What is a softshell garment?

Softshell garments are designed to meet the needs of outdoor enthusiasts. They combine protection against the elements, breathability, and freedom of movement. Unlike hardshells (rigid waterproof jackets), softshells are flexible fabrics that offer more comfort while being wind-resistant and slightly water-repellent.

This is not a strict technical standard but a textile category. Each brand can develop its own versions, adapted to different uses: hiking, skiing, mountaineering, climbing…

One of the main advantages of softshell garments lies in their ability to offer excellent breathability. Unlike classic waterproof jackets that are often not very permeable to water vapor, a softshell jacket allows body moisture to escape efficiently, even during exertion. The result: you stay dry from the inside, which limits clamminess and the risk of chilling. This thermal regulation ability is especially valuable during intense activities like hiking, ski touring, or mountaineering. At Lagoped, our softshell jackets like the TENGMALM or the UKPIK are designed to adapt to temperature changes, keep you warm without overheating, and ensure optimal comfort throughout the day. Perfect as a third layer in a layering system, they let you move for long periods, efficiently and comfortably.

Even though a softshell garment is not designed to withstand torrential rain, it provides highly effective protection against the most common mountain elements: light showers, spray, or cold wind. Thanks to a durable water repellent (DWR) surface treatment, water beads up and slides off the fabric without soaking it, thus maintaining the garment’s warmth and lightness. All Lagoped softshell jackets are PFC-free, an ethical choice that protects your health and the environment without compromising performance. Add excellent wind resistance to that, and you get a reliable garment for all your mid-season outings or variable conditions. Whether in the mountains or on a bike, hiking or climbing cliffs, Lagoped softshell clothing creates an effective barrier against the elements while remaining breathable.

Flexibility is a key criterion for outdoor enthusiasts. Where some stiff garments can restrict movement or cause chafing, a softshell garment hugs the body’s shape and naturally follows your movements. It’s the fabric’s elasticity – often a blend of recycled fibers and elastane – that provides this great freedom of movement. Whether you’re climbing a wall, setting up camp, running on a steep trail, or simply carrying a loaded backpack, a softshell jacket or pants accompany you without constraint. At Lagoped, this freedom is essential: every cut is designed to never hinder your movements, with flexible yet durable textiles and a perfect fit. It’s the ideal ally for those who want to move without limits, in every season.

Softshell garments are designed to last while remaining lightweight and easy to wear. They offer an excellent alternative to heavier and often stiff hardshell jackets. Thanks to their innovative design, Lagoped softshell jackets combine abrasion resistance, lightness, and technical simplicity. This makes them ideal companions for long days on trails, approach hikes, or spring skiing outings. At Lagoped, we select highly performant recycled fabrics, woven in Europe, capable of withstanding rubbing from rocks, backpacks, or snags in the forest. Whether you choose the robust TENGMALM jacket or the lighter UKPIK, you can count on their durability to accompany you season after season. Investing in a Lagoped softshell garment means choosing a reliable, versatile, and eco-responsible product.

At Lagoped, we offer two complementary softshell jackets, designed to meet different uses while sharing the same strong commitments: technical performance, circularity, and European manufacturing. Focus on the TENGMALM jacket, robust and warm, and the UKPIK, lighter and ultra-mobile. Two softshells for two ways to experience adventure.

Weighing 480 grams, the TENGMALM softshell jacket is designed to face the coolest conditions with confidence. Its stretch fabric woven in Spain from recycled polyamide sourced from old carpets, rugs, and fishing nets includes 10% elastane to ensure great freedom of movement. This windproof, water-repellent, and slightly insulating jacket is ideal as an outer layer during your hikes, approach walks, or outings in varied terrain. To enhance warmth, the inner layer is brushed (fleece-style) to trap air and retain body heat. Thanks to its assembly in Hungary, it follows strict European manufacturing standards with low environmental impact.

Designed to last, the TENGMALM is a true mountain softshell: comfortable, technical, and made to be worn often, for a long time, and intensely. Its abrasion resistance and ergonomic cut make it a reliable ally in all your explorations, whether it's cool at the bivouac or windy on the ridge.

Weighing only 306 grams, the UKPIK softshell jacket is the lightest in the Lagoped range. Ultra-stretch, breathable, and PFC-free water-repellent, it was designed for dynamic activities where you move a lot, quickly, and in all directions. It features two stretch and breathable panels under the arms to offer increased freedom of movement and allow sweat to evaporate. It provides optimal comfort while ensuring good protection against light showers or cool winds. Thanks to the use of recycled Econyl polyamide yarn (from Slovenia), woven and dyed in Spain, then assembled in Hungary, the UKPIK represents a responsible choice without compromising performance.

Its athletic cut and flexibility make this softshell a perfect choice for trail running, day trips, or light expeditions. It easily fits into a backpack and feels weightless on your back while effectively protecting you. The UKPIK jacket is a tribute to movement: a technical softshell designed to go fast, far, and light, without ever compromising its values.

A well-maintained softshell jacket is one that will accompany you for a long time, without losing its technical qualities. Whether you use it for mountain outings, day hikes, or daily commutes, good care helps preserve your garment’s breathability, water repellency, and flexibility. Extending the life of a softshell is also a strong gesture to reduce its environmental impact.

To preserve your softshell’s performance, always start by washing it inside out, at a maximum temperature of 30°C, with zippers closed. This simple step limits friction and protects the fabric’s technical membranes. Absolutely avoid tumble drying and ironing, which could damage the stretch material and surface treatments. Prefer air drying on a hanger, in a well-ventilated place but out of direct sunlight.

Fabric softener and dry cleaning are to be avoided: they can clog the fabric fibers and alter the breathable and water-repellent properties of your softshell jacket. A simple gentle wash cycle with a mild detergent is enough to keep your garment clean and effective.

Over time and with washing, your softshell’s water-repellent ability can decrease. To fix this, it is recommended to use a specific reactivating product, such as a PFC-free water-repellent spray. At Lagoped, we recommend our PFC-free spray, designed to restore your softshell jacket’s original moisture protection while respecting the planet. Apply it after washing, on dry or slightly damp fabric, to extend the effectiveness of the water-repellent treatment without compromising breathability.

By taking care of your softshell jacket with these simple steps, you maximize its lifespan while maintaining its performance throughout your adventures. A well-maintained softshell is a reliable and durable ally, season after season.