Look for something with Polartec. I've two older Patagonia soft shells with Polartec Power Shield Pro and they are very sturdy, wind resistant and breathable. Since they don't make them anymore, I would check Sitka, KUIU, etc., for something made of Power Shield or even Neoshell. Though I have no personal experience with the Neoshell I have heard from reputable sources that it is an outstanding fabric for a breathable soft shell garment. I guess I should note that for a really good softshell that is breathable I would go with the uninsulated types. Use an under layer(s) for insulation. At least that's how I would play it.
Edit: some of the Polartec power shield products are extremely abrasion resistant. Very hard to tear and will last you a long time indeed.
Last edited by 340boy; 01/06/18.
