The 8 Best Running Jackets of 2024
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When you think of a complete running wardrobe, a couple things come to mind: A running watch, running shoes, running shorts or workout leggings and a good pair of socks, like compression socks. And while a running jacket may not be the first thing you think of, it is a staple in any running wardrobe whether you are battling biting winds, pouring rain or braving the snow. And while each of these weather conditions will require some different features, tech and design, there are jackets out there that can help keep you warm and dry no matter the unseemly weather you may—literally—run into.
Since weather across the globe—and across America—varies so much, we gathered up a selection of running jackets that can work for all types of weather, climates and runners. To help you choose, we conducted in-depth reviews on each of these jackets and highlighted what exactly you should look for in a running jacket as well as how to decide which one is right for you. Keep reading to learn more about our picks for the eight best running jackets of 2024.
Our Picks for the Best Running Jackets:
- Best Rain Jacket for Running: adidas Adizero Running Lightweight Jacket
- Best Winter Running Jacket: Lululemon Down for It All Jacket
- Best Running Jacket for Men: Nike Unlimited Men’s Repel Hooded Versatile Jacket
- Best Packable Running Jacket: Lululemon Warp Light Packable Jacket
- Best Waterproof Running Jacket: Patagonia Men’s Storm Racer Jacket
- Best Running Jacket for Women: adidas Own the Run Hooded Running Windbreaker
- Best Running Jacket for Layering: NoBull Blended Merino Wool ¼ Zip
- Best Trail Running Jacket: On Running Weather Jacket OAC
Best Rain Jacket for Running: adidas Adizero Running Lightweight Jacket
adidas
Key Features:
- Price: $180
- Material: Recycled nylon ripstop
- Sizes: XS–2XL
- Layers: 1
- Best for: Blustery winds and light rain
This jacket is designed for the quintessential unpleasant fall day—heavy winds and a sprinkling rain. While it is not fully waterproof, the adidas Adizero Running Lightweight Jacket does have a water-repellent coating that is effective enough to keep out light rain even on a long run. The material is particularly lightweight, and also has laser cut ventilation which helps to expel extra heat without letting water seep through. The jacket has a small zipped pocket on the sleeve for essentials like a key or card, and it also has reflective details that help keep you visible in low-light conditions. Though it only comes in one color, it is a nice neutral blue that pairs well with most colors—plus it is made with 100 percent recycled materials so you can feel good about your purchase.
Pros:
- Size inclusive
- Made with recycled materials
- Super lightweight
- Wind and water resistant
Cons:
- Expensive
- Only one color
Best Winter Running Jacket: Lululemon Down for It All Jacket
lululemon
Key Features:
- Price: $228
- Material: Down filling, fiber filling, nylon, lycra, elastane
- Sizes: 0–14
- Layers: Insulated
- Best for: Super cold winter days
As the temperatures really begin to drop and we get further and further into the winter months, you may find that a rain jacket or windbreaker just isn’t able to cut it—so out comes the insulated jacket. This one is made with a combination of down and fiber fill that helps keep heat trapped inside while also preventing clumping or a damp soggy feeling in wet conditions. The majority of the exterior fabric is made with a water-resistant nylon, but it also has panels of stretch fleece on the sides of the body and underside of the arm which allow you to move unrestricted. This jacket also uses only down that is 100 percent Responsible Down Certified, and it is water-resistant and windproof which keeps you warm and dry in less-than-ideal winter weather.
Pros:
- Insulated for warmth
- Stretch fleece allows you to move effectively
- Hood for extra warmth
- Thumb holes in sleeve
Cons:
- Pricey, doesn’t fit all budgets
- Not as size inclusive as most Lululemon apparel
Best Running Jacket for Men: Nike Unlimited Men’s Repel Hooded Versatile Jacket
Nike
Key Features:
- Price: $120
- Material: Polyester, spandex
- Sizes: XXS–XXL
- Layers: 1
- Best for: Working out comfortably in wet conditions
Most rain jackets are made with ripstop or some sort of non-stretch fabric, but this one is designed to stretch and move with you so you never feel constricted. It is made with a full-stretch, lightweight fabric that makes layering easy, and it’s even packable, fitting into its own right pocket. Unlike many stretchy jackets which have a pullover quarter-zip design, this one has a full zipper which makes it easy to take on and off. It also has zippered pockets for storing small essentials. Small reflective details also help you stay visible from the front, back and sides.
