Softshell vs Waterproof Pants for Men: Which to Choose?
By Outdoor Apparel, Footwear & Equipment | JACK WOLFSKIN | Published: 2026-10-26
Category: Comparisons
Compare men's softshell and waterproof pants for hiking. Learn the trade-offs in breathability, weather protection, and versatility to pick the right pair.
Quick answer
Choose softshell pants for active, all-season wear where breathability and mobility matter most; choose waterproof pants when rain or wet conditions are the main threat and you need reliable protection.
Breathability vs. weather protection
The core trade-off comes down to how you'll use the pants. Softshell fabrics like TEXASHIELD STRETCH are designed to keep you comfortable during high-output activities—they repel light rain, block wind, and let moisture escape, which helps you stay dry from the inside out. Waterproof pants, on the other hand, prioritize keeping rain and wind out entirely, but they can trap heat and sweat if you're working hard.
Think about the intensity of your activity. If you're hiking uphill or moving briskly, a breathable softshell will feel more comfortable over long distances. If you're standing still in a downpour or crossing wet terrain, waterproof protection becomes the priority.
Versatility for everyday and trail use
Softshell pants often double as everyday outdoor trousers because they look and feel like regular pants while offering technical performance. The ACTIVATE XT PANTS M, for example, are designed for day hikes, backcountry trekking, and everyday outdoor use all year round. Their stretch fabric and articulated knees provide freedom of movement, making them a practical choice for mixed activities.
Waterproof pants are more specialized. They're typically lighter and packable, meant to be carried in a backpack and pulled on when the weather turns. This makes them less suited for all-day wear in mild conditions, but ideal for unpredictable weather.
The trade-off at a glance
- Choose softshell if...: You'll be moving most of the time and want breathability, stretch, and year-round versatility. The ACTIVATE XT PANTS M are a good fit for day hikes and everyday wear. If you plan to wear them for both trail and town, softshell is the more flexible choice.
- Choose waterproof if...: You expect heavy rain or prolonged wet conditions and want reliable protection that packs down small. The RAINY DAY PANTS are designed to be stowed and deployed when needed. If you often hike in changeable weather, keep a pair in your pack for emergencies.
- Consider layering...: You can combine both: wear softshell pants for active sections and pull waterproof pants over them when the rain starts. This approach gives you the best of both worlds without compromising comfort or protection.
Product facts
- ACTIVATE XT PANTS M: The ACTIVATE XT trousers use a double weave TEXASHIELD STRETCH softshell fabric that is water repellent, wind resistant, and breathable. This combination makes them a strong all-rounder for active use in changeable conditions, where you want protection without overheating.
ACTIVATE XT PANTS M - RAINY DAY PANTS: The RAINY DAY PANTS use TEXAPORE CORE RIPSTOP 2.5L, made with 100% Polyamide, and come with a stuff sack. They offer complete weather protection in a packable design, so you can keep them in your bag and pull them out when rain hits.
RAINY DAY PANTS
Which pair fits you?
Best for
- Day hikers and trekkers who value breathability and freedom of movement
- People who want one pair of trousers for both outdoor activities and casual everyday wear
Not for
- Heavy downpours or prolonged wet conditions where full waterproofing is essential
