made of softshell material are conquering the textile market. All these things are practical, durable, applicable even in urban environments, do not rustle while walking, and help save the family budget.

To a greater extent, it is the softshell jacket that is associated with products made from the material described above. What is this? Universal, available in different colors, convenient for trips to nature, hikes, walks - this is clear to everyone. On the other hand, it is a compact, lightweight 2-in-1 product that simultaneously protects against the cold and replaces a raincoat. Its distinctive features are considered to be average length products that cover the lower stand-up collar, a retractable hood that protects from all kinds of precipitation, which can be hidden in a special pocket on the collar, wide sleeves with Velcro fasteners that prevent the penetration of wind, waterproof zippers, zippered straps (this is a kind of design decision). This is an indispensable item in the wardrobe, capable of emphasizing the refined taste and style of lovers of an active lifestyle, which, in fact, is unanimously evidenced by reviews. A softshell jacket is an excellent option that allows you to withstand various unpleasant vagaries of nature.

Are there many fakes?

How to determine whether what you have in front of you is a fake or a really high-quality softshell material? What are these differences? Unfortunately, many manufacturers miss (perhaps deliberately) the technological aspects of manufacturing softshell products, so sometimes you can buy a pig in a poke or a membrane analogue, and not the actual softshell. In addition, now hardshells in their composition and production technology are very close to softshells, the line between them is often indistinguishable or simply erased. Undoubtedly, the name of the manufacturer will say a lot about the quality of softshell products. Manufacturers striving for excellence such as Marmot, The North Face, Sivera, Bask, Patagonia and others simply cannot afford softshell clothing that is “average” in quality.

Proper care

How to care for products made from softshell material? What temperature and washing mode is the fabric designed for? The answer to the question can be found on the label, but you shouldn’t resort to washing things every time. Sometimes it is enough to wipe them with a damp microfiber. It is not recommended to clean dirt with a brush, even with the softest bristles, as it can damage the canvas. If washing cannot be avoided, then you should do it manually or resort to a gentle washing mode for synthetics at 30ºC with a delicate spin, after first turning the product inside out. It is important to avoid abrasives and bleaches, use warm water, soapy water, liquid detergents, and dry flat. Contraindicated: washing softshells together with other things, drying them on radiators, ironing. Damage quality properties, including water-repellent impregnation products capable of deodorants, body creams, open fire.

When people ask me what a softshell is, it seems to me that the simplest answer is:
softshell (in the broad sense of the word) is anything that can be effectively used as a top layer of clothing, but does not fall into any of the well-known categories of such clothing (windbreakers, woven windbreaks, down jackets, jackets with synthetic insulation).

Moreover, in the wake of confusion of terminologies, some manufacturers at one time classified some lightweight jackets with synthetic insulation as softshells.

Properties of the “ideal” correct softshell:
- Wind protection
- High vapor permeability of fabric
- Stretch properties
- Skin-friendly
- Light weight
- Thermal insulation properties.

Ideally, in all of the above-mentioned characteristics (except for wind protection), a softshell should be superior to a hardshell, that is, storm jackets. In real life, this does not always happen. There is a fair amount of confusion on the market regarding the characteristics of materials; most users do not have reliable information about the properties of this or that softshell equipment and are forced to learn everything from their own experience, which is not entirely correct.

I would like to talk a little about the features of the materials from which various types of softshells are made.
Yes, it is worth recognizing that now in the world there are several types of materials about which the manufacturer does not say that they are softshell, but at the same time, according to most criteria, they undoubtedly are - accordingly, I also included these materials in this review.

I apologize in advance for not including all materials on the market in this review, but trying to limit myself to the most well-known ones.
The review primarily included materials from major brands used by several high-end clothing manufacturers, rather than the latter's own proprietary products.

One of the important characteristics of softshell products is their breathability. CFM– is currently the most common unit of measurement for the blowability of a material. Its physical meaning is as follows: how many cubic feet of air will pass through the material in one minute (apparently per square foot).
Basically, there are just a few things to remember:
- The higher the CFM, the worse the material protects from wind.
- 0 CFM is actually not always zero - almost all pore membranes are slightly purged - although in practice this is almost imperceptible - a “bubble test” is needed.
- Even 0 CFM does not guarantee protection against the effect of “secondary heat loss from wind” when warm air is blown through the sleeves around the waist, etc.