Pros:
- Large size range
- Stretchy, movable material
- Reasonable price
- Packable design
Cons:
- Only two colors
- Sizes below a small are not currently available
Best Packable Running Jacket: Lululemon Warp Light Packable Jacket
lululemon
Key Features:
- Price: $148
- Material: Woven air mesh fabric
- Sizes: XS–XXL
- Layers: 1
- Best for: Runs in unpredictable weather
While it’s always best to check the weather before heading out for a run, sometimes you end up in the midst of a freak storm—or rain clouds pass through faster than expected and you end up overdressed. One of the best ways to stay prepared for any weather is by layering—and when it comes to a top layer, nothing is better than a packable jacket. This one is incredibly lightweight, and offers four way stretch so it moves with you, but it is also water repellent in light rain. It has a relaxed fit that falls away from the body preventing it from feeling restricting even with layers, and mesh panels help encourage airflow, keeping you dry and cool. Find yourself getting too warm? You can pack the whole jacket into the back pocket for compact storage.
Pros:
- Highly breathable
- Four-way stretch
- Reflective elements
- Zippered pockets
Cons:
- Not fully waterproof
- Not the most flattering fit
Best Waterproof Running Jacket: Patagonia Storm Racer Jacket
Patagonia
Key Features:
- Price: $269
- Material: Nylon ripstop
- Sizes: XS–XL
- Layers: 1
- Best for: Super rainy runs
If you live in an area with a particularly rainy climate—or just refuse to let a little (or a lot) of rain keep you from your run, you will do best to invest in a waterproof rain jacket like this one. Though admittedly expensive, this jacket is incredibly effective at keeping water out, and it has an extremely well-thought-out design that allows you to access a hydration vest without removing the jacket. It has a double-zip construction on the front that helps you access your pack, and gives you quick and easy ventilation when you need it. When fully zipped, the hood tucks snugly against the head which keeps it in place and prevents it from slipping off. If you get too hot, this also packs up into itself, and can be shoved easily into a pack.
Pros:
- Fully waterproof
- Well-thought-out design
- Packable
- Designed to layer over vest
Cons:
- Expensive
- Some found the hood to be too small
Best Running Jacket for Women: adidas Own the Run Hooded Running Windbreaker
adidas
Key Features:
- Price: $70
- Material: Polyester
- Sizes: XXS–XL
- Layers: 1
- Best for: Running in windy weather
For more casual runners or those that don’t tend to run in super rainy weather, a windbreaker like this one is more than enough. Coming in at only $70, the adidas Own the Run Hooded Running Windbreaker is one of the more affordable options on the list. This jacket is highly wind-resistant, and can even take on some light rain—plus it has elastic on the sleeves and an adjustable hem to keep wind from sneaking in loose edges. It also has reflective details that help keep you visible in low light, and it is made with 100 percent recycled materials as part of adidas's efforts to help end plastic waste.
I also personally have tested this jacket and found that it worked incredibly well in windy conditions, and kept me pretty dry in light precipitation. It also had a relaxed but flattering fit, and I loved it both for casual wear and out on a run.
Pros:
- Made with recycled materials
- Classic color options
- Reflective details
- Great at wind resistance
Cons:
- Won’t hold up in heavy rain
Best Running Jacket for Layering: NoBull Blended Merino Wool ¼ Zip
NoBull
Key Features:
- Price: $124
- Material: Merino wool, lyocell, spandex
- Sizes: S–XXL
- Layers: 1
- Best for: Indoor and outdoor workouts
This Merino wool top is great for use both indoors and outdoors. It is made from a majority of Merino wool which is soft to the touch, moisture-wicking, odor-repellent and heat-regulating. Since it also has some spandex, the jacket is stretchy and moves well with the body. It makes a great layering piece—top layer in warmer weather, and middle or base as it gets colder.
While it won’t block out wind or rain, it is an excellent choice for mild weather days when you want something that will keep you warm and comfortable without overheating. The quarter-zip design also allows you to pull it on and off with ease, and helps you adjust the temperature at a moment’s notice.
Pros:
- Temperature regulating
- Stretchy
- Lightweight
- Moisture-wicking
Cons:
- Not wind- or water-resistant
Best Trail Running Jacket: On Running Weather Jacket OAC
On Running
Key Features:
- Price: $240
- Material: Polyamide, polyester, elastane
- Sizes: S–XXL
- Layers: 1
- Best for: Trail runs
Running on the trails can lead you into even more precarious weather conditions than sticking to the roads, thanks to elevation, temperature changes and a higher likelihood of splashing through water and mud. This jacket was designed to help keep you as dry and comfy as possible. It is super lightweight and packable, has built-in ventilation in the back, and micro-ventilation that is built into the fabric. It is water-resistant to light rain, and is fully windproof, and even has water-resistant zippers to help keep the contents of your pockets—both chest and side pockets—dry. It also has a unique cap-style hood that keeps water out of your eyes when the rain is pouring down.
Pros:
- Windproof
- Cap hood keeps face dry
- Water-resistant zippers
- Highly ventilated
Cons:
- Expensive, especially since it’s not waterproof
Why Buy a Running Jacket?
