The 10 Best Running Jackets To Combat All The Elements

Let’s get one thing straight: not all jackets are the same, and that includes workout jackets and outerwear – especially when it comes to running. In fact, running jackets are a whole different breed of outerwear, and whether you’re new to jogging or you’re a seasoned trail runner, you should definitely have at least one running jacket in your closet. From classic track jackets and lightweight windbreakers to water-repellent shells and outerwear that’ll keep you warm and dry in the changing mountain temps, here are the best 10 running jackets to combat all the elements. Best Buy1. Nike Run Division Pinnacle

Check Price If you’re looking for a running jacket that’s made from sustainable materials but still has that visual wow factor, look no further than the Nike Run Division Pinnacle, which will have everyone doing a double-take when you casually speed by them on your run. This super-light shell is designed to keep you dry and cool, and boasts a water-resistant finish, as well as “mesh where you need it.” The Nike Run Division Pinnacle also comes in a modern, marble-esque design in two colors, yellow and white, and is available in sizes XS-XXL so you’ll be able to find your perfect fit. Pair it with black joggers, shorts, or compression tights, depending on the intensity of your workout and what you feel comfortable in.

2. Lululemon Fast and Free Windbreaker

Check Price Lululemon is known for its high-quality athletic gear, so it shouldn’t come as a surprise that the Lululemon Fast and Free Windbreaker is one of the best running jackets out there. Designed specifically for running and featuring a high neck to protect you from all the elements – including rain, wind, and snow – this jacket also offers “quick-stash” pockets in the back, 360-degree ventilation, and a slim-fit that hits right at the waist. It’s available in two colors (auric gold and black), comes in sizes XS-XXL, and will be the perfect addition to any runner’s collection of athletic gear.

3. adidas Marathon 3-Stripes Jacket

Check Price There’s nothing more iconic than an adidas running jacket, and the adidas Marathon 3-Stripes Jacket is equal parts nostalgic and modern, thanks to the bold, “app solar red” color and the brand’s signature three-stripe sleeves. Made from Primegreen, a “series of high-performance recycled materials,” this running jacket is perfect for night runners, as the reflective elements of the jacket give you 360-degree visibility. This jacket also features side zipper pockets so you can stash all your essentials, like your phone, keys, and even a protein bar if you’re a long-distance runner who needs to fuel up midway through your workout. And although there’s no hood, this jacket boasts a high neck that will surely keep your neck warm in the chilly fall temps.

4. Under Armour Impasse Run 2.0 Jacket

Check Price If you’re on the hunt for a waterproof jacket that’s perfect for those misty morning runs, you have to check out the Under Armour Impasse Run 2.0 Jacket, which offers UA Storm technology to repel water without sacrificing breathability – meaning you’ll stay cool and dry from the start of your run right up to the very end. This jacket is made from ultra-light woven fabric, has reflective piping details to aid in visibility, and is also wind-resistant, and will protect you from all the elements. This running jacket also offers a streamlined fit that doesn’t hug the body, so you can layer a thin workout shirt underneath for an extra layer of warmth when the temperatures dip. Bonus: The entire jacket can be folded and packed into the right sleeve, which has an elastic strap to conveniently carry it – and pack it – wherever you go.

5. Patagonia Houdini Jacket

Check Price Patagonia is one of the best brands when it comes to high-quality outerwear and sportswear, and the Patagonia Houdini Jacket is one of the best on the market. Not only is this running jacket made from 100% recycled nylon and is made to withstand all sorts of weather and elements, but the Patagonia Houdini Jacket also boasts a shell that zips up to underneath the chin, a hood that’ll keep you dry and warm, and comes in a whopping nine colors in sizes XS-XXXL. It’s also good for activities other than running, as one happy customer reviewed: “This is a perfect jacket for the cool mornings of summer. I wear this jacket everyday when I get on the boat,” they wrote. “It’s light enough that you really don’t know it’s there but has great wind resistance and creates a bit of warmth too. The packability of this jacket is excellent and will be in my bags anytime I travel.”

