Happy Softshell 

7 points on how to choose a children's softshell jacket

It doesn't have an English name or transcription, yet we dare say that here isn't a mum or dad who doesn't know the material softshell. And why should it be parents? Primarily because of the unique properties of this multi-layered material. Read carefully the 7 exceptional points about softshell and you will immediately know why your kids can wear them 7 days a week, even 12 months a year. These are the advantages of softshell.

1. It is versatile

Because of its features described below, you can wear it in the central-european climate conditions in all seasons. And if you are a fan of the well-known and handy system of layering clothes for children - softshell will successfully stand as a second, middle layer, and as a third one. Wouldn't you like more explanation? Let's do it!

2. Resists the wind

Softshell is a material that resists wind well. It is like an invisible shield for your children. Thanks to a special membrane or tightly woven fabric, it can prevent wind from penetrating the body.

3. Protects against water and rain

Softshell pieces of clothing - not only jackets but also pants - will also successfully protect our children against water and rain. The hero here is the membrane layer, which makes softshell jackets wonderfully waterproof. The only weakness is the seams, where moisture can find its way in. The seams cannot be taped technologically, as the membrane is directly laminated to the fabric. Yet in short rains, on the way to school or during trips, softshell jackets and trousers like those from the Scandinavian brand Reima with a water column of 10,000 mm provide excellent protection and comfort. And if we combine this with the above mentioned point two, we appreciate the shoftshell most in cold and changeable weather, and we have more than enough of it in the central-europe, not only in spring and autumn, especially in the mountains.

4. It is breathable

It is a functional material that is breathable and can wick sweat away perfectly. This is done through microscopic pores in the membrane that are small enough to prevent water from the outside, but large enough to allow sweat to evaporate away from the body. This effectively wicks sweat away from the skin, leaving you feeling dry and warm.

5. It can warm just enough

The reverse side of the softshell material is often a soft fleece that feels just right to keep you warm. But it's not a clear rule. Softshell is two layers of fabrics joined together, which means the inner material can also be a lighter, plain fabric.

6. It's lightweight

Kids - and not just kids - like to wear it because it's lightweight and feels nice to the touch.

7. And it doesn't restrict children's movement in any way.

The softness of the Shoftshell doesn't restrict children's movement, which is great. They can run, jump, play and frolic - do anything and maybe even get pretty sweaty. All of this is fine in softshell. Because this material will always wick away sweat and still maintain thermal comfort and excellent breathability.

EXTRA How to care for softshell?

The well-known golden rule applies here too, that with proper care we can maximally extend the life of our favourite piece. Even a simple wipe with a damp cloth is enough to keep minor dirt in place. When washing jackets and trousers in general, avoid common detergents that can irreversibly damage functional clothing. Rather, use a special detergent designed for this purpose, wash at low temperatures (ideally thirty degrees) and do not use fabric softener. However, before putting your clothes in the washing machine, make sure all pockets are empty and zippers are fastened to avoid unnecessary snagging of the fibres. After the clothes have dried, impregnate them again. This will give you softshell pieces that will last longer and generally have less dirt clinging to them.

EXTRA When softshell won't work

We won't offer your kids the right warmth or comfort if you don't wear the right size softshell jacket or pants. As with other functional clothing, the material needs to fit the body before it can perform its function. So don't choose clothes for your children that are unnecessarily large, thinking that they will grow into them. It is more sensible to choose the right size and resell the still-functional piece over time. We know from our own experience over the years that there is still a huge demand for Reima products - even second-hand. And that's when your wallet and our planet can rejoice.

Do you need to ask any more questions?

If you are not sure about the right choice of a children's softshell jacket, we welcome you in our Skibi Kids stores, where we will be happy to help and advise you.