Custom Softshell Jackets Canada - No Minimum Order

Not all softshell jackets are created equal. The term "softshell" covers a range of construction methods, each offering a different balance of weather protection, breathability, and warmth. Understanding the differences helps you choose the right custom softshell jackets Canada buyers need for their specific use case — whether that is a corporate uniform, outdoor team gear, or promotional giveaway.

2-Layer Softshell Jackets

2-layer softshell jackets consist of a polyester outer shell bonded to a DWR (durable water repellent) finish. These are the lightest and most breathable softshell option, making them ideal for active use and mild weather conditions. The 2-layer construction provides wind resistance and light rain protection without adding bulk. This style is popular for spring and autumn corporate wear in Toronto and Vancouver where full waterproofing is not required but some weather protection is expected.

3-Layer Bonded Softshell Jackets

3-layer softshell jackets feature a polyester outer shell, a TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) waterproof-breathable membrane in the middle, and a micro-fleece or brushed tricot lining on the inside. This construction delivers the highest level of weather protection in the softshell category — significantly more waterproof and windproof than 2-layer models while still maintaining excellent breathability. The 3-layer bonded softshell jackets in our catalogue are the preferred choice for outdoor teams, field workers, and corporate buyers in Calgary and Montreal who need reliable protection in variable Canadian weather.

Stretch Softshell Jackets

Stretch softshell jackets emphasize freedom of movement with a higher elastane content — typically 5% to 10% — woven into the fabric. These jackets are designed for active pursuits where unrestricted motion matters: hiking, cycling, climbing, and athletic training. The four-way stretch makes these jackets feel less like outerwear and more like a fitted performance layer. Teams and outdoor recreation groups across Canada appreciate the athletic fit of stretch softshell.

Hooded vs. Standard Collar

Custom softshell jackets are available in both hooded and standard collar configurations. Hooded softshell jackets provide additional protection from rain and wind, making them popular for outdoor work and recreation. Standard collar styles with a high stand-up collar project a cleaner, more professional look that corporate buyers prefer. Both styles accept embroidery and heat transfer decoration equally well.

Insulated vs. Uninsulated

Some softshell jackets include an insulated lining — either synthetic fill or a heavier fleece backing — for added warmth. Insulated softshell jackets extend the wearable temperature range deeper into winter, making them a three-season or even four-season option in milder parts of Canada. Uninsulated models are lighter and more packable, ideal as a layering piece over a fleece or under a hardshell in colder conditions.

The performance of a softshell jacket is determined by its materials and construction. Understanding the fabrics, membranes, and finishes used in softshell construction helps you evaluate which custom softshell jackets Canada suppliers offer and select the right jacket for your branding and functional needs.

Polyester and Elastane Outer Shell

The outer face of a softshell jacket is almost always woven polyester — typically 90% to 97% polyester blended with 3% to 10% elastane (spandex). The polyester provides durability, colour fastness, and abrasion resistance, while the elastane delivers the four-way stretch that defines softshell fabric. Higher-denier polyester yarns produce a more durable shell suitable for workwear applications, while finer yarns create a softer hand feel preferred for corporate and casual wear.

TPU Membranes and Waterproof Ratings

Waterproof softshell jackets use a TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) membrane laminated between the outer shell and inner lining. This membrane blocks liquid water from penetrating while allowing water vapour (sweat) to escape. Waterproof ratings for softshell jackets typically range from 5,000mm to 10,000mm — sufficient for light to moderate rain but not designed for sustained heavy downpours. For buyers in Vancouver and coastal British Columbia where rain is frequent, a 3-layer bonded softshell with a minimum 8,000mm rating is recommended.

DWR Coatings

DWR (durable water repellent) is a chemical finish applied to the outer face of the fabric that causes water to bead up and roll off rather than soaking in. Most custom softshell jackets feature a DWR coating as either the primary water protection (on 2-layer models) or as an additional layer of defence on top of a TPU membrane (on 3-layer models). DWR coatings wear off over time with washing and abrasion but can be refreshed with aftermarket spray-on treatments.

Fleece Lining Options

The inner lining of a softshell jacket is where warmth and comfort originate. Options include micro-fleece (soft, lightweight, moderate warmth), brushed tricot (smooth, low-profile, easy layering), and sherpa fleece (thick, plush, maximum warmth). Corporate buyers in Toronto and Montreal tend to prefer micro-fleece for its balance of warmth and professional appearance. Outdoor and workwear buyers in Calgary and Edmonton often choose heavier fleece linings for colder job sites.

