Should a running jacket be loose or tight?

A running jacket shouldn’t be loose or tight, 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.

Do I need a waterproof jacket for running?

If you live in a snowy, rainy, or otherwise wet climate, you may want to consider purchasing a waterproof jacket. “Waterproof jackets are intended to keep you dry (and warm) in those tougher, more challenging, elements,” Delaney says. “And while a water-resistant jacket can keep you dry, the longer you will be out in those elements—especially rain or wet snow—the less effective a water-resistant jacket will become.” Quick tip: Even if it's not wet outside, but the temperatures are severely low, a waterproof jacket can keep you warmer for longer during your run, Delaney adds.

Do running jackets keep you warm?

“Jackets should keep you warm and dry and decrease exposure to the elements,” Delaney says. When deciding which running jacket to buy, it’s important to keep in mind the type of climate and conditions you’ll be wearing it in. “A water-resistant jacket is also a good extra layer on those days when you need a little something more to keep you warm, but don’t want to break out the waterproof or insulate jacket,” he adds.

Are down jackets good for running?

Down jackets can be good for running in very cold conditions. “These types of jackets are good for those clear, cold days with light, dry snow, since this style of jackets is typically water-resistant, not waterproof,” Delaney says.

Is it better to wear layers when running? Why or why not?

In the cooler and colder months, layering is a great tool, Delaney says. Wearing layers allows you to keep warm when you start running, and cool down as you heat up. Layers also help wick away moisture, keeping you dry and cool during those extra-sweaty runs.

How much does a quality running jacket cost?

You can expect to pay between $40 and $240 for a quality running jacket. Cheaper options are available, but they often lack the comfort, quality, and durability that make a jacket worth your dollar. And like any other product, those who are looking for a brand-name jacket should expect to spend more. The most budget-friendly jacket on our list is often available for less than $40, while our top recommendation, Athleta’s Rock Ridge PrimaLoft® Jacket, cost $120 when we published this list.

The Best Running Jackets of 2023, Tested and Reviewed

The 11 Best Running Jackets for Women of 2022 — Verywell / Chloe Jeong

If you want to spice up your usual at-home balance board and yoga workout, then go outside! For those who want to run outdoors, investing in a high-quality running jacket that's comfortable and weather-resistant is essential for blocking the cold, rain, wind, and snow. Some jackets have reflective details for added visibility during low-light runs, while others feature storage pockets for a place to carry personal items like hats, keys, and gloves. But any quality running jacket should keep you warm and protected from whatever weather you might run into—you just need to know your climate.

“A good rule of thumb is: Dress for your run with the idea that it is 10 degrees warmer than the current conditions,” Ben Delaney, RRCA-certified running coach, says. “Remember, you will warm up as you begin to run, so that little chill at the start will be gone in a few minutes.”

When choosing a running jacket, just as you'd do with a pair of winter running kicks or shoes for walking on ice, for example, consider materials, fit, storage, reflective elements, and the climate and conditions you plan to run in. You want to purchase a durable jacket that will keep you warm, dry, comfortable, and happy as you get those miles in.

To find the best running jackets on the market, 12 of our experts zipped up and hit the ground running to test 26 products. Testers completed at least three runs in each jacket, evaluating for fit, comfort, design, durability, and value. They scored each product on a scale of 1 (would not recommend) to 5 (highly recommend) for these key categories. We used their thorough insights to curate a list of the best running jackets available today.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

Athleta Rock Ridge PrimaLoft Jacket at Gap.com

Jump to Review

Best Budget:

90 Degree By Reflex Running Track Jacket at Amazon

Jump to Review

Most Durable:

lululemon Cross Chill Jacket at Lululemon

Jump to Review

Most Versatile:

Athleta Run With It Jacket at Gap.com

Jump to Review

Best Windbreaker:

lululemon Mist Over Windbreaker at Lululemon

Jump to Review

Best with Storage:

BALEAF DWR Hooded Windbreaker at Baleaf.com

Jump to Review

Best with Hood:

lululemon Down For It All Jacket at Lululemon

Jump to Review

Best for Rain:

