How to choose the right running jacket

As runners ourselves, we know how important it is to get out for your run – regardless of whether it’s blowing a gale or the rain’s coming down sideways. When it comes to choosing a running jacket though, it gets a little confusing - there's just so much choice and loads of different technology - where does one even start? We're here to help.

What to look for in a running jacket

While the type of running jacket can vary, all good running jackets should offer 3 key things:

1. Protection: they need to shield you from the cold, wind or rain.
2. Comfort: they need to offer a comfortable fit that allows freedom of movement.
3. Breathable: so that they allow moisture vapour (sweat) to escape, ensuring you don’t get too hot and sticky inside.

Types of Running Jackets

When choosing a running jacket, the type of running you do and the conditions you train in, will define what type of running jacket you'll need.

1. Windproof Running Jackets: lightweight shell jackets with a windproof, water-resistant outer – your go-to jacket for year-round running.
2. Waterproof Running Jackets: these jackets feature a waterproof outer fabric – perfect for longer runs in unpredictable weather, winter training and when required as compulsory race kit.
3. Insulated Running Jackets: jackets with a layer of insulation, normally a synthetic down that retains warmth when wet – ideal for running in cold conditions.

Windproof Running Jackets

When to use: For all runs in windy conditions. Dry day or light rain showers.

In most cases, this will be your ‘go-to’ running jacket. Windproof jackets are normally ultra-light and boast exceptional breathability, ensuring you won’t overheat even when training in summer. They have a single layer of windproof fabric, with a water-resistant finish that will keep you dry in light rain and drizzle.

Our suggestion: the INOV8 WINDSHELL Jacket - the lightest of all our jackets. Made from a Pertex Quantum fabric, they provide excellent windproof protection and breathability. They pack away small into their own pocket, meaning you can pop it in your race vest or waistpack for easy carrying.

Waterproof Running Jackets

When to use: For all runs in persistent heavy rain, strong winds and storms.

A reliable waterproof running jacket is a must for any serious runner who wants to train consistently throughout the year in all conditions. They come in a variety of different types – from stripped-back racing shells designed for lightweight speed to versatile waterproof jackets packed with features. For those looking to partake in trail races and ultra-marathons, look for waterproof jackets with fully-taped seams, as they are a mandatory kit requirement for most races.

Our suggestion: the super-versatile INOV8 STORMSHELL Waterproof Jacket (View Mens | Womens) - the perfect choice if you’re looking for a lightweight all-rounder which will fulfil mandatory kit requirements and keep you dry in all weather.

Insulated Running Jackets

When to use: For runs in changeable, cold and windy conditions. Light rain showers.

When the temperatures drop and you’re set on heading out for that run, you have one of two choices: use a layering system (a base-layer, mid-layer and outer shell) to stay warm; or wear an insulated running jacket to ward off the chill. In particularly cold and wet conditions, you may need to layer your insulated jacket between your mid-layer and waterproof outer shell.

Insulated jackets are designed to offer increased warmth in cold conditions. Often made using a down or synthetic down fill such as Primaloft Thermaplume. We’d always recommend choosing a synthetic down, not only for sustainability reasons, but performance too – Primaloft Thermoplume retains the warmth of down, even when wet.

Our suggestion: the THERMOSHELL Jacket, ideal for adding that extra warmth when you’re out running in cold conditions.

The technical lowdown

When shopping for a running jacket, all the lingo and technical terminology can be highly confusing. Here are the key terms you need know.

• Breathability – The fabric of running jackets is given a breathability rating or MVTR (Moisture Vapour Transfer Rating), it is a measure of the amount of water vapour that can pass through a square meter of the fabric from the inside to the outside in 24 hours. So a 20,000g rated fabric (like that on the STORMSHELL waterproof running jacket) allows 20,000 grams of vapour out. The higher the figure the more breathable the fabric. Why is this important? Well, when you're running you're likely to get hot and sweaty - the more breathable the jacket, the more heat will escape and the more comfortable you'll be. We'd recommend looking at a minimum rating of 15,000 for a running jacket.
• Hydrostatic Head – Sounds fancy but it's really just a measure of how 'waterproof' a fabric is. For any fabric to be considered waterproof it must be able to withstand the pressure of a column of water 1,000mm high without leaking. The more waterproof a fabric is, the higher the column of water it can withstand. The ultra-light RACESHELL Waterproof Jacket has been tested to withstand the pressure of a column of water 15,000mm high.
• Taped or fully-taped seams – To be considered 'fully' waterproof, the tiny holes in a jacket's seams need to be covered. This is done by taping over them. Fully-taped seams means that all a jacket's seams are taped over - it's a common requirement for most trail and ultra race kit lists.

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