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Jackets

Mark AlexanderMark Alexander Posts: 2,277
edited September 2010 in Road buying advice
Ok, a numpty question. What is the difference between Hardshell and Softshell when it comes to jackets?
http://twitter.com/mgalex
www.ogmorevalleywheelers.co.uk

10TT 24:36 25TT: 57:59 50TT: 2:08:11, 100TT: 4:30:05 12hr 204.... unfinished business

Posts

  • Garry HGarry H Posts: 6,639
    It depends, there are several definitions, but originally a hardshell was a jacket with a waterproof membrane layer bonded into the fabric eg Gore Tex), whereas a softshell was made from a tightly woven face fabric , eg the original Buffalo smock. The first one was waterproof and windproof but not very breathable (despite what they told you), the second one was windproof but not completely waterproof, but breathed a lot better, so could be kept on in most conditions. Now some seem to have merged, eg waterproof softshell, ie a softshell face material with a membrane bonded somewhere inside. Worst of both worlds IMO.

    Somebody will come along in a minute to give another definition...
  • Mark AlexanderMark Alexander Posts: 2,277
    It is a bit mixed up isn' it. The reason I ask is that I'm looking for a water proof jacket that has a roadie tight cut but isn't too heavy as I build up heat fast. Must be BRIGHT.

    http://www.endura.co.uk/Dept.aspx?dept_id=113 this is where the soft/hardshell confusion started.

    I have an Adidas one but it is too dark.
    http://twitter.com/mgalex
    www.ogmorevalleywheelers.co.uk

    10TT 24:36 25TT: 57:59 50TT: 2:08:11, 100TT: 4:30:05 12hr 204.... unfinished business
  • ScrumpleScrumple Posts: 2,665
    The hardshell wins in a fight


    Get a yellow Gore countdown, and a cheap race cape for the back pocket for downpours.
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