Under Armour UA Forefront Rain Jacket at Underarmour.com

Jump to Review

Best Investment:

lululemon Another Mile Jacket at Lululemon

Jump to Review

Most Lightweight:

L.L. Bean Bean Bright Multisport Jacket at L.L.Bean

Jump to Review

In This Article

Our Picks
We Also Tested
How We Tested
What to Look For
FAQ
Why Trust Verywell Fit

Athleta

Our Ratings

Fit

5/5
Comfort

5/5
Design

5/5
Durability

5/5
Value

5/5

Pros

Size inclusive
Stylish and flattering look
Zippered hood

Cons

Expensive

Our tester obsessed over this jacket that protected her during long-distance runs, hilly hikes, and in varying weather conditions. It earned a perfect score of 5 out of 5 in all five key categories, making it an obvious pick for our best overall slot. Athleta’s Rock Ridge PrimaLoft Jacket offers a contoured fit and cozy comfort, with reliable durability.

The jacket features a slight flare at the hips which makes for a flattering silhouette, our tester said. And it’s the perfect length to offer enough coverage for your backside. Our tester also loved that it’s incredibly lightweight, but still kept her warm and dry during runs in wet, chilly weather.

Sometimes hoods feel like an afterthought—but that’s not the case with this Athleta jacket, our tester said. It zippers up, providing snug comfort and optimal protection. The jacket is also durable. It lasted through washes without sacrificing quality, a critical feature in any piece of athleticwear.

Testing Notes: “I LOVE THIS JACKET. It's so incredibly lightweight but really keeps me warm during blustery, windy runs by the beach. It was so pleasant to wear on long runs and hikes—the epitome of comfort!”

The jacket is expensive, but for a top-quality product that will protect you from wind, rain, mist, and more, it’s well worth the price. Our tester raved about the deliberate design: “I’m obsessed with this jacket and all of its features,” she said.

Price at time of publication: $178

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Recycled nylon | Storage: Two front exterior zippered pockets | Care: Machine wash and dry | Sizes: 00 to 26W}

Verywell Fit / Ivy Ford

4.7

Amazon

Our Ratings

Fit

5/5
Comfort

5/5
Design

4.5/5
Durability

4/5
Value

5/5

Pros

Comes in a variety of colors
Stylish and flattering design
Soft, stretchy fabric

Cons

May run small

This running jacket reminded our tester of lululemon’s Define Jacket (another one of our top picks). The fit and details are similar, down to the flattering contoured shape, she said. But 90 Degree By Reflex’s Running Jacket is nearly one-third of the price—it’s a total steal, our tester said.

It’s a great jacket for mild to moderate weather, since it’s not too thick and you can wear a thin layer underneath if needed, our tester said. We love the soft and stretchy fabric, which earned the jacket a perfect score of 5 out of 5 for fit and comfort. It moves with you as you run, our tester added.

Testing Notes: “I loved the color selection and product details—you really can't beat the price. I would definitely order another one and recommend it to other runners looking for a fall jacket.”

As many wearers noticed, the jacket may run small. We recommend sizing up for the perfect slim fit. It held up in the wash, but the material is not as high-quality as other more expensive jackets—a small price to pay for the incredible overall value of the jacket, our tester said.

Price at time of publication: $39

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Nylon, spandex | Storage: Two front exterior zippered pockets | Care: Machine was cold, tumble dry low | Sizes: 4 to 26}

Verywell Fit / Shannon Bauer

4.9

Lululemon

Our Ratings

Fit

5/5
Comfort

5/5
Design

5/5
Durability

5/5
Value

4.5/5

Pros

Stylish and flattering design
Ample storage
Reflective detailing

Cons

Expensive

If you run outside, in cool, wet, or windy conditions, there’s no doubt that you’ll get sweaty, and your jacket will get dirty. That’s why purchasing a well-made and durable product, like lululemon’s Cross Chill Jacket, is always a good idea. Our tester appreciated that the jacket lasted through many wears and washes, and had an easy-to-clean shell for those extra muddy runs.

