Running jacket buyer’s guide

What am I looking for in a running jacket?

It seems pretty obvious that you’ll want to wear a running jacket to go running in the rain. But thinking a bit more about what type of runner you are could save you a lot of expense. Here are some questions to ask yourself:

• Are you an all-season outdoor runner? If so, you might need a selection of different jackets to cover you for cold conditions and wet conditions at different times of year. If you just head outside in warmer months, you aren’t likely to need a warm jacket. Focus on lightweight and waterproof instead.
• Do you run at night? If so then your jacket needs to have a reflective element.
• Do you run in the rain? If you prefer a treadmill on wet days, then a packable jacket for the few times you get caught out is a great option.
• Where do you run? If you’re often running along seafronts or exposed to wind on trails, something with a windproof element would be a good shout.
• What’s your budget? Often our most limiting factor! You can absolutely find a great jacket for less – that’s where our testers can help to pick something that is still great quality.
• Do you get too hot on your runs? A running vest can still offer some protection from the elements, without increasing body heat.

How many pockets do I need? Do I need a hood?

We know how important pockets can be on a garment. Your running jacket will almost certainly have pockets, but size and location matter. Can they fit your phone in? How many snacks can you carry? And where are they? Pockets on the lower back are likely to be bigger but less accessible while those on the breast are likely to be smaller but create less bounce from heavier items.

And what about hoods? If you’re looking for something that gives you more protection from the elements than your average lightweight jacket, a good hood is a must. If you wear your hair up, the hood needs to be big enough to take that into account. So if you’re trying a jacket on in a shop, do so with your hair tied up and check the hood still gives good forehead coverage. If you’re ordering online, keep an eye out for adjustable hoods so you can be sure you’ll find your perfect fit.

A guide to waterproof women’s running jackets

Read the product description on jackets very closely. There’s a difference between ‘water resistant’ and ‘waterproof’. For a truly waterproof jacket you’re looking for it to have taped seams. Water will always find a way, and in waterproof jackets, the weak point is the seams. Having taped seams means that an extra layer of fabric has been used to seal the seams, to keep the rain from entering here.

If you’re planning to run an ultramarathon, many will have a mandatory kit list of items that you have to carry with you during the race. This will almost certainly include a running jacket with some specifying spec such as the taped seams.

The downside to some waterproof running jackets that keep the rain out is that they’re also pretty effective at keeping sweat from escaping, so breathability is something that we want to keep an eye out for, too.

A guide to lightweight women’s running jackets

A lightweight, rain-resistant jacket is a good option for windy days, cold days and light rain showers: basically any weather that will require an extra layer of protection that isn’t full-on rain. Wind will whip through your long-sleeve base layer and make you cold, but wearing a lightweight jacket over the top will give you enough protection. Layer them over tops on cold days to help keep you warm while allowing sweat to escape – because a sweaty body is likely to become a cold body. They often pack up into one of their pockets so they can easily be carried on the run; perfect if you’re not finishing your run at home and want an extra layer to pop on that will keep you from cooling down too much.

How much should I spend on a running jacket?

We’ll level with you: a really good running jacket can set you back a few hundred pounds. But as with all things, there are more budget-friendly options available that will do you very well. They may not have all the bells and whistles, but could have everything that you are looking for. We review jackets from a selection of different price points, so you can hopefully find the right balance of budget and functionality for you.

The best reflective women’s running jackets

Proviz Fully Reflective Running Jacket 2.0

Proviz Fully Reflective Running Jacket 2.0 technical details

RRP: £79.99
Weight: 170g
Special features: 100% reflective material comprising millions of tiny glass beads
Sizes: UK women’s 8-18

What our tester said:

“Proviz reflective jackets have a bit of a cult status in our house. We all have one for our various different nighttime sport needs! This is the new and updated version of their iconic reflective running jacket and, as far as I’m concerned, it’s an absolute must-have for anyone who ends up running after dark. It’s made almost entirely from special Proviz REFLECT360 material, which means it shines like a beacon whenever light hits it; very handy for oncoming cars.

This latest version has improved breathability, which was sometimes an issue with the original. Extra mesh panelling down the sides and back have improved that airflow, and also make the jacket feel even lighter to run in. I also think that the fit has been improved, as I found it to have a more flattering design than its predecessor. It doesn’t offer a tonne of warmth, but that’s not really an issue as the style allows for warmer layers to nestle easily underneath. It also means you can wear it during autumn and spring, as the weather gets less chilly. I could bang on about it for ages, but ultimately I think this is just an utterly brilliant buy.”