Breathability Ratings

Breathability is measured in MVTR (moisture vapour transfer rate) — the higher the number, the more breathable the fabric. Quality softshell jackets deliver MVTR ratings between 3,000 g/m2 and 10,000 g/m2 over 24 hours. Higher breathability is essential for active use — hiking, construction, and sports — while lower breathability is acceptable for casual and corporate wear where the wearer is less physically active.

Custom softshell jackets deliver a combination of performance features that no other single garment category can match. Water resistance, wind protection, breathability, stretch, and thermal insulation all come together in one versatile layer. Here is what to look for when evaluating custom softshell jackets Canada organizations order for their teams and staff.

Water-Resistant Protection

Waterproof softshell jackets handle light to moderate rain without letting moisture through. The DWR coating causes water to bead on the surface, while the TPU membrane (in 3-layer models) provides a secondary barrier. Softshell is not designed for sustained heavy rain — that is hardshell territory — but for commuting in Toronto drizzle, walking between buildings in Calgary, or standing on a sideline in Vancouver, a quality softshell keeps you dry and comfortable.

Windproof Construction

Wind chill is one of the biggest comfort killers in Canadian weather. Softshell jackets with bonded membranes block 95% to 100% of wind from penetrating the fabric. This windproof construction maintains body heat in exposed conditions — walking across open parking lots, standing on sidelines, or working on construction sites in Edmonton and Winnipeg where prairie wind is relentless. Windproof performance is one of the primary reasons custom softshell jackets Canada buyers choose softshell over fleece.

Breathable Comfort

Unlike hardshell rain jackets that trap heat and moisture inside, softshell jackets allow water vapour from perspiration to pass through the fabric and evaporate. This breathability prevents the clammy, overheated feeling that causes people to unzip or remove their jacket. For active wearers — field workers, event staff, sports teams, and outdoor recreation groups — breathability is essential for all-day comfort.

Four-Way Stretch

The elastane content in softshell fabric provides four-way stretch that moves with the wearer in every direction. Reaching overhead, bending, twisting, and shouldering bags are all unrestricted. This freedom of movement makes softshell jackets the preferred outerwear for active professionals and athletic teams. Competitors wearing hardshell or insulated jackets without stretch feel stiff and restricted by comparison.

Zippered Pockets and Adjustable Features

Quality custom softshell jackets include functional details that enhance everyday wearability: zippered hand pockets to secure phones and wallets, interior chest pockets for valuables, adjustable cuffs with Velcro tabs to seal out drafts, and adjustable hem drawcords to trap warmth. These practical features make softshell jackets genuinely useful garments that people want to wear — which means your branded logo gets seen more often.

Embroidered softshell jackets represent the gold standard for branded outerwear. Embroidery is the preferred decoration method for softshell fabric because it delivers a premium, textured finish that looks professional and lasts the entire life of the garment. The thread-stitched design will not crack, peel, fade, or wash out — and it avoids the heat-related dye migration issues that can affect printing on polyester fabrics.

Why Embroidery Is Ideal for Softshell

Embroidered softshell jackets avoid the single biggest decoration challenge with polyester outerwear: dye sublimation migration. When heat is applied to dark polyester fabric during screen printing or heat transfer, the polyester dye can migrate into the ink, causing discolouration — typically a pink or red haze on white or light-coloured prints. Embroidery uses no heat and no ink, so there is zero risk of dye migration. This makes embroidery the safest and most reliable method for decorating custom softshell jackets Canada buyers order in dark colours like Black, Navy, and Charcoal.

Thread Count and Detail

Modern commercial embroidery machines deliver extremely precise stitching with thread counts up to 15,000 stitches per design. Your company logo, team crest, or organization emblem is reproduced in vivid colour with crisp edges and consistent quality across every jacket in the order. T-Shirt Elephant provides free digitizing — the process of converting your artwork into an embroidery file — with every embroidered softshell jacket order.

Placement Options

The most popular embroidery placement on custom softshell jackets is the left chest — a 3.5 to 4-inch logo positioned over the heart. Additional placements include the right chest (for secondary logos or names), the upper back (between the shoulders), the full back (up to 12 inches), and the sleeve. Corporate buyers in Toronto and Vancouver typically order left chest embroidery for a clean, executive look, while sports teams and event organizations add back and sleeve placements for maximum visibility.

Durability That Outlasts the Jacket

Embroidered decoration is the most durable branding method available. The polyester thread is colourfast, resistant to UV fading, and impervious to washing and dry cleaning. An embroidered softshell jacket from T-Shirt Elephant will display your logo as crisply on its hundredth wash as it did on day one. For corporate uniforms in Calgary, team gear in Montreal, and promotional outerwear across Canada, embroidery is the long-term investment that pays off.