This product excelled in most areas, earning a perfect score of 5 out of 5 in almost every key category. Our tester found her perfect fit in a size up from her usual, and had just enough room to wear light layers under the jacket. The fleece lining is soft and protective in mild to moderately cold weather, but still feels breathable and lightweight, our tester said.

Testing Notes: “I think the quality and functionality are worth the price—it is high-quality and well made. This jacket still looks great after wearing and washing, and the outside material would also be easy to clean if you kicked up mud on a run.”

Other notable features include a wind- and water-proof shell, four zippered pockets, and subtle reflective detailing. The jacket did lose points in value, earning a 4.5 out of 5, because of its higher price tag. But it’s always worth investing in a top-quality outer layer to last you years of running, our tester said.

Price at time of publication: $198

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Polyester, nylon, elastane | Storage: Two front exterior zippered pockets, hidden phone sleeve, zippered chest pocket, zippered back pocket | Care: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low | Sizes: 0 to 14}

Verywell Fit / Shannon Bauer

4.9

Athleta

Our Ratings

Fit

4.5/5
Comfort

5/5
Design

5/5
Durability

5/5
Value

5/5

Pros

Wide range of sizes
Rated UPF 50+
Ample storage

Cons

May run big

Athleta’s Run With It Jacket kept our tester comfortable and protected during windy runs, long hikes, beach walks, and everyday errands. And when it was time to unzip, the jacket was light enough to comfortably tie around her waist, she said.

Featuring plenty of pockets, thumbholes, a high-zip neck, UPF 50+ sun protection, and a water-repellant and abrasion-resistant shell, this jacket is equipped with all the necessary features to support any kind of run.

Testing Notes: “This is a quality running jacket that you'll have for years. You can also definitely wear it to run errands, around the house, and more—it's a great catch-all and, most importantly, will keep you comfortable on runs.”

Our tester (who typically wears a size small in Athleta) was surprised when the jacket felt roomy, scoring it a 4.5 out of 5 for fit. She found that the body and sleeve length were somewhat long, although the jacket was still comfortable to wear. Our tester ended up appreciating the extra room for layering in the cold winter months.

Price at time of publication: $129

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Recycled polyester, spandex | Storage: Two front exterior zippered pockets, zippered chest pocket, zippered back pocket | Care: Machine wash and dry | Sizes: 00 to 26W}

Verywell Fit / Ivy Ford

4.9

Lululemon

Our Ratings

Fit

5/5
Comfort

5/5
Design

5/5
Durability

5/5
Value

4.5/5

Pros

Lightweight
Super soft fabric
Stylish and flattering design

Cons

May run small

If you run in breezy, blustery, or brisk conditions, you’ll want a jacket that will keep you warm and dry. As our tester got winded during her long-distance runs, lululemon’s Mist Over Windbreaker provided lightweight protection without causing her to sweat or overheat. It’s an ideal three-season jacket, our tester said.

This jacket earned a perfect score of 5 out of 5 for fit, comfort, design, and durability. What stood out the most is the soft fabric that’s lightweight, breathable, and ultra-protective against the wind.

Testing Notes: “This is the best windbreaker I have ever tried. It's insanely soft and stretchy—a rarity for a windbreaker-style jacket that feels lightweight.”

Our tester also appreciated the front, chest, and back zippered pockets, as well as the hood that fit snug around her head. The body of the jacket also felt snug, but after reading reviews and sizing up, our tester found the perfect slim fit.

Price at time of publication: $128

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Polyester, elastane | Storage: Two front exterior zippered pockets, zippered back pocket | Care: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low | Sizes: 0 to 20}

Verywell Fit / Shannon Bauer

4.8

Balef

Our Ratings

Fit

5/5
Comfort

4.5/5
Design

4.5/5
Durability

5/5
Value

5/5

Pros

Budget-friendly
Comes in a variety of colors
Durable

Cons

Hood isn't removable

You never know what you might need during a long-distance run, so purchasing a jacket with added storage can help you stay prepared. Activewear with ample pockets allows you to carry your phone, keys, cards, and even some mid-run fuel—keeping you focused as you achieve your fitness goals. Baleaf’s DWR Hooded Windbreaker has five pockets, the most storage we’ve seen in a running jacket.