A little history.

Initially, softshell appeared in the world during the era of the dominance of the classical three-layer clothing scheme, a mandatory element of which was a hard and heavy windbreaker.
Ideally, the windbreaker was based on a Gore-tex membrane; alternative membrane options were much inferior to Gore in most functional properties at that time. Storm boots from Gore stood out not only for their fairly high performance characteristics, but also for their price. It is worth recognizing, however, that even Gore-tex did not provide a sufficient rate of moisture removal at high physical activity, and also due to the continuous polyurethane layer on the membrane did not work well in conditions of high humidity.

At this time, simple guys from the Buffalo company came up with an idea that immediately seemed revolutionary to them - let's, they say, create clothes that will take on three functions at once - a base layer, a base layer and an insulating layer. We used fleece as a base and attached a layer of Pertex fabric to protect it from the wind.
The resulting material had fairly high thermal insulation, was quite pleasant to the body, lightweight and evaporated moisture much better than the membrane. Of course, there were also disadvantages - if in a light rain the material held water, then in a downpour the entire system was doomed to get wet. The creators, however, said that wearing a rain jacket also gets people wet in the rain, but only from the inside, but in my personal opinion the difference is still significant, especially if the rain is cold.
However, it is worth noting that such clothes from Buffalo or Paramo, when new, withstood moderate rain, but after a couple of months, judging by user reviews, they began to leak heavily and required re-impregnation with a hydrophobic compound.
Another thing that should not be underestimated is the partial ventilation of such a softshell. Pertex protects well from the wind, but in reality, a strong wind can blow through the fabric, which is especially noticeable at subzero air temperatures.
However, despite the stated shortcomings, softshell quickly became popular among a narrow stratum of professionals and fans of mountaineering and extreme sports.

Actually the term itself softshell was proposed by Patagonia, a company known for its bright concepts (at least ultra-light down sweaters are worth it).
Other manufacturers also did not remain in debt and presented a variety of options for clothing “in the softshell style.” Quite quickly, stretch fabrics began to be used in the structure of softshell clothing, which significantly improved the fit of clothing and did not restrict movement.
What's interesting already early stage During the formation of the market, manufacturers of the same moisture-proof membranes that the creators of softshell initially tried to fight joined in creating their own softshell materials and concepts.

Perhaps the most serious blow to the original softshell ideology was dealt by Gore, which offered to the market softshells with a Windstopper membrane included in the structure (actually a “naked” PTFE membrane, that is, an approximate analogue of the first Gore-Tex options). The market was flooded with various membrane analogues and some confusion arose in the minds of buyers.
However, along with poorly breathable membrane softshells, several quite interesting offers have appeared on the market - for example, Power Shield from Polartec. At the same time, the development of classic membrane storm clothing was going on. Gore-Tex XCR appeared, then the largely revolutionary eVent, which made it possible to use a reliable open-cell membrane for protection against rain. Storm clothing became increasingly lighter, anatomical and comfortable. Most older models of windbreakers received elastic inserts made of membrane fabric. In fact, in many ways the line between softshell and hardshell has blurred. It was finally erased by softshells made on the basis of full-fledged patented moisture-proof membranes - Gore-tex, eVent, as well as various non-porous polyurethane ones - for example Gelanots.
As a result, the softshell market now represents a kind of hodgepodge of products that have a variety of often practically mutually exclusive properties.

Patterns

1. The “three-in-one” softshell concept has perhaps not stood the test of time - now only a couple of companies still produce this type of softshell.

2. Softshells that are produced now, as a rule, tend to combine the properties not of all three layers, but only of two of them at the same time, for example:
A) windstopper n2s – thermal underwear and wind protection
B) polartec power stretch – thermal underwear and insulating layer
IN) windblock softshell – insulating layer and wind protection.

3. Most softshells tend to fall into one of two categories (largely determined by the preferences of a particular category of user)
A) Heavy softshells with a waterproof or windproof membrane
B) Lightweight softshells without a membrane or with a membrane with windproof properties.

4. Softshells can be further divided into fairly clear groups based on the materials and technologies used in their creation.