Browse Our Softshell Selection

Explore our full range of custom jackets available for embroidery. Every softshell jacket in our catalogue can be embroidered with your logo — from lightweight 2-layer models to heavyweight 3-layer bonded shells. Contact our team for a free mockup showing your logo embroidered on the jacket of your choice.

While embroidery is the preferred method for custom softshell jackets, heat transfer and screen printing offer viable alternatives for certain designs, budgets, and aesthetic preferences. Printing on softshell requires specific techniques and careful attention to fabric compatibility — here is what you need to know before choosing a print method for your custom softshell jackets Canada order.

Heat Transfer on Softshell Jackets

Heat transfer is the most common print method used on softshell fabric. Pre-printed designs are transferred onto the jacket surface using a heat press at carefully controlled temperatures. The key challenge is applying enough heat to bond the transfer without damaging the DWR coating or triggering dye migration from the polyester fabric. Our production team uses low-temperature transfers and specialized films designed for polyester outerwear to deliver clean, vibrant prints without compromising the jacket's weather-resistant properties.

Screen Printing Considerations

Screen printing on softshell jackets is possible but limited compared to printing on flat cotton or polyester T-shirts. The textured surface of softshell fabric can affect ink adhesion and print resolution, and the heat required to cure plastisol inks can cause dye migration on dark polyester. For these reasons, screen printing on softshell is best suited for simple, bold designs in light colours — or on lighter-coloured jackets where dye migration is not a concern. For complex multi-colour designs on dark softshell jackets, we recommend embroidery instead.

When to Choose Print Over Embroidery

Print methods are the better choice when your design includes fine detail, photographic elements, or gradients that embroidery cannot reproduce. Large back prints — event names, sponsor logos, and promotional messages — are also more cost-effective as heat transfers than as large-area embroidery. Teams in Toronto ordering custom softshell jackets for a charity run, for example, might choose a left-chest embroidered logo paired with a large heat-transferred event graphic on the back.

Combining Embroidery and Print

The most popular approach for custom softshell jackets Canada organizations order is a combination: embroidered logo on the left chest for premium branding, plus a heat-transferred name, number, or event detail on the back or sleeve. This gives you the best of both worlds — the durability and premium look of embroidery on your primary logo, and the flexibility and cost-effectiveness of print for secondary decoration.

Artwork Requirements

For heat transfers, provide your artwork as a high-resolution vector file (AI, EPS, or PDF) for the sharpest results. For embroidery, our team handles the digitizing process at no additional charge. If you are unsure which method is best for your custom softshell jackets, send us your artwork and we will recommend the ideal approach based on design complexity, jacket colour, and budget.

Corporate softshell jackets are the most requested branded outerwear item in our catalogue. Businesses across Canada choose softshell because it looks polished enough for client-facing environments, performs well in real-world weather, and carries a perceived value that far exceeds its cost. An embroidered softshell jacket with your company logo is a wearable billboard that employees and clients actually want to put on — which is the entire point of branded apparel.

Employee Uniforms and Team Apparel

Custom softshell jackets Canada companies use for employee uniforms create a cohesive, professional image across the organization. Tech companies in Toronto outfit their teams for campus walks between buildings. Real estate brokerages in Vancouver equip agents with branded jackets for open houses and client meetings. Finance firms in Calgary provide softshell jackets as part of business-casual dress codes. The clean silhouette and premium feel of a corporate softshell jacket make it appropriate for office environments, site visits, and business travel alike.

Employee Appreciation and Onboarding

One of the highest-impact uses for custom softshell jackets is employee appreciation and new-hire onboarding. A branded softshell jacket included in a welcome package makes an immediate impression on new employees — signalling that the company invests in its people. Year-end gifts, milestone celebrations, and team-building events in Montreal, Toronto, and across Canada regularly feature embroidered softshell jackets as the centrepiece gift.

Client Gifts and Executive Apparel

A premium softshell jacket embroidered with a subtle logo is one of the most effective corporate gifts in the branded merchandise category. Unlike promotional pens or cheap giveaways, a quality softshell jacket gets worn repeatedly — to the office, on weekends, during travel — generating impressions for months or years. Executive-level softshell jackets in Black or Charcoal with a small left-chest embroidered logo project understated professionalism that resonates with VIP clients and business partners.

Industry Applications

Corporate softshell jackets serve every industry. Technology companies, financial services, healthcare organizations, property management firms, logistics companies, and professional services firms across Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary, and Montreal all order custom softshell jackets Canada wide from T-Shirt Elephant. The versatility of softshell — functional enough for the field, refined enough for the boardroom — makes it the one outerwear choice that works everywhere.