Our tester gave this windbreaker a perfect score of 5 out of 5 for fit, durability, and value. It’s comfortable and functional enough to wear everyday, she said. We also like that it’s not as thin as a traditional windbreaker, so it’ll hold up over time.

Testing Notes: “Seems like a pretty durable jacket! I think this is an exceptional value for the price point.”

The reflective elements are great for low-light visibility, and the adjustable hood helps protect your face from rain and wind. Our tester prefers to wear a hat while running, so she wished the hood were removable. But it’s not uncomfortable, and if you like a hood, it’s great, she added.

Price at time of publication: $52

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Polyester | Storage: Two front exterior zippered pockets, two inner pockets, zippered back pocket | Care: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low | Sizes: 0 to 22}

Verywell Fit / Lily Moe

4.8

Lululemon

Our Ratings

Fit

4.5/5
Comfort

5/5
Design

5/5
Durability

5/5
Value

4.5/5

Pros

Comes in a variety of colors
Removable hood
Reflective detailing

Cons

Expensive
Too warm for mild weather

Specifically designed for running in cold weather, lululemon’s Down For It All Jacket has all the necessary features to keep you comfortable and warm. The high collar and hood provide extra protection during cold and windy runs. We love that the hood is removable, delivering a customizable silhouette.

Despite its warm goose down filling, the jacket felt lightweight, our tester said—giving it a perfect score of 5 out of 5 for comfort. But she only recommends using this jacket when it’s 40 degrees cooler outside, as it’s too insulated for milder days.

Testing Notes: “The quality of this jacket is great! It has lots of storage, with zippered pockets and a drop-in pocket that could fit your phone. It also has a removable hood and thumbholes, and is windproof and water-resistant.”

The jacket is expensive, but it’s also extremely well-made, durable, and feature-packed, our tester said. We recommend this lululemon jacket if you prefer a removable hood or frequently run in cold weather.

Price at time of publication: $198

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Nylon, polyester, elastane | Storage: Two front exterior zippered pockets, hidden phone sleeve | Care: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low | Sizes: 0 to 20}

Verywell Fit / Shannon Bauer

4.7

Under Armour

Our Ratings

Fit

5/5
Comfort

4.5/5
Design

4/5
Durability

5/5
Value

5/5

Pros

Budget-friendly
Versatile
Durable

Cons

May be stiff

If you’re a dedicated runner who sets out in any type of weather, finding a jacket that is 100% waterproof is essential to keep you dry. Our tester wore Under Armour’s Storm Forefront Rain Jacket on multiple occasions—in warmer 60-degree weather, in chilly and rainy 50-degree temps, and under a puffy vest on a 40-degree morning—and felt comfortable in all conditions.

With a streamlined design, this jacket was not too tight, loose, long, or short, according to our tester, who gave it a perfect score 5 out of 5 for fit. Like most rain jackets, the wind- and waterproof materials make for a stiffer structure with less fluidity as you move. But if you’re in need of a waterproof jacket for optimal protection from the elements, we recommend this one.

Price at time of publication: $80

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Not listed | Storage: Two front exterior zippered pockets | Care: Not listed | Sizes: 0 to 18}

4.7

Lululemon

Our Ratings

Fit

4.2/5
Comfort

5/5
Design

5/5
Durability

5/5
Value

4.5/5

Pros

Lightweight
Removable hood
Durable

Cons

May be too long

lululemon is known for its top-quality activewear, particularly its wide range of leggings—it’s a classic brand across fitness communities everywhere. But it’s also notorious for its prices, and there's no doubt that the Another Mile Jacket is expensive. But our tester thinks it’s well worth the price because of its quality, versatility, and overall design.

A well rounded product, the jacket earned a perfect score of 5 out of 5 in comfort, design, and durability. Our tester loved the hood during cold weather runs, but appreciated that it’s removable for when things heat up. It’s incredibly versatile, according to our tester, who also wore it while running errands.

Testing Notes: “If I was buying one lululemon jacket, it would likely be this one. Because of its versatility and quality, it's worth the price.”

