What's a softshell?
In the Tribord sail area, alongside the fleeces are also softshells. With their hood, zipper and water-repellent fabric, they look more like a jacket. So what is a softshell? On the inside, it's a thin fleece, on the outside, it's a windproof and water-repellent fabric. Between these two layers is a breathable and windproof microporous membrane. In short, it's a bit like an "improved" fleece even though the two have different advantages.
A little light at high speed..
We had the opportunity to test the Softshell jacket from Tribord to Cannes, with a light breeze and lots of sunshine. Temperature felt: 20°. Temperature supported by the jacket: 10 to 13°.
Worn alone, over a sweater, it remains a little light to protect against the cold, when there is a little wind, especially when sailing a motorboat at about 20 knots (37 km/h). It will suffice to combine it with a windproof jacket - such as a the Coastal for example - to gain warmth and sail comfortably.
In full sun, without breeze - even at 30 knots (55 km/h) it will be self-sufficient (always with an underlay underneath) to protect from the cold, but for a short time.
Tribord presents this jacket for regular sailing in cold and rough weather (strong wind, rough seas), but we still have reservations on this point (worn alone without an overlayer above).
Easy to wear and terribly elegant
The Tribord Softshell jacket has two large and deep close-fitting interior compartments, ideal for storing your belongings at sea. There are two non-waterproof outside zipped pockets. The jacket closes with a zipper that goes up high in the neck to tighten and protect from the wind. The waist is fitted, it is a product that is worn close to the body. The sides of the jacket can also be adjusted with elastics.
The hood can be adjusted by drawstrings at the neck, but also in depth with a velcro fastener on the back of the hood. The sleeves are adjustable at the wrists with hook and loop fasteners. Lightweight, breathable and with underarm yokes to wick away sweat.
As for the water repellency, the weather did not allow us to check, but Tribord announces that the exterior fabric is capable of withstanding 30 minutes of light rain.
In short, the Tribord Softshell jacket fulfils its role. It protects against the cold, but will be more appreciated under sail than on a motorboat, especially if worn alone. It's a slim-fitted jacket that doesn't tighten and leaves us free to move around. Finally, its cut and colours - white in our test - bring a real aesthetic side to the garment! For my part, I wear it regularly, and not just for boating. And for those who are not yet convinced, its price of 49.99 euros (about half the price of other brands of technical clothing) will seduce you. (also available in men's version at the same price).
