Running jackets can be a real pain. Some ride up. (Hello, I’d prefer not to show my belly unless I’m wearing a crop top, TYVM). Others trap sweat, leaving you feeling like you’re jogging in a damn trash bag. Then, there are the ones that are so bulky, they feel more like a weighted vest than a windbreaker. I’m sorry, this run wasn’t supposed to be part of a CrossFit workout.
But rather than focus on what the best running jackets shouldn’t be, it’s more helpful to consider the elements that go in to making one an ideal workout buddy. A solid running jacket should feel comfortable when you move and lightweight enough that it won’t turn your torso in to a sweat lodge. It should also keep wind and dampness out (duh), and you’ll want to look for one that’s a little loose around the shoulders so you can actually pump your arms. (A v v important part of becoming a better runner, BTW.)
Those are some general guidelines to look for in a stellar piece of outerwear. But let’s be honest, it also has to look like something you’d want to be seen wearing in public, amirite? Fortunately, the best running jackets for fall 2019 deliver in the style category as well as perform. Hey, you know what they say: Find you a piece of functional clothing that can do both.
To help you on your hunt, these are the best running jackets (per Women’s Health staffers and online reviews) if you want to look good (obvi), stay warm (but not too warm), and actually keep the water out of your bra during rain-soaked fall runs.
Brooks LSD Running Jacket
Average rating: 3.8/5
Rave review: “Bought this to wear over my clothes for the Boston Marathon. Thank goodness I had this! It kept me dry. I have Raynaud’s syndrome, which basically means I get cold and stay cold very easily. The conditions at this past Boston were the worst possible for someone with Raynaud’s. I tested the jacket out ahead of time by putting it on and getting in the shower. I stayed dry. And it most likely prevented me from getting hypothermia on Marathon Monday. And it folds up on to a little pouch with a carry strap that you can band around your hand if you are out and it stops raining.”
Louis Garneau Cabiolet Jacket
Average rating: 5/5
Rave review: “Great lightweight jacket. Easy to remove arms to make it a vest. Very comfortable for running with handy pockets.”
Salomon Momentum Soft-Shell Jacket
Average review: 4.6/5
Rave review: “Love the colors! Breathes well!”
Ultimate Direction Ultra Jacket V2
Average review: 5/5
Rave review: “This jacket is the perfect weather insurance for inclement conditions on the trail. As a trail runner who values traveling ‘light and fast,’ it is important to me to have gear that performs well and packs down easily. UD Ultra V2 does just that. The feel of this jacket is comfortable next to skin, non-crinkly, not clammy, and ‘not there’ in terms of weight. The flip mitts are a nice option for hand coverage if needed and stow into the sleeve when not in use. Obsessed with this windbreaker! True to size. Colors are fantastic! I was on the fence about spending so much on it, but it’s perfect, and I can’t wait to wear it everywhere! Highly recommend.”
Adidas SST Track Jacket
Average review: 4.8/5
Rave review: “This is a great jacket for wearing to the gym or running errands on the weekends. I like that the pockets zip. Great purchase!”
Nike Windrunner Track Jacket
Average review: 4/5
Rave review: “Great jacket and worth the money. This is a lightweight jacket, and perfect for running or exercising outside. Also cute just to wear casually too. Keeps the elements off you, but light enough to keep you cool while wearing. Has little reflectors on different areas of the jacket for wearing after dark. Definitely recommend.”
Eddie Bauer Cloud Cap Lightweight Rain Jacket
Average review: 4/5
Rave review: “Very satisfied with this rain jacket. Love the color (lemon drop) and fit (XL). I did go up a size to be sure that a fleece or warmer clothing could be worn with this jacket, but might not have needed to. It doesn’t seem to stick to my arms when it is rainy and humid/hot so that is a big plus. The hood is easy to adjust and the fit is perfect to stay dry. The fact that it is packable is the best for traveling and hiking.”
Columbia Switchback III Adjustable Waterproof Rain Jacket
Average review: 4/5
Rave review: “Beautiful color, fits great and very flattering. It also did a pretty good job of keeping me dry during a rainstorm. Haven’t had it long enough to say how durable it is, but so far it’s been good. I love the zippered pockets and hood. It fits true to size. It’s also lightweight too, so good for warmer weather.”
The North Face Venture 2 Jacket
Average review: 4.5/5
Rave review: “Love this jacket. Ordered and wore this for a trip that was calling for rain. Kept me very dry. It was very lightweight and comfortable. Some reviews said the jacket was very noisy, this didn’t bother me. I’m just shy of 5’10 and plus-size, so I was worried about purchasing online. Not only did this fit me perfectly, I loved the length and the large inside pockets. Usually hoods tend to leave my hairline exposed. This one did not, it was great. My only complaint is that there is no lining in the sleeves. When it’s warm and wet out, the sleeves tend to be a bit sticky. Otherwise, I love it.”
ASICS Lite-Show High Visibility Jacket
Average review: 5/5
Rave review: “I run in the morning before the sun is up. This is reflective. It is warm. It breaks the wind. I love the thumb holes.”
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