11 Best Running Jackets Reviewed & Tested

In a Hurry? Editors choice:
Columbia Flashback
Test Winner: Columbia Flashback
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If you intend on hitting the trails year-round, a good running jacket is just as important as your shoes. As we like to say, there is no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing! No matter where you live in the world, we wanted to make sure that we selected jackets that are perfect for all weather conditions. The styles selected for our list are slim and lightweight and are packed with water and wind-resistant features. No one likes hot and clammy runs, which is why we made sure to select coats that utilize breathable and vented materials to keep your skin warm yet dry.

In this guide, we have provided a list of the best running jackets to keep you out on the trails come or shine!

Standout Picks

Before you shy away from the Arrowood Triclimate due to the steep price point, it is important to note that this jacket is essentially 2 coats in one. It boasts a wind-resistant top layer that is able to be completely removed to reveal a lightweight and breathable fleece lining. This is the perfect jacket for those that live in a part of the world where the weather shifts wildly between snowy, raining, and warm!
Amazon Link
What we love about the Outrack design from Salomon is that it is composed of lightweight and comfortable materials to help regulate your body temperature and keep you nice and warm when heading out for a cool day. Runners love this simple design because it will keep you warm on chilly fall days, and it is thin and lightweight enough to use as a great mid-layer when the temperatures really drop!
Amazon Link
What we loved most about the Flashback from Columbia is that it boasts a loose and easy fit that won’t hinder your full range of motion, and it is made from materials that can tackle any weather condition. Whether you are running on a soggy early spring morning or heading out in the middle of winter, this is the perfect top layer to keep you warm and dry.
Amazon Link
This jacket is designed with a thinner material that allows for enhanced temperature regulation while still serving the basic purpose of a jacket- to keep your body heat locked in so you stay warm! The Under Armour Tech jacket is a great product that carried on the great tradition of this brand.
Amazon Link
This jacket offers the classic Adidas track look with many added benefits to help you have a successful run. This jacket is made of 100% poly tricot fabric. It is flexible, breathable, and gives a sleek athletic look. It also touts the classic Adidas three stripe insignia, and is available in 14 colors.
Amazon Link
If you are concerned about losing mobility as you gear up for cold weather, this design from Columbia is worth checking out. The Flash Forward Hybrid fuses heat-retaining materials with stretchy fabric in key areas to keep you warm without weighing you down or hindering your full range of motion. It’s a perfect design for those really cold days!
Amazon Link
The North Face really took runners into consideration with their Stormy Trail design. The lightweight exterior shell wicks away 100 percent of rain and wind, and it is made from materials that work to regulate your body temperature. It has a few incredibly convenient features as well to keep your runs light and easy.
Amazon Link
Designed with Adidas’ trademark style and quality, this jacket is a good choice for runners looking for an option created just for athletes.
Amazon Link
This is a tough, light jacket great for running in colder weather even though it's very light and breathable.
Amazon Link
The Arc’teryx Incendo is an excellent example of high-performance construction on this list. A hoodie whose every aspect is designed to support and enhance the runner and their experience. The Incendo is a great choice if you are looking for an all-around great hoodie.
In search of a lightweight but feminine running jacket? This may be the option you need to complete your running wardobe.
Amazon Link

Criteria Used for Evaluation

Breathability

This criteria makes or breaks a jacket design.

When you run, you sweat and there is no temperature to prevent that. The best jackets for runners allow for rapid sweat evaporation without saturating your clothes or you.

Newer wicking technologies are also offering temperature controlling fabric that not only evaporates but uses it to keep your body temp steady. However, adding this into a design can release all that without the moisture build-up. The airflow is essential to keeping a jacket breathable.

More solid jackets usually offer zips in the sides and mesh material. These are used to add a vent like A’C to your run. These are proven elements in the best running jackets that assist in breathability.

