Question 1

What is a shell jacket?

Accepted Answer

A shell jacket is a lightweight, protective outer layer designed to shield you from the elements. It will protect you from wind, rain, and sometimes snow. It prioritizes weather resistance and breathability over warmth.

Question 2

What features are important in a shell jacket?

Accepted Answer

Waterproof rating: Measured in millimeters (mm), indicates how much water pressure the jacket can withstand before leaking. Higher ratings are better for heavy rain or extended exposure.
Breathability rating: Measured in grams per square meter per 24 hours (g/m²/24h), indicates how much moisture vapor can escape. Higher ratings mean better breathability for active use.
Seams: Sealed seams prevent water from entering through stitching holes.
Hood (optional): Provides additional protection from rain and wind. Look for adjustable features for a better fit.
Pockets: Strategically placed pockets offer storage for essentials while keeping them dry.
Zippers: Look for water-resistant or waterproof zippers to prevent leaks.
Cuffs and hem: Adjustable cuffs and hem drawcords provide a snug fit to keep out wind and rain.
Consider factors such as waterproofing, breathability, insulation, and intended use when choosing a shell jacket.

Question 3

What sizes do the wholesale soft shell jackets come in?

Accepted Answer

Our jackets are available in standard unisex sizes XS-6XL. We also accommodate tall-fit jackets in each size.

Question 4

Can I customize my shell jacket with logos or artwork?

Accepted Answer

Some shell jackets may offer customization options such as embroidery or screen printing for logos, artwork, or branding. Check with the manufacturer or retailer for customization services if you want to personalize your jacket.

Question 5

What are the Fabrics used for the Outer Shell in a shell jacket?

Accepted Answer

Nylon: A popular choice for its lightweight durability, water resistance, and windproofing.
Polyester: Another common option, offering similar benefits to nylon but sometimes at a lower cost.
Mixed Weaves: Blends of nylon and polyester combine their strengths, offering a balance of features.
Hard Shells: Utilize a two or three-layer construction. A water-resistant outer layer is bonded to a breathable membrane (like Gore-Tex) and often backed with a lining for comfort.

Question 6

Are shell jackets suitable for layering over hoodies and sweatshirts?

Accepted Answer

Yes, with the right sizing. Soft shells like the J317 have a microfleece lining but no bulky insulation. They’re thin enough to wear over a hoodie for extra warmth and wind protection. If your team plans to layer regularly, have people try their usual size over a hoodie first. Many will want to go up one size. For colder conditions, our 3-in-1 jackets or insulated jackets may be a better fit.

Question 7

Can shell jackets be used as part of a company uniform?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The Port Authority J317 is built for it: the manufacturer positions it for corporate and team uniforms, it’s rental-friendly, and it runs XS–6XL in 11 colors. A matching women’s version, the L317, comes in most of the same colors. A left-chest logo on a navy or black J317 works over most polo and button-down uniforms.

Question 8

Are shell jackets practical for outdoor event staff?

Accepted Answer

Yes, for wind, cool temperatures and light rain. The J317 is wind-resistant and water-repellent with a 1000mm water rating. That covers long days at outdoor venues in typical spring and fall weather. For wetter conditions, the Eddie Bauer EB530’s 3000mm rating gives three times the water protection. For steady rain, choose a dedicated rain jacket instead.

Question 9

Can I order different colors within one shell jacket order?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You can add multiple colors of the same style to one cart, and our shell jacket product pages list no minimum order quantity. Splitting by color works well when departments or roles need to stand apart, such as navy for staff and red for supervisors. Before you split colors, confirm that every color you want comes in the full size range and in both men’s and women’s cuts.

Question 10

What features are important in a shell jacket?

Accepted Answer

Compare the water and breathability ratings first. The J317 is rated 1000mm/1000g; the EB530 is rated 3000mm/3000g. Then check the details that affect daily wear:

zippered pockets
collar style (the J317 has a cadet collar with chin guard)
adjustable cuffs (the EB530 has hook-and-loop cuffs, while the J317 has open cuffs)
a hem drawcord
the lining

For uniform programs, size range and a matching women’s cut matter as much as fabric specs.

Question 11

What sizes do the wholesale soft shell jackets come in?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the style, so check the range before you choose. The Port Authority J317 runs XS–6XL. The Eddie Bauer EB530 runs XS–4XL. Many styles also have a women’s version, such as the L317, L717, L720 and EB531. Extended sizes usually cost more per jacket. For taller wearers, see our tall jackets category.

Question 12

Can I customize my shell jacket with logos or artwork?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Embroidery is available directly from the product page on styles such as the J317 and EB530. Left-chest placement is the standard. On the EB530, keep your logo to the left chest because the jacket already has an Eddie Bauer logo on the right. Orders of 24 or more with the same design qualify for free setup on one location up to 8,000 stitches on that style.

Blank Shell Jackets & Wholesale Soft Shells

The North Face ® Tech Stretch Soft Shell Jacket. NF0A3LGV

The North Face ® Ladies Tech Stretch Soft Shell Jacket. NF0A3LGW

OGIO ® ENDURANCE Fulcrum Full-Zip. OE700

OGIO ® ENDURANCE Trainer Jacket. OE710

OGIO ® ENDURANCE Flash Jacket. OE711

OGIO ® ENDURANCE Crux Soft Shell. OE720

OGIO ® ENDURANCE Pivot Soft Shell. OE721

OGIO ® Trax Jacket. OG726

CornerStone ® ANSI 107 Class 3 Soft Shell Jacket CSJ503

OGIO ® Ladies Commuter Full-Zip Soft Shell LOG755

Sport-Tek ® Ladies Hooded Soft Shell Jacket LST980

OGIO ® Commuter Full-Zip Soft Shell OG755

Sport-Tek ® Hooded Soft Shell Jacket ST980

Carhartt ® Women's Gilliam Jacket CT104314

Carhartt ® Super Dux ™ Soft Shell Jacket CT105534

Eddie Bauer ® Stretch Soft Shell Jacket EB544

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