A good jacket is an essential part of just about any running wardrobe. They are super versatile and often can be used for multiple seasons when layered properly. While there are a bunch of different types to choose from—insulated, waterproof, windbreaker and more—you should choose the one that best suits the needs of your climate; though if you are looking for the most versatile option, a good water-resistant windbreaker is the way to go.
These will help keep you dry, warm and able to perform well in inclement weather without leaving you to face the elements unprepared. Plus, many have the addition of pockets which give you extra storage for small essentials so you can run hands-free.
What to Look for in a Running Jacket
Material: Materials will vary when it comes to the type of running jacket, but there are a couple things to look out for which will help you determine which kind to invest in. Most running jackets will be at least wind- and water-resistant. One of the most common materials to use is a nylon ripstop. This is extremely durable, partially water-resistant, and excellent at protecting you from the wind. For waterproofing, they will have to use a Gore-Tex material, or have a waterproof coating; it's worth noting that unless it specifically states that the jacket is fully waterproof, it will be susceptible to some dampness seeping through after a certain threshold.
Some jackets will opt for a stretchy material which moves with the body and allows for layering more easily. These usually include some elastane for stretch, and will be more water-resistant than windproof.
Finally, there are insulated jackets which will include materials like down and down alternatives. These help to lock in heat and keep you warm. While down is the warmest, it can have some clumping issues over time and hold onto water—for this reason, some jackets will opt for a combo of both down and synthetic filling, with the synthetic fill on the outside to protect the down from coming in contact with sweat and water.
Use: Most running jackets are designed to keep out some level of cold, wind and water, but not all of them will be effective to the same degree. If you are looking for something specifically for cold weather, you will want to make sure that it is insulated and probably has some sort of wind- and water-resistance. If you want something better-suited for rain, you're better off with a jacket that is fully waterproofed and has a hood and taped seams. For more everyday use and light wind- and water-resistance, you can opt for a windbreaker, as this will be the most affordable and will prevent you from getting too wet or cold.
Cost: Not all running jackets will cost the same, and in fact there is quite a large range—anywhere from about $40 up to almost $300. A lot of the cost is dependent on the materials used as the more expensive and high tech it is, the more it will cost—generally this means insulation and waterproof materials. We would be remiss not to mention however that brand can also impact the price, and just because you are buying an expensive product from a well-known brand name does not mean that it will necessarily best fit your needs.
How To Choose the Best Running Jacket for You
When looking for a running jacket there are a few things that you will want to consider. Firstly, consider your climate. Are you running in snow or rain? If so, you will want to make sure that you have at least a water-resistant jacket, but waterproof is even better—especially if you are running in a heavy precipitation area. If you just want something to block wind and light rain, you can opt for a more affordable windbreaker option. And if you are going to be using it in the winter—especially in temps under 40 degrees—you may want to opt for an insulated model with a hood.
Less important, but still worth considering, is whether the jacket has pockets; these will offer you some additional storage and a quick way to warm up your hands as temperatures drop. Also consider features like ventilation and adjustability, as these will help you to stay as warm or cool as you need without fully removing the jacket.
How We Chose the Best Running Jackets
To choose the best running jackets of 2024, we chose a selection that varied in price, design, materials, style and intended use. We looked at reviews left by those that have purchased these jackets and worn them in real life as well as using our own expertise in testing running gear to determine which jackets are worth the buy.
Best Running Jacket FAQs
Are waterproof running jackets worth it?
If you are someone that runs in the rain—especially if you are out for over 30 minutes—a waterproof jacket can definitely be worth a buy as it will actually keep you dry and can prevent getting too chilly and chafing from wetness.
Should I size up in a running jacket?
Most running jackets are designed to fit slightly loose to accommodate for layers, but if you intend to wear a lot underneath or prefer it on the looser side, you may wish to size up.
Do you lose more weight running with a jacket?
A running jacket will not affect weight loss. It is intended only to keep you warm and dry in inclement weather.
Is it bad to run in the cold without a jacket?
While you don’t necessarily have to wear a jacket while running in the cold, you do want to make sure that you are properly dressed for the weather and that you are wearing enough layers to keep you warm.
What do you wear under a running jacket?
Most people will wear at least a base layer under a running jacket. Should it be particularly cold, you may wish to add additional layers.
Final Thoughts
While a great running jacket can often come at a high price, think of it as an investment for your future self—and your training. These can help keep you dry, warm and comfortable even when running in inclement weather—which most runners will end up trekking through at some point in their training cycle.
Though some climates may require only one type of jacket—a rain jacket or windbreaker—those of us with four seasons may find ourselves needing a couple to switch through as temperatures warm and cool.
Ultimately, a running jacket is a great addition to any runner’s arsenal, and can help you train your best when the weather is at its worst.
Prices are accurate and items in stock as of publish time.
