10 Best Winter Running Jackets – 2021 List
Abbie Copeland 
Brian Price We selected jackets that come from trusted brands that know not only what runners need in the winter, but also what they want. So, lace up those winter running shoes, and start shopping for your next best winter running jacket!
This is the best product on our list that is currently in stock:
Lots of colors to choose from
Available with or without a hood
Options with reflective features
Water-resistant
Breathable
Lightweight
Great price
10 Best Winter Running Jackets
1. Under Armour Storm
Water resistant
Windproof
Lots of colors to choose from
Machine Washable
Different styles and types to choose from
Allows for a full range of motion
Several pockets for secure storage
The collar is a little too tight for some users
The Under Armour Storm jacket comes in several options to choose from and is available for both men and women. It is averagely priced, for the most part, and comes in lots of colors.
Read moreComfort
This cold weather running jacket is made of 100% polyester and features 3 different layers of durable softshell material and offers 4-way stretch—which is why the jacket is able to allow you a full range of motion, so you can move every which way that you please.
Weather Resistance
As far as weather resistance goes, this jacket will definitely keep you warm thanks to the use of ColdGear infrared tech. This tech features a Thermo conductive coating on the inner part of the Under Armour Storm running jacket that allows the jacket to retain and absorb all of your body heat, so you stay nice and toasty. This jacket is also windproof and water-resistant, so you can weather those windy and rainy days.
Versatility
As far as versatility goes, this is a durable and machine washable jacket that is easy to clean take care of. It has a zipper front closure system and features the brand’s MagZip closure system that ensures zipping your jacket open and closed is never a hassle. This jacket also has secure pockets for you to store your belongings, including a chest pocket.
Weight
For the warmth and features, this winter running jacket provides, it is definitely really lightweight! It weighs less than a pound and it will definitely not weigh you down—although it also is not the lightest jacket on our list.
Breathability
When we took a look at breathability we were surprised to find that it is pretty breathable and will keep you cool and dry—despite the additional water resistance features it has to offer.
2. Nike Essential
Lots of colors to choose from
Available with or without a hood
Options with reflective features
Water-resistant
Breathable
Lightweight
Great price
Watch out what retailor you get it from
The Nike Essential winter running jacket is available in a lot of different styles and colors to choose from. There are options for both men and women—so you can definitely choose the one that is right for you. You can get this jacket with or without a hood, reflective features, and additional storage pockets—it’s up to you!
Read moreComfort
As far as comfort goes, this jacket zips securely and comfortably. It is easy to layer with this jacket and features elastic cuffs, so you don’t have to worry about your sleeves moving around. If you get the hooded version, you will be able to adjust how securely it fits—and, don’t worry—users report the hood does not get in the way of your vision.
Weather Resistance
If you want a jacket that can handle whatever the weather throws your way, then you will love this jacket. It is water-resistant and comes with a hood option, so you can cover your head up if you want to.
Versatility
Those of you who want a versatile jacket that you can use for more than just running will love this one. It is water-resistant, so you can wear it in the rain. It is also available in many different options—if you want the reflective jacket to go for the Nike Essential Flash. It also offers several pockets for you to store your belongings, including an internal media pocket.
Weight
Given all of the features this jacket has to offer and its added water-resistant capabilities, this jacket is really lightweight. You won’t have to worry about it weighing you down one bit!
Breathability
While a lot of water-resistant clothing often sacrifices breathability, this running jacket does not. It offers added breathability thanks to the back vent, which allows air to flow thus ensuring you stay cool and dry while still staying warm.
3. Mizuno Static Breath Thermo
Lots of colors
Machine Washable
Wind-Resistant
Water-Resistant
Reflective
Has thumbholes and cord access
Does not have a hood
Those of you looking to run in style this winter will absolutely love the Mizuno Static Breath Thermo running jacket. This jacket can get a little pricey depending on the color you go with, so if you are on a budget, pay close attention to the price before making your purchase.
