The 11 Best Running Jackets of 2022 for Any Weather Menu Verywell Fit Nutrition Weight Management Nutrition Facts Nutrition Basics Diets Meal Plans Meal Delivery Services View All News Fitness and Nutrition What to Buy How We Test Products Fitness Gear Nutrition Products Tools Recipe Nutrition Calculator Weight Loss Calorie Goal BMI Calculator Body Fat Percentage Calculator Calories Burned by Activity Daily Calories Burned Pace Calculator About Us Editorial Process Meet Our Review Board Search Fitness Gear Apparel The 11 Best Running Jackets of 2022 for Any Weather The Brooks Canopy Jacket protects you against rain and sun By Christine Luff, ACE-CPT Christine Luff, ACE-CPT Christine Many Luff is a personal trainer, fitness nutrition specialist, and Road Runners Club of America Certified Coach. Learn about our editorial process Updated on March 31, 2022 Reviewed Verywell Fit articles are reviewed by nutrition and exercise professionals. Reviewers confirm the content is thorough and accurate, reflecting the latest evidence-based research. Content is reviewed before publication and upon substantial updates. Learn more. by John Honerkamp Reviewed by John Honerkamp John Honerkamp is an RRCA and USATF certified running coach, celebrity marathon pacer, and recognized leader in the New York City running community. Learn about our Review Board Fact checked Verywell Fit content is rigorously reviewed by a team of qualified and experienced fact checkers. Fact checkers review articles for factual accuracy, relevance, and timeliness. We rely on the most current and reputable sources, which are cited in the text and listed at the bottom of each article. Content is fact checked after it has been edited and before publication. Learn more. by Shereen Lehman, MS Fact checked by Shereen Lehman, MS Shereen Lehman, MS, is a healthcare journalist and fact checker. She has co-authored two books for the popular Dummies Series (as Shereen Jegtvig). Learn about our editorial process Print We independently research, test, review, and recommend the best products—learn more about our process. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. Verywell / Chloe Jeong If you run outdoors year-round, a high-quality running jacket that's comfortable and weather-resistant is essential for protecting yourself in the cold, wind, rain, or snow. To prevent overheating, a good running jacket should also be breathable and well-ventilated. Whitney Heins, founder, and VDOT certified running coach at The Mother Runners notes that a fitted design is also important if you're looking for a wind-resistant jacket. Reviewed & Approved The Brooks Canopy Jacket is our top pick because it's water repellent, UPF protective, and packable. The BALEAF Women's Windproof Thermal Jacket is a good budget-friendly pick with large zippered pockets, water resistance, and UPF protection. We spent a week researching running jackets, talking to running coaches and runners, and reading product descriptions and reviews to determine this selection of the best running jackets on the market. We tested running jackets for 16 hours in all types of weather, including cool to cold temperatures, wind, and rain. Each jacket was evaluated for comfort, warmth, breathability, fit, durability, and overall value. Here are the best running jackets for women on the market, according to a running coach. Our Top Picks Best Overall: Brooks Canopy Jacket at Zappos Jump to Review Best Budget: BALEAF Windproof Thermal Running Jacket at Amazon Jump to Review Best Splurge: Lululemon Women's Another Mile Jacket at Lululemon Jump to Review Best Waterproof: Lululemon Cross Chill Jacket at Lululemon Jump to Review Best for Summer: Patagonia Women's Houdini Jacket at Backcountry.com Jump to Review Most Stylish: Tracksmith Session Jacket at Tracksmith.com Jump to Review Best for Plus-Size: Athleta Run With It Jacket at Gap.com Jump to Review Best for Rain: On Weather Running Jacket at Zappos Jump to Review Best for Wind: Under Armour UA Forefront Rain Jacket at Underarmour.com Jump to Review Best for Visibility: L.L. Bean Bean Bright Multisport Jacket at L.L.Bean Jump to Review In This Article Expand Our Picks How We Tested the Running Jackets What to Look For Why Trust Verywell Fit Best Overall: Brooks Canopy Jacket 4.6 Courtesy: Brooks View On Zappos View On Brooksrunning.com Pros Packable Hood can be stashed UPF 30 sun protection Lightweight and breathable Cons Not suitable for very cold weather Runs small Who else recommends it? Men's Health and Runner's World both picked the Brooks Canopy Jacket. This versatile jacket from Brooks gets our top pick for