Bulk Corporate Orders

Corporate orders for custom softshell jackets typically range from 25 to 500 units. T-Shirt Elephant handles orders of every size with the same attention to detail — from a 10-piece executive team order to a 300-piece company-wide rollout. Volume pricing, roster-based sizing, and individual name embroidery are all available. Contact our corporate team for a branded mockup and bulk pricing quote.

Team softshell jackets have become essential outerwear for sports teams, athletic clubs, and organized groups across Canada. Whether worn on the sideline, during travel, or as post-game attire, a branded softshell jacket unifies the team and projects a professional image that players, coaches, and families are proud to represent.

Sideline and Bench Wear

Custom softshell jackets are ideal sideline garments for outdoor sports. Soccer, football, baseball, rugby, and track and field teams in Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary, and Montreal wear softshell jackets on the bench and between events. The windproof and water-resistant properties keep athletes warm without overheating, while the four-way stretch allows easy movement for warm-ups. Unlike bulky parkas, a softshell jacket transitions seamlessly from bench to field.

Travel and Team Identity

When a team travels to tournaments, exhibitions, or away games, matching team softshell jackets create an unmistakable group identity. Walking through an airport, entering a tournament venue, or arriving at an opposing team's facility in coordinated softshell jackets makes a visual statement. Teams across custom softshell jackets Canada sporting associations order travel jackets as part of their standard team kit.

Name and Number Customization

Sports teams often want individual player names and numbers on their custom softshell jackets — just like their game jerseys. T-Shirt Elephant can add individual names via embroidery or heat transfer on the back, chest, or sleeve of each jacket. Coach titles, staff designations, and sponsor logos can also be added to create a fully branded team jacket that identifies every member of the program.

Corporate Team Building

Corporate team-building events, company sports leagues, and interdepartmental competitions use custom softshell jackets to build team spirit and camaraderie. A branded jacket that employees wear after the event extends the team-building experience beyond a single day. Corporate softball, hockey, and dragon boat teams in Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver frequently order matching softshell jackets for their seasonal teams.

School and University Teams

High school athletic departments, university varsity programs, and intramural sports organizations outfit coaches, athletes, and support staff with team softshell jackets. The jackets serve as both functional outerwear and a visible badge of team membership. School colours, team crests, and athletic department logos are embroidered for a premium finish that represents the institution with pride. Custom softshell jackets Canada schools order are among our most popular repeat orders each season.

Softshell jackets were originally developed for the outdoor and mountaineering market, and they remain one of the best outerwear choices for active recreation. The combination of stretch, breathability, and weather resistance makes softshell the ideal layer for hiking, golf, cycling, skiing, and virtually any outdoor activity where the wearer is generating body heat and needs protection from wind and light precipitation.

Hiking and Trail Clubs

Hiking clubs, trail running groups, and outdoor adventure organizations across Canada order custom softshell jackets as their official group outerwear. The four-way stretch moves with hikers on steep terrain, the breathability prevents overheating on long climbs, and the water resistance handles morning dew and light showers. Groups hiking the Bruce Trail in Ontario, the Grouse Grind in Vancouver, and the trails around Banff near Calgary all benefit from the performance of softshell jackets branded with their club logo.

Golf Clubs and Courses

Custom softshell jackets Canada golf clubs order are among the most popular pro shop items. The clean, athletic silhouette of a softshell jacket complements golf attire, while the stretch fabric allows a full, unrestricted swing. Golf courses in Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, and Calgary brand softshell jackets with their club crest for member apparel, tournament prizes, and pro shop retail. The premium look and feel of an embroidered softshell jacket aligns perfectly with the golf lifestyle.

Ski and Snowboard Groups

Softshell jackets are a staple mid-layer for skiing and snowboarding — worn under a hardshell on cold days or as the outer layer on warm spring runs. Ski clubs, snowboard teams, and resort staff order custom softshell jackets for their combination of warmth, flexibility, and wind protection. The stretch fabric is particularly valuable for skiing, where freedom of movement directly affects performance and safety.

Camping and Outdoor Education

Camp counsellors, outdoor education instructors, and wilderness guide services need outerwear that performs across variable conditions and long days outside. Custom softshell jackets branded with camp or program logos provide the all-day comfort and protection that outdoor professionals require. Camps in Ontario, British Columbia, Alberta, and Quebec order branded softshell jackets as standard staff equipment each season.

Why Softshell Is the Outdoor Choice

The reason softshell jackets dominate the outdoor recreation market is simple: no other single garment combines stretch, breathability, wind protection, and water resistance as effectively. A fleece is warm but not windproof. A hardshell is waterproof but not breathable or stretchy. A softshell jacket delivers all four performance attributes in one versatile layer — making it the most practical outerwear choice for custom softshell jackets Canada outdoor enthusiasts rely on year-round.