6. The North Face Flyweight Hoodie

Check Price When it comes to outerwear, The North Face is a brand that delivers every time, no matter what, so it shouldn’t come as a shock that one of their jackets made this list. The North Face Flyweight Hoodie is lightweight, packable, and both water and wind-resistant, meaning it’s the perfect hoodie for someone who’s constantly on the go but needs to get their workout in wherever and whenever they can – rain, wind, or shine. But don’t just take our word for it; listen to the 97% of customers who’d recommend this bad boy to a friend or family member. “This is very light and when packed, it doesn’t take up too much space inside my daypack,” one customer wrote. “Good quality product worth recommending to relatives and friends.”

7. Arc’teryx Incendo Hoody

Check Price Calling all trail runners: this one is specifically for you! The Arc’teryx Incendo Hoody is perfect for long trail runs on any terrain, thanks to its breathable material that is also wind and water-resistant and will help regulate your body temp on even the toughest runs, keeping you cool and dry all workout long. The Arc’teryx Incendo Hoody is described as a minimalist jacket that offers ultimate protection from the elements, and its lightweight fabric and “ergonomically efficient” cut ensures that you won’t be dealing with excess bulk that gets in the way of your movement. This jacket is also available in four different colors and sizes XS-XL, so you’re guaranteed to find the perfect fit and color for your personal style.

8. Brooks Running Canopy Jacket

Check Price If you’re on the prowl for a minimalist running jacket that won’t get in the way when you’re on the go, then the Brooks Running Canopy Jacket should be right up your alley, thanks to its stay-put technology that won’t ride up while you’re hitting the streets or trails. This running jacket is both wind and water-resistant, meaning you’ll stay dry and cool all workout long, and also has added UPF 30 to ensure that you’re totally protected from all of the elements, including the sun. The Brooks Running Canopy Jacket is also lightweight and easily packs into a built-in mesh pocket, so you can easily bring it with you wherever your adventures take you. It also comes in three colors – icy grey, black, and electric blue, and is available in sizes XS-XXL.

9. New Balance NYC Marathon Jacket

Check Price New Balance doesn’t just make running shoes (or spiffy dad shoes, for that matter) – their line of apparel is also top-notch and totally worth checking out, including the New Balance NYC Marathon Jacket. This running jacket features a color-block style and NYC Marathon logo on the front and back and is made from lightweight, wind-resistant fabric that’ll block the elements on even the windiest day. This jacket also features an athletic fit that skims your chest, waist, and hip to ensure that you’ll be able to comfortably move without feeling constricted, and has added reflective elements that’ll improve visibility in low light.

10. On Running Insulator Jacket

Check Price If you’re in the market for a jacket that’s suitable for running, exploring, or hitting the streets in the colder months, then the On Running Insulator Jacket is the perfect jacket for you. Although this running jacket is lightweight and breathable, it’ll keep you warm when the temperatures dip, thanks to its “technical blend incorporating Swiss sheep’s wool to provide warmth that doesn’t stifle performance, staying lightweight and breathable in all weathers.” Plus, the reduced padding in the sleeves adds flexibility to the jacket and won’t make you feel like you’re the kid from A Christmas Story who can’t put his arms down.

See more about - The 9 Best Trail Running Shoes In 2021

2. Lululemon Fast and Free Windbreaker

3. adidas Marathon 3-Stripes Jacket

4. Under Armour Impasse Run 2.0 Jacket

5. Patagonia Houdini Jacket

6. The North Face Flyweight Hoodie

7. Arc’teryx Incendo Hoody

8. Brooks Running Canopy Jacket

9. New Balance NYC Marathon Jacket

10. On Running Insulator Jacket

See more about - The 9 Best Trail Running Shoes In 2021

From classic track jackets and lightweight windbreakers to water-repellent shells and outerwear that’ll keep you warm and dry in the changing mountain temps, here are the best 10 running jackets to combat all the elements.

Best Buy1. Nike Run Division Pinnacle

Check Price

If you’re looking for a running jacket that’s made from sustainable materials but still has that visual wow factor, look no further than the Nike Run Division Pinnacle, which will have everyone doing a double-take when you casually speed by them on your run. This super-light shell is designed to keep you dry and cool, and boasts a water-resistant finish, as well as “mesh where you need it.”