Purpose of various functional elements of different groups

Softshells based on moisture-proof membranes.
I know of softshells built on the basis of three fundamentally different moisture-proof membranes - pore (eVent), non-pore (lots of options from Gelanots to Marmot Membrane) and combined (Gore-Tex Softshell).
Unfortunately, today the vapor permeability of softshells based on Gore-Tex Softshell and eVent is noticeably inferior to the vapor permeability of hardshells based on the same membranes. With classic non-porous membranes, this pattern is not observed, which, together with the lower price of materials, determined the widespread use of softshells on a non-porous basis.
Such softshells can be made either with or without seam sealing. If waterproof softshells with sealed seams turned out to be in demand as an original (and, importantly, often cheaper) alternative to hardshell jackets, then softshells without sealed seams turned out to be quite relevant for urban conditions. People who choose a softshell like this want to get a universal, durable item that can protect against a wide range of weather conditions. Softshells often turn out to be more durable products than storm jackets, look less defiant in urban environments, do not rustle when walking and are much more comfortable to the body. The breathability of all softshells based on moisture-proof membranes is sacrificed for versatility. All softshells of this type are completely windproof (0 CFM).

Windproof softshells based on windproof membranes
In this case, the product must guarantee almost complete protection from the wind, although theoretically it may also have more or less pronounced moisture-proof properties.
The fundamental difference between softshells falling into this category is the type of membrane used - porous or non-porous (this can be easily checked using a bubble test).
A) porous windproof softshells
A typical representative of a pore membrane in this class of products is Windstopper from Gore, which, along with fairly high breathability properties at a small delta of water vapor pressure and fairly high water resistance (up to 7000 mm for a new product), however, windstopper is characterized by a relative fragility of moisture-proof properties, which is why Seams on windstopper products are usually not sealed. The breathability of the best products made with Gore Windstopper is superior to almost all hardshells (except, perhaps, eVent windbreakers). This type of softshell, according to most sources, is absolutely windproof, however, there is evidence that some types of windstopper softshell can be slightly blown (0-3 CFM).
Another interesting option for softshell based on a porous membrane is Schoeller 3Xdry (the range of products from Schoeller is quite confusing, but in this case this is the name used). Softshells with this membrane are at least similar to windstopper in terms of their characteristics, and are perhaps superior to it in terms of wear resistance and stretch properties.
B) pore-free windproof softshells
A typical representative of a pore-free membrane in this class is windblock softshell, which also has some moisture-proof properties and also transports moisture through the membrane quite well. However, as in the case of other non-porous membranes, for effective operation this material requires a fairly high difference in water vapor pressure outside and inside the membrane, which complicates moisture removal in conditions high humidity or significant subzero temperatures. However, of all the moisture-proof membranes, windblock softshell is perhaps second only to eVent and the new flagship from Gore – Pro Shell in terms of vapor permeability. This type of softshell is absolutely windproof (0 CFM).
Softshells with membranes that partially protect from wind

Polartec power shield
A rather interesting class of softshells that, unlike the two previous types, provide significantly better “breathing properties” than any hardshells.
The design is based on the windblock act pore membrane. This membrane is capable of blocking up to 98% of wind at a speed of 50 km/h - that is, it has windproof properties, but does not guarantee 100% wind protection. In terms of its ability to transport moisture, the polartec power shield is at least 3 times superior to the windblock softshell. In addition, it is worth remembering that the polartec power shield membrane also works at low delta water vapor pressures. The polartec power shield membrane has practically no moisture-proof properties, and the main protection against moisture falls on the DWR coating of the upper fabric.
Based on the texture of the inner surface, three main types of polartec power shield softshells can be distinguished - classic (thin fleece layer inside), light (with a very thin moisture-wicking layer), highloft (long-pile warm fleece) CFM for polartec power shield varies depending on the type of outer fabric and inner surface from 6 to 10.

Membraneless softshells
This family is perhaps the most diverse. I will try to dwell only on the most typical/high-quality versions of such softshells.