its comfort, functionality, and high-performance features. It’s lightweight and allows for good range of motion, but still features the right amount of protection to keep you comfortable in cool and windy conditions. Additionally, the fabric offers UPF 30 sun protection for bright days outdoors. When wearing it in light drizzle, we were surprised at how the water repelled off the jacket with ease. The material is soft and the hood—which can be rolled up and stowed away—provides additional protection from the elements. The entire jacket can also be packed up into a built-in mesh backpack. Rather than tying the jacket around her waist, one of our testers was able to use the two small shoulder straps to easily carry it as she finished her run. This well-made jacket is a great addition to any runner’s wardrobe. Materials: Polyester Storage: Zippered chest pocket, front hand pockets Care: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low Sizes: XS-XXL Best Budget: BALEAF Women's Windproof Thermal Running Jacket 4.6 Courtesy of Amazon View On Amazon View On Baleaf.com Pros Windproof and water-resistant Excellent storage UPF 50+ sun protection Reflective details Cons Too warm for cool (versus cold) weather Could use some more ventilation While running jackets are often an investment, this high-quality option from Baleaf features the durability and functionality of a higher-end jacket at an affordable price. It features an anti-splashing outer layer fabric that offers wind protection and water resistance. And thanks to the full zipped closure, high-cut collar, sleeve cuffs, and soft fleece interior, it kept our tester warm on colder days. We felt it was too warm when running in temperatures above 45 degrees, but we were able to let some heat escape by pulling down the front zipper. Ventilation under the arms would be a good additional feature. The zippered front pockets were easy to open and close, even with gloves on, and they had plenty of room for our phone, money, and other essentials. Materials: Polyester, spandex Storage: One zippered back and two zippered pockets, two internal slide-in pockets Care: Machine wash, tumble dry low Sizes: S-XXL Best Splurge: Lululemon Women's Another Mile Jacket Courtesy of Lululemon View On Lululemon Pros Good storage options Well-insulated Wind- and water-repellent Stylish Cons Expensive No plus size options The Lululemon Women's Another Mile Jacket is a high-performance, functional outer layer with lots of impressive features. It’s made with wind- and water-repellent material that wicks away sweat—keeping you protected and dry in all weather conditions. The PrimaLoft insulation also keeps you warm, while the hood offers some additional protection from harsh weather. With two zippered pockets and a hidden phone pocket, the jacket has plenty of room to stash your essentials. Available in three colors, it also has reflective details and a removable dickie, perfect for when you warm up and want to lose a layer. While it's more of an investment, the high-tech material and Lululemon's quality promise return and exchange policy will have you confident in your purchase. Materials: Polyester, nylon, lycra Storage: Two zippered pockets and hidden phone pocket Care: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low Sizes: 0-14 The Best Cold Weather Running Gear, According to a Running Coach Best Waterproof: Lululemon Cross Chill RepelShell Jacket Courtesy: Lululemon View On Lululemon Pros Waterproof and windproof Cinchable hood Plenty of storage 360-degree reflectivity Cons Expensive No plus size options Waterproof jackets keep the rain out, but they’re sometimes too heavy and not breathable or flexible enough for running. Fortunately, Lululemon's Cross Chill Jacket is designed with lightweight waterproof and windproof fabric that won't weigh you down. The jacket’s four-way stretch fabric allows for a good range of motion, while the cinched hood keeps out rain and wind. With zippered pockets in the front, chest, and back, there’s plenty of storage space for your phone, keys, and other essentials. Choose from five different neutral and vibrant colors and numerous sizes. Materials: Polyester, nylon, lycra, elastane Storage: Zippered exterior pockets with a hidden phone sleeve, zippered chest and back pockets Care: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low Sizes: 0-14 Best for Summer: Patagonia Women's Houdini Jacket Patagonia View On Backcountry.com View On REI Pros Water-repellent and windproof Lightweight and well-ventilated Packable Cinchable hood Cons Runs small No plus size options The weather can quickly change