Custom softshell jackets are one of the most effective promotional apparel items you can invest in. Unlike disposable giveaways that end up in the back of a drawer, a high-quality softshell jacket gets worn repeatedly — putting your brand on display in offices, airports, grocery stores, and sidewalks for years. For events and promotions across Canada, softshell jackets deliver unmatched return on investment.

Trade Shows and Conferences

Outfit your trade show team in matching custom softshell jackets with your company logo embroidered on the left chest and your booth number screen-printed on the back. Your team becomes instantly recognizable on the exhibition floor, and attendees remember the brand that looked professional and coordinated. Conference organizers in Ottawa and Edmonton frequently order softshell jackets as premium speaker gifts and VIP swag — a step above the usual tote bag and lanyard.

Product Launches and Brand Activations

When launching a new product, brand ambassadors wearing matching softshell jackets with your logo create a cohesive, polished presence at launch events, pop-up shops, and street team activations. The premium feel of a softshell jacket elevates the perceived value of your brand. Tech companies, automotive dealers, and beverage brands across Canada use custom softshell jackets as launch-day uniforms that double as long-term promotional pieces.

Marathons, Fun Runs, and Charity Events

Running events and charity walks need outerwear that volunteers can wear in variable weather — standing outdoors at registration tables at dawn, directing runners at water stations, and greeting finishers at the medal ceremony. A custom softshell jacket handles early-morning chill, midday warmth, and unexpected drizzle without requiring a wardrobe change. Marathon organizers in Ottawa, Edmonton, and Toronto order softshell jackets for their volunteer crews every season.

Volunteer and Staff Uniforms

Non-profit organizations, festivals, and community events need their volunteers and staff to be easily identifiable. Custom softshell jackets in a bright, consistent colour with the event logo make staff members visible in crowds and project a professional image. Unlike cheap windbreakers that tear or cotton hoodies that soak through in rain, softshell jackets withstand event-day conditions and can be reused year after year.

Why Softshell Is a Premium Promotional Item

The reason softshell jackets outperform t-shirts, pens, and water bottles as promotional items comes down to perceived value and wearability. Recipients genuinely appreciate a quality jacket — they wear it, they keep it, and they show your brand to the world every time they put it on. A custom softshell jacket costing $50–80 generates thousands of brand impressions over its lifetime, making it one of the lowest cost-per-impression promotional products available to Canadian businesses.

Softshell jackets have become essential workwear across dozens of industries in Canada. The combination of weather protection, freedom of movement, and professional appearance makes them ideal for workers who spend their days moving between indoor and outdoor environments. From construction sites in Edmonton to delivery routes in Winnipeg, custom softshell jackets keep workers comfortable, visible, and branded.

Construction and Trades

Construction workers, electricians, plumbers, and HVAC technicians need outerwear that moves with them while they climb ladders, crawl through tight spaces, and work with tools overhead. The four-way stretch in a softshell jacket allows full range of motion without the bulk of a traditional work coat. Wind-resistant and water-repellent fabrics keep workers warm during early-morning starts on job sites in Calgary, Edmonton, and Winnipeg without overheating as the day progresses. Embroidered company logos on softshell jackets give trades crews a professional, uniform appearance on residential and commercial job sites.

Landscaping and Outdoor Services

Landscapers, arborists, and property maintenance crews work outdoors in every season. A softshell jacket handles spring rain, fall wind, and cool summer mornings without requiring multiple layers. The durable fabric resists snags from branches and rough materials. Landscaping companies across Canada order custom softshell jackets with their logo to present a polished, branded appearance at residential properties.

Oil and Gas

Workers in the oil and gas industry — particularly in Alberta — face extreme wind, fluctuating temperatures, and demanding physical labour. Softshell jackets serve as an excellent mid-layer under hi-vis safety shells or as a standalone outer layer during milder shifts. The breathability prevents the dangerous overheating-then-cooling cycle that can lead to hypothermia on remote sites north of Edmonton.

Delivery and Logistics

Courier drivers, warehouse staff, and logistics workers move constantly between heated vehicles, cold loading docks, and outdoor delivery points. A custom softshell jacket regulates temperature across these transitions better than any other single garment. The slim profile fits comfortably under a seatbelt and does not catch on van doors or shelving. Delivery companies in Winnipeg, Calgary, and Edmonton outfit their drivers in branded softshell jackets for a consistent, professional appearance at every doorstep.

