Shield Men's Softshell Jacket- waterproof & Windproof

3L jackets combine outer fabric, waterproof membrane and backing layer via thermal bonding with no loose lining. 2L jackets adopt a separate lining detached from the outer fabric.

Softshells are also made of water‑resistant fabrics with a DWR coating, and some feature fully taped seams. Unlike hardshell jackets, they lack a dedicated waterproof membrane, resulting in slightly lower waterproof performance. Still, they effectively repel light daily rain, with water beading and rolling off the surface, delivering reliable water‑repellent capability for everyday use.

Moisture vapor transmission refers to the fabric's ability to expel sweat vapor (perspiration) from the inside out – this is what keeps you from feeling clammy during exertion. Air permeability, on the other hand, refers to the direct passage of air molecules (wind) through the fabric.

A high level of air permeability can indeed compromise waterproofness, as larger pores that let air through may also allow liquid water to penetrate under pressure. 

What the outdoor industry commonly calls "breathability rating" (e.g., on a jacket's spec sheet) is almost always Moisture Vapor Transmission Rate (MVTR) – not air permeability.

Not exactly. These ratings describe the raw fabric's lab performance, not the finished jacket's real-world capability.

The overall waterproofness of a jacket also depends on seam taping quality, waterproof zippers, and construction details – a high‑HH fabric is useless if water leaks through the seams.

Similarly, perceived breathability (comfort) is influenced by mechanical venting features (e.g., pit zips), the inner liner material, and overall fit. 

So always consider the jacket's design as a whole, not just the headline numbers.