Breathability also prevents chafing and heat rashes. These are caused usually by excessive humid heat. The best jackets for running will breathe well enough without losing the integrity of warmth, comfort and sweat evaporation.

Weather Resistance

There are many ways to keeping protected from the elements and this is a very effective one.

Whether you’ll be running in the snow, rain or hot sun, knowing what you will be encountering should go into what you're running gear offers. Below are a couple of examples of the types of weatherproofing we look for in the jackets.

    Waterproofing v. Water Resistance

    Obviously, it is easy to read the differences between the two. However, we find more than not consumers are confused with how they differ. Waterproofing should keep you dry in all areas the jacket is in contact with your body. Water-resistance should keep you dry just long enough to get out of the storm.

    Waterproofing is usually more technical and uses membranes and different materials to completely block out water penetration while still allowing for your sweat vapors to release. A lot of different sciences go into the levels of waterproofing there are.

    Water resistance is usually designed to keep s a certain amount of water out. These options tend to breathe really well but you only have a few minutes before you are soaked. Hopefully, the best water resistance will offer quick-drying fabrics.

    Wind Proofing v. Wind Resistance

    Most waterproof jackets are also going to offer windproofing. And just like that Paramo water resistance, will be more of a wind-resistant option.

    Wind proofing versus wind resistance shadows the rules of waterproof versus water resistance. One helps with limitations while the other blocks the elements completely. Most windproofing jackets tend to be light and work really well for travel. A lot of them go over other clothes, like fleece or cotton to help prevent the wind from cutting through you.

    Whatever it is you are looking for in a design, always know your surroundings and what you are getting into when you run. Having options is also a great idea when investing in the best running gear. Having different levels in protection gives you a great arsenal to work with for a more customizable and comfortable running experience.

Motion Control

Any of the best running gear is going to offer the best mobility.

If you can’t move your arms and get the full range, you aren’t going to get very far fast. Furthermore, the restriction is annoying.

The jackets will offer nothing less. How much mobility an item has starts with design as well as how it fits. If it is too small, you aren't going to like the jacket.

The material, as we mentioned, will also play a huge effect on how well you move. This is why the current best jackets can breathe and move and wick, etc.

You don’t want materials that cling and add sweat unless that is what you're into. You want material and size to work over and on materials of other active gear. You want to stretch with plenty of room to breathe without constraint. We suggest making sure the jacket isn’t too heavy either.

Most designs have it down to a science and with all that technology and the best running jackets offer great material that allows you to move and breathe without weighing you down.

Advanced Features

This is an especially important feature to have for runners who are running at night.

Reflective features may be located on the seams, collars or hems of a jacket. Safety is very important for runners.

Whether on the road or trail, it's important to be visible, and choosing a jacket with reflective features is a wise choice. Although reflective accessories, such as vests, can be purchased for this intended purpose, finding a jacket that already incorporates reflective details may be worthwhile for individuals who consistently run in low visibility areas.

Top 11 Running Jackets

1. The North Face Arrowood Triclimate

Where to buy
Amazon Link
The North Face Arrowood Triclimate
The North Face Men's Arrowood Triclimate Jacket
The North Face Arrowood Triclimate
Amazon Link

Before you shy away from the Arrowood Triclimate due to the steep price point, it is important to note that this jacket is essentially 2 coats in one. It boasts a wind-resistant top layer that is able to be completely removed to reveal a lightweight and breathable fleece lining. This is the perfect jacket for those that live in a part of the world where the weather shifts wildly between snowy, raining, and warm!

Read more

The most notable feature of the Arrowood Triclimate is the ability to quickly shed layers as needed. You can wear the fleece layer alone on sunny yet chilly mornings, or pair it with the windbreaker on super cold days. You can even wear the windbreaker alone on warmer rainy days as well. This jacket is truly built for all seasons.

The exterior layer is constructed with a DryVent shell which works to wick away rain and moisture while lifting hot air up and out of the coat to prevent your runs from becoming overly hot and clammy. The interior liner is composed of smooth-face fleece that feels super soft against the skin and works overtime to hold in heat and wick away sweat from your skin.