Read moreComfort
This running jacket is made of polyester and polyacrylate material. It is really comfortable and will definitely keep you nice and toasty while you are out on your run during the cold winter runs. It has thumb holes for you to comfortably run without having to worry about your sleeves sliding up while your run.
Weather Resistance
To keep you warm, this jacket uses Thermos material—hence the name. This jacket is also water-resistant, so if it decides to snow or rain while you are out you will be protected as well---it is important to note, however, that it does not have a hood.
Versatility
As far as versatility goes, it is a great option for those o you who want to be visible while you run. It features 360-degree reflectivity for additional safety for those of you who like to run in low-light conditions. It has 2 storage side pockets, so you keep your stuff safe as well as cord access for you to loop your headphones through. This jacket is also machine washable, so it is easy to take care of.
Weight
This Mizuno jacket is really lightweight—despite all of the features it has to offer. You won’t have to worry about this jacket weighing you down, even if it decides to rain.
Breathability
Just because you are running during the winter doesn’t mean you can’t overheat, get too hot, or sweat. Lucky for you, this jacket is breathable without sacrificing warmth—so you won’t have to worry about sweating in this one during the winter.
4. Pearl Izumi Blocking
Water-resistant
Wind-resistant
Breathable
Allows for a full range of motion
Comes with a warranty (depends on retailor)
Several storage pockets
Pricey
Although this jacket is on the pricier side, the Pearl Izumi Ultra Wind Blocking winter running jacket is stylish, comfortable, warm, and definitely worth every penny. It is available in lots of colors for you to choose from and is incredibly durable and built to last—just make sure to follow the care instructions provided by the jacket to ensure you get the most lie out of it.
Read moreComfort
When we took a look at the overall comfort of this jacket, we found that it is designed to fit your every curve—and keep in mind that this one is for women but the Pearl Izumi Barrier jacket would be the male rendition of this jacket. It also allows for a full range of motion, so you don’t have to worry about it restricting you while you run.
Weather Resistance
Thanks to the use of softshell fabric, this jacket is both wind-resistant and water-resistant. It is perfect for trail running, climbing, backpacking, and any activities in the great outdoors. This jacket is also designed to ensure you stay warm without ever overheating. It uses Transfer tech, Barrier tech, Thermal tech, and Softshell tech to keep you warm, dry, and sweat-free.
Versatility
Those of you looking for a running jacket that can be used or more than just running will definitely love this one. You can move freely with this jacket and it also has two pockets that zip up for secure storage. The side pocket is also a great option for things you want easy access to. It also has abrasion-resistant print on the shoulder area—so you won’t have to worry about any snagging when you are out on a trail.
Weight
Incredibly lightweight, you can take this jacket with you wherever you go. Despite all of the features it has to offer, you can count on it to ensure you stay nice and warm without being bogged down.
Breathability
In terms of breathability, you will be happy to hear that this jacket is really breathable. It features arm panels that ensure it gets rids of any moisture without sacrificing warmth.
5. Saucony Nomad
Waterproof
Wind-resistant
Reflective features
Comfortable
Breathable
Expensive
Sizing seems to run a little too big
The Saucony Nomad winter running jacket is available for both men and women. It comes with several storage pockets for you to securely store your belongings. If you want to look great and stay warm, you will love this running jacket.
Read moreComfort
This option is made of 100% Polyester—although the waterproof membrane features both polyester, spandex, and drylete. It completely prevents any type of chaffing and fits loose enough for you to layer if you would like to.
Weather Resistance
The best part about it is that it is both wind-resistant and water-resistant thanks to the FlexShell material and waterproof membrane. More specifically, this jacket has a windproof panel on the front of the jacket and the sleeves will ensure you remain at just the right temperature.
Versatility
If you want a running jacket that allows for a full range of motion, you will love this jacket. It also has reflective features on the front and back of the jacket. The two-way zipper option on the front of the jacket also ensures that your jacket doesn’t cause any chafing or blisters.
Weight
This is definitely a lightweight jacket and you will love this one. It won’t weigh you down and is easy for you to take it with you wherever you go.