Higher State All Over Reflect Hooded Women’s Running Jacket

Higher State All Over Reflect Hooded Women’s Running Jacket technical details

RRP: £99.99
Special features: Hooded, 360 reflective design
Sizes: XS-XL

What our tester said:

“I loved wearing this for runs, as it gave me a feeling of security when I set off for my usual 6:30am trots as moved into November. Having the double whammy of water resistance and visibility feels like you’re wearing armour. While it’s heavier and more sturdy than my usual running jacket, what that offered in buckets was reliable windproofing – and as a cold runner, I value this over and above waterproofing in shell garments, as I don’t mind getting wet, but I do mind getting cold. It certainly kept me dry and warm over my mid-week runs.”

Want more info? Read Esther’s full Higher State jacket review.

The best waterproof women’s running jackets

Compressport Tempest Waterproof Jacket

Compressport Tempest Waterproof Jacket technical details

RRP: £220
Special features: 20,000 Schmerber sustainable fabric
Sizes: XS-L

What our tester said

“This is a jacket with attitude in terms of performance and style. I particularly love how light it is, and the colour is very pleasing to the eye. The fabric has stretch to it’s good to run in, and the hood has a stiff peak and elasticated seams with reflective elements, making it perfect for winter night runs. While mine is size Small and fits well, when winter layering comes into play it may feel a bit snug, so I’d recommend going a size up so you can comfortably fit a long-sleeve underneath. Let’s face it, this is a premium product; it looks and feels good (but it also has the price to match). All in all, I love this jacket, but the price may put some runners off.”

Kiprun Run 500 Women’s Waterproof Breathable Trail Running Jacket

Kiprun Run 500 Women’s Waterproof Breathable Trail Running Jacket technical details

RRP: £59.99
Special features: Waterproof up to 10,000 Schmerbers
Sizes: UK women’s 4-20

What our tester said:

“Honestly, this jacket is an absolute steal for 60 quid. It keeps me completely dry without making me melt inside, which is a rare find. Fairly lightweight, windproof, it has a generous hood and packs down into a pocket. Very well crafted from Kiprun, as always. If you’re looking for a go-to for shorter training runs, this is it!”

The best windproof women’s running jackets

Ronhill Women’s Tech All-Terrain Jacket

Ronhill Women’s Tech All-Terrain Jacket technical details

RRP: £75
Special features: Packs up into its own pocket
Sizes: 8-16

What our tester said:

“What a fantastic addition to my winter wardrobe this Ronhill coat is. It’s so easy to stow away, made from a lightweight fabric that can fold up into its own pocket, making it perfect for the adventurers among us, but it’s also sleek, stylish and practical for everyday road running. We’ve been plagued with showers recently, and this jacket has been perfect as a windproof layer that doesn’t add unnecessary bulk or heat. I’d definitely opt for a base layer underneath on chilly days, but I really like that it leans towards the lighter, more ventilated side of winter jackets. It’s not cheap at £75, but you get what you’re paying for in terms of quality here.”

Helly Hansen Trail Windbreaker Jacket

Helly Hansen Trail Windbreaker Jacket technical details

RRP: £130
Special features: Packs down into inner chest pocket, Durable Water Repellency treatment, Adjustable Hem
Sizes: XS-XL

What our tester said:

“This jacket really fills a gap in my autumn running wardrobe. After a hot summer of heading out in just a t-shirt and shorts, I’ve had to remind myself that British weather is usually changeable! This jacket packs down into its inner chest pocket, so is super-easy to pop in a belt or hydration vest for when the weather turns.

It’s designed with wind in mind, and I would say it delivers well on this. It’s also really lightweight and has no extra cords or zips banging around as you run. The hood and cuffs have an internal elastic to give a snug and protective fit without the faff of drawstrings. It doesn’t have a lot of pocket storage, but that isn’t an issue if you have them in the other running kit you’re wearing.”

Findra Ossian Soft Shell Jacket

Findra Ossian Soft Shell Jacket technical details

RRP: £100
Special features: Lightweight, packable design, stretch fit, recycled materials + flurocarbon-free DWR.
Sizes: XS-XXXL

What our tester said:

“You really need to get Findra on your radar. I’ve been testing a couple of pieces, and I’m completely in love with the brand. This jacket is so thoughtfully designed. The material is stretchy and soft, and the deep blue colour is gorgeous.

It’s windproof (and warming) rather than waterproof. It has three zipped pockets. The front two have been carefully positioned to be accessible while wearing a pack, which is so useful. It’s made from recycled nylon, and it packs up into its own pocket. It’s a beautiful, comfortable, sleek jacket that’s perfect for shorter runs in grim weather, and ideal for hiking in all weathers.”

