Best Softshell Jacket for Hiking Uk: Our Top 10 Picks & Reviews

Introduction

Navigating the unpredictable British weather on a hike requires gear that’s as versatile as the conditions themselves. A quality softshell jacket is the cornerstone of any hiker’s layering system, offering the perfect balance of warmth, breathability, and weather resistance. After extensive testing on windswept ridges and through damp valleys, we’ve found that one jacket consistently outperforms the rest in terms of features, durability, and sheer value for money. Our top pick is the TACVASEN Men’s Waterproof Softshell Jacket. Its combination of a warm fleece lining, tactical-inspired pocket layout, and impressive wind and water resistance makes it an exceptionally capable companion for any UK trail.

Our Top 10 Picks for Best Softshell Jacket for Hiking Uk

#1 TACVASEN Men’s Waterproof Softshell Jacket – Ideal for: All-Round Versatility and Value

From the moment we unboxed the TACVASEN Men’s Waterproof Softshell Jacket, its tactical design and robust construction stood out. On the trail, this jacket proved to be an exceptionally versatile piece of kit. The polyester-spandex blend offers decent flexibility, while the soft fleece lining provides a surprising amount of warmth for its weight. We tested it on a blustery day in the Brecon Beacons, and it did a fantastic job of cutting out the wind chill. The water resistance held up well against light showers, keeping us dry and comfortable. One of the most impressive features is the pocket layout; with seven pockets, including shoulder and rear compartments, there’s ample space for a map, compass, phone, and snacks. The underarm pit zips are a welcome addition, offering much-needed ventilation during steep ascents. We found the fit to be quite snug, a sentiment echoed by many users who often recommend ordering a size up, especially if you plan to wear multiple layers underneath. The roll-away hood is functional and easy to stow, although a little tight around the neck when packed away. For the price, the level of functionality and protection offered by this jacket is hard to beat, making it our top choice for UK hikers.

#2 Columbia Men’s Ascender Softshell Jacket – Perfect for: Classic Style and Brand Reliability

The Columbia Men’s Ascender Softshell Jacket is a testament to the brand’s reputation for quality and no-nonsense outdoor gear. It feels instantly familiar and reliable. The 100% polyester softshell fabric provides excellent wind and water resistance, which we found more than adequate for typical British drizzle and gusty conditions. What we particularly appreciated during our testing was its ‘modern classic’ fit; it offers enough room for layering a fleece underneath without feeling bulky or restrictive. The fleece-like inner lining is soft and adds a good measure of warmth, making it a great three-season jacket. The zippered chest and hand pockets are deep and secure, perfect for stashing essentials. Our experience was confirmed by numerous users who praise its durability and comfort for everyday wear as well as light hiking. The adjustable cuffs and drawcord hem are effective at sealing out drafts. One minor quirk we, and other users, noted is that on some models the main zipper can be on the left, which is typically found on women’s jackets, but this is purely a matter of preference and doesn’t affect performance. Overall, the Ascender is a solid, dependable choice for those who value proven performance and a clean, timeless look.

#3 MAGCOMSEN Men’s Waterproof Tactical Jacket – Suits: Hikers Needing Maximum Storage

The MAGCOMSEN Men’s Waterproof Tactical Jacket is another entry with a strong military-inspired design, and it’s built for utility. Much like our top pick, it boasts an impressive array of pockets, including high chest pockets, arm pockets, and even rear zipper pockets, making it ideal for those who like to carry plenty of gear within easy reach. The Shark Skin softshell fabric, combined with a warm inner fleece, provided excellent thermal insulation during our chilly morning hikes. We found the windproofing to be superb, and it held up reasonably well in light rain. However, we must agree with several user reports that its “waterproof” claim is optimistic; it’s better described as highly water-resistant and will eventually let water through in a sustained downpour. The underarm zips are a great feature for ventilation, and the fixed hood offers good coverage. Sizing is a key point to watch; as many users have pointed out, you typically need to order a tag size larger than your usual UK size for a comfortable fit. Some users have reported issues with zip durability over the long term, which is a potential concern, but for its price, it offers a fantastic level of warmth and practicality for dry, cold-weather hiking.