Breathability
Although this jacket is both wind-resistant and water-resistant, it does not sacrifice breathability one bit. It is well-ventilated and will ensure that you stay cool and dry.
6. Mountain Hardwear KOR Cirrus Hybrid
Incredibly lightweight
Primaloft Gold Active insulation
Great for extreme temperature
Slightly expensive
Limited color options
If you are anything like us, you hate the idea of heavy and bulky gear on your runs. This design from Mountain Hardware takes that into consideration with their KOR Cirrus Hybrid. It may not be the most affordable design on our list, but it is well worth it for runners that long for minimalist running gear.
Read moreComfort
If you live in an area that gets pretty cold, this design from Mountain Hardware is designed to keep your outdoor runs just as enjoyable in the winter as in the warmer months. We love that it is made from super-lightweight materials that won’t weigh you down, and packs in features to trap in heat in extreme temperatures. It may cost a little bit more than some of the other brands, but we feel that it is worth every penny!
Weather Resistance
While it boasts a thin and lightweight design, a thin layer of insulation works to trap heat. It uses Primaloft Gold Active insulation between the outer shell and the lining to trap in body heat to keep you nice and toasty in super cold temperatures. Plus, the outer shell is treated with water and wind-resistant materials to keep you dry when running in less than ideal weather conditions.
Versatility
The KOR Cirrus Hybrid is packed with heat-retaining features to keep you warm in some pretty extreme running temperatures.
Weight
What runners love most about this design is that it is incredibly lightweight. It weighs in at just 12.8 ounces, making it one of the lightest cold-weather coats on our list.
Breathability
It is made from easy and lightweight materials that will keep you warm without weighing you down in the slightest.
7. Salomon Fast Wing
Breathable
Different styles to choose from
Lots of color options
Machine washable
Great price
Secure fit
Comfortable
Lightweight
Has thumbholes
Pockets for storage
Sizing may run small
One of the best winter running jackets currently available out there is the Salomon Fast Wing. You can get this jacket as a pullover, hoodie, or zipped up jacket—so you have lots of options in terms of style and color. It isn’t too pricey, so if you’re on a budget this jacket may be a good fit for you.
Read moreComfort
Those of you looking for a comfortable jacket will love this one. It is lightweight yet thick, so it will keep you warm. Depending on which one you get, it will either fit tightly and securely or a little looser—either way, you will definitely have some layering options.
Weather Resistance
It is both wind-resistant and water-resistant—and if you get a jacket with a hoodie you will have further protection from the climate.
Versatility
If you want a versatile option, you will love this one. It has storage pockets for you to store your stuff and is machine washable. While the link included does not have the hooded jacket, there are hooded and fully zippered options available if you don’t want the half-zip pull-over layering jacket.
Weight
At just 252 grams, this winter running jacket is really lightweight, so you can take it with you wherever you go. You also won’t need to worry about this jacket weighing you down one bit!
Breathability
This cold weather running jacket really breathable thanks to the material it is made of. It will effectively keep you well-ventilated and ensure that you stay warm and dry. The half-zip option further allows or breathability and is a great layering option.
8. The North Face Thermoball
Great for extreme cold
Uses synthetic insulation
Packable
Incredibly lightweight
Slightly expensive
If the temperatures get pretty cold where you live, the Thermoball from The North Face is one of your best options. While it is a little bulkier than some of the other designs that we have seen, there are few jackets that will keep you quite as warm.
Read moreComfort
The very first thing that we noticed about this option is that it boasts a puffer design, which is unlike many of the other options that we have seen so far. By utilizing a quilted design with synthetic insulation, it helps to lock in the heat without the need for bulky and heavy materials.
Weather Resistance
We love that it is made from 100 percent recycled materials that are coated with a durable water-repellent substance that wicks away rain and snow.
Versatility
If you need something that is lightweight as well as incredibly warm for super-chilly temperatures, you can’t go wrong with this design from The North Face.
Weight
While many puffers have a reputation of being big and bulky, this design folds down pretty compactly, making it a cinch to toss into a pack or carry with you without weighing you down too much.