When investing in any product, you want to be confident that it’ll last for years to come. We love that this running jacket has a durable, top-quality construction. The only downside is that it’s relatively long, our tester said. But the length didn’t restrict her movement during intense runs.

Price at time of publication: $228

^{Materials: Nylon, polyester, elastane | Storage: Two front exterior zippered pockets, hidden phone sleeve | Care: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low | Sizes: 0 to 14}

Verywell Fit / Shannon Bauer

4.6

L.L. Bean

Our Ratings

Fit

4/5
Comfort

5/5
Design

5/5
Durability

4/5
Value

5/5

Pros

Reflective details
Versatile
Ample storage

Cons

May run big

More flexible than a raincoat but not as heavy-duty as winter outerwear, a lightweight running jacket can be worn in many seasons and conditions. Our tester loved L.L.Bean’s Bright Multisport Jacket for its versatile protection during windy, cold, and wet weather.

It scored a perfect score 5 out of 5 in comfort because it’s breathable while successfully protecting against the elements, our tester said. This jacket has become a staple in our tester’s arsenal of outerwear.

Testing Notes: “I plan on wearing this coat approximately forever—I can’t think of a way to change it. It's comfortable, lightweight while maintaining a shield-like quality against the wind and cold.”

The sleeves are built slightly longer than the typical running jacket for extra coverage if you decide to wear it while cycling—another added plus. It runs slightly big, according to our tester, who ended up appreciating the fit because it helped her layer appropriately.

Price at time of publication: $99

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Polyester | Storage: Two front exterior zippered pockets, zippered back pocket, two interior mesh pockets (one with a velcro closure phone sleeve) | Care: Machine wash and dry | Sizes: 6 to 20}

4.5

Lululemon

Our Ratings

Fit

5/5
Comfort

4.5/5
Design

4.2/5
Durability

5/5
Value

4/5

Pros

Wide range of colors
Soft and stretchy
Cinchable hood

Cons

Thicker fabric is not as breathable

Are you looking for a jacket that can take you from a three-mile run to the grocery store? lululemon’s Hooded Define Jacket is ideal for studio-to-street wear, with a slim fit and stylish design.

Our tester—who gave the jacket a perfect score of 5 out of 5 for fit—loved the stretchy, yet contoured shape that added to the jacket’s overall appeal. As with most lululemon products, it’s evident that the material is top quality and durable enough to last for years.

Testing Notes: “It’s a really nice jacket! This jacket has a nice-fitting design, and the fabric is incredibly soft and feels really high-quality.”

The design is simple, featuring three pockets, comfortable thumbholes, and a cinchable hood, our tester said. If you want a no-frills, everyday jacket, this might be the one for you. But it’s important to note that the fabric is thicker and most ideal for mild to moderate conditions, our tester said.

Price at time of publication: $128

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Nylon, polyester, elastane | Storage: Two front exterior zippered pockets, hidden pocket | Care: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low | Sizes: 0 to 20}

Verywell FIt / Shannon Bauer

4.4

Brooks

Our Ratings

Fit

5/5
Comfort

5/5
Design

4/5
Durability

4/5
Value

4/5

Pros

Soft and stretchy
Ample storage
Durable

Cons

Expensive
May be too warm for mild weather

Quality winter running gear that’s warm and still breathable can be difficult to find. But the Brooks Shield Jacket is all that—and more. Specifically designed for cold-weather running, this insulated jacket will keep you dry and warm in wet, blustery weather.

Our tester gave the jacket a perfect score of 5 out of 5 for fit and comfort, because she thought the true to size, flexible fit was cozy and comfortable. It’s a true winter running jacket that's made to keep you warm, so we don’t recommend it for mild temperatures.

Testing Notes: “Best fit of the jackets I tried. It's pricey, but it's worth it—I can see how this jacket would hold up for countless cold-weather runs.”

Storing your gloves, hat, neck scarf, and any other cozy accessories is easy, thanks to four exterior pockets and one small interior pocket. The Shield jacket is expensive, but we believe it’s always worth investing in quality cold weather gear.

