An award-winning journalist, writing for outdoor and adventure sports magazines and websites, her first book The Ultimate Guide to Trail Running 5k to 50k is out in January 2021. The best lightweight running jackets are also more breathable than ever. With the elastic wind gasket in place, the Bonatti's hood feels secure and comfortable. The jacket packs down into a zippered pocket and can be worn around your hand with an elastic band. Additionally, we threw each of the jackets onto our scale to get an accurate weight. You may be able to find more information about this and similar content at piano.io, Altra Provision 6: Stability for Every Runner, Article One Launches Active Eyewear Collection, Float Through Your Runs in the Soft Phantom 2, Shop These Period-Product Discounts for Prime Day, Altras First Carbon-Fiber Super Shoe Has Landed. Our Editors independently research, test, and rate the best products. Whether you need a comfortable, breathable layer for casual training runs or a lightweight, protective barrier for rugged mountain adventures, we'll show you what to look for to help you find the best jacket for your needs. There are only a few circumstances in which we might forego the Incendo as our go-to running jacket. Many of the jackets in our selection weigh in at around 100g that's less than an energy bar! With impressive performance at a reasonable price, the Canopy provides excellent value. In 2022, so sylphlike are the best lightweight running jackets that you barely notice them in your pack. Without the right equipment, it's easy to get sidelined by inclement weather, cold temperatures, or biting wind. Zippered underarm vents provide more airflow; however, unzipping them results in a lot of exposure to rain, said a tester. It has a sort of matte texture to it rather than the plastic bag feel of some windproof jackets. That means one of our team of reviewers and writers all experienced outdoor specialists active across the US, UK, Europe and Australasia taking it out into the terrain and climatic conditions that its designed for. This testing took place over the course of several months, through many different weather conditions, from winter storms and high winds to unpredictable spring rainstorms. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. The Salomon Bonatti WP stands out in particular with a hood that combines well-placed elastic with an optional forehead wind gasket that could probably keep the hood on through a hurricane. Jackets that don't offer adequate breathability can end up feeling like a plastic trash bag, while models with breathable materials, zippered vents, or mesh panels wick moisture away effortlessly. Comfort is certainly a subjective metric, but we found that certain attributes impact a jacket's comfort regardless of the shape, size, or preferences of the user. The Montane Featherlite Trail Jacket is a wonderfully lightweight, rustle-free layer that will block out the breeze and repel light showers. Also make sure the zip-pull cords are glove-compatible, by which we mean longish and dangly with a grippy tab at the end. Better Breathing Can Improve Your Performance, Ashton Kutcher Takes on NYC Marathon for a Cause, A Kettlebell Workout for Upper Body Strength, NYC Triathlon Shortened for Athlete Safety, This content is created and maintained by a third party, and imported onto this page to help users provide their email addresses. But if you need to get that training run in even through hail and sleet, or if you might find yourself bunkered down on the side of a mountain as a storm passes, then this is the jacket for you. If you know its going to howl with rain all day, youre safer in a heavier, more robust jacket where you can really batten down the hatches. For water-resistant jackets, look for strategic vents and perforations in the fabric that can help contribute to overall airflow. With reasonable breathability for such a protective material, the Norvan SL makes a great choice for high output activities in unforgiving conditions. Most breathable waterproof jacket we tested. Better still, it folds down into its one-zipped chest pocket very easily for quick stowing. We dont get a lot of below-freezing days in Texas, but on a rare crisp but sunny morning, I set out in this jacket and immediately loved its sweater-like warmth, wind shield, and classic New England style. Remember, though lighter-weight materials are less durable so be gentle with these jackets, try not to snag them on brambles and maybe save them for race day. There is no peak to the hood, which is one of the few drawbacks, but it does fit well round a ponytail and adjusts with a clip at the back. The chest snap allows the jacket to be unzipped without turning it into a parachute. It also has a wind-paneled mock collar with a long zipper that allows you to regulate your warmth and airflow a little. Read our full Salomon S-Lab Bonatti Pro WP Jacket review, A super-light jacket with minimal features, designed for going fast and light with ease, RRP: $183 (US) / 140 (UK) | Weight (Mens size M): 105g / 3.7oz | Hydrostatic head: 10,000mm | Breathability: 10,000 g/m2 | Colors: Mens: Grey / Green & Grey / Blue & Grey; Womens: Grey / Pink & Grey / Navy & Grey | Compatibility: Super light, packable and waterproof for use just in case it rains. The Nike Trail Windrunner, as its name suggests, was also a stellar wind-blocker, but its other features held it back too much to recommend. Youll usually find them along the edge of a hood or zipper pockets. The Incendo continues to impress our team of testers due to its solid weather resistance, comfortable form-fitting design, and large side mesh panels that provide excellent breathability. A water-resistant and windproof