Description of the properties and characteristics of Softshell fabrics

In recent years, softshell products have become increasingly popular in the markets. This article discusses what softshell fabric is and how to properly care for it.

History of creation

What is softshell fabric? It is a multi-layered and soft material. It was created in the mid-80s by the famous mountaineer Hamish Hamilton. It was he who came up with the idea of ​​using yellow tents in the mountains because they are visible from a long distance and they also retain heat well.

Hamish was inspired by the outfits of the Arctic inhabitants. In harsh weather conditions, the inhabitants did not wear membrane and protective materials. The main element of their clothing is the anorak. This is a warm jacket that is put on over the head. The leather top protects a person from precipitation and drafts, the temperature inside is maintained thanks to a large layer of fur on the inside.

People in the Arctic do not wear a lot of clothing that restricts movement. An anorak made of leather and fur gives a person protection that is enough to keep warm, even if the item is very wet. In the Far North, some wore an anorak on their naked body, but this required constant movement.

Modern composition

The upper part of the fabric is quite elastic, resistant to stretching, has a high density. On the reverse side there is a small pile, velsoft. It will be the so-called skeleton of the product, it contains the main functions of the softshell. A large amount of pile constantly removes fumes that appear during active recreation or sports, and throws them out.

Thanks to ventilation, children do not sweat and do not get sick.

All dirt, water, snow, etc. also get on the pile and do not penetrate to the body. In things made of softshell it is always dry and warm. There are things that are equipped with polyurethane "breathing" moisture-repellent membranes. The composition of the fabric depends on its purpose. Things can be sewn from polyester or polyamide fibers, lycra can also be added. In recent years, wool has begun to be added to the composition.

Quality characteristics of softshell

Softshell fabric is used mainly for sports or extreme recreation. It should make movements easy and have the following qualities:

• Things must be wind-resistant. This is necessary, for example, in the mountains;
• Good vapor permeability, which ensures rapid removal of excess water during sports and heavy loads;
• Stretch resistance, good fit;
• High elasticity;
• Practicality and comfort in use;
• Lightness of products is especially important when climbing mountains;
• High thermal insulation that prevents a person from freezing.

SoftShell Products

Softshell items have an outer layer made of a porous or non-porous membrane that prevents moisture from getting inside. The items are airtight. The most popular is the classic, non-porous membrane, which has wind protection. Porous fabrics wear out quickly, although they have good qualities. Non-porous materials are not subject to blowing. The inner layer of the fabric is long-pile and black fleece.

How to choose a softshell jacket

Many jacket manufacturers add Softshell to their composition. Since fabrics have different characteristics, you need to know their classification. A jacket made of reflective fabric can be used not only in active sports, but also in everyday life.

Lightweight softshell jackets

Men's softshell fabric jackets are very thin and light, more suitable for tourists or runners. They provide some protection from bad weather, are great for fitness. They can be put in a bag, where they will not take up much space. In addition to the wind, the jackets protect from the hot sun in the summer.

Windproof products

Presented by jackets with a high level of protection from bad weather. In English the name sounds like "Windproff" - literally "wind blocking".

Most textile softshell jackets have integrated membranes, so the product will be more rigid, but not very breathable.

Universal softshell jackets

This is the most common type of jacket on the Russian market. It combines two types of jackets with different properties. For example, the fabric can be hard and dense in the elbows and chest, and light in the armpit area. This is how universal SoftShell products appear, they are very thin, but protect well from the wind. Such products will be more expensive than all the models presented. Such products are mainly winter or demi-season.

In what weather is a softshell useful?

Jackets made with shell fabric are best worn in moderate climates, such as spring. This is approximately up to -7 degrees. Can be worn in rain or snow. If the weather is very cold, it is advisable to wear them with thermal underwear. Jackets made of fabric for men and women should not be worn in heavy rain.

Care of SoftShell products

Some people are not satisfied with the quality of the products, but this may be due to improper care and use.

What can cause a fleece jacket fabric to deteriorate:

• Using body creams before wearing jackets;
• Smoke from a fire;
• Repellents;
• Drying on radiators or in the open sun.

The basic care for fabric products is proper washing and constant impregnation of the products.

How and what to wash softshell with

It is advisable to wash softshell fabrics at a temperature no higher than 40 degrees. Only liquid powders are allowed to be used, and they are dried vertically at room temperature.

If you are washing in a machine, you should only set the delicate mode. It is preferable to use front-loading machines. When washing, it is advisable to turn the jackets inside out.

These products do not spoil the impregnation of the products. But it is very difficult to wash out large stains with them. If there are many problems, it is better to contact a dry cleaner.

What is prohibited when leaving:

• Use of bleaches or powders containing them;
• Do not use fabric softeners;
• Do not tumble dry;
• Ironing of products is prohibited.

Before washing, be sure to read the label on the jacket.

If all rules are followed correctly, the softshell will serve for many years.

Reviews

Ivan, 47: “Every year I climb various small peaks with my group. On some steps there are very strong winds, which makes it seem like the frost there is not -25, but -40. This year I decided to buy myself, and recommended for the participants of the hike, Softshell jackets. Our trip was in May. The products really proved themselves, the wind did not penetrate the body. In places where there was a lot of snow, thanks to the impregnation, it did not penetrate inside. Both men and women, everyone was happy with the new purchase. If desired, a reflective element can be added to the jackets. Now, I will definitely use only Softshell for my work, and also recommend them to all my clients.”

Elena, 26: “I have been using a thin softshell jacket for over three years now. I have been leading a sporty lifestyle for a long time, so I really like running. I wear such jackets either in very hot weather or in autumn rains. I am happy with the quality. Of course, the jacket is difficult to care for. You need to wash and dry it correctly. I even ironed the last item, which immediately ruined it. It let in wind and water. Therefore, you need to be careful about care and follow all the rules.”

Vasilisa, 30: “My family and I love active recreation. That’s why we always choose our hiking gear very carefully. This year, my husband and I decided to take our little daughter on a trip. Naturally, we went with the whole family to choose outerwear, since we were planning to relax in the mountains and near the lake. The sales consultant advised us to buy softshell jackets. I want to say that there is a wide variety of colors and models, especially children’s overalls. The price of such items is above average, but in fact, the jacket has all the properties described. It is windproof, waterproof, and does not deform. Our whole family is very happy.”

Softshell jackets are gaining popularity not only in Russia, but also in Europe. They are great not only for active recreation, but also for everyday wear. In order for the products to last for many years, they need to be properly cared for.