Traditional softshells
Buffalo, Paramo, etc. – a real softshell classic for the “hardcore” softshell fans.
Constructed on the basis of fairly heavy types of fabrics from Pertex (type 5 or 6), they have little ventilation.
Quite warm due to thick polyester fleece on the inner surface.
Designed to replace all three layers of clothing - basic moisture-wicking, middle insulating and outer protective. In my opinion, such clothes have two disadvantages:
- poor fit - since Pertex does not have stretch properties) - and as a result, high losses due to convection.
- low flexibility of the system - it can easily be too hot in such a softshell, and too cold without it.
Such softshells can be used with quite great success at moderately negative temperatures.
In my opinion, this clothing doctrine is very reminiscent of the avisent-ideology that dominates among Russian ski tourists, but is inferior to the latter in terms of flexibility (since the set is one-piece). The wind protection of softshells of this type is very high - around 3 CFM or even less.

Polartec Wind Pro with fabric top layer
This material actually represents an evolution of the insulating layer towards additional wind protection and protection from damage. It has very good thermal insulation per unit weight and high “breathing” properties.
This material has already become a favorite among many high-altitude climbers.
The windproof properties of such material largely depend on the density of the upper fabric, because wind pro itself, despite its name, has rather weak windproof properties (60 CFM). Unfortunately, I was unable to find data on the total wind protection of this material.

Polartec Power Stretch
Perhaps, without even knowing it, the former Malden Mils created a thermal underwear material quite close to the original softshell concept.
Light, warm with excellent stretch properties, it, however, almost does not protect from wind and rain, but it works great during active movement as the only clothing at quite low temperatures in the absence of wind.
In more severe conditions, you can use a windproof/waterproof or insulating layer - and then Polartec Power Stretch becomes a very good underwear.

Pertex Equillibrium
Lightweight softshell material with a thin moisture-wicking layer and very good windproof properties CFM = 10.
It has good wear resistance for its weight. It is one of the successful alternatives to windproof suits for high physical activity.

Shoeller Extrem dry
Very a good option softshell for high physical activity in a wide range of conditions. It has very high wear resistance and good stretch properties. A small amount of coolmax on the inner surface improves consumer properties at high temperatures or active movement.
Perhaps the best universal membraneless softshell known to me for a wide range of application conditions. However, it is worth remembering that the windproof properties of this material are not too great (CFM = 20-25).

Conclusion and choice of softshell

Before purchasing this or that softshell, think about where you will use it.

Waterproof softshell with fully sealed seams will be a slightly warmer and more pleasant alternative to a storm jacket. Gore and BHA based options don't make much sense here. Such a softshell should cost slightly less than high-level storm boots.

Softshell constructed with 100% windproof membrane, in my opinion, is perfect for use in urban conditions in the autumn-spring period as an alternative to a raincoat or leather jacket. In addition, this version of a softshell is well suited for one-day climbs, hikes of medium difficulty, and so on (a couple of details - for hikes it would be nice to have protection from heavy rain (at least a plastic raincoat), from this category of products I would recommend things for outdoor use based on pore membranes). Porous versions of such softshells are well suited for winter ascents.

Softshells with a membrane that is partially windproof properties
Suitable for high physical activity, one-day climbs, jogging.
When used with an autonomy period of several days or more, it is advisable to have, in addition to such a softshell, a lightweight 2.5 or lightweight 3-layer membrane jacket for protection from heavy rain or very strong cold wind. In this case, you get a not too heavy universal kit that works well in almost any weather.
Perhaps my favorite softshell category.

Membraneless softshells– since this group is the most diverse general recommendations for all these products it is quite difficult to give. Remember that most of these softshells will get wet in moderate rain, so use light waterproofing if necessary. In strong winds, additional wind protection (based on the same light windbreakers or an anorak made of pertex quantum) may also be useful.

A question for all outdoor enthusiasts! Someone probably has softshell things. How do you wash them? I don’t want my jacket to wrinkle, flake or otherwise lose its appearance after the first wash.

There are several rules for washing softshells:

• Cleaning is carried out as things get dirty: small stains can be wiped with a brush, treated with a special stain remover, if they are generally worn - completely;
• You can wash the softshell by hand or by machine;
• water temperature – no higher than 40°;
• use special products for products or sports items. For example, from Grangers and Nikwax. Liquid and gel detergents are also suitable;
• Powder should not be used: it clogs the pores in the membrane tissue, and it stops breathing;
• bleaches and chlorine-containing products should not be used;
• All clothing should be washed on the left side with zippers fastened;
• select "Sport" or " Delicate fabric»;
• use a gentle spin mode;
• additional rinsing is required;
• do not use fabric softeners, fragrances, etc. All of them negatively affect the properties of the softshell: it loses its breathability, becomes stiffer, and can delaminate.