Security and Hi-Vis Options

Security personnel need outerwear that looks authoritative and performs in all weather conditions. Black or navy softshell jackets with embroidered "SECURITY" lettering project professionalism at events, commercial properties, and residential communities. For workers requiring enhanced visibility, T-Shirt Elephant carries hi-vis softshell jackets including the L01305 Shield Hi-Vis Softshell ($71.36) and the L01310 Hi-Vis Insulated Softshell ($87.00) — both meeting CSA Z96 visibility standards for roadside, construction, and industrial applications.

Understanding the differences between softshell jackets, hardshell jackets, and fleece is essential for choosing the right outerwear for your team, staff, or event. Each type excels in different conditions, and the right choice depends on your specific use case. Here is a straightforward comparison to help you decide.

Softshell Jackets — The Versatile Middle Ground

Softshell jackets are water-resistant (not fully waterproof), highly breathable, and built with four-way stretch fabric. They block wind effectively, shed light rain and snow, and allow moisture vapor from sweat to escape. The fabric feels soft and flexible against the body — hence the name. Softshell is the best choice when you need a single jacket that performs well in a wide range of conditions: cool mornings, breezy afternoons, light precipitation, and active movement. For custom branding, softshell jackets offer the smoothest, most consistent surface for embroidery and heat transfer — logos look sharp and professional with clean edges and fine detail.

Hardshell Jackets — Maximum Weather Protection

Hardshell jackets are fully waterproof and windproof, designed to keep you dry in sustained, heavy rain and harsh wind. They use laminated membranes (like Gore-Tex) with sealed seams to create an impenetrable barrier against the elements. The trade-off is reduced breathability — hardshells trap more body heat and moisture during physical activity, which can feel clammy during moderate exertion. Hardshells also lack stretch, making them stiffer and less comfortable for all-day wear. Choose a hardshell when waterproofing is the top priority — sustained downpours, marine environments, or standing exposed to driving rain. For custom decoration, hardshell fabrics can be more challenging to embroider due to their laminated construction.

Fleece Jackets — Maximum Warmth, No Weather Protection

Fleece jackets provide excellent insulation in a lightweight, soft fabric. They trap body heat efficiently and feel comfortable against the skin. However, fleece offers no wind protection and no water resistance — wind cuts straight through, and fleece absorbs moisture like a sponge. Fleece is best used as a mid-layer under a shell jacket or as a standalone layer in calm, dry, cold conditions. For custom branding, fleece accepts embroidery well but the textured surface can make fine logo details less crisp than on smooth softshell fabric.

Side-by-Side Comparison

Why Softshell Is Best for Custom Branding

For organizations ordering custom jackets in Canada, softshell wins the branding comparison. The smooth, consistent fabric surface produces the sharpest embroidery and heat-transfer results. Logos maintain clean lines and fine detail that can blur on fleece texture or pucker on stiff hardshell laminate. Combined with softshell's all-season versatility, this makes custom softshell jackets the most practical choice for corporate, team, and promotional outerwear across Canada.

Ordering the right sizes for your team, staff, or group is one of the most important steps when purchasing custom softshell jackets. Softshell jackets are designed with an athletic, slightly tapered fit — they are not as boxy as traditional work jackets and not as slim as casual fashion jackets. Use the size charts below to ensure every member of your group receives a jacket that fits comfortably.

Men's Softshell Jacket Size Chart

Ladies' Softshell Jacket Size Chart

How Softshell Jackets Should Fit

Softshell jackets are designed for a semi-fitted, athletic silhouette. They should follow the contours of your body without being tight — snug enough to look sharp, loose enough to layer a light sweater or base layer underneath. The four-way stretch fabric accommodates natural body movement, so you do not need to size up for mobility the way you would with a rigid hardshell. Arms should extend to the wrist bone with a slight curve when relaxed at your sides.

Tips for Group Ordering

When ordering custom softshell jackets for a group, collect individual sizes from every member before placing your order. Do not estimate — body types vary widely, and a jacket that fits one person's "large" may not match another's. For mixed groups, a typical size distribution is: 5% XS/S, 20% M, 30% L, 25% XL, 15% 2XL, 5% 3XL+. If you are ordering men's and ladies' styles together, note that ladies' jackets run approximately one size smaller in the chest — a ladies' L corresponds roughly to a men's S. T-Shirt Elephant offers free size exchanges on unworn blanks within 30 days, so if a few sizes are off, we make it right at no extra cost.

T-Shirt Elephant believes in transparent, upfront pricing. When you order custom softshell jackets, you see real-time pricing in our online designer — no hidden fees, no surprise setup charges, and no minimum order quantities. Our softshell jacket lineup spans from budget-friendly essentials to premium brand-name outerwear, so there is a price point for every budget.