Breathability
It is composed of an abbreviated puffer design that traps in heat and is composed of an outer shell to wick away moisture and block out the wind.
It is made from recycled and synthetic materials that you can feel good about wearing and is lightweight enough to wear on those long winter runs. It may cost a little bit more than most, but we feel that it is well worth the extra cost!
9. Brooks Canopy
Doesn’t swish
Drilayer Seal fabric
Provides great movement
Slightly expensive
Cumbersome hood
Did you know that Brooks makes more than just killer running shoes? This design from Brooks is made from high-end materials that work to wick away water and moisture and is insulated to keep you warm in cold temperatures. Plus, it is lightweight and won’t wear your down on those long winter runs. It may cost a little bit more than most, but it is worth every penny for runners that don’t like to be sidelined by a little bit of cod weather.
Read moreComfort
Users love this design because it provides a full range of motion throughout the entire body, making it a great option for long-distance running or even HIIT training as well.
Weather Resistance
Another thing that we noticed about the construction of this weather-proof jacket is that the materials provide an easier range of motion in the arms and in the torso.
Versatility
If you are on the market for something that is lightweight and easy to wear on those cold-weather jogs, this design from Brooks is worth checking out. Users love that it offers great movement, and it is composed of materials that are lightweight and breathable as well.
Weight
The most notable feature of this design from Brooks is the DriLayer Seal fabric. This fabric is able to really lock in warmth without feeling too stiff or heavy.
Breathability
The Drilayer Seal fabric wicks away moisture from the surface and is still breathable without the addition of any vented panels. Plus, it doesn’t have the familiar swishing sound that is common in many windbreakers.
10. Columbia Switchback
Lightweight
Drawstring hip cords
High neckline
Many colors available
Runs short
If you need a good marriage of style, function, and fit, this option from Columbia is a great choice. It boasts a modern classic cut that works for all body types and comes in a ton of fun colors to match your personal style and keep you noticed while training in the great outdoors.
Read moreComfort
It is packed with features that work to keep you warm and dry without hindering your full range of motion. Users also love that it comes in a wide variety of color options that include neutral shades as well as bright and happy colors as well.
Weather Resistance
The outer shell is made from waterproof Hydroplus nylon that is 100 percent waterproof. When you find yourself caught in a cold-weather downpour, this outer shell will keep you 100 percent dry. This design is also completely wind resistant as well, which is a must when running in cold climates
Versatility
It also has adjustable drawstring cords at the hips for a more secure fit that hots in hot air to keep you warm. Plus, it has a high neckline and a lightweight hood that is ideal for cooler climates.
Weight
If you are in the market for something that is lightweight and is packed with features to keep you warm and comfortable without weighing you down on those long runs, this design from Columbia is worth checking out.
Breathability
Iit is composed of premium materials that work to hold in heat, wick away water, and keep you light on your feet.
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Comfort
We all want to be comfortable while we run no matter what we are wearing--and that includes the best winter running jackets.
The perfect option should have more or else the same qualities as any usual functional running shoes. It should be comfortable enough to enable you to use it for a prolonged duration. A good quality running jacket should be fitting and have a streamlined design so that your movement would not be derailed.
You should also comfortably move your arms and shoulders without experiencing any restriction with the one that you would choose. When we consider warmth as a factor, there are different types of jackets that provide distinctive levels of insulation when in use. The exceptional designs are acquired with a layered thermal construction to provide you with sufficient protection from the weather elements.
With everything considered, it is important to remember that comfort and warmth would often be fairly subjective. This is in the sense that some people may be comfortable in particular jacket brands that may not be comfortable for other people. Therefore, your selection would largely be determined by your personal preferences.
One way you would be able to tell the design that is comfortable for you is by having it on and moving around with the jacket to see how comfortable it feels. In this way, you would be able to tell whether the jacket you may have chosen is the perfect choice for you or not.
Weather Resistance
Not all winter running jackets are water-resistant, but if you live in an area where it rains or snows quite a bit during the winter, then you will want to check what weather the jacket covers.