during summer runs and this lightweight Patagonia Houdini jacket will be your companion in unpredictable weather. The water-repellent, windproof finish offers shelter from the elements, and an adjustable hood provides even more protection. The drawcord at the hem also keeps out the wind, especially when you’re running uphill. The jacket's relaxed fit won't restrict movement, and the lightweight design allows for layering on cooler days. If you really start to heat up, it can be conveniently packed into the chest pocket. Available in a few different colors, this durable, well-designed shell is a nice addition to any runner’s collection. Materials: Nylon Storage: Zippered chest pocket Care: Machine wash cold, air dry Sizes: XS-XL The Best Cooling Running Gear, According to an Expert Most Stylish: Tracksmith Session Jacket Courtesy: Tracksmith View On Tracksmith.com Pros Stylish Lightweight and breathable Packable Allows for excellent range of motion Cons Expensive No plus size options For a chic-looking alternative to the classic running windbreaker, this jacket from Tracksmith features a flattering, fitted design. Made of a lightweight and silky-smooth fabric, it breathes well, dries quickly, and insulates without overheating. The high-stretch fabric offers good mobility, while the micro-mesh side panels add some breathability for when you start to warm up. The jacket’s semi-elasticated cuffs help to keep out the cold and wind, and the zippered side pockets are big enough for your keys, credit card, and a large smartphone. It's a packable and stylish choice that's easy to take on the go. Materials: Nylon, polyester, elastane Storage: Two front zippered pockets Care: Machine wash cold, hang dry Sizes: XS-XL Best for Plus-Size: Athleta Run With It Jacket Courtesy: Athleta View On Gap.com Pros Wide range of sizes Lightweight and breathable Very comfortable Cons Not suitable for extreme cold No reflective details The Athleta Run With It Jacket features a flattering fit that can be worn with athletic gear or day-to-day clothing. While stylish, it's still functional and showcases a recycled, stretch fabric that feels silky and prevents you from overheating. Due to the featherweight composition, it may be too light for extreme cold. However, the relaxed style can be layered for additional warmth. It's available in a wide range of sizes and it has plenty of storage space in the zippered front and rear pockets. Materials: Recycled polyester, spandex Storage: Two front zippered and one rear zippered pockets Care: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low Sizes: XXS-3X Best for Rain: On Weather Running Jacket Courtesy: On View On Zappos View On On-running.com Pros Water-repellent All-weather protection Good breathability and ventilation Reflectivity Cons Limited colors Expensive The On Weather Running Jacket is designed to shield you from the elements since it features a water-repellent finish and tear-proof, stretchy material. It's lightweight, well-ventilated, and breathable—meaning you don't have to worry about overheating. The cap-fitted hood stays in place while you're running and a small bill shields your face from rain and wind. Additionally, the jacket has elastic at the bottom for more protection. A zippered chest pocket is ideal for keeping your phone, money, and other essentials secure and dry. Plus, reflective elements on the chest, wrists, and zippers help you stay visible when running in low-light conditions. The On Weather jacket has all the features you’d want in a dependable outer layer. Materials: Polyamide, polyester, elastane Storage: Zippered chest pocket Care: Machine wash, hang dry Sizes: XS-XL The Best Winter Running Socks of 2022, According to a Running Coach Best for Wind: Under Armour Women's UA Forefront Rain Jacket 4.8 Courtesy of Under Armour View On Underarmour.com Pros Blocks wind and repels rain Reflective details Versatile Packable Cons Hood can’t be stowed away This jacket from Under Armour can keep you warm and protected in windy conditions. It features UA’s Storm technology that effectively blocks wind and keeps out rain, and when one of our testers wore it for a run in a steady drizzle, she stayed dry thanks to the water-repellent exterior. The hood also provided additional protection and she was able to cinch it so that it stayed in place. It's available in several colors and it packs up easily making it great for travel or stashing in a running pack on the go. Although it’s very lightweight, we found that it provided excellent coverage and insulation. Materials: Polyester, nylon Storage: Two zippered front pockets