Price at time of publication: $160

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Nylon, polyester, spandex | Storage: Two front exterior zippered pockets, two drop-in side pockets, zippered chest pocket | Care: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low | Sizes: 0 to 22}

Verywell Fit / Sara Michael

4.4

On Running

Our Ratings

Fit

5/5
Comfort

4/5
Design

4.5/5
Durability

4.5/5
Value

4/5

Pros

Packable
Well-designed hood
Protects against wind

Cons

Expensive
Too thin for cold weather

On is a Switzerland-born brand that produces top quality running gear—best known for their sneakers. But the brand has apparel too, like the ultra-light On Weather Jacket. It’s a performance-tech running jacket, specifically designed for optimal breathability and ventilation in wet and windy conditions.

Our tester appreciated the cinchable waistband and hood, giving the jacket a perfect score of 5 out of 5 for fit. We love that it provides protection in blustery weather, but it’s important to note that it’s not insulated enough for very cold temperatures. The well-designed hood includes a cap feature that’s especially useful on rainy days.

Testing Notes: “This is a specialty jacket and only needs to be splurged on if you have certain habits or live in certain areas. It's perfect for someone who has money to spend on luxury, sustainable, high-tech performance apparel, someone who needs a running jacket for fall, or someone who lives or vacations in a windy, misty area.”

There's no doubt that this jacket is expensive, but the tear-proof material will last for years, our tester said. We recommend investing in this jacket if you plan on running in mild temperatures with windy or wet conditions—like the beach on a stormy day.

Price at time of publication: $240

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Polyester, elastane, polyamide | Storage: Zippered chest pocket | Care: Machine wash cold, iron on low (do not tumble dry) | Sizes: 0 to 22}

Verywell Fit / Ivy Ford

4.3

Patagonia

Our Ratings

Fit

5/5
Comfort

4/5
Design

3.5/5
Durability

5/5
Value

4/5

Pros

Lightweight
Durable
Packable

Cons

Limited storage

If you’re in the market for a lightweight, windproof layer for milder days, we recommend Patagonia’s Houdini Jacket. It can be worn on its own in warmer weather or over thermals when the weather gets brisk.

The jacket earned a perfect score of 5 out of 5 in fit because of its barely-there feel, cinchable waistband, and elastic wristbands. We also love that it folds up into the chest pocket for easy portability and packing.

Testing Notes: “This jacket is extremely comfortable due to the super lightweight material. For an excellent, durable, dependable lightweight running jacket, this would be a great choice.”

While great for mild weather, we don’t recommend this thin jacket for colder conditions. “It’s a good water-repellent layer, but I wouldn’t wear it alone unless the weather was over 60 degrees,” our tester added.

Price at time of publication: $109

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Nylon | Storage: Zippered chest pocket | Care: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low | Sizes: 00 to 22}

Verywell Fit / Eliza Savage

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.

We Also Tested

In total, we tested 26 running jackets, but only 14 earned a spot in our final list of recommendations. While our testers did call out some notable features in these popular name-brand jackets, they ultimately fell short in one or more key categories.

If reflectivity is your main concern, Brooks’ Run Visible Convertible Jacket might be a good choice for you. It comes with a detachable vest that can be worn over any top for added visibility in low-light situations. But on her third run, both internal pocket zippers of our tester’s jacket broke—a disappointing flaw in an expensive jacket.
Our tester loved the snug, second-skin fit and cozy comfort of North Face’s Women’s Winter Warm Jacket. But while she liked the plush material at the beginning of the run, she did not appreciate it by the end as she overheated. The jacket lacks ventilation, breathability, and storage, according to our tester, who was ultimately disappointed by the two small front pockets that didn’t have zippers.
Columbia’s Women's Park View Grid Full Zip Fleece Jacket scored well for its cozy comfort on cool-weather runs. Our tester liked that it has thumb holes, but she was left wanting reflective details—a key for early-morning or late-night runs, she said. The well-fitted jacket also runs small, our tester noted after having to order one size up from her usual.
Adidas’s Own The Run Hooded Windbreaker features a drawcord-adjustable hood and waistband—ideal for protection from the cool wind. We might recommend this jacket for runners who live in brisk climates. But our tester found the jacket to be too roomy and wished she had sized down for a better fit.