The Nike Run Division Pinnacle also comes in a modern, marble-esque design in two colors, yellow and white, and is available in sizes XS-XXL so you’ll be able to find your perfect fit. Pair it with black joggers, shorts, or compression tights, depending on the intensity of your workout and what you feel comfortable in.

Lululemon Fast and Free Windbreaker

Lululemon is known for its high-quality athletic gear, so it shouldn’t come as a surprise that the Lululemon Fast and Free Windbreaker is one of the best running jackets out there. Designed specifically for running and featuring a high neck to protect you from all the elements – including rain, wind, and snow – this jacket also offers “quick-stash” pockets in the back, 360-degree ventilation, and a slim-fit that hits right at the waist. It’s available in two colors (auric gold and black), comes in sizes XS-XXL, and will be the perfect addition to any runner’s collection of athletic gear.

adidas Marathon 3-Stripes Jacket

There’s nothing more iconic than an adidas running jacket, and the adidas Marathon 3-Stripes Jacket is equal parts nostalgic and modern, thanks to the bold, “app solar red” color and the brand’s signature three-stripe sleeves. Made from Primegreen, a “series of high-performance recycled materials,” this running jacket is perfect for night runners, as the reflective elements of the jacket give you 360-degree visibility.

This jacket also features side zipper pockets so you can stash all your essentials, like your phone, keys, and even a protein bar if you’re a long-distance runner who needs to fuel up midway through your workout. And although there’s no hood, this jacket boasts a high neck that will surely keep your neck warm in the chilly fall temps.

Under Armour Impasse Run 2.0 Jacket

If you’re on the hunt for a waterproof jacket that’s perfect for those misty morning runs, you have to check out the Under Armour Impasse Run 2.0 Jacket, which offers UA Storm technology to repel water without sacrificing breathability – meaning you’ll stay cool and dry from the start of your run right up to the very end. This jacket is made from ultra-light woven fabric, has reflective piping details to aid in visibility, and is also wind-resistant, and will protect you from all the elements.

This running jacket also offers a streamlined fit that doesn’t hug the body, so you can layer a thin workout shirt underneath for an extra layer of warmth when the temperatures dip.

Bonus: The entire jacket can be folded and packed into the right sleeve, which has an elastic strap to conveniently carry it – and pack it – wherever you go.

Patagonia Houdini Jacket

Patagonia is one of the best brands when it comes to high-quality outerwear and sportswear, and the Patagonia Houdini Jacket is one of the best on the market. Not only is this running jacket made from 100% recycled nylon and is made to withstand all sorts of weather and elements, but the Patagonia Houdini Jacket also boasts a shell that zips up to underneath the chin, a hood that’ll keep you dry and warm, and comes in a whopping nine colors in sizes XS-XXXL.

It’s also good for activities other than running, as one happy customer reviewed: “This is a perfect jacket for the cool mornings of summer. I wear this jacket everyday when I get on the boat,” they wrote. “It’s light enough that you really don’t know it’s there but has great wind resistance and creates a bit of warmth too. The packability of this jacket is excellent and will be in my bags anytime I travel.”

The North Face Flyweight Hoodie

When it comes to outerwear, The North Face is a brand that delivers every time, no matter what, so it shouldn’t come as a shock that one of their jackets made this list. The North Face Flyweight Hoodie is lightweight, packable, and both water and wind-resistant, meaning it’s the perfect hoodie for someone who’s constantly on the go but needs to get their workout in wherever and whenever they can – rain, wind, or shine.

But don’t just take our word for it; listen to the 97% of customers who’d recommend this bad boy to a friend or family member. “This is very light and when packed, it doesn’t take up too much space inside my daypack,” one customer wrote. “Good quality product worth recommending to relatives and friends.”

Arc’teryx Incendo Hoody

Calling all trail runners: this one is specifically for you! The Arc’teryx Incendo Hoody is perfect for long trail runs on any terrain, thanks to its breathable material that is also wind and water-resistant and will help regulate your body temp on even the toughest runs, keeping you cool and dry all workout long.

The Arc’teryx Incendo Hoody is described as a minimalist jacket that offers ultimate protection from the elements, and its lightweight fabric and “ergonomically efficient” cut ensures that you won’t be dealing with excess bulk that gets in the way of your movement. This jacket is also available in four different colors and sizes XS-XL, so you’re guaranteed to find the perfect fit and color for your personal style.