shell will make running tolerable during unpredictable spring and fall weatheror in my case, the (comparatively balmy) dead of winter in Austin, Texas. Waterproof jackets also need to be light but also need to be fully seam-taped and sealed against a downpour. A: You probably noticed that some of the jackets here are touted as PFC-free. Zippered ventilation panels in the armpits let you get a little air at the expense of letting water in. When you click on links to buy products we may earn money to support. The jacket meets all FRA and ultra distance race requirements. NY 10036. Heavier jackets can usually handle the weather better and may also last longer due to sturdier fabrics, but they will weigh you down more and take up more room in your pack. The only slight drawback to this is that people with longer arms will find that they want a bit of extra elbow room when wearing the Flip Mitts, so a longer arm length from the jacket would be useful in future incarnations. With reflective barring encircling the entire body and both arms, and reflective badges on the front, back and left side, the Flight Futurelight is one of the few jackets in our lineup designed around visibility. The Norvan has a well-tailored performance fit, but the loud and crinkly material isn't as soft and comfortable as other competitors. Let us know! Advnture is part of Future US Inc, an international media group and leading digital publisher. But the high-end performance of the Norvan SL comes with a high-end price tag that could turn away many runners. For that reason, we recommend that the best thing to do is only to wear your waterproof when absolutely necessary, to protect yourself from the elements. A carabiner loop on the zipper chest pocket makes the jacket easy to stuff into a ball and tote if it becomes too toasty to wear. For such a lightweight jacket, the price may be a little steep for some. By The OMM Halo Jacket is one of the lightest of the best lightweight running jackets test (105g/3.7oz) and a firm favorite of many for its tiny, tiny pack size no bigger than a tennis ball. To evaluate this metric, we tested how each garment moves with the runner and considered the materials and construction. Read our full Montane Featherlite Trail Jacket review, Two leading outdoor brands one specializing in running, the other in mountaineering have collaborated on a jacket that uses the latest Gore-Tex Active technology, RRP: $316 (US) / 240 (UK) | Weight (Mens size M): 180g / 6.3oz | Hydrostatic head: 27,000mm | Breathability: 27,000 g/m2 | Colors: Black | Compatibility: Light, packable and waterproof for serious mountain use. All of this comes in a lightweight package that compresses down into its own pocket and with a surprisingly reasonable price tag. The main zip has a storm flap behind, a chest popper/press stud for easy venting and a long pull cord that you can easily use even when youre wearing running gloves. Heavier duty models can be found in our guide to the best running jackets. From rainy slogs around the neighborhood to windy, exposed trail runs, we put each jacket through its paces across a variety of weather conditions and terrain to push its design features to the limit. There is no pocket to keep the weight down, so simplicity is the name of the game with this lightweight number. Even in drizzle on a warm summers day think twice; if you are warm enough running with your quick-drying top on, dont add a waterproof layer unless you start to get cold or plan to stop. Factors we examine when establishing the overall portability of a jacket include how easily it fits into its storage pouch (if one is included) and if that pouch is adequately sized to fit everything without too much difficulty. It's a natural choice for our best value, but with a few more improvements, it could challenge for the top spot overall. Visit our corporate site (opens in new tab). Its a genius idea for cold, wet days. At Advnture we endeavor to test every product we feature extensively in the field. Read our full Ultimate Direction Mens Ultra Jacket review. Fully waterproof yet very thin and breathable, the Shakedry is a feat of engineering magic. You can secure the cuffs around your wrists or upper arm by adjusting the Velcro tabs. These race ready, rain repelling shields usually pack down to almost nothing in your hydration pack, so they're not only featherlight but supremely packable too. The only downside we could find with this jacket is the lack of a hood, which is fine if you never wear a hood on a windproof, but some of us like that little bit of extra protection. It only weighs 100g / 3.5oz so you barely notice youre carrying it. The Incendo and Norvan impressed due to their tailored fit and body-mapped panels, but their use of non-stretch materials means that those with a less traditional running build may find their slim cut restrictive. If you're interested in a women's running jacket, our team of expert female testers takes a deep dive into women's specific models. There are three unique features that stand out with this innovative, highly waterproof lightweight running jacket. The Berghaus Hyper 140 is a seriously good waterproof jacket at a nice, light weight, and with a lot of good, useful features. The Norvan is built with a GORE-TEX Shakedry waterproof membrane, providing excellent weather protection in a 4.6-ounce package. Many races specify something like, Full-body, taped-seams waterproof cover including hood on the mandatory kit list, which simply means a fully waterproof jacket and trousers to keep you safe in all weathers. Comfort and mobility are of paramount importance to a running jacket because these garments are designed to be worn during prolonged aerobic activity. In the market