When I recently asked what gear you really want to know about, I was taken aback. What is it Best running jacket was the top question. Testing gear is something I really enjoy. It’s an excuse to run as part of my job, I mean really… how is it that hard?
But the jackets meant, I was going to run in different conditions.
Bring snow, rain, wind, I won’t fear you with my new gear.
Over the past few months, I’ve pulled on many jackets and started running.
✅Hint: I loved them all, but if I had to spend my money on just one, you’ll see it below.
The results below are jackets for a variety of situations that I would absolutely recommend. A few other tests were done that are not included here simply because they did not perform as well or better than what I have listed.
What is a running jacket?
A layer that helps make running more comfortable by blocking the wind or protecting you from the rain. Ideally this is made from a material that breathes as we don’t want it to trap body heat which creates a sleeping effect.
gave Waterproof running jacket I mention below that has been a game changer for me! I have worn it in many different types of weather.
Should you wear a jacket when running?
Running layers are always useful, but even more so when you’re dealing with elements. A running jacket is a great tool to make sure you don’t use the weather as an excuse to skip your run.
Running jackets for women
Honestly, I wanted to test jackets for a variety of weather conditions. So you’ll find that some are better for spring running and some for cold winter running, hopefully showing you what to do to make your year-round running as comfortable as possible. is required
What I’m looking for in these jackets:
- Water resistant vs. waterproof (only the second keeps you dry in the rain)
- How well it fits, does it move around when you run, does it run true to size so you know what to order.
- Breathability – Will it cause you to overheat?
What is the best running jacket? One that meets your needs for the day, but you’ll find them versatile for many conditions and temperatures.
Lululemon Running Jacket
I think I’m often asked if they make good running gear, so I might as well answer that question first. Yes, I run in a lot of Lululemon shorts, tanks and even jackets because they make gear that works.
I used to think they were expensive, but really…no.
They’re on par with other high-quality brands you’d want for a long-lasting running jacket.
- Lululemon Down For It All Jacket – ($199) If you’re suffering from a severe cold, this is what you want. It’s designed to go with you, has a great collar to keep your neck warm and a nice phone pocket!
- Break out the trail jacket – ($120) It’s waterproof, wind-resistant, lightweight and designed for runners with vents to help release heat. Big winner for waterproof at this price point!
fit: I go up a size in jackets if I want to layer more than a Lulu under them because they fit a little tighter.
Durability: A jacket you can wear for a run and still feel stylish all over town… unlike the one I mention below. It will run like all their stuff.
Winter running jacket
Athleta Flurry Force Insulated Prima Loft® Jacket II
(Average $149)
One of the things we often run into in winter is that we start out cold, start sweating, then end up in a weird warm-winter scenario.
This jacket feels very light, but with Primeloft through the front chest it’s designed to keep your core warm while your body continues to warm your toes and toes when it does. Will!!! Love that it has a wind breaker in there too, which helps with the heat.
Since your cover is warm, the sleeves are light and the back is actually light to airy. All of this means a good fit that keeps you warm, but not too hot.
There are two side pockets that you can carry a phone in, but I rarely like a phone in my running jacket. No matter how good I feel it bounces.
fit: I wore a medium in this and it was nice that I could keep it down and it wasn’t too tight.
Durability: Definitely a jacket you can wear with a pack and not worry about getting ripped.
Cold weather running jacket
Saucony Boulder Oyster Puff
$175
When having some really cold winter days, this is a real winner. It’s the hottest on the list, but without being overly heavy.
I love that it’s also anti-odor because I’m always sweaty no matter how cold it is!
The chest area is a quilted pattern with recycled polyester, while the sleeves are recycled fabric. This is ideal because we want as much heat around our core as possible to ensure our body continues to send blood to the hands and fingers afterwards.
fit: Loose, I can wear a base layer and another shirt underneath if I want.
Durability: Extremely durable due to slightly thicker fabric.
Waterproof Run Jacket
✅If I had to get one of these jackets, it would be all the same.
(PSSSSTTT Run Club members have an in-club discount! Paying for multiple months of membership!)
Technically this jacket is just water resistant and theirs. Waterproof anorak (which I’ve also tested) is legit for keeping you dry. But it’s my top choice for a jacket when it’s drizzling or snowing.
If you find yourself running in wet conditions, this jacket is worth every penny. I was skeptical about the price and because I’ve tried waterproof jackets that made me feel like I was in a sauna.
No, not this one!!
I used it on my winter fleece on a day where it was snowing and on a warm rainy trail in Sedona. In both cases I was surprised to find that I was actually still dry (I mean minus my normal sweat session).
More importantly in the warm weather example, this jacket is light and since it wasn’t hot enough to want to get wet, it felt like the perfect weight.
fit: I went with a small one. It’s a good fit with plenty of movement in the arms and shoulders even when I’m two layers down. Wearing only a short sleeve shirt does not look baggy. I pulled the hood up and actually held it in place while running.
Durability: It has been put in a bag and worn with a pack, I feel quite confident that it has a very long life.
Fully waterproof running jacket
Gore Shadery Jacket – ($299)
Which runner among us doesn’t know Gore Tax? They make sure your trail shoes don’t get your feet wet, they provide grip over many of your shoes, they’re the pioneers of waterproofing.
But did you know that they have their own clothing?
When you need to finish your run and the rain just won’t stop, this is your jacket. Although it was initially designed for cyclists, we runners are reaping the benefits of this active technology that helps ensure it’s breathable, windproof and more. Blocks a little rain, but it’s really waterproof.
fit: The ultra-lightweight running jacket with the closest body-fitting jacket listed here.
Durability: It’s very thin, so probably not an idea to wear with a hydration pack.
Lightweight running jacket
Patagonia Houdini – ($109)
You’ve entered how I would wear the fall and spring phase…usually one layer is too many or one is not enough. Enter this jacket from Patagonia.
It’s super light weight, water resistant and super tough, so you can throw it in your pack if you decide it’s too much. But possibly even if you get hot, I think you can keep this layer. It’s just a lightweight addition that will block some of the morning wind and help you adjust to different temperatures.
fit: A size smaller was a good fit. Not tight, a normal fit that leaves a little room. I’m not sure I could ever get the hood to stick on it, so it feels a bit unnecessary, albeit cute.
Durability: Extremely durable
The best reflective running jacket
Sometimes you’re not as concerned about the elements as you are the darkness that sets in for a good portion of our running year! Which means it’s time to take your reflective wear to the next level with this jacket.
No need to remember extra flashing lights, now you are the light and I guarantee you will be seen in it.
It looks gray in daylight, but as soon as the lights hit it you see more! They also have shirts and vests if you want a little less, but today we’re talking jackets.
This jacket is water resistant and a bit heavier than the other options reviewed here, simply because of the materials required. I could see warming up in this jacket if it was a typical Colorado morning where the temperature jumps quickly as the sun comes up, definitely for those dark runs or cooler days.
Ready to try it? Use the code. 20% off on PYR20.
fit: It is a small size. The little one is floating on me, which is not uncomfortable, but not very flattering either.
Durability: Thick quality material, no risk of cracking or losing its reflection! Machine washable, which most of them are not.
Yes, everything here was reviewed as a women’s running jacket because that’s what I wear.
But fear not, these are also the best men’s running jackets that I feel very confident in saying that the overall features and technology are the same.
More questions about running jackets or other gear?
Let me know so I can review what you need!
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