The best part of this design is that both layers are able to be tossed into the washing machine as needed. If you live in a part of the world with some pretty extreme weather conditions, this design from The North Face is well worth the slightly higher price point.

Amazon Link

2. Salomon Outrack

Where to buy
Amazon Link
Salomon Men's Standard Outrack Full Zip Mid
Salomon Men's Standard Outrack Full Zip Mid
Salomon Men's Standard Outrack Full Zip Mid
Amazon Link

What we love about the Outrack design from Salomon is that it is composed of lightweight and comfortable materials to help regulate your body temperature and keep you nice and warm when heading out for a cool day. Runners love this simple design because it will keep you warm on chilly fall days, and it is thin and lightweight enough to use as a great mid-layer when the temperatures really drop!

Read more

One of the things that runners love about this design is that it is composed of 100 percent polyester fleece. It has a ribbed interior shell that helps to wick sweat away from your body where it quickly dries on the surface. Due to the fact that it is made from durable polyester, users can toss this coat into the washing machine as needed.

The cut of this jacket is also great for runners, whether you are out for an easy jog or you are going for speed. The long and narrow cut is made to hug your body like a second skin to make your movements light and easy. It also boasts flat-lock seams that won’t rub your skin when engaging in repetitive movements.

It’s important to note that unlike some of the other designs that we have seen, the Outrack doesn’t possess any water-resistant properties. While it’s a great coat for chilly days, it won’t offer much protection if you get caught in the rain. However, the slim and lightweight fit makes this design a cinch to pair with a good windbreaker for added protection.

Amazon Link

3. Columbia Flashback

Where to buy
Amazon Link
Columbia mens Flashback Windbreaker Jacket
Columbia mens Flashback Windbreaker Jacket
Columbia mens Flashback Windbreaker Jacket
Amazon Link

What we loved most about the Flashback from Columbia is that it boasts a loose and easy fit that won’t hinder your full range of motion, and it is made from materials that can tackle any weather condition. Whether you are running on a soggy early spring morning or heading out in the middle of winter, this is the perfect top layer to keep you warm and dry.

Read more

The exterior shell of this design is composed of 100 percent water and wind-resistant polyester This simple design is even able to be tossed into the washing machine as needed. It comes in a ton of unique colors and retro-inspired designs to add a little old school flair to your seasonal runs.

The magic of this design lies in all of the small design features made to keep you warm and comfortable. It boasts cuffed collars on your hands and waist to hold in heat and to prevent wind and rain from penetrating. It has a full hood with a high neckline to provide an added level of wind and rain resistance.

If you are in the market for something that is lightweight and versatile that is a perfect companion for all seasons, this design from Columbia is a great choice. The best part of this versatile and simple design is that it comes in at a super affordable price point that won’t break the bank.

Amazon Link

4. Under Armour Tech

Where to buy
Amazon Link
Under Armour Men's Tech ½ Zip Long Sleeve
Under Armour Men's Tech ½ Zip Long Sleeve
Under Armour Men's Tech ½ Zip Long Sleeve
Amazon Link

This jacket is designed with a thinner material that allows for enhanced temperature regulation while still serving the basic purpose of a jacket- to keep your body heat locked in so you stay warm! The Under Armour Tech jacket is a great product that carried on the great tradition of this brand.

Read more

This is a jacket that will protect you from the elements while keeping you dry and comfortable. It is weather-resistant and durable with a soft inner layer to keep you comfortable on your runs - no matter how long they may be.

One of the big drawbacks to many running jackets out there today is they are bulky and hard to move around in. This is bad news for a runner and thankfully the Under Armour Tech jacket is designed to be flexible and will not hinder your motion control much at all!

With a sleek design, cool colors, secure pockets, and air flow regulation design, this is a smart choice for runners of all sorts so be sure to check it out for yourself!

