Sometimes a base layer and a tee just aren't enough in winter. That's when a lightweight water-resistant running jacket can be a saviour for your offseason run training. But which jacket should you pick?
To help you make that decision, we've tested a total of 12 running jackets split between both men and women. But before we get to the reviews, let's talk about what we tend to look for… The first question must focus on how the jacket will be used and what your specific needs are. If you run hot while exercising, you're not going to want anything warm, but rather something to keep out the wind and rain.
In our opinion that's the optimum choice, as you can easily layer up with warmer base and mid layers underneath. The result is that you can add or remove layers as you get cold or hot. However, if you typically feel the cold, something with thermal properties maybe beneficial. Alternatively, you may just want something super lightweight to chuck in a pack as mandatory kit at a race - just make sure you check the requirements for your race first.
No matter which lane you find yourself in, there are certain things you want out of a jacket. It has to fit well so it doesn't catch the wind and it also has to keep the elements out. Mo st jackets will use either a waterproof membrane, a durable water repellent (DWR) coating or a combination of both.
The DWR coating will wear away over time and needs to be reapplied with a special wash or spray, otherwise your jacket may ‘wet out’. If it has a membrane
