My short opinion is this: I think these jackets are terrific. But not everything on your list is an apples-to-apples comparison. The Serendipity ($250) is indeed one of the new-generation “soft-shell” ...

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Soft shell jackets, made of a spongy, wetsuit-like material, have for years been worn by mountain climbers and skiers. But in many circumstances, I've discovered, they're perfect for travelers. The ...

Expensive. Can't use the hand pockets with a climbing harness. Like most durable water repellents, it uses carcinogenic perfluorocarbons in the waterproofing process. When it comes to outdoor ...

Morning frost creeps in, budgets tighten, and Brits reach for layers that don’t weigh heavy on shoulders or wallets. Aldi has put a soft-shell jacket on shelves that targets exactly that moment.