Amazon Link

5. Adidas Essential Tricot

Where to buy
Amazon Link
adidas Men's Essentials 3-Stripe Tricot Track Jacket
adidas Men's Essentials 3-Stripe Tricot Track Jacket
adidas Men's Essentials 3-Stripe Tricot Track Jacket
Amazon Link

This jacket offers the classic Adidas track look with many added benefits to help you have a successful run. This jacket is made of 100% poly tricot fabric. It is flexible, breathable, and gives a sleek athletic look. It also touts the classic Adidas three stripe insignia, and is available in 14 colors.

Read more

The poly tricot material of this jacket is highly breathable and wicks moisture from your skin. When running in this jacket, there is no need to worry about being weighed down by trapped sweat or moisture.

It's extremely flexible, allowing you free movement of your arms and torso. This helps you run more naturally, comfortably, and powerfully.

This is an average priced running jacket.

Amazon Link

6. Columbia Flash Forward Hybrid

Where to buy
Amazon Link
Columbia Women's Flash Forward Hybrid Jacket
Columbia Women's Flash Forward Hybrid Jacket
Columbia Women's Flash Forward Hybrid Jacket
Amazon Link

If you are concerned about losing mobility as you gear up for cold weather, this design from Columbia is worth checking out. The Flash Forward Hybrid fuses heat-retaining materials with stretchy fabric in key areas to keep you warm without weighing you down or hindering your full range of motion. It’s a perfect design for those really cold days!

Read more

The very first thing that we noticed about this design is that the chest and arms are made from two very different materials. The chest is composed of a down puffer design that is lightweight and works overtime to hold in heat. To keep your movements light and easy, the arms are made from stretchy materials that won’t hinder your full range of motion.

Heat Seal technology found in all points of the coat work to hold in heat to keep you nice and toasty (and not clammy) on those long colder weather runs. It boasts a high neckline to retain heat and vertical zippered pockets on the side to safely store your phone and car keys.

If you are in the market for a good jacket that works to retain heat without the use of heavy and bulky materials that hinder your full range of motion, this design from Columbia is a great choice. It is a jacket that is specifically designed with runners in mind, and the best part is that even machine washable!

Amazon Link

7. The North Face Stormy Trail

Where to buy
Amazon Link
The North Face Stormy Trail Jacket
Amazon Link

The North Face really took runners into consideration with their Stormy Trail design. The lightweight exterior shell wicks away 100 percent of rain and wind, and it is made from materials that work to regulate your body temperature. It has a few incredibly convenient features as well to keep your runs light and easy.

Read more

The most notable feature of this design is the innovative materials used in the construction of this garment. While the outside wicks away rain and blocks heat, it won’t feel hot and clammy like some of the other windbreakers out there on the market. Vented panels in crucial areas work to lift hot air up and away from your body, as well as lift sweat where it quickly evaporates on the surface.

This design also boasts vertical zippered pockets to safely store your gear, as well as an adjustable hood. The entire garment is woven with reflective materials, you will always be noticed, even in low light conditions. Users love that it boasts a longer cut that isn’t too short, and cuffed sleeve work to block wind and rain.

The best part of the Stormy Trail is that you can simply toss it into the washing machine as needed. While it may cost a little bit more when compared to other designs out there on the market, we feel that the smart design of this running jacket is an excellent value that will hold up to years of continued use.

Amazon Link

8. Adidas Supernova Storm

Where to buy
Amazon Link
adidas Men's Running Supernova Storm Jacket
adidas Men's Running Supernova Storm Jacket
adidas Men's Running Supernova Storm Jacket
Amazon Link

Designed with Adidas’ trademark style and quality, this jacket is a good choice for runners looking for an option created just for athletes.

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This jacket is available in 5 colors. It has a high collar and a sturdy zipper. All colors are made with a reflective fabric that’s great for running in low light conditions. Pockets will help keep your hands warm in the cold, and the zipper pocket on the left arm can hold keys and your phone.

