Windshell as SouthEastern winter (o-30F) layer?

Unfortunately, you won't find a breathable wind shell. By its very nature wind shells are designed to repel wind and air.

What you need is a good, breathable softshell. You wear a good softshell like a shirt with nothing underneath about open the half a dozen or so vents if you need to breathe. When it gets cooler the vents close up and the wind blocking fabric keeps you warm. Although its not waterproof, it keeps cold water away from your skin like a wet suit. Thus you can replace your base layer, wind shirt, waterproof hard shell, and hooded fleece with one single garment. A good softshell has a better chance than any other garment of improving your outdoor experience.

For what you want, I'd recomend a 3-season softshell like the Buffalo Mountain Shirt. Another good option is the Montane Extreme -- it's a blizzard-weight equivalent, probably too warm for you.

/r/Ultralight Thread