Care: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low Sizes: XS-XXL What Our Testers Say "Even as I warmed up during my run, I felt the heat dissipate due to the jacket's mesh lining that offers excellent breathability." — Christine Luff, certified running coach and Verywell Fit tester The 10 Best Windbreakers of 2022 Best for Visibility: L.L. Bean Bean Bright Multisport Jacket Courtesy: L.L. Bean View On L.L.Bean Pros Ideal for low-light conditions Lots of storage Windproof Good ventilation Cons Not suitable for extreme cold No plus size options There are fewer hours of daylight in the winter, so you may find yourself running in low-light conditions more often. Be seen and stay safe in the L.L. Bean Bright Multisport Jacket that boosts visibility while providing protection from harsh weather. With its high-visibility yellow color and 14 points of reflectivity, it ensures that you’re seen by motorists, cyclists, and other runners while you’re out on the road. The jacket is also windproof, but very lightweight and flexible, so you won’t feel weighed down. Additionally, a back vent promotes airflow to help you stay cool and dry. One zippered rear and two hand pockets can securely hold essentials, while two interior mesh pockets and a phone sleeve provide additional storage. Materials: Polyester Storage: Three external and two internal pockets, phone sleeve Care: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low Sizes: S-XL The Best Reflective Running Gear of 2022 Tested by Verywell Fit Best for Winter: Asics Lite-Show Winter Jacket Courtesy: Asics View On Asics.com Pros Good for very cold weather Windproof and water-repellent 360-degree visibility Breathable Cons Too warm for cool (versus cold) weather No hood Ideal for cold weather running, this jacket from Asics has a thicker shell, offering more protection from wind and frigid temps. The premium soft-shell blocks wind and repels water, but it's breathable enough to keep you from overheating. The jacket’s brushed knit side panels allow for an excellent range of motion, while the stand-up collar offers optimal warmth and protection. It also has strategically placed, reflective details that provide 360-degree visibility for when you’re running at dawn or dusk. Available in sizes XS-XXL, this attractive jacket has zippered front pockets for secure storage of your on-the-run essentials. Materials: Polyester Storage: Zippered front pockets Care: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low Sizes: XS-XXL The 11 Best Winter Running Hats of 2022, According to a Running Coach Final Verdict The Brooks Canopy Jacket (view at Zappos) stands out for its comfort, fit, features, and performance. Made with a lightweight, stretchy fabric, it provides good coverage from the wind and rain and has excellent ventilation and moisture-wicking capabilities. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, the high-quality Baleaf Thermal Running Winter Jacket (view at Amazon) is an excellent pick. It’s well-insulated, windproof, water-resistant, and has many of the features that runners want in a versatile running jacket, including zippered pockets and reflective details. How We Rated the Running Jackets 4.8 to 5 stars: These are the best running jackets we tested. We recommend them without reservation. 4.5 to 4.7 stars: These running jackets are excellent—they might have minor flaws, but we still recommend them. 4.0 to 4.5 stars: We think these are great running jackets, but others are better. 3.5 to 3.9 stars: These running jackets are just average. 3.4 and below: We don't recommend running jackets with this rating; you won't find any on our list. How We Tested the Running Jackets We tested five of the running jackets on this list for three runs each, totaling 20 hours of testing. Our tester, a certified running coach, ran in the jackets in all types of weather conditions—including cold, wind, and rain—to assess the jackets’ protection, comfort, and performance. Before and during runs, we made sure to test all the features and functionality of the jackets, including zippers, pockets, and hoods. We also took each jacket off at some point during a run, to store or tie it around the waist. The jackets were scored on a scale of one to five in the categories of durability and quality of material, fit, technical benefit for running, warmth, waterproofing, and overall value. What to Look for in a Running Jacket for Women Weather Resistance Most running jackets are wind- and water-resistant, so they’ll offer some protection from the elements. To stay completely dry in the pouring rain, you’ll need a jacket that’s