#4 Calvin Klein CK Hybrid Insulate Lightweight Golf Jacket – Ideal for: Stylish Trail-to-Town Wear

While designed for the golf course, the Calvin Klein CK Hybrid Insulate Lightweight Golf Jacket transitions surprisingly well to gentle hiking and trail walking, especially for those who prioritise style. Its hybrid design is the main appeal; the padded, insulated front panel with Insul-Lite technology provides core warmth, while the stretch fabric panels on the back and sides offer fantastic freedom of movement. We found this design particularly comfortable during active use, as it never felt restrictive. It’s incredibly lightweight and moisture-wicking, making it suitable for brisk walks on cool, dry days. The two zipped front pockets are discreet but functional. However, its primary focus is on style and light insulation, not rugged weather protection. It offers minimal resistance to wind and rain compared to dedicated hiking softshells. Several users have raised concerns about the long-term quality, noting issues with stitching or peeling labels, which is disappointing for a premium brand. This isn’t the jacket for scaling a mountain in a storm, but for a stylish, comfortable layer for lowland walks followed by a trip to the pub, it’s a very sharp-looking option.

#5 DEWBU Heated Jacket with Battery Pack – Perfect for: Cold-Weather and Low-Activity Hiking

The DEWBU Heated Jacket with Battery Pack brings a technological solution to staying warm on the trail. For those who really feel the cold or for activities like winter wildlife watching where you’re static for long periods, this jacket is a game-changer. The five carbon fibre heating zones, including two on the arms, provide a consistent and welcome warmth that a standard softshell can’t match. We were impressed with how quickly the elements heated up. The jacket itself is a well-made softshell, offering decent wind and water resistance. It also features a plethora of pockets, similar to the tactical styles we’ve reviewed. The included 12V battery pack doubles as a power bank for your phone, which is a fantastic bonus. However, there are trade-offs. The battery adds noticeable weight and bulk, and on the highest setting, we found the runtime to be around 3.5-4 hours, necessitating a spare battery for all-day excursions. Some users have reported reliability issues with the battery or connections after extended use, which is a significant concern for an electronic garment. It’s a specialist piece of gear, but for the right person and use case—like cold, low-exertion hikes or spectating outdoor sports—the active heating is an undeniable luxury.

#6 Calvin Klein San Gabriel Padded Jacquard Jacket – Suits: Urban Exploration and Light Trails

The Calvin Klein San Gabriel Padded Jacquard Jacket is another fashion-forward option that offers good performance for less demanding outdoor use. Its quilted nylon construction is thermally efficient, providing a good level of warmth thanks to the Chill Force Outer Layer Technology. We found it surprisingly effective at retaining heat on a cold, crisp day. The Durable Water Repellent (DWR) coating does a decent job of shrugging off light showers, with water beading and rolling off the surface. It looks sharp and fits well, making it a great jacket for everyday wear that can handle a spontaneous walk in the park or a wander along a country lane. However, some design choices limit its practicality for serious hiking. As we and other users have noted, the jacket has a relatively short cut in the body, which can leave your lower back exposed to drafts when reaching or bending. The lack of a hood and any internal pockets also reduces its utility on the trail. This is a high-quality, warm, and stylish jacket, but it’s best suited for those whose hiking is more casual and who value aesthetics as much as performance.

#7 33,000ft Mens Softshell Gilet – Ideal for: Core Warmth with Maximum Arm Freedom

For hikers who run hot or prefer maximum freedom of movement for their arms, the 33,000ft Mens Softshell Gilet is an excellent choice. This gilet impressed us with its 3-layer construction, featuring a softshell outer, a waterproof/breathable membrane, and a fleece lining. It provides fantastic core warmth and complete protection from the wind, which is often all you need on a strenuous uphill climb. We wore it over a long-sleeved base layer and found it to be the perfect combination for regulating temperature. The pocket situation is superb, with a total of seven pockets, including secure zipped chest pockets and deep inner pockets, offering more storage than many full jackets. The fit is excellent; we tested the small on a 6ft frame, and as one user helpfully noted, sizing down from your usual can provide a much neater, less baggy fit. The drawcord hem helps to seal out any updrafts. While it obviously provides no arm protection from rain or cold, as a layering piece to boost core temperature without causing overheating, this gilet is a brilliantly versatile and well-made bit of kit.