Softshell is a multi-layer fabric. Much depends on the initial quality of the product. If low-quality glue was used when gluing the layers, then the likelihood that the item will deteriorate increases. Compliance with washing rules will help extend the wear period, but cannot completely protect against damage.

After washing, it is important to dry your clothes properly. Things are hung on hangers and placed away from heating devices. You need to dry it at room temperature, you can do it in the fresh air, but not in the sun, but in the shade. It is forbidden to do this in a typewriter.

Softshell items cannot be ironed. After washing and drying, the surface is treated with special impregnations that restore the water-repellent properties of the fabric.

Reading time: 6 minutes

There is no such thing as bad weather, says popular wisdom, only bad clothing. Inconvenient equipment will not allow you to conquer mountain peaks, set new records, or become faster, stronger and taller.

Expands horizons and helps you follow your dreams innovative technology Softshell that provides comfort to athletes, climbers and city dwellers in a wide range of conditions and circumstances.

What is softshell

Softshell translated into English means “soft shell”. It cannot be called fabric in the usual sense of the word. Rather, it is a combination of modern materials and advanced technologies that allows you to create things that protect from cold, snow, rain or hurricane winds.

If the classic equipment scheme involves the use of thermal underwear, separate insulation and a rigid membrane that protects from bad weather, then the Softshell brings together the properties of all of the listed layers; these are truly “three in one” products.

History of creation

The softshell was created in the laboratories of the Buffalo company, where technologists created more comfortable and lightweight clothing than the already existing hard windbreakers. They combined fleece fabric with a layer of lightweight, breathable, lint-resistant pertex material. The resulting combination did an excellent job of retaining heat and was extremely light and soft.

The fabric did not pass the test of heavy rain and squally winds, but tourists, climbers and athletes paid attention to it. Manufacturing companies met the consumer halfway, and the long path of softshell to perfection began.

Modern composition

The upper part of the material is elastic, high density.

The inner surface is lined with the smallest pile. It is the heart of the structure, its main functional component. Countless villi tirelessly break up the fumes released by the human body during training or increased stress and quickly send them out. Incoming moisture - raindrops or melted snow - is also picked up by the delicate pile, takes on body temperature and is again released into the top layer. Clothes made from this material always keep you dry and warm.

There are products that have polyurethane “breathable” water or windproof membranes.

The composition of the softshell depends on its purpose. Products can be woven from fibers or polyurethane. Modern models may even contain natural wool.

Qualitative characteristics

Softshell is intended to be used in clothing intended for outdoor activities and sports. It should not hinder movements, but it must have the following qualities:

• Wind protection. Products must be windproof. This applies not only to the material, but also to the thoughtful design.
• Excellent vapor permeability, providing rapid removal of excess moisture during training and increased loads.
• Stretchy qualities giving elasticity and a comfortable fit to the figure. The material has the ability to stretch in all directions and become one with its owner.
• Pleasantness when touched and worn.
• Ease equipment necessary for climbing, long hikes and training.
• Sufficient thermal insulation, preventing freezing in moderate cold.

And one more thing: not a single consumer will refuse fashionable and stylish appearance of equipment.

Types of material

For many years, scientists and technologists have tried in vain to create an ideal fabric that can protect against all the scourges of nature. Over many years of painstaking work, different types of multilayer material have been created with different properties and purposes.

Membrane– include three construction layers: smooth stretch, membrane and fleece. They are produced:

• PolartecWindPro with fabric surface. This is one of the most favorite materials of climbers; it has high thermal insulation and aeration. Wind protection depends on how dense the fabric is.
• PolartecPowerStretch - products from the American company MaldenMills are closest to the initial idea of ​​​​softshell material. They are light and warm, have excellent stretch qualities, ideal for active training in windless weather at fairly low temperatures.

Different types of Softshell are suitable for different types of activities.

• Items can be machine washed when selecting a delicate cycle and a temperature of 30 o C.
• Detergents must be mild or labeled “Sports”.
• Do not dry clean or use bleaches, softeners or fabric softeners.
• Dry clothes on hangers at room temperature.
• Softshell products cannot be ironed.
• Caring for clothes also involves timely restoration of special impregnation by adding it to detergents or using spray treatment.