waterproof. If you’re looking for a waterproof jacket, make sure it has a breathable waterproof membrane. “Typically when a jacket is seam-sealed, it doesn't allow air to get out,” Catherine Moloznik, senior director of merchandising at Fleet Feet, said. “So when you’re doing a high-intensity workout, like running, you want to have a breathable jacket that helps to keep your temperature in check,” she added. Some runners prefer to have a couple of running jackets in their running wardrobe to be prepared for varying conditions. If the forecast is calling for downpours, they’ll wear a waterproof jacket, while dry conditions with an occasional drizzle or snowfall may require a water-resistant jacket. Comfort and Fit A running jacket should be comfortable, fit properly, and promote good mobility. “The jacket should be form-fitting, but still allow for your upper body and shoulders to move freely as you run,” Moloznik said. Materials Look for jackets that are made of comfortable, stretchy materials that are breathable and have excellent moisture-wicking ability—such as technical fabrics or synthetic blends including polyester, Lycra, spandex, and nylon. Avoid jackets that are overly thick and bulky, since you may overheat once you start warming up. Don’t run in a jacket made of cotton, as it holds moisture and can put you at risk for frostbite or hypothermia. Storage The weather can quickly change during a run, so it’s always nice to have a jacket with some room to stash a hat and gloves. Pockets also come in handy for storing on-the-run safety items such as your phone, money, and ID, as well as long-run nutrition. Look for a jacket that has at least one zippered pocket so you can securely stash some items. “Extra points go to a jacket that has lots of pockets to store your gear in a waterproof zone,” Heins said. Reflectivity Check to see if the jacket has reflective trim, stripes, or other designs on the front and back. “Typically the time of year when you’re running with a jacket is a time of year when there is less light outside, so 360-degree reflectivity is key,” Moloznik said. Although you can always add some reflective elements yourself, it’s nice when a jacket has some built into the design. Frequently Asked Questions Should a running jacket be loose or tight? A running jacket shouldn’t be tight or loose, but fit just right. “I like to make sure that people have enough shoulder mobility,” Moloznik said. “You also don’t want a jacket to be too loose because that can allow too much cold air to flow in,” she added. Are down jackets good for running? While down provides warm insulation for a jacket, a down jacket will probably be too warm for most running conditions. You may be able to run comfortably in a down vest, with other layers underneath. But running in a down jacket will most likely lead to overheating, so they’re not ideal for running. Is a windbreaker good for running? A windbreaker may be good for some runners, but it really depends on the conditions. “Wind-proofing will help break the cold wind you’re running against and keep you more comfortable on the run,” Moloznik said. Do I need a waterproof jacket for running? Even if you do some running in the rain, you don’t necessarily need a waterproof jacket. Some water-resistant jackets do a good job of repelling light rain. How to clean a running jacket Most running jackets can be cleaned in the washing machine in cold water with your regular running clothes. For best results and to get rid of any funky smells, you may want to use a sports detergent. Once it’s washed, you can tumble dry your jacket on low, or hang dry. However, you should check the product label for the recommended care. Some manufacturers may recommend that running jackets shouldn’t go in the washing machine or dryer and may need to be hand-washed. Why Trust Verywell Fit Certified running coach and fitness writer Christine Luff has spent years researching, testing, and recommending fitness and athletic products and knows that the right gear can tremendously improve performance and comfort. 2 Sources Verywell Fit uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy. The 12 Best Winter Running Jackets. Men's Health. https://www.menshealth.com/fitness/g35323362/top-warm-breathable-running-jackets/ The Best Rain Jackets Will Keep You Dry, Cool, and Ready to Perform. Runner's World. https://www.runnersworld.com/gear/a20866193/best-running-rain-jackets/ See Our Editorial Process Meet Our Review Board Share Feedback Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! What is your feedback? 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