Not all soft shells are created equal. Some are thick and densely woven and really good at blocking wind, others aren't. Some even have liners for added insulation. I use mine all the time with zero complaints. Probably the ideal application IMO is when it's cold and windy enough that you need something to block the wind, but you're doing something strenuous like climbing where you'd overheat or accumulate sweat with an impermeable shell.
