Softshell vs. Hardshell
A softshell is any shell-type jacket or pant that foregoes a waterproof membrane. Made with lightweight, flexible materials and often minimalistic in design, softshell jackets and pants provide a balance of comfort, breathability, and protection. Softshells are generally lighter, more packable, more breathable, and often more affordable than their hardshell counterparts.
On the other hand, hardshells are typically referred to as "three-layer" shells, consisting of a face fabric, a waterproof membrane, and a backing fabric. Together, these elements provide robust waterproofing and (sometimes) breathability. While hardshells are ideal in extreme conditions where full waterproofing is non-negotiable, softshells excel in active environments where breathability and movement take priority.
For backcountry skiers, softshells have been a game-changer. Whether navigating high alpine terrain, bootpacking up a wind-scoured ridge, or skiing deep powder, softshells revolutionized layering systems by offering increased comfort and performance during high-output activities. This article dives into why the Arc'teryx Rush Softshell Pants are an essential piece of gear for those of us who demand versatility, durability, and freedom of movement in the backcountry.
Why I Chose the Rush Softshell Pant
When I first dove into softshells, I was broadly classifying them as either breathable or versatile. My first few pieces were all focused on maximum breathability and were consequently paper-thin and not very durable! While I keep a pair around for spring days, I went searching for a more durable pant that would make it through a long season unscathed. When the Arc'teryx Rush Softshell Pants first arrived, my colleague Cooper quickly noticed how much burlier these pants were than others. The cuff guard (kick patch) felt like twice the material than in other pants and the face fabric had a good weight to it. They quickly became my go-to for just about every condition you’ll encounter in the Sierra Nevada.
Durability Where it Counts
We joke when we largely when we divide Tahoe’s backcountry skiers into those who sit in the snow and those who don't. Being among the latter, I don’t need a pant that has a reinforced seat and tougher material on the knees. I need something that can brush up against 1,000 trees per year and resist the fangs of my crampons.
The Rush Softshells are made from a durable, water-resistant fabric that stands up to this kind of abuse. The outer material has a tight weave that’s tough enough to resist snags and tears from branches or rocks. Sometimes the skin track just needs to go just there, and I need pants that can go there too.
The back side of the Rush Softshells have a soft handfeel that unlocked something new for me. I now enjoy going without a full-length base layer because the pants don’t irritate my bare skin. A soft backer and tough outer are proving to be a great combo.
Versatility for Tahoe’s Ever-Changing Conditions
If you’ve spent any time in the Tahoe backcountry, you know the weather can shift from sun to storm in the blink of an eye. That’s why versatility in your gear is key. The Rush Softshells are built for just this kind of unpredictability. They’re not fully waterproof, but they do an excellent job of shedding light snow and wind, especially with their durable water repellent (DWR) finish. And while they’re breathable enough for high-output skinning or bootpacking, they still offer enough protection against the elements if the weather turns nasty.
The real standout for me is how the Rush Softshells handle varying temperatures. Early-mornings are chilly, but by mid-afternoon, you could be sweating buckets as you push up a long, exposed ridge. These pants strike a perfect balance between warmth and ventilation. The stretch fabric doesn’t bind or overheat during those tough climbs, and the side zips let you dump heat quickly without having to stop and fiddle around. If you’re like me, you’ll appreciate that, especially on long days when keeping the sweat at bay is half the battle.
A Fit That Feels Custom
Arc'teryx has a knack for getting fit right, and the Rush Softshells are no exception. The cut is athletic, meaning they’re not overly baggy, and the cuff is generous enough for ski boots of all sizes and I can fit them over my snowboard boots. You’ll quickly notice some unique stitching! The articulated knees are key for mobility in the skintrack and I certainly never feel impeded on the down.
The waistband is adjustable with a built-in belt, which is great if you like to dial in the fit a bit more. I prefer a loose fit at the waist when I’m skinning, so I’ve made use of the included suspender loops sewn into the waist belt. I pulled a set of suspenders from some long forgotten hardshells and they’ve worked great! The stretchy, soft fabric also gives just the right amount of give, so I never feel like I’m fighting against the pants when I’m moving.
Why the Rush Softshells Work in Tahoe
Ultimately, it’s all about the balance of performance and comfort, and the Rush Softshells nail it. They can take a beating on the rough terrain, handle long days of skinning and skiing, and adapt to the varied weather that makes Tahoe's so amazing. Plus, they don’t slow you down. If anything, they enhance your movement, allowing you to focus on the line ahead instead of adjusting your gear.
For someone who’s as comfortable dropping into a chute as they are navigating a dense forest, the Rush Softshell Pants should earn a place in your gear closet. Tahoe’s backcountry demands a lot, but with these pants, I’ve got the durability, versatility, and comfort I need to make it through another epic season.
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