The Difference Between an Ordinary Jacket and a Hardshell

melody leemelody lee
4 min read

In everyday city life, we often throw on a thin windbreaker or a raincoat when sudden rain or strong winds arrive. For commuting or running errands, that may be sufficient. But once you step into the mountains, where altitude increases and weather conditions can shift in an instant, the difference between an ordinary jacket and a true hardshell becomes striking.

An ordinary jacket offers only basic protection—some warmth, wind resistance, and a bit of water repellency. It cannot withstand heavy downpours, prolonged wind, or the discomfort of sweat buildup during extended activity. A hardshell jacket, however, is more than just clothing. It is survival equipment. It shields the body in harsh natural environments, maintains comfort, and in some cases, even determines personal safety. For mountaineers, skiers, and trekking enthusiasts, a hardshell is indispensable.


About the PELLIOT Brand

The outdoor brand PELLIOT takes its name from the French explorer Paul Pelliot. The brand’s philosophy is rooted in a spirit of challenge and exploration of the unknown. Rather than treating outdoor wear as mere fashion, PELLIOT emphasizes that gear itself is what supports exploration.

Collaborating with world-class material manufacturers, PELLIOT integrates advanced textiles such as TORAY’s high-performance waterproof and breathable fabrics. This commitment has given birth to the SnowShell series, hardshell jackets designed to transition seamlessly between urban daily life and demanding mountain environments, earning the trust of countless outdoor enthusiasts.


SnowShell: A Versatile Hardshell Bridging City and Mountains

High Performance with TORAY DELFY™ Fabric

The hallmark of the SnowShell lies in its use of TORAY DELFY™ waterproof and breathable material:

  • Waterproof rating: 49,000mm (JIS standard) — withstands torrential downpours.

  • Breathability: 23,000g/㎡・24h — efficiently expels sweat vapor during intense activity.

  • Abrasion resistance: 34,000+ cycles — ensures durability for long-term use and harsh environments.

This fabric guarantees the three essentials: stay dry, stay breathable, stay tough.

Functional Details

  • Triple-layer seam sealing: prevents water ingress through stitching.

  • 3D ergonomic tailoring: unrestricted mobility for arms and shoulders.

  • Ventilation zippers: quickly release excess heat and humidity.

  • Adjustable hood: helmet-compatible, shields from wind and rain while preserving visibility.

  • RECCO® reflector: assists rescuers in locating wearers during avalanches or emergencies.

Stylish for Both City and Nature

With a clean, minimalist design, SnowShell looks equally at home on the street as it does on the trail. It is truly a versatile hardshell that crosses environments seamlessly.


SnowShell Pro: Evolution Toward Professional Use

Building upon the SnowShell, SnowShell Pro takes the design further, emphasizing lightweight construction, all-weather capability, and advanced comfort.

Three Key Upgrades

  1. Lightweight 15mm BEMIS® Seam Tape
    Narrower seam tape maintains waterproofing while reducing weight, ensuring comfort even during long wear.

  2. Added PU Laminate Layer
    Enhances breathability and actively reduces heat buildup and clamminess during strenuous, prolonged activity.

  3. Refined Detailing and Storage

    • Large chest and hand pockets: safe and accessible storage for maps, snacks, or essentials.

    • Professional-grade cuffs: quick and secure adjustment with hook-and-loop fasteners.

    • NIFCO® buckles and drawcord hem: allow one-touch adjustment, sealing out wind and retaining warmth.

Designed Users

  • Mountaineers: save energy thanks to lighter weight.

  • Trekkers: stay protected in unpredictable alpine climates.

  • Urban adventurers: sleek, minimal styling blends effortlessly into daily life.

SnowShell Pro represents the ultimate all-weather shell—from city streets to high alpine terrain.


SnowShell vs SnowShell Pro: Comparison

FeatureSnowShellSnowShell Pro
FabricTORAY DELFY™TORAY DELFY™ + PU laminate
Seam TreatmentStandard triple-seal15mm lightweight BEMIS® seam tape
WeightStandardLighter and more comfortable
Tailoring3D ergonomic cutPrecision 3D tailoring for mobility
StorageStandard pocketsExpanded, high-capacity pockets
Intended UseDaily + light–moderate outdoorAll-weather + serious mountaineering
Target UserBalance-focusedPerformance-driven, professional

In short: SnowShell = versatile all-rounder, SnowShell Pro = advanced specialist evolution.


Conclusion: The Jacket That Connects City and Nature

Rain on the way to work or snowstorms on the mountainside—nature is always unpredictable. The PELLIOT SnowShell series offers the reassurance of a jacket that can be relied on in both everyday life and the wildest conditions.

  • SnowShell: the balanced all-rounder, equally suited for the city and the outdoors.

  • SnowShell Pro: the evolved professional model for those demanding lightweight comfort and top-tier performance.

Where ordinary jackets fail, SnowShell ensures protection, comfort, and safety. From bustling streets to remote peaks, this one jacket turns the entire world into your playground.

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Written by

melody lee
melody lee