The type of jacket you choose should be one that would allow you to carry on with the activities of the day even when the weather turns to worse when you least expect that to happen. Presently, most sports gears have been developed with the intent of helping to protect users from the elements not forgetting wind and moisture.
If possible, you should go for the brands that have a water-repellent finish or designed to protect you from ending up soaking wet when it abruptly starts to rain when you are out jogging or running. The perfect quality designs have a special outer shell that would help keep the rain out at all times. It should be waterproof as opposed to water-resistant.
The one with a hood would offer additional protection from the rain and other weather elements. Wind will also be a major factor to consider when it comes to shopping for a suitable winter running jacket. The best options have elastic cuffs that would help shield off the wind.
Versatility
There's nothing wrong with wanting a versatile winter running jacket, so make sure to take a look at everything it has to offer.
Even in the heart of winter, some consumers may require something that is adaptable. Fortunately, at present, there are all sorts of winter running jackets available on the market that would enable you to brave the daring winter season. Depending on your tastes and preferences you may go for the type of jacket with sleeves that could be ripped off or a jacket that allows you to easily roll them up.
Can you layer up with this jacket
One of the features we look for is the ability to layer. Many of the jackets on our list can hold layers beneath them or on top of them--so if you live in frigid temperatures, then you can be sure you stay nice and warm. If this is not something you need then you can look over it, but anyone who likes to travel or run in the winter should have at least one jacket they can layer.
Storage capabilities
For those of you who like to bring your phone, keys, and other belongings with you, storage is key. It's important for you to securely hold your stuff and keep your hands-free--especially in the winter. Make sure to consider your own needs and preferences and get a winter running jacket that best fits your storage needs.
Weight
Your jacket should not weigh you down and provide you with the warmth you need while you run in the winter.
Lighter people often run faster and further. That is why the best quality designs should be the ones that would provide you with the best protection while having a lighter construction in order to provide you with the level of effectiveness you would desire as part of any running gear you may have with you.
As much as there is no such thing as an ideal weight for these kinds of products, basically what would be considered a good quality design that is of the right weight would be below 5 ounces in weight. Even with it being that, you may strive for a lightweight design that would provide you with sufficient warmth and protection wherever you go.
The ones with a pack-in pocket capability are a clear indication of their lightweight quality and versatility. At the end of the day, make sure you get a running jacket that fits your needs and that won't weigh you down.
Breathability
While your winter running jacket should keep you warm, it should also ensure you stay nice and dry. The last thing you want is to sweat and overheat on a long winter run--carrying that jacket will be no fun!
Buying something that would adequately protect you from the weather elements is very important. It is equally important that you think about the ventilation aspect of the jacket that you intend to buy. The best designs would not allow you to give up the ventilation aspects of these types of products.
Just like the car that would require an exhaust pipe to help ensure that the engines do not overheat, a suitable jacket would also require a good ventilation system in order to ascertain proper temperature regulation. If you plan on engaging in vigorous exercising activity, you are bound to sweat even during the coldest months of the year.
The jacket should be able to wick the moisture away from the body and allow air in so that your body does not overheat. In as much as it would be important to look for a design that has good ventilation, you should make sure that the ventilation aspect does not compromise its weather protection capability.
Expert Interviews & Opinions
Comfort Breathability Versatility Water Resistance Weight
Breathability is an important thing when it comes to picking out a winter running jacket. If you have a jacket without ventilation and breathability, it defeats the purpose, and you don't gain maximum comfort.
Fit and mobility are vital as well when choosing a winter running jacket. To accomplish this, find jackets with stretchy material; while you're running, you don't want materials irritating your skin.
Other Factors to Consider
Use
How reflective the surface of the jacket you choose is, would be what would help in separating the exceptional jacket designs from the less exceptional ones.
Safety should always be a point of major concern for any consumer. Buying a jacket that is well covered with reflective material would save you the trouble of having to look over your shoulders time and again while on the road jogging or running. A highly reflective surface enhances your visibility during low light conditions.
