Best Running Jackets Right Now (2025)

Shell Games

Here in the Mid-Atlantic, marathon season is in full swing, which means that temperatures are getting cooler (finally) which means that temperatures will get even colder. That means it’s time to switch up your running wardrobe and put away the singlets and split short shorts, especially when you’re dropping off your kids at school after a morning workout. I mean, you can still wear them for races, just stay away from me. Either way, it’s time to gear up for when Mother Nature throws the hissy fit that we call November to April in this part of the country.

Because when the weather is unpredictable, when you’re dealing with rain just above freezing, or snow just below freezing, or wind that is always freezing from the inside out, then you want a good outer layer to keep you comfortable on the run.

Janji Rainrunner is a go-to waterproof jacket

Personally, I feel that running jackets can be a scam– especially if they’re poorly made. Ninety percent of the time, I find that a good Merino layer does the job. A cheap shell is going to have you sweating and swearing and carrying a bulky piece of apparel for half your run. A good shell will do the opposite. Because there are days when a jacket is a necessity, and having a good one makes all the difference.

For the most part, we’re sticking to jackets that will be your best friend on the run. These options are ready for rainy days and windy ones, and they’re sure to be an upgrade over whatever you got as a race premium. Of course, our picks are premium in their own ways — you don’t get a high-end running jacket without spending a little cash. We’ve noted all the prices, so you don’t put your wallet through undue stress.

We’ve also included some jackets that function well off the run, after the run, or for lighter activities like hiking and cross training.

Whatever your purpose, there’s something in here for you. And remember– there’s no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing.

Our Favorite Running Jackets

SAM: This product page for this jacket shows two pictures. The first is straight-on and slightly backlit, letting light through the transparent, paper-thin Gore-Tex ePE fabric. No joke, this fully wind and waterproof jacket is so paper-thin you can basically see through it. It’s as breathable as Gore-Tex always is (which is to say, very), and offers superb next-to-skin comfort. It also excels at its main job: keeping you dry.

The second photo illustrates the dual watch windows in the sleeves. The Arc’teryx Norvan made me realize that every waterproof jacket I’ve had badly needed a watch window. And I don’t ever want to go back. No more do I have to fight with semi-rigid cuffs to see my watch. These handy sleeve gaps even allow for a little extra air flow. Cool wrists are nice, who would have expected?

If the paper thin Gore-Tex or watch windows don’t sell you, consider the cut and durability of the Norvan. The seams are laid out specifically to enhance freedom of movement while reducing excess fabric, and the taping that seals those seams is sturdy and flawless.

Sure, it’s an investment, but this is explicitly a case of getting the performance that you pay for. If you’re looking for a fully waterproof and breathable jacket at a featherlight weight that offers the maximum range of motion, it’s this one.

ALEX: If you are looking for dependable, versatile performance this season, look no further than the Arc’teryx Norvan Jacket. From high-alpine storms to wet multi-day hikes, the Norvan sets the bar high.

I have been a big fan of this jacket through all of its different iterations through the years. Its minimal, streamlined design, durability, and breathability keep me coming back. 

It’s actually breathable. While most rain jackets on the market tout breathability, this one actually is. Other rain jackets leave me feeling like I am wearing a sauna suit and quickly wet out, leaving me wondering if I am soaked from the rain or my own sweat. Either way it’s neither pleasant nor effective. Under arm vents allow for heat to escape without compromising protection. 

Another standout feature of the Norvan Jacket is its packability. I never hesitate to stow this in my pack or running belt. It takes up very little space, and is incredibly lightweight.

Finally, the material is soft and quiet. While this might not be high on your initial checklist, once you spend days on end in a stiff, noisy jacket reminiscent of that compostable sun chips bag discontinued in 2010, you understand why this matters.

While it is definitely an investment, I can attest that the jacket will last and far outperform many of its competitors and allow you to retire that gas station poncho for good.

ROBBE: I’m perpetually in search of a legit running rain jacket. I’ve tested many styles over the years, and while they usually keep me dry from the outside elements, more often than not they leave me a sweaty mess inside. It’s a tough act to juggle.