Brooks Running Canopy Jacket

If you’re on the prowl for a minimalist running jacket that won’t get in the way when you’re on the go, then the Brooks Running Canopy Jacket should be right up your alley, thanks to its stay-put technology that won’t ride up while you’re hitting the streets or trails. This running jacket is both wind and water-resistant, meaning you’ll stay dry and cool all workout long, and also has added UPF 30 to ensure that you’re totally protected from all of the elements, including the sun.

The Brooks Running Canopy Jacket is also lightweight and easily packs into a built-in mesh pocket, so you can easily bring it with you wherever your adventures take you. It also comes in three colors – icy grey, black, and electric blue, and is available in sizes XS-XXL.

New Balance NYC Marathon Jacket

New Balance doesn’t just make running shoes (or spiffy dad shoes, for that matter) – their line of apparel is also top-notch and totally worth checking out, including the New Balance NYC Marathon Jacket. This running jacket features a color-block style and NYC Marathon logo on the front and back and is made from lightweight, wind-resistant fabric that’ll block the elements on even the windiest day.

This jacket also features an athletic fit that skims your chest, waist, and hip to ensure that you’ll be able to comfortably move without feeling constricted, and has added reflective elements that’ll improve visibility in low light.

On Running Insulator Jacket

If you’re in the market for a jacket that’s suitable for running, exploring, or hitting the streets in the colder months, then the On Running Insulator Jacket is the perfect jacket for you.

Although this running jacket is lightweight and breathable, it’ll keep you warm when the temperatures dip, thanks to its “technical blend incorporating Swiss sheep’s wool to provide warmth that doesn’t stifle performance, staying lightweight and breathable in all weathers.”

Plus, the reduced padding in the sleeves adds flexibility to the jacket and won’t make you feel like you’re the kid from A Christmas Story who can’t put his arms down.

See more about - The 9 Best Trail Running Shoes In 2021

                        How is a running jacket different from a normal jacket?

Running jackets are typically made with materials that block the wind, are water-resistant, and will keep you warm and dry. Many running jackets also have hoods and reflective technology to help aid in visibility when you’re out and about in low-light settings. Additionally, many running jackets zip up to just under the neck, providing extra protection from the elements. Normal jackets can be made from a variety of materials, like cotton, wool, leather, nylon, and more; however, they are usually not waterproof or wind-resistant, and depending on the materials, won’t keep you as warm as a jacket that is specifically designed to protect you from wind, water, and colder temps.

                        What should you look for in a running jacket?

When shopping for a running jacket, you should look for a few key things – the first being the materials the jacket is made from and what kind of protection they provide. As mentioned above, most running jackets are either wind or water-resistant; however, not all running jackets feature water-repelling technology and are just considered windbreakers, so keep that in mind when looking for your next running jacket. Another feature that running jackets typically offer is reflective technology, which will help make you more visible in low-light settings. This is especially important if you’re someone who runs trails or dimly lit areas often; however, reflective technology won’t hurt you even if you’re running in areas with high visibility. Many running jackets also have hoods and the ability to be packed into themselves via a mesh pocket or sleeve, so keep those features in mind also.

                        How tight should a running jacket be?

A running jacket should fit close to the body but shouldn’t be too tight – slim-fit or athletic-fit will be your best bet – and should hit right below the hip.

                        How is a running jacket different from a normal jacket?

Normal jackets can be made from a variety of materials, like cotton, wool, leather, nylon, and more; however, they are usually not waterproof or wind-resistant, and depending on the materials, won’t keep you as warm as a jacket that is specifically designed to protect you from wind, water, and colder temps.

                        What should you look for in a running jacket?

Another feature that running jackets typically offer is reflective technology, which will help make you more visible in low-light settings. This is especially important if you’re someone who runs trails or dimly lit areas often; however, reflective technology won’t hurt you even if you’re running in areas with high visibility. Many running jackets also have hoods and the ability to be packed into themselves via a mesh pocket or sleeve, so keep those features in mind also.

                        How tight should a running jacket be?

A running jacket should fit close to the body but shouldn’t be too tight – slim-fit or athletic-fit will be your best bet – and should hit right below the hip.