for a new running shirt? In this update, we purchased 9 of today's top models for our latest head-to-head analysis. He still laces up the running shoes several days a week and keeps in touch with his running roots by volunteering as a track and cross country coach at his local high school. But for the majority of runs across varying terrain and conditions, nothing matches the lightweight versatility of the Arc'teryx Incendo. Of course, weight is the biggest factor in this test. Overall, it's safe to assume softshell jackets are less portable and heavier, while single-layer shells are more lightweight and packable. The Houdini is made from recycled ripstop nylon with a DWR finish that keeps the wind and rain out without adding weight, though our only complaint is that this comes at the expense of some breathability. This review began with extensive market research, sifting through over 60 of the best running jackets on the market. These jackets were worn during trail and road runs in the reliably rainy conditions of Englands midlands in early spring. A restrictive jacket can physically hinder your movement, while a poorly-fitted, baggy one can weigh you down or bunch up uncomfortably. This zip will keep out light rain and drizzle for a good while, but faced with an oncoming heavy downpour high in the mountains, theres a reason the more expensive jackets here provide the increased weather protection of a storm flap. Whether the breathability specs boast 10,000g/m2 or 20,000g/m2, youre going to get wet from sweat inside your jacket if youre running hard, unless its arctic outside. The Brooks Canopy made major improvements in its most recent revision, dropping some weight and two pockets while adding some truly innovative features. We researched After many long runs and tempo miles, we've determined the Best Trail Running Shoes for Women of 2022. The arms are plenty long enough to accommodate the small thumb loops and the partly-elasticated cuffs make for a good fit. If you're simply on the market for a capable running layer to get you out the door during cooler weather or a light drizzle, this is probably overkill. It uses Point Zero H2O two-layered waterproof fabric and slimline tape behind the seams to provide a 10,000 mm hydrostatic head, which works well for heavy rain. We found this out the hard way while running into the wind in the rain. Got feedback? However, its not fully waterproof on its own. But if you just need occasional wet weather resistance, and you're willing to sacrifice the higher-end material, and waterproof protection, both the Brooks Canopy and the Arc'teryx Incendo offer warmth and mild weather protection in a similar weight but for a fraction of the price. Some of the most expensive models cost nearly three times as much as the more affordable options. The jacket packs down into a zippered pocket for portability (though more likely for packing into a suitcase or duffel, since its too bulky to carry on your run). Finally the main zip and two side pocket zippers are very short its best to have a pull cord on them so you can use them easily with gloves on. All the latest inspiration, tips and guides to help you plan your next Advnture! Pleasingly, the arms are plenty long enough to use the thumb loops without straining at the elbows when you run, but theres no hood to take this jacket further into the realms of almost-a-waterproof protection on the hills. It remains one of the most comfortable jackets we've tried and now competes as one of the lightest and least expensive. Weather-resistance and breathability tend to work against each other, so the search for a jacket that can resist mid-run swampiness but also protect you from wind and rain is akin to a unicorn quest. Hang your jacket up to dry or tumble-dry on low. If, for any reason, this isnt possible, well say so in our buying guides and reviews. Built to last with performance to match, this is the kind of product you keep in rotation for years. While the best lightweight running jackets are unlikely to keep the rain off as much a waterproof jacket for hiking, you do want them to keep you dry that's why you're buying them, after all. Some waterproof models like the Patagonia Storm Racer and the otherwise-stellar Arc'teryx Norvan SL provide excellent protection from the elements but lack any kind of ventilation system except for unzipping the main zippers. The best lightweight running jackets are fairly expensive before you invest, consider these vital factors to make sure you get the right product for you. We must also mention the new Gore-Tex ShakeDry fabric is one of the lightest waterproof materials on the market right now with the membrane on the outside, water just beads up and runs off this jacket. Contributions from The amazing Brooks Canopy achieves its breathability via gauze-thin arm and body panels that are mesh in all but name. The cuffs and hem are elasticated but fit-wise this jacket has plenty of room for movement while running in both the mens fit and the womens version. However, it should be stressed that no hardshell is truly breathable enough to negate the kind of heat and moisture you'll create on a strenuous run. The co-founder and former editor of Trail Running magazine, Claire now runs the YouTube channel Wild Ginger Running, creating films packed with trail- and ultra-running content. By heating and fusing tape to a jackets stitches, clothing makers can prevent moisture from seeping in at those gaps in the waterproof fabric. Both issues can impact your mental performance as well, forcing you to focus on the discomfort of the garment instead of the workout in front of you. This style is great for guaranteed weather protection without having to do up any tricky zippers