Softshell vs Fleece vs Waterproof Jacket: Which Do You Need?
Softshell vs fleece vs waterproof jacket
Three jackets, three jobs. A fleece keeps you warm, a softshell blocks wind and light showers while you move, and a waterproof keeps out sustained rain. Here is how to choose, and how EN 343 rates waterproofs.
- EN 343 classes
- Breathability (Ret)
- Layering
- Guide ratings
Key takeaways
- Fleece = warmth, softshell = wind and showers with stretch, waterproof = rain.
- Only a certified waterproof has an EN 343 rating. The first number is water penetration (1–4), the second breathability (1–4); higher is better for both [1].
- Class 4 waterproof means at least 20,000 Pa water penetration resistance after pre-treatment [1][2].
- Two shells cost breathability: in KÜBLER's test a hardshell alone was Class 4 breathable, but Class 2 when worn over a softshell [1].
At a glance
| Fleece | Softshell | Waterproof | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main job | Warmth | Wind, showers, movement | Sustained rain |
| Keeps out steady rain | ✗ | Showers only (unless sold as waterproof) | ✓ |
| Blocks wind | Some (windblocker fleeces more) | ✓ | ✓ |
| Stretch and freedom of movement | Good | Very good | Varies |
| Can carry an EN 343 class | ✗ | Only if certified | ✓ |
| Best as | Mid-layer or dry-day jacket | Active outer layer | Outer shell over layers |
Guide ratings
Where a value is measured, we show it in the EN 343 chart below. These two charts are guide ratings so you can see the trade-off at a glance.
Warmth (guide rating out of 5)
Guide rating, not a test result: our typical-behaviour rating based on construction (knitted pile fleece; bonded or fleece-backed softshell; unlined shell). Insulated and padded jackets differ.
Rain protection (guide rating out of 5)
Guide rating, not a test result: based on construction (open knit; water-repellent finish; membrane or coating with sealed seams). Waterproof softshells exist; check the product.
EN 343: what the numbers mean
A label reading "EN 343 4 4 X" means Class 4 water penetration, Class 4 breathability, and no rain-tower test on the finished garment [1].
Water penetration resistance, minimum (Pa)
Data: EN 343:2019 Table 2 via KÜBLER [1] and SATRA [2]. *Class 1 is tested before pre-treatment; Classes 2–4 after each pre-treatment (cleaning, abrasion, flexing, fuel and oil) [1].
| Breathability class | Ret (m²·Pa/W) | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | > 40 | Low moisture transfer; limited wearing time |
| 2 | > 25 to 40 | Moderate |
| 3 | > 15 to 25 | Good |
| 4 | ≤ 15 | Very good moisture transfer |
Layering changes breathability
Wearing a waterproof over a softshell adds protection but traps more sweat. For hard physical work in rain, a breathable shell over a thin fleece is often more comfortable.
Measured Ret after 30 cleaning cycles (lower is better)
Data: KÜBLER Workwear test of its own jacket combination [1]. Other garments will differ.
Pick by weather, then layer
Mostly dry and cold? A fleece. Windy, showery and on the move? A softshell. Out in proper rain for hours? A waterproof with an EN 343 rating, ideally Class 3 or 4 for water penetration. Many trades wear a fleece under a waterproof shell so they can adapt through the day.
Shop the three types
Fleeces
Full-zip, quarter-zip and windblocker fleeces, such as the Snickers 8422 Polartec Shed Less.
Shop fleecesSoftshell jackets
Stretchy outer layers, hooded and insulated options.
Shop softshellsJacket questions
Is a softshell waterproof?
Most softshells are water-repellent, so they shed light showers, but they are not built for sustained rain. Some are sold as waterproof softshells; check the product for an EN 343 rating.
What does EN 343 4 4 mean?
Class 4 for water penetration resistance and Class 4 for breathability, the top class for both.
Is a higher Ret better?
No. Ret is water vapour resistance, so lower is more breathable. Class 4 is Ret 15 or less.
Can I wear a fleece under a waterproof?
Yes, it is a common and flexible combination. Choose a breathable shell if you will be working hard.
Fleece or softshell for winter?
A fleece is usually warmer; a softshell is better in wind. In cold, wet weather wear a fleece under a waterproof, or choose an insulated jacket.
How do I keep my waterproof working?
Wash it as the label says, avoid fabric softener and re-proof when water stops beading. See our care guide.
Can you add our logo?
Yes. We embroider and print softshells, fleeces and many waterproofs. Tell us which garment you are branding and we will advise on the best method.
Need jackets for the whole team?
Mix fleeces, softshells and waterproofs, add your logo and we will deliver across the UK and Ireland.
Sources
Numbers in square brackets on this page refer to these sources. Standards and site rules change, so always check the current version and your own risk assessment.
- KÜBLER Workwear, EN 343 weather protection: classes and layering test – https://www.kuebler.eu/en/service/protection-standards/en-343/
- SATRA, The EN 343 protective clothing standard – https://www.satra.com/spotlight/article.php?id=590
- The Workwear Co, Fabric & Materials Guide – https://www.theworkwearco.com/pages/fabric-guide