Helikon-Tex Wolfhound Jacket vs Rothco Special Ops Soft Shell Jacket

The Wolfhound is the better pick for anyone who wants a light, packable insulation layer that works alone in cool, dry weather or under a shell in the cold. It weighs 435 g, uses Climashield Apex synthetic insulation, and owners of Helikon's Level 7 line report it dries fast and keeps loft when packed tight. The Rothco Special Ops is a heavier soft shell built for wet, windy, rough use: a 3-layer waterproof fabric, fleece liner, stowaway hood and 8 pockets. Its 3.7 out of 5 rating from 12 ratings is middling, and soft shells trade breathability and packability for weather protection. Pick the Rothco for rain and brush; pick the Wolfhound for warmth per gram.

• Choose the Helikon-Tex Wolfhound if you want a light, compressible insulated layer for cool days, backpacking or wearing under a rain shell.
• Choose the Rothco Special Ops Soft Shell if you need one jacket that handles wind, rain and snow with a hood and plenty of pockets.