How We Tested the Running Jackets

Our team tests many products in The Verywell Testing Lab, but some better lend themselves to being evaluated in real-world scenarios. In this case, long-term testing is essential for our team to get real and reliable insights, in order to make the best recommendations for our readers.

A team of 12 expert testers took home 26 top-rated running jackets to evaluate them through a series of at least three runs and one wash cycle. Our testers first inspected each jacket, looking for notable features like pockets, hoods, reflective gear, and more. Testers then zipped up and took note of the fit and material—is the jacket tight or oversized? Is the material comfortable? What about lightweight?

It was then time for the ultimate test, so our experts got outside in varying weather conditions to see how well the jackets performed. After completing at least three runs, testers rated each running jacket on a scale of 1 (would not recommend) to 5 (highly recommend) for fit, comfort, design, durability, and value. We used these scores and insights to create a list of the best running jackets on the market today.

What to Look for in a Running Jacket

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—like Under Armour’s UA Forefront Rain Jacket.

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, says. “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.”

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 a downpour, 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. Aim for a silhouette that’s not too tight or too loose.

Materials

Look for jackets that are made of comfortable, stretchy materials that are breathable and have excellent moisture-wicking ability. Technical fabrics and synthetic blends like polyester, Lycra, spandex, and nylon perform well in these areas.

Avoid jackets that are overly thick and bulky, since you may overheat once you start warming up—for cold weather, we recommend Brooks’s Shield Jacket Hybrid 2.0. Don’t run in a jacket made from 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 safety items such as your phone, money, and ID, as well as long-run nutrition options.

Look for a jacket that has at least one zippered pocket so you can securely tuck your essentials away. Baleaf’s DWR Hooded Windbreaker is a great option if additional storage is important to you. “Extra points go to a jacket that has lots of pockets to store your gear in a waterproof zone,” Whitney Heins, founder and VDOT-certified running coach at The Mother Runners, says.

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 says. 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 loose or tight, 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.
Do I need a waterproof jacket for running?

If you live in a snowy, rainy, or otherwise wet climate, you may want to consider purchasing a waterproof jacket. “Waterproof jackets are intended to keep you dry (and warm) in those tougher, more challenging, elements,” Delaney says. “And while a water-resistant jacket can keep you dry, the longer you will be out in those elements—especially rain or wet snow—the less effective a water-resistant jacket will become.”
Quick tip: Even if it's not wet outside, but the temperatures are severely low, a waterproof jacket can keep you warmer for longer during your run, Delaney adds.
Do running jackets keep you warm?

“Jackets should keep you warm and dry and decrease exposure to the elements,” Delaney says. When deciding which running jacket to buy, it’s important to keep in mind the type of climate and conditions you’ll be wearing it in.
“A water-resistant jacket is also a good extra layer on those days when you need a little something more to keep you warm, but don’t want to break out the waterproof or insulate jacket,” he adds.
Are down jackets good for running?

Down jackets can be good for running in very cold conditions. “These types of jackets are good for those clear, cold days with light, dry snow, since this style of jackets is typically water-resistant, not waterproof,” Delaney says.
Is it better to wear layers when running? Why or why not?

In the cooler and colder months, layering is a great tool, Delaney says. Wearing layers allows you to keep warm when you start running, and cool down as you heat up. Layers also help wick away moisture, keeping you dry and cool during those extra-sweaty runs.
How much does a quality running jacket cost?

You can expect to pay between $40 and $240 for a quality running jacket. Cheaper options are available, but they often lack the comfort, quality, and durability that make a jacket worth your dollar. And like any other product, those who are looking for a brand-name jacket should expect to spend more. The most budget-friendly jacket on our list is often available for less than $40, while our top recommendation, Athleta’s Rock Ridge PrimaLoft® Jacket, cost $120 when we published this list.

Why Trust Verywell Fit

Michelle Parente is an experienced fitness writer. She is passionate about making reliable product recommendations. As a fitness enthusiast herself, Michelle knows that quality activewear can level up any workout, providing an extra boost of comfort and confidence.