Originally Posted by dlk

I'm looking into buying a jacket for winter wear. I'd like to get an insulated softshell jacket so I can skip out on extra layers that add to bulk, but from what I've read, many people here seem to prefer just a wind/weather resistant outer shell with insulating layers underneath. could people explain pros and cons of both? optimally, I'd like to buy something I can wear all the time (commuting and going out) which means something I can wear when I get more warmed up from riding (commuting 6+ miles) and short rides where I won't be generating as much heat but can still be wearing clothes that I could go out in (not having to worry about wearing a million layers). is this possible, or am I dreaming?