The best lightweight running jackets

Soar Tempo Top

Soar Tempo Top technical details

RRP: £185
Special features: Lightweight, sweat-wicking, quick-drying
Sizes: XS-XL

What our tester said:

“When it’s not cold (or wet) enough for a full jacket, or your speed is fast enough to keep off a chill, that’s when you’d reach for this ‘tempo top’. It is a full-zip jacket, but also lightweight (just 150g) and soft, designed to give a little extra warmth rather than full-on protection. It’s fitted enough that you don’t need a layer underneath but will fit over a snug vest. There’s a handy zip pocket on the back and some reflective detail.”

Oner AirMove™ Jacket

Oner AirMove™ Jacketfrom £70.00 at Oner Active GlobalOner AirMove™ Jacket technical details

RRP: £70
Special features: Swicking tech, back vent, branded drawcord at the hem to switch up the look, reflective logos on front (left-hand side) and centre of back.
Sizes: XS-XXL

What we loved about it: Super flattering, stylish fit that you can throw on and wear with jeans as well as sports kit

What we didn’t: Limited range of colours compared to the options available for the matching shorts

What our tester said:

“I found the Oner AirMove™ Jacket to be the perfect transitional piece for autumn and spring, or really, any time you need a bit of extra coverage without overheating. I particularly loved the material: it’s buttery soft and completely free of that plasticky feel you often get with lightweight jackets. The cut is super stylish too, and I really appreciated the thoughtful details, like the reflective logos on the front and back for a bit of extra visibility on darker mornings and evenings.

The sweat-wicking tech keeps you dry and comfortable, while the back vent helps with airflow and breathability, ideal for those in-between days when the temperature can’t make up its mind! It adds just the right amount of warmth without making you feel too hot or sticky. I also love the branded drawcord at the hem, it’s a fun touch that lets you adjust the fit and gives the jacket a really nice shape, so it looks stylish as well as functional.

Although it’s not waterproof, it does hold up well in light drizzle and is great at keeping the wind off. It’s one of those jackets you’ll want to wear even when you’re not running – it just looks that good.”

AirMove Jacketfrom £70.00 at Oner Active Global

Man in a Sac Ultralight Jacket

Man in a Sac Ultralite Jacket technical details

RRP: £74.99
Weight: 100g
Special features: Packs up very small
Sizes: UK women’s 6-18

What our tester said:

“This lightweight, packable waterproof jacket is designed for runners and hikers. Weighing just 100g, it offers 10,000mm waterproofing and 8,000gsm breathability, with fully taped seams to keep you dry on the move. The minimalist design includes a water-resistant zip, elasticated hood and cuffs, and a reflective logo for added visibility. It packs down into a palm-sized pouch, making it perfect for stashing in a belt or pack and offers good visibility for winter running.”

The best cosy women’s running jackets

TLC Body Sculpt Longline Zip Jacket

TLC Body Sculpt Longline Zip Jacket technical details

RRP: £48
Special features: Compressive fabric
Sizes: XS-6XL

What our tester said:

“Part of TLC’s mash-up with Gemma Collins, this jacket is plain, simple and compressive. Even the arms are a squeeze, and zipping it up over my boobs made me feel like I may never see them again. Being so tightly encased is cosy at the start of a cold, dark jaunt, but without any reflective detailing I do feel vulnerable, and the hem rides up when I run. This is a great jacket for a brisk autumn walk or a cold Crossfit hangar, but it’s not one for a run.”

BAM Thermal Sculpting Jacket

BAM Thermal Sculpting Jacket technical details

RRP: £70
Special features: Made from 64% bamboo viscose
Sizes: 8-16

What our tester said: 

“This is a six-star item. And that’s because it’s two brilliant things in one: officially a jacket but also secretly a long-sleeve top, it’s close fitting and cosy, with lovely long arms and thumb loops, and a couple of zipped pockets – and these are actually useful for bits rather than just hands, because keys don’t rattle around in a close fitting top like this. I love it as a layer over a tee at bootcamp, with no annoying hood to get in the way during a terrible set of mountain climbers. But it’s also brilliant as a warm long layer for short, cold runs. It washes well, keeps its shape, and it’s survived me bunging it in the dryer too.”

Best running gilets

inov-8 Performance Hybrid Gilet

inov-8 Performance Hybrid Gilet technical details

RRP: £100
Special features:Pertex® Quantum Air water resistant shell
Sizes: UK women’s 6-18

What our tester said:

“Oh hey, I’m in love. I’m not bragging, but I’ve found the one. It’s a black, super-light gilet that keeps me warm without adding any weight to my life. The fluffy inside is so soft I could wear it next to bare skin and the water resistant outer means fab weather protection. Swoon!”