Glossary term
Hard shell vs. soft shell
Two classes of technical outerwear: hard shells prioritise weather protection via rigid membranes; soft shells prioritise mobility via stretch and breathability.
Definition
Hard shells use a fully waterproof laminate — the category seam-sealing was invented for.
Soft shells use stretch wovens, often with a PU membrane, trading some waterproofness for mobility and comfort.
Why it matters to DSEAMS
DSEAMS bonded seams apply to both categories. Cohesive CIBS serves hard-shell constructions; Liquants AES suits lightweight and minimalist shells across the stretch spectrum.
Related terms
- Laminate constructionA textile assembled from two or more layers bonded together — typically a face fabric, a membrane and a lining or backer.
- Barrier membraneThe thin functional layer inside a laminate that blocks liquid water while allowing vapour to pass.
- Waterproof-breathableA fabric construction that blocks liquid water from entering while allowing water vapour to pass through — enabling sweat to escape from a sealed garment.