Softshell is an innovative material that allows you to create a new type of clothing. This magnificent sports equipment promotes comfortable physical education and sports, the birth of great records and the conquest of the highest peaks of the planet.

If the majority of our readers are already more or less oriented in the world of work boots and selvedge denim, then in the case of various fabrics and membranes the picture is not so clear. This topic is becoming especially relevant in the context of the gradual transition from heritage aesthetics to technological outdoor clothing, which, by the way, we will write a lot and in detail in the near future. Well, to begin with, we will try to conduct a small educational program on the topic of clothing made from soft shell materials.

History and terminology

The term “soft shell” originates in outdoor culture and, by and large, remains within its framework. The word shell (from the English “shell”, “shell”, “shell”) in meaning has not deviated much from its literal definition - it is the outer layer of outerwear, be it a jacket or an insulated jacket. So, this very top layer (shell) can be a traditional “hard shell” and an innovative “soft” shell. The first should be understood as jackets and any outerwear, covered with good old membranes like Gore-Tex (we are no longer talking about primitive leather or wool).

Soft shell, on the other hand, is a synthetic blend that is indistinguishable from regular nylon in appearance and usually has a fleece-like appearance on the underside. This term unites the desire of modern designers to make clothes that are as warm as possible with minimal weight and size. Roughly speaking, a soft-shell jacket will be more like a familiar jacket, from which you never expected to one day receive such reliable protection from wind and moisture.

The soft shell philosophy is simple: these fabrics were created in order to facilitate, first of all, human maneuverability in difficult weather conditions. Perhaps, 30 years ago it was impossible to imagine that one day, instead of the usual and necessary layering, it would be possible to simply take and put on a technological miracle jacket that would stretch, but not tighten, warm and remove excess heat, and even protect from pouring rain.

There are many different patented fabrics available to meet soft shell requirements. All of them consist of synthetic materials, for example, one of the membranes most often used for the production of “civilian” soft-shell clothing from the Swiss company Schoeller simultaneously contains lycra, cordura, polyamide, polyester and polyurethane. Suffice it to say that half of the wonderful composition is also patented trademarks. It looks something like this: on the outside there is a very dense stretch fabric in terms of fiber structure, on the inside there is a very thin pile. It is worth mentioning that many manufacturers who adapt soft shell to everyday fashion have already gotten the hang of mixing it with natural materials like wool - we will give examples below.

Principle of operation

The highlight of the soft shell is not at all its wind and moisture resistance, which is exactly what the old membranes coped with and are coping with a bang. Here the main role is played by internal thermoregulation. What good is it if rain and snow don’t seep through synthetic fabric when you’re already sweating through it from its weight and you feel like you’ll freeze to death at the slightest stop in movement? own body? And this is precisely the power of soft shell - this fabric provides maximum comfort from the inside. Even if the mighty sediments overcome the outer membrane, they will be broken into millions of nanovilli and immediately dried up by the heat of your own body. And under high loads, your own sweat will settle on the microfiber and be removed through the breathable membranes to the outer layer of the fabric. By the way, it is recommended to wear soft-shell clothing on a naked body, this is how it will work most effectively.

Perhaps you have already believed in the omnipotence of soft shell things, which means it’s time to add a fly in the ointment - they still won’t protect you from severe frosts alone. Even insulated soft-shell fabrics with an intermediate layer will still not cope with the severe January frost - the lower limit here can be considered about -10 degrees Celsius. However, leading and not so leading manufacturers of outdoor clothing are already working hard on this, so there is a chance that we will be able to play snowballs in just a sweater before we race in air cars.

Examples of using soft shell

Of course, 90% of soft-shell clothing produced in the world is devoid of any aesthetic component and is of interest solely as practical outdoor equipment. It seems that in 50 years it is unlikely that men and women will wear laconic, tight-fitting soft-shell suits, identifying professional groups by color, so rather, companies interested in popularizing soft-shell companies will have to rack their brains on how to adapt your product to existing aesthetic codes. And many have already started - below are five examples of clothes using soft shells, which can be worn not only in the snowy foothills of the Alps, but also safely worn in the city.