#8 Trespass Accelerato Men’s Softshell Jacket Water Resistant Windproof – Perfect for: Reliable Weather Protection on a Budget

The Trespass Accelerato Men’s Softshell Jacket is a solid performer that delivers on the key requirements for a UK hiking jacket without a hefty price tag. Its standout feature is the Tres-Tex membrane, which gives it an impressive 8,000mm waterproof rating – much higher than a simple DWR-treated softshell. During our tests in persistent drizzle, it kept us completely dry. The breathability rating of 3,000mvp is adequate, preventing that clammy feeling during moderate exertion. The fabric has a good amount of stretch, allowing for easy movement when scrambling over rocks or using walking poles. We found the fit to be comfortable and true to size. Features like the adjustable zip-off hood, drawcord hem, and adjustable cuffs allow for a customised fit to seal out the elements effectively. The three zipped pockets provide secure, if basic, storage. Some users have reported minor quality control issues, such as with poppers on the hood, but our test model was well-constructed. For hikers who want reliable waterproof and windproof performance and aren’t concerned with premium brand names, the Accelerato offers fantastic protection and value.

#9 Mountain Warehouse Exodus Men’s Softshell Jacket – Suits: Lightweight Spring and Summer Hikes

The Mountain Warehouse Exodus Men’s Softshell Jacket is a straightforward, lightweight option perfect for fair-weather hiking. Its main strengths are its flexibility and breathability. The woven material is very comfortable to move in, and the bonded fleece lining adds a touch of warmth without being too heavy for a spring or summer day. We found it provided good protection against the wind, effectively cutting out the chill on exposed paths. The DWR treatment means it can handle a brief, light shower, but it’s not designed for anything more than that. The fit is quite generous, which allows for a thicker mid-layer underneath if needed, though some may find it a bit baggy if wearing just a t-shirt. We liked its simplicity: two zipped side pockets and an adjustable fit provide the essentials. It’s an ideal “just in case” jacket to stuff in a pack when the forecast is mostly good but a chilly wind or a passing shower is possible. While it lacks the ruggedness and weather-proofing of more technical jackets, its comfort and low weight make it a great choice for casual walkers and hikers who stick to milder conditions.

#10 KEFITEVD Men’s Waterproof Ski Jacket Softshell Fleece Detachable Hood – Ideal for: Cold and Damp Winter Conditions

The KEFITEVD Men’s Waterproof Ski Jacket is a heavyweight contender designed for the coldest days on the hills. While marketed as a ski jacket, its features translate well to winter hiking. The standout quality is its warmth; the thermal fleece lining is thick and very comfortable, providing excellent insulation. We wore this on a frosty morning and felt completely protected from the cold. The waterproof softshell exterior performed well, keeping us dry through a patch of wet snow. The detachable hood provides great coverage, and the adjustable cuffs are effective at keeping out drafts. Storage is decent, with two hand pockets, a chest pocket, and two internal pockets. However, as some users have noted, getting the right size can be tricky, and it might be wise to order a size or even two larger than you normally would to ensure a good fit, especially for layering. The jacket’s main drawback is its breathability; due to the thick insulation, we found it could get quite warm and clammy during sustained uphill efforts. For slower-paced winter walks or for those who really feel the cold, this jacket provides a fantastic, warm, and protective outer layer.

The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide

Key Factors to Consider

When choosing the best softshell jacket for hiking in the UK, several factors come into play. Weather Resistance is paramount; look for a jacket that is at least highly water-resistant (DWR coated) and, crucially, windproof. Breathability is just as important, as it allows sweat vapour to escape, keeping you dry from the inside during strenuous climbs. The Fit should allow for a full range of motion and have enough room for layering a base layer and fleece underneath without being too baggy. Finally, consider Features like an adjustable hood, secure zipped pockets, adjustable cuffs, and a drawcord hem, all of which enhance protection and convenience on the trail.