If possible, you should ensure that you go for the brands that have an LED lighting system at various points on the jacket to help ensure that you stay visible even during times of reduced lighting.
Bottom Line
Even though you may not have anticipated the winter season, it's always good to be prepared, at all times. Buying a jacket for the winter season in due time would save you the trouble of rushing to buy this particular product when you need it the most yet you had all the time to shop for it. The extreme chill in the morning hours during winter should never make you change your morning routines.
Other than making sure that you purchase a jacket that would keep you warm and comfortable, ensure that the design that you purchase at any given point in time has an outer shell that would help to protect you from getting soaked or in some cases frozen.
That is why a high quality and functional winter jacket should be top of the purchase list if you wish to comfortably steer through the winter season. What you would choose would be determined by several factors such as the kind of conditions you expect to run in as well as the activities you intend to take part in.
Insulation
The essential feature about jackets is how well they keep out the cold. We don’t want to walk around in a big, bulky one but we also need to stay warm. We looked at what fabrics and insulation are used to make jackets and the ability to keep out the cold and in the warmth. Is the fabric breathable, or can our sweat cause a chill?
The two most common types of insulation for jackets are down and synthetic. Down is the “fluffy stuff” (not the feathers) of birds like geese and duck that helps keep them warm. Down is warmer than synthetic alternatives.
Winter jackets are also loftier, or bulky. They are lightweight and compressible but don't perform as well when wet. Synthetic insulation consists of materials like polyester. These winter jackets are still warm and perform better when wet because of their water wicking properties. Synthetic is more durable but is heavier in weight.
You can also predict how jackets will perform by considering their classification. Winter jackets are classified as casual or performance options. Casual jackets are geared more for everyday wear.
These jackets are the models that primarily focus more on comfort and warmth, as well as style. These might not be the best for outdoor workouts, but many might still include positive features on that front like breathability.
Performance or “technical” jackets are made for athletic consumers. These still aim to keep the consumer warm but have more flexibility, mobility, and breathability.
Advanced Features
Another important factor we took into consideration, was the cut and fit of the jackets and the quality of the fabric.
We looked for any extras the winter jackets may have, like pockets, hoods, wind-guards, fur and fleece liners, and any other advanced features that improve their performance and functionality.
This plays a major role because winter jackets usually come with a large price tag. However, many jackets are made with high-quality materials; they are durable, weather-resistant and perform nicely. All of this means it’s a worthy investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
q: Can my jacket be too warm?
Yes, there are definitely jackets on our list that will keep you much warmer than others. Make sure you take a look at the climate you live in and your specific needs to ensure you don't get a jacket that is too warm, or not warm enough. The last thing you want is to overheat while you run, so pay close attention to what you get.
q: Is the most expensive jacket the best option?
A word of advice, ensure that you go for a product that is within your budget. Don’t buy something because someone else has the same product; ensure that what you buy meets your needs.
q: Are there stylish winter running jackets?
That would all depend on your tastes and preferences. However, you should not choose a jacket based on how fashionable it is but rather it would be helpful to select one based on its functionality. A proper winter running jacket should be able to keep you warm, comfortable and still protect you from the weather elements wherever you go.
q: Do these winter running jackets offer a return policy?
Most do not have a return policy. That's why you need to ensure that you get the best winter running jacket for you. Nonetheless, if you get one that has a return policy, you should go for it because you would be assured of the quality.
q: How should jackets like these fit?
The winter jackets should be form-fitting, but not too tight. They should be long enough in the arms to reach the wrists. The cut and style of the winter jackets vary based on preference. You may like a jacket that fits a little looser, but if you have too much extra space then it allows cold air to circulate and might provide a little too much ventilation.
q: Should I wear layers with jackets like these?
Depending on the insulation and the weather, it might not be necessary to layer up. However, no matter how warm the winter jackets are, it’s always a good idea to wear layers during freezing temperatures.
Sources
- , How to Dress for Cold Weather Running, Fitness Website
- , How Many Layers Should You Wear During a Winter Run?, Fitness Website
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