The jacket’s climate fabric wicks sweat away from your skin. There are side seam zippers that allow you to adjust the breathability. It's very lightweight and fits well but not too tightly.

This is a moderately expensive running jacket.

Amazon Link

9. Baleaf

Where to buy
Amazon Link
BALEAF Men's Lightweight Windbreaker Hooded Running Track Sport Jacket
BALEAF Men's Lightweight Windbreaker Hooded Running Track Sport Jacket
BALEAF Men's Lightweight Windbreaker Hooded Running Track Sport Jacket
Amazon Link

This is a tough, light jacket great for running in colder weather even though it's very light and breathable.

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This jacket is made from 100% polyester. It’s very lightweight, weatherproof and waterproof. The cuffs fit snugly and the hem can be adjusted with a drawstring. The attached funnel hood provides extra protection when you need it.

The interior mesh helps keep you from getting too sweaty while the jacket still provides good protection from the cold.

This jacket fits snugly without being too tight. The elastic cuffs have just enough give. You will still be able to move freely even if the drawstrings are pulled tight.

Keep in mind that this is an expensive option.

Amazon Link

10. Arc'teryx Incendo

Where to buy
Arc'teryx Incendo Hoody
Arc'teryx Incendo Hoody
Arc'teryx Incendo Hoody
Amazon Link

The Arc’teryx Incendo is an excellent example of high-performance construction on this list. A hoodie whose every aspect is designed to support and enhance the runner and their experience. The Incendo is a great choice if you are looking for an all-around great hoodie.

Read more

The Arc’teryx Incendo is waterproof and with its hood, you can make sure even your head stays dry, also making it a solid choice if you prefer to run with headphones. The Incendo is also wind resistant meaning that with it there is no weather that can stop you from going out and shaving some seconds off your time.

The Incendo is constructed with elastics to make sure you have a tight form fitting wear each and every time to keep out any excess wind and rain. All this proofing doesn’t mean that the Incendo has ventilation issues, as it's constructed with special mesh panels to make sure your airflow stays regulated.

The Incendo from Arc’teryx is a reliable choice for the runner who isn’t deterred by the elements and needs their gear to keep up with them.

11. Tesla

Where to buy
Amazon Link
TSLA Women's Full Zip Workout Jackets, Long Sleeve Active Track Running Jacket, Lightweight Yoga Athletic Jacket
TSLA Women's Full Zip Workout Jackets, Long Sleeve Active Track Running Jacket, Lightweight Yoga Athletic Jacket
TSLA Women's Full Zip Workout Jackets, Long Sleeve Active Track Running Jacket, Lightweight Yoga Athletic Jacket
Amazon Link

In search of a lightweight but feminine running jacket? This may be the option you need to complete your running wardobe.

Read more

This 90% polyester and 10% polyurethane jacket is cut to enhance the female shape. Thumb holes, contrast cuffs, and zippered pockets are small features that make a big difference in this jacket. The hood even includes an earphone outlet. This jacket is available only in gray or black.

This jacket is highly breathable because of the light fabric and other ventilated features. The combination of polyester and polyurethane that makes up this garment is extremely flexible, meaning you can wear this to run or even to yoga.

This is an inexpensive running jacket.

Amazon Link

Sources

  1. Ayren Jackson-Cannady , Sweat: 7 Reasons It Does a Body Good, Fitness Magazine
  2. Jeff Metzdorff, How to Buy a Winter Running Jacket, Informational Running Website
  3. REI Staff, Rainwear: How to Choose, Informational Outdoor Website
  4. Jared Dean, How to Choose the Best Running Jacket, Informational Outdoor Website
  5. STG, In Our View: Wear Reflective Clothing While Running, Informational News Website
  6. Textile Innovation Knowledge Platform, Breathability Definitions, Textile Industry Website

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