with cold hands. No cherry-picked units sent by manufacturers. Our experts spent hours help you figure out which model will work the best for you, Patagonia Airshed Pro with its soft, lightweight material, Best for Minimalist Waterproof Protection, the world's most carefully tested and objective gear reviews, Lightweight, good breathability, packs into pocket, Comfortable and stretchy material, good weather protection, breathable, Very water resistant, lightweight, small packed size, Not the most weather resistant, fit is hit-or-miss for larger frames, Hood is not adjustable, almost no reflectivity, Heavy, overkill for less-than-extreme weather, Not as breathable as a softshell, very expensive, almost no extra features, Not very water resistant, low wind resistance, Our favorite model, this lightweight, breathable running jacket is ideal for all occasions, A comfortable jacket with just the right balance of weather protection, breathability, and weight, with a lower sticker price than the higher-end models, A running jacket built like a hardshell, with excellent attention to detail and build quality, If price is no object and compromise isn't an option, this ultralight waterproof layer is your jacket, A highly breathable and comfortable soft shell that makes aerobic activity in the cold much more comfortable, Futurelight (3-layer), 88% 20D recyled nylon, Super-lightweight waterproof material, minimalist design, When you're heading out for a run and not sure what jacket to take, this one is never a bad choice, An affordable jacket that blends comfort and performance in a lightweight package, A running jacket for the most extreme running conditions: sturdy, waterproof, and highly visible, The incredibly light and best performing wet weather running layer we tested, This layer kept us remarkably comfortable during cold weather exercise, The soft, stretchy material and snug fit make this windshirt ideal for fast and light adventures, An uncompromising old-school jacket that sacrifices comfort for performance while not skimping on features, Fully waterproof performance with a unique design not ideal for everyday use, Avoid this jacket unless you like the look and dont intend to run in it. Although all of the jackets we tested claim some level of wind and water resistance, four models are rated as fully waterproof. Like their non-waterproof counterparts, they need to be light and packable, but because they need to keep out rain, they'll also tend to be less breathable and just that much heavier. The elasticated hood, cuffs and hem fit well, and even though this is a unisex item it fits okay over wider hips for the ladies. To build this list of lightweight jackets, I used my own hands-on experience, as well as the experience of Runners World Test Editor Amanda Furrer, who laid the groundwork for this roundup. This jacket is made for layering when the weather turns extremely sour. While this certainly offers suitable protection from light drizzle or dew as you brush past trailside plants, these DWR coatings tend to wear off quickly, and any heavy rain will likely permeate these layers rapidly. The Off Roads Packable Jacket is woven with Swiss fabric thats treated with a Nanosphere DWR finish, which gives it a thin water- and dirt-repellent layer. The jackets ripstop nylon is thin enough to be semi-see-through, but it has an integrated waterproof Pertex shield and taped seams to provide full weatherproof protection. We may earn commission if you buy from a link. Most other models in our lineup are constructed from a nylon or polyester material that comes treated with a Durable Water Resistant (DWR) coating to repel water from the surface of the jacket. Light, breathable, comfortable, and feature-packed, it's our go-to cool weather jacket. This means your choice of jacket often becomes a choice of staying warm or staying dry. Wow, what a bargain! Our tester praised its fitnot too tight, not too looseand was impressed with how it cuts through the wind during a 10-mile subfreezing run. The April Showers Anorak packs down into the front zipper pocket and has a stowable hood with a collar closure. The North Face Flight Futurelight has a tough-as-nails build and weather protection that is on par with mountaineering jackets costing twice as much. This jacket sets a high bar for lightweight, waterproof protection. This jacket meets all FRA and ultra distance race requirements, and your race number is visible through the fabric. Youll get just as wet from the sweat and be too hot. Some can even be worn around your wrist or as a mini-backpack mid-run. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and we never accept free products from manufacturers. The jacket meets all FRA and ultra distance race requirements. published 20 March 22, Our roundup of the best lightweight running jackets to easily stow in your hydration pack as a poor conditions back-up, or to satisfy race regulations, Advnture's expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. The Tech Gore-Tex ShakeDry jacket is an outstanding collaboration from two leading outdoor brands: running specialists Ronhill and Mountain Equipment, experts in hiking and mountaineering. The only real complaint about the Canopy is that it's the least protective of the jackets we tried. It's important to keep your needs and goals in mind when selecting the right jacket. This jackets superpower is that its extremely breathablewhen we conducted a fabric-permeability test using a hot sauna, the Canopy released more vapors than any other waterproof running jacket in our lineup. The jacket has a narrow fit, hood, and two small front zipper pockets for stowing cards and a house key. Xbox camping gear looks fun, but how practical is it really?