When the crisp autumn air sets in, having the right jacket can make all the difference on your outdoor adventures. Softshell jackets for hiking and walking are a popular choice in the UK because they are lightweight, breathable, and designed to provide warmth without the bulk of a heavy coat. They also offer good resistance to wind and light rain, making them ideal for unpredictable autumn weather.
If you are looking for the best hiking jackets UK has to offer, here are our top picks for men and women this season.
What makes a good softshell jacket?
A quality softshell jacket should provide:
- Weather resistance – windproofing and water repellency for light rain.
- Breathability – ideal for active pursuits where you’ll build up heat.
- Comfort and stretch – a flexible fit for hiking, climbing, and cycling.
- Durability – tough enough to withstand the outdoors.
Contents
Best softshell jackets for men
Rab Vapour-Rise Alpine Light Jacket
The Rab Vapour-Rise Alpine Light Jacket is versatile and designed for active use in cooler conditions. With excellent breathability and a weather-resistant outer, it is ideal for long hikes or brisk walks on chilly autumn days.
Why we like it:
- Excellent breathability for active hiking
- Lightweight and comfortable for long days on the trail
- Durable water-resistant finish for light showers
Montane Dyno Stretch Jacket
Made from durable fabric with plenty of stretch, the Montane Dyno Stretch Jacket provides comfort and mobility on steep trails. It is wind resistant and has a helmet-compatible hood, making it suitable for mountain hikes.
Why we like it:
- Stretch fabric for freedom of movement
- Wind resistant for exposed hikes
- Technical design with practical features
The North Face Apex Bionic Jacket
The North Face Apex Bionic Jacket offers great protection against wind while remaining breathable. Its sleek design means it works equally well for country walks or city strolls during the autumn months.
Why we like it:
- Stylish and versatile for outdoor and urban wear
- Windproof yet breathable
- Comfortable soft inner lining
Patagonia Adze Jacket
The Patagonia Adze Jacket provides a reliable balance of warmth, breathability, and weather resistance. It is also sustainably made, appealing to eco-conscious hikers.
Why we like it:
- Eco-friendly materials and ethical production
- Wind and water resistant
- Comfortable fit for all-day wear
Berghaus Four Winds Softshell Jacket
Berghaus is a trusted UK outdoor brand, and the Four Winds Softshell Jacket is perfect for autumn walks. With a windproof design and water-repellent finish, it keeps you comfortable in changeable conditions.
Why we like it:
- Designed by a UK outdoor specialist brand
- Windproof for blustery days
- Water-resistant finish for light showers
Decathlon Forclaz Men’s Trek 100 Softshell Jacket
The Forclaz Men’s Trek 100 Softshell Jacket from Decathlon is a budget-friendly yet practical choice for autumn hiking. Designed for trekking, it offers wind resistance, breathability, and comfort at an affordable price.
Why we like it:
- Excellent value for money
- Wind resistant for cooler days
- Lightweight and comfortable for all-day wear
Shop Decathlon Forclaz Trek jackets
Best softshell jackets for women
Rab Borealis Jacket
Lightweight and packable, the Rab Borealis Jacket is ideal for autumn hikes where conditions can shift quickly. It is breathable, wind resistant, and easy to layer.
Why we like it:
- Packable and lightweight for all-day comfort
- Perfect layering piece for autumn weather
- Wind resistant for breezy trails
Montane Terra Stretch Jacket
The Montane Terra Stretch Jacket combines flexibility with durability, making it a great choice for both hill walks and more demanding treks. It offers a flattering fit without compromising performance.
Why we like it:
- Stretch fabric for excellent movement
- Durable design for rugged hikes
- Stylish and practical for all seasons
Explore Montane women’s jackets
The North Face Apex Nimble Jacket
Designed for movement, this softshell is stretchy, breathable, and perfect for brisk autumn walks. It also provides reliable protection against cold winds.
Why we like it:
- Lightweight and breathable for active use
- Stylish cut for outdoor and casual wear
- Wind-resistant softshell fabric
See The North Face women’s jackets
Patagonia Simul Alpine Softshell Jacket
With a slim fit and high-performance design, the Patagonia Simul Alpine Jacket is perfect for active women who enjoy autumn hiking in variable weather.
Why we like it:
- High-performance design for mountain hiking
- Slim and flattering fit
- Eco-conscious materials
View Patagonia women’s jackets
Berghaus Pravitale 2.0 Hooded Jacket
The Berghaus Pravitale 2.0 is warm, versatile, and designed for all-day comfort. It features a snug hood and durable stretch fabric, making it ideal for autumn walking in the UK countryside.
Why we like it:
- Trusted UK outdoor brand
- Warm and stretchy fabric for comfort
- Hooded design for added protection
Decathlon Quechua Women’s MH500 Softshell Jacket
The Quechua MH500 Softshell Jacket is designed for mountain hiking in cooler weather. It provides warmth, stretch, and wind protection, making it a reliable and affordable option for autumn walking in the UK.
Why we like it:
- Affordable yet high-quality design
- Stretch fabric for comfort and mobility
- Wind resistant for blustery autumn trails
Shop Decathlon Quechua jackets
Final thoughts
Choosing the best softshell jacket for autumn in the UK comes down to comfort, breathability, and protection against wind and light rain. Whether you are heading out for a long hike in the hills or a casual woodland walk, investing in a lightweight walking jacket will keep you comfortable throughout the season.
- Premium picks like Arc’teryx, Rab, Patagonia, and Montane provide exceptional performance and durability.
- Budget-friendly options from Decathlon, Regatta, Craghoppers, and Mountain Warehouse offer solid protection without breaking the bank.
Whether you’re tackling mountain ridges, coastal paths, or countryside walks, the right softshell jacket keeps you warm, dry, and comfortable.
FAQS
Are softshell jackets good for autumn hiking in the UK?
Yes, softshell jackets are excellent for autumn hiking in the UK. They are lightweight, breathable, and provide warmth while protecting against wind and light rain. This makes them ideal for changeable British weather.
What is the difference between a softshell and a hardshell jacket?
A softshell jacket is designed for comfort, breathability, and flexibility, making it great for hiking and walking. A hardshell jacket, on the other hand, is fully waterproof and windproof, designed for harsher conditions like heavy rain or snow.
Can I wear a softshell jacket in the rain?
Softshell jackets are water-resistant but not fully waterproof. They can handle light showers and drizzle but are not suitable for heavy rain. For wet weather, it’s best to carry a waterproof shell as a backup.
What should I wear under a softshell jacket in autumn?
In autumn, layering is key. A moisture-wicking base layer and a lightweight fleece or mid-layer work well under a softshell jacket. This combination keeps you warm, dry, and comfortable on the trail.
Which brands make the best softshell jackets for hiking?
Trusted outdoor brands such as Rab, Montane, The North Face, Patagonia, and Berghaus all produce high-quality softshell jackets. Each offers different fits, features, and price points to suit your hiking needs.
Can I wear a softshell jacket in winter?
Yes – softshells are great for active winter use, especially with layers underneath. For very cold conditions, pair with an insulated mid-layer.