The Gorewear Concurve is the best rain jacket I’ve tested to date– for running, hiking, or any activity. But we’re runners, so let’s talk about its performance on the run. I personally won’t wear a jacket unless a) the temperatures are below 50F degrees or b) my run is longer than 10 miles and it’s pouring rain.

However, I was able to test this in those exact conditions on several occasions, once on an 18-mile long run in the pouring rain in 35F-degree weather. I’ve also worn it for the past year for various other activities. In short, it’s everything I want in a waterproof rain jacket. 

Let’s start with the materials. It’s made from an all-new Gore-Tex ePE membrane, which is thinner and lighter and PFAS-free. It’s also stretchy, so it moves with your body on the run. There’s no extra bulk so it feels like a second skin. This was intentional, of course. Each panel is designed for bodies in motion with a focus on seam reduction.

Hood fit is always an issue with rain jackets. Somehow, plenty of brands get this wrong. To be an effective rain jacket, the zipper needs to go up to the chin, the hood needs to be secure around the face to prevent strong winds blowing it back, and it should ideally have a cinch to tighten it. The Concurve has all of that, making for a perfect hood.

I haven’t even mentioned the best part: the magnetic tab. On the inside of the jacket in the yoke of the upper back there’s a magnet that connects to another magnet inside the hood. So when the hood is down, it clicks into place and stays there instead of blowing around. It’s that kind of thoughtful design that lets you know you bought a fantastic product.

When it comes to perspiration getting trapped inside, look – if you’re running with a jacket above freezing temperatures, you’re almost certainly going to sweat. If you keep running, you will sweat more. To some extent, you have to accept that you’re going to accumulate a degree of moisture inside a waterproof jacket. That said, of all the jackets I’ve ever tested, the Concurve is the best at mitigating moisture. 

I also appreciate the two hand pockets. I know some rain jackets avoid them to cut weight, but we’re runners – we need pockets to carry stuff.

For $250, you’re getting a brilliant piece of gear at a more-than-fair price.

What I don’t like: While the tapered cuffs keep water out, it’s super difficult to check a GPS watch. We like the slim fit, but it may be a bit too slim for some. You may want to go up a size.

ROBBE: As far as running rain jackets go, the good ones are few and far between. Luckily Janji is one of the few. It is indeed waterproof, thanks to a laminated shell with a PFC-free DWR water repellent treatment. I’ve taken this into downpours and varying degrees of other moisture related events (sounds weird), and it’s kept me dry time and time again.

It’s incredibly lightweight and packable, which is one of my favorite things about the jacket. Quite often I’ll pack it into its own pocket (which comes with an elastic band for carrying purposes) and throw it in a backpack or duffel when I’m traveling. Makes for a nice extra layer in any situation. The ripstop fabric dries quickly and is surprisingly durable.

As far as breathability, it’s pretty solid for the price point, mostly on account of the 360-degree venting around the core. 

The cut is great, and while it’s a bit on the slim side, it allows for a great range of motion without feeling too loose. In the same way, the hood is the right amount of coverage and security from the bottom of the chin and around the face (this was an issue with the first version, but I’m happy to report it’s been fixed in the 2.0).

What I don’t like: While it’s more breathable than a traditional rain jacket, it’s still not the most breathable when running more than three miles. You’ll get some moisture inside at that point. Some under-arm venting could help with this. For the price point, it’s more than adequate.

REESE: The Patagonia Houdini might just be the perfect “just in case” jacket. This thing is light. Like, barely-there light at a miniscule 96 g (3.4 oz). It’s made from 100% recycled nylon ripstop, which gives you a touch of warmth and some wind protection without ever feeling bulky or stifling. Plus, the durable water repellent (DWR) finish gives it a layer of water resistance (not waterproof) when surprise weather hits. 

What sets the Houdini apart is its packability. It stuffs into its chest pocket, so it takes up virtually no space. I’ve even run with it in my hand, and it was no big deal. It’s almost a magic track, almost like … Houdini.

The fit is slim but not restrictive, with just enough room to layer if needed. The slight elasticity at the wrist cuffs keeps things secure without squeezing. The hood and tall collar are surprisingly functional: the hood doesn’t bounce around when it’s down, and when you need it, a simple one-pull cinch keeps it snug and in place.