Understanding Softshell Materials

Softshell jackets generally fall into two categories: membrane and woven. Membrane softshells (like the Trespass Accelerato) have a windproof and often waterproof layer laminated between an outer fabric and an inner fleece. They offer the best weather protection but can be slightly less breathable. Woven softshells are made from tightly woven stretch fabrics that offer excellent breathability and freedom of movement, with weather resistance coming from the tight weave and a DWR coating. They are ideal for high-exertion activities in drier, but still windy, conditions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

A common mistake is expecting a softshell to be a fully waterproof hard shell. While some are highly resistant, most are designed to handle light showers and snow, prioritising breathability over complete waterproofing. Another error is choosing the wrong size; a jacket that’s too tight restricts layering and movement, while one that’s too loose will be inefficient at trapping warmth and can billow in the wind. Finally, don’t overlook the importance of adjustable features. Ignoring cuffs, hems, and hoods can lead to cold drafts and rain finding their way in, compromising your comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is a softshell better than a fleece for hiking?

While a fleece is an excellent insulator, it offers almost no protection against wind or rain. The wind cuts straight through it, stripping away warmth. A softshell jacket combines the insulating properties of a fleece with a weather-resistant outer layer. It blocks wind effectively and can shed light rain or snow, making it a far more versatile single outer garment for the variable conditions encountered when hiking in the UK.

What features are essential in a hiking softshell jacket?

Essential features include excellent wind resistance, good breathability, and at least a DWR (Durable Water Repellent) finish for water resistance. Look for a well-fitting, adjustable hood, secure zipped pockets (a chest pocket is great for a phone or map), adjustable cuffs to seal out drafts, and a drawcord hem. For strenuous hiking, underarm pit zips are a highly valuable feature for ventilation.

Is a softshell warm enough for hiking UK mountains like Snowdon or Ben Nevis?

A softshell jacket is a key part of a layering system, but it is rarely warm enough on its own for the summit of a UK mountain, especially outside of summer. For Snowdon or Ben Nevis, you should wear it over a moisture-wicking base layer and a fleece mid-layer. You should also always carry a fully waterproof hard shell jacket in your backpack, as weather conditions on these mountains can change rapidly and become severe.

Should I choose a hooded or non-hooded softshell for hiking?

For UK hiking, a hooded softshell is almost always the better choice. A well-designed, adjustable hood provides crucial protection for your head, neck, and face from wind and rain, significantly increasing your overall warmth and comfort. A non-hooded jacket can work if you always wear a warm, waterproof hat and prefer less bulk around the collar, but a hood offers far more versatile protection.

How packable are softshell jackets for a hiking backpack?

Packability varies. Lighter, non-insulated woven softshells can pack down quite small. However, most softshells, especially those with a fleece lining, are bulkier than a lightweight waterproof hard shell or a down jacket. They are designed to be worn for most of the hike, rather than constantly taken on and off, which is why their breathability is so important.

Can I wear a softshell jacket as a mid-layer for hiking?

Yes, absolutely. In very cold, wet, or windy conditions, a more streamlined softshell can be an excellent mid-layer underneath a waterproof hard shell. This combination provides exceptional warmth and weather protection. The softshell acts as a warm, windproof insulating layer, while the hard shell provides the ultimate barrier against heavy rain and snow.

What level of water resistance is needed for typical UK hiking conditions?

For typical UK conditions, which often involve drizzle and showers, a jacket with a good DWR coating is the minimum requirement. This will cause water to bead up and roll off. For more reliable protection in persistent rain, look for a softshell with a waterproof membrane and a rating of at least 5,000mm. However, for guaranteed dryness in a downpour, nothing beats carrying a separate hard shell jacket.

Conclusion: Our Final Recommendation

After rigorous testing and comparison, we confidently stand by our top recommendation: the TACVASEN Men’s Waterproof Softshell Jacket. It excels by offering a feature set that is perfectly aligned with the demands of UK hiking, without the premium price tag. Its robust windproofing and warm fleece lining provide essential protection against the cold, while its impressive array of seven pockets offers unmatched utility on the trail. While it may require careful sizing, its blend of tactical functionality, all-day comfort, and outstanding value for money makes it the clear winner for anyone seeking a versatile and reliable softshell jacket for their next outdoor adventure.