Blank Softshell Jacket Pricing

Decoration Pricing

Prices shown above are per jacket before decoration. Embroidery starts at $5–12 per placement depending on stitch count and logo complexity — a standard left-chest logo with up to 10,000 stitches typically falls in the $7–9 range. Screen printing adds $3–8 per placement for 1–2 colour designs. Heat transfer is ideal for full-colour logos and photographic artwork, starting at $5–10 per placement. Multi-location branding (left chest + back + sleeve) is available at a per-placement rate.

Volume Discounts

The more custom softshell jackets you order, the less you pay per unit. Pricing tiers adjust automatically in our online designer: 6+ standard team pricing, 12+ moderate volume discount, 24+ best published tier, 48+ contact us for wholesale quotes. Corporate clients ordering 100+ jackets receive custom quoted pricing — reach out to our team for a tailored quote.

Free Shipping and No Minimums

All orders over $250 CAD ship free anywhere in Canada. There are no minimum order quantities — you can order a single custom softshell jacket or outfit an entire organization of 500. For most team orders of 6+ jackets with embroidery, you will easily clear the free shipping threshold.

The difference between a custom softshell jacket that looks professional and one that looks amateur comes down to design decisions — logo placement, colour coordination, and artwork quality. After producing thousands of decorated softshell jackets for businesses and teams across Canada, our design team has distilled the most important tips into this guide.

Logo Placement — Where to Put Your Brand

The left chest is the most popular logo placement on softshell jackets — it is the corporate standard, immediately visible during handshakes and conversations, and works with virtually every logo shape. A standard left-chest embroidery runs 3.5–4 inches wide. For maximum visibility at events and outdoors, add a large back logo (10–12 inches wide) so your brand is seen from behind. Sleeve logos on the upper arm are a popular third placement for organizations that want branding from every angle.

Colour Coordination

Most softshell jackets come in dark colours — black, navy, charcoal, and deep grey are the most popular. When embroidering on dark fabrics, choose light-coloured thread (white, silver, gold, or bright brand colours) for maximum contrast and visibility. A white logo on a black softshell jacket is the single most popular combination we produce. Avoid embroidering dark thread on dark fabric — the logo disappears. If your brand colours are dark, consider a lighter jacket colour or ask our design team about outline treatments that create contrast.

Design for Dark Jackets

Since the majority of custom softshell jackets are dark-coloured, design your artwork with this in mind. Simplify complex logos to their essential elements — fine details and thin lines can get lost in dark fabric. Bold shapes, clean text, and strong contrast produce the best results. If your logo has a white or light background element, keep it — that background creates the contrast needed for the logo to pop on a dark jacket.

File Format Requirements

For the sharpest embroidery results, provide your logo in vector format — AI (Adobe Illustrator), EPS, SVG, or PDF with outlined fonts. Vector files scale to any size without quality loss and convert cleanly to embroidery stitch files. If you only have a raster image (PNG, JPG), ensure it is at least 300 DPI at the intended embroidery size. Low-resolution logos are the number one cause of disappointing embroidery results. Our team provides free artwork review and will advise you if your file needs improvement before production begins.

Multi-Location Branding

Many organizations maximize their custom softshell jacket investment with multi-location branding: company logo on the left chest, employee name on the right chest, and a larger company logo or tagline across the back. Each placement is priced individually, so you can add or remove locations to fit your budget. The most common configuration is left chest + back, which covers both face-to-face and distance visibility for teams, events, and corporate wear.

Proper care extends the life of your custom softshell jacket and maintains both the fabric performance and the quality of your embroidered or printed decoration. Softshell fabrics are durable and low-maintenance, but following a few simple guidelines ensures your jacket looks and performs like new for years.

Washing Your Softshell Jacket

Wash your softshell jacket in cold to warm water — 30 to 40 degrees Celsius — on a gentle or delicate cycle. Use a mild liquid detergent. Do not use fabric softener — fabric softener coats the fibres and clogs the microscopic pores that allow the fabric to breathe, destroying the jacket's moisture-wicking and breathability properties. Do not use bleach or harsh stain removers. Close all zippers before washing to prevent snagging, and turn the jacket inside out to protect the outer face fabric and any decoration.

Drying

Air drying is the gentlest option — hang your softshell jacket on a wide hanger or lay it flat on a drying rack away from direct heat and sunlight. If you prefer machine drying, use a low tumble setting only. High heat can damage the DWR (Durable Water Repellent) coating and cause the bonded layers to separate over time. Remove the jacket promptly when dry — do not leave it sitting in the dryer.

