The 10 Best Running Jackets, Tested and Reviewed

Sizes: 0-20

This is a great three-season jacket for most of the country—four if you live in mild to warm climates. As with many jackets, the fabric is the star of the show. It has an impressive amount of stretch for being a waterproof shell, if you’ve tried other windbreakers you know they are notorious for being stiff. This one moved with the body and made it super comfortable to run in. The lightweight and breathable fabric is meant for coverage from the elements, rather than warmth, and it does that job well. Beyond the material, the jacket has three zippered pockets, thumbholes, and a hood designed for zero bounce.

Sizes: XS-3X

We won’t call it a dupe, because fabric and quality is different, but your eyes don’t deceive you if you think this jacket is a lookalike for another popular, and far pricier, style. It has the front seaming that hugs your curves, two side pockets, and a mock neck collar. This is definitely a contoured-fitting jacket but it sits nicely on the body and doesn’t ride up or cling as your run. The fabric is insanely stretchy, so it moves with you. We like it for running in moderate temperatures with no rain or snow, but it also makes a nice coverup jacket for walking to the gym or a yoga class. Our tester got great use out of this and even mentioned that she purchased a second one on her own after the test was finalized because she was so impressed by the fit and huge color selection—a repurchase is the best review of all.

Sizes: XS-XL

This is the jacket to buy if you want to live out your Nancy Meyers main character daydream—running on the windy, misty shores of Bar Harbour. The ultra-lightweight, breathable fabric is magical—it’s tissue-thin yet top-notch at keeping out the wind. The breathable fabric is also quick-drying and folds up into its own pocket—ideal for travel or storage. The hood also has some cinching along the sides that helps it conform to your head and stay put while you run.

Sizes: S-XXL

If you’re looking for a classic windbreaker, this affordable running jacket is your best bet. With a fully adjustable hood, several large front, back, and interior pockets, and waterproof exterior, it has the elements you need for a utilitarian jacket. It also has ventilation in the back to keep you cool on your run. If you want to pack for a just-in-case scenario, it folds into itself into a neat little pouch that’s easy to stash. We do think that the fabric is stiffer than other picks on our list, but if you’re working with a smaller budget, it’s still a nice option.

Sizes: 0-20

We won’t deny that this is more of an investment running jacket, but the quality and features are worth the money. The insulated fabric feels airy, yet plush, and is way warmer than you may initially think. This could even be a great winter jacket if you don’t live in the deep arctic chill. The insulation is specifically developed to be warm even if it gets wet, and the jacket is water-repellent and windproof. The jacket features two zip pockets, reflective details, and a dickie you can zip out to remove the hood, if you so choose. It’s also versatile: If we were going on an active vacation in cold weather (Iceland comes to mind) or hiking, this would be the jacket we would pack too.

Sizes: XS-XXL

The early morning or late night running warriors will appreciate the reflective attributes of this jacket. There is reflective silver fabric stitched smartly around the coat as well as high contrast fabrics to help you remain visible in the dark. The jacket is also convertible into a vest via its built-in pack, so if your run gets unexpectedly steamy, you’re not stuck sweating it out. A water-repellant treatment also protects against the elements and this quickly became a go-to for wet weather runs. We docked a point, because while it is water-repellent, it is not moisture-wicking—without a long-sleeve layer underneath, this jacket sticks to the skin when you get sweaty.

Sizes: XS-XL

Runners fall into two camps when it comes to weather: those who love the rain and those who only want clear skies. If you sit in the former, then a solid rain jacket for running is imperative. This one from Under Armour is totally waterproof and actually repels the water, while still remaining breathable—so your sweaty skin doesn’t get stuck to the fabric. It is thin enough to be worn in most seasons, although you may need to bundle up in colder weather, and the two-layer bonded fabric makes it extra durable. It features a hood and two pockets and our runner noted that this style washed up really well—no musty sweat smell here.

Sizes: S-XL

This jacket is the ideal layering piece. We love that it acts as a shield against wind—the light as air fabric blocks air and rain without adding bulk. There is a back vent for breathability, a drawcord at the waist for adjustability, and mesh at the collar and sleeves that is soft against your skin. This option also has storage in spades—two exterior pockets on the front and one in the back to hold a running hat and other gear, plus two interior pockets, including a phone sleeve that Velcros closed. This is also a great jacket for early morning runs—both color options are neon with 14 points of visibility.

Sizes: XS-XXL

This jacket earned a perfect score in the fit and comfort category. It fits true to size with lots of flexibility in the sides to move and run—one runner even called it the best fit of a jacket she’s tried. It’s very comfortable with insulated material that isn’t too hefty, nor does it make you feel like a running marshmallow. There’s ample storage with five pockets of varying sizes for your gear. The big oversight on this jacket was the lack of reflectivity. With black being the main color option, we wish that had been included here, too.