If you’re looking for a lightweight, do-it-all wind shell that disappears in your pack (or hand), the Houdini delivers. 

What I don’t like: The swishy noise of the jacket isn’t as bad as other ripstop jackets I’ve run in, but it is, of course, a function of the nylon construction.

REESE: Who says you can’t have it all? Not Janji, that’s for sure. This jacket is the ultimate blend of functional, lightweight, and versatile without sacrificing comfort. This jacket feels like it’s a balance between the Outdoor Research Deviator Wind Jacket and the Patagonia Houdini. 

The small only weighs 4.3oz, which is impressive considering it has a hood and three pockets.  I will note that I found it runs a little big. I wear a small, but could have comfortably sized down to the XS. Despite the pockets, zippers, and hood, this jacket packs pretty tightly into the chest pocket. I can easily put this jacket into a running pack and barely know it’s there, or simply carry it in my hand if needed. I did carry it in my hand a few times, where I either thought I’d need the jacket or started with the jacket on but took it off once the rain passed. Carrying it didn’t bother me one bit. 

The 100% nylon construction with DWR finish makes this jacket stand up to wind and light rain showers. The hood, which has a bungee draw cord on the back, is adjustable, so it’s easy to cinch down in wind or rain. Even though it’s made from nylon, the jacket is fairly quiet (not a ton of swishing), and it’s decently soft rather than plastic-feeling. 

I tend to run pretty hot. For instance, if the temperature is over 45/50 degrees, I’m probably in shorts and a sports bra. Between 40-45, I might need gloves. I did wear this one when it was about 45 degrees out with cloud cover, and it did keep me a little too warm, but if it had been raining, that would have been a welcome treat. Given the fact that this jacket is so light, but has so many storage options, I think you could take this hiking, as your required jacket for a race, or with you on any high alpine adventure.

SAM: With windbreakers, there are only so many variations on a DWR coated nylon shell that can be twisted into something original, so it’s the details that matter. The Janji Zephyrunner Wind Shell gets this. 

It covers its basics with the aforementioned ripstop nylon shell with DWR coating. The nylon Janji uses, however, is thin and soft with zero swish sound. In fact, the first thing I thought of when I first unpacked it was how close the shell material felt to my favorite worn-paper-thin cotton tee. It’s actually remarkable how soft and thin this jacket is. It does fit a little big, so note that when you pick this up. 

Down the backside of the jacket there are large in-seam air vents. I last saw vents like these in the Arc’teryx Norvan Jacket, and I’d be surprised if we don’t start seeing this more often. They work so well to bleed off trapped heat. The reflective print below these vents is a thoughtful touch too.

Like Reese said, it’s impressive that the Zephyrunner manages to pack in three full zippered pockets (one of them the jacket packs into!) and still keep the weight so low, but on top of that this sports a waist hem elastic draw cord and a rear hood draw cord to keep your peripheral vision clear. 

Packing (pun intended) all of these features into such a light jacket is truly a feat, and Janji manages it in a jacket that feels so soft it almost disappears on the run. I’d recommend grabbing this for runs under 45 degrees, or as a low-weight backup you know will always fit in your pack.

REESE: Almost every lightweight packable jacket is made almost entirely out of some kind of Nylon ripstop material. Yes, that keeps the jacket super lightweight, durable, and wind/water resistant, but I wouldn’t go so far as to say that the jacket is cozy or soft. I mean, it’s mostly plastic. Outdoor Research took a slightly different approach to their Deviator Wind Jacket. They added 10-15% spandex to their Nylon. The result? I a super soft, wind and water resistant jacket that provides some comfort, flexibility, and it’s a jacket you can wear when you’re not running. More bang for your buck you might say. I’ve routinely worn this while golfing. In fact, I’ve probably tested this for more hours on the golf course than running. Probably because walking a golf course takes forever. 

Ok, less golf, more review. The Deviator Wind Jacket has a mapped construction that prioritizes the front torso, arms,  shoulders, and collar from the wind and water. Those sections are made from 90% Nylon and 10% Spandex. Whereas the underarms and back get 15% spandex and laser-cut vents for added breathability. The softness of this jacket is perhaps my favorite feature. It just doesn’t feel like a Nylon heat trap, and it actually looks really