Reproofing the DWR Coating

Over time, the DWR coating on your softshell jacket wears down from washing, body oils, and abrasion. You will notice this when water stops beading on the surface and instead soaks into the fabric. To restore the DWR, use a spray-on or wash-in water repellent treatment (such as Nikwax TX.Direct or Grangers Performance Repel) following the product instructions. After applying, tumble dry on low heat for 20 minutes — the heat reactivates the DWR treatment and bonds it to the fabric. Reproof your jacket once or twice per season for optimal water resistance.

Storage

Store your softshell jacket clean and fully dry in a well-ventilated space. Hang it on a wide-shouldered hanger to maintain its shape, or fold it loosely in a drawer. Do not compress or stuff your softshell jacket into a tight space for extended periods — prolonged compression can damage the bonded fabric layers and reduce loft in insulated models. Avoid storing in direct sunlight, which can fade colours over time.

Caring for Embroidered Logos

Embroidered logos on custom softshell jackets are extremely durable — the thread is stitched directly into the fabric and will outlast the jacket itself in most cases. To protect the embroidery during washing, turn the jacket inside out and avoid washing with items that have zippers, buckles, or velcro that could snag the threads. Do not iron directly over embroidery — if pressing is needed, place a thin cloth over the embroidered area and press gently on low heat. With basic care, your embroidered logo will look sharp for the entire life of the jacket.

Canada's weather is famously diverse and unpredictable — from coastal rain in Vancouver to prairie wind in Calgary and Edmonton, from humid summers in Toronto and Montreal to sub-zero winters in Winnipeg and Ottawa. Softshell jackets thrive in this variety precisely because they are designed for the conditions Canadians face most often: wind, light precipitation, and wide temperature swings within a single day.

Spring and Fall Transitional Wear

Spring and fall are where softshell jackets truly shine. Canadian transitional seasons bring mornings near freezing, afternoons in the mid-teens, and unpredictable wind and rain throughout the day. In Toronto and Ottawa, a softshell jacket handles the March-to-May and September-to-November swing effortlessly — warm enough for a chilly morning commute, breathable enough for a noon walk, and water-resistant enough for an afternoon shower. In Montreal, where spring rain is a constant companion and fall winds blow hard along the St. Lawrence, a custom softshell jacket is the outerwear layer that never comes off during transitional months.

Coastal British Columbia Rain

Vancouver and Victoria are defined by persistent, light-to-moderate rain from October through April. This is not the heavy downpour that demands a hardshell — it is the steady drizzle that a well-built softshell jacket with DWR coating handles effortlessly. The breathability of softshell prevents the clammy, overheated feeling that plagues hardshell wearers during Vancouver's mild, damp winters. For businesses and teams in Vancouver, custom softshell jackets are the single most practical outerwear investment — they get worn nine or ten months of the year.

Prairie Wind Protection

The Canadian prairies — Calgary, Edmonton, Winnipeg — are defined by relentless wind. Cold air cutting across flat terrain makes wind protection the number one priority in prairie outerwear. Softshell jackets with bonded fabric construction block wind as effectively as hardshells while remaining far more comfortable for all-day wear. Workers, coaches, and outdoor enthusiasts in Calgary and Edmonton reach for their softshell jacket on windy spring and fall days when a fleece would let the wind cut right through. In Winnipeg, where wind chill is a serious concern well into April, a softshell jacket serves as an essential wind-blocking layer under a heavier winter coat.

Ontario and Quebec Winter Layering

In Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal, and across Ontario and Quebec, winter temperatures regularly drop well below freezing. A softshell jacket is not a standalone winter coat in these conditions — it is the perfect mid-layer in a winter layering system. Wear a moisture-wicking base layer, add your softshell jacket for wind protection and breathability, and top with an insulated parka for extreme cold. This layering approach lets you shed or add layers as you move between heated offices, transit, and outdoor walking in Toronto and Montreal. For milder winter days above minus five, an insulated softshell like the L03100 Cyclone Insulated ($94.29) or the L03200 Typhoon Insulated ($118.57) can serve as your primary outer layer.

Ships from Toronto to All Provinces

T-Shirt Elephant ships custom softshell jackets from our Toronto facility to every province and territory in Canada. Whether you are ordering for a corporate team in Vancouver, a construction crew in Edmonton, a school in Calgary, a charity event in Winnipeg, an office in Ottawa, a sports league in Montreal, or a retail chain with locations in Toronto and Halifax — your order arrives decorated, packaged, and ready to wear. Free shipping on orders over $250 CAD means most group orders of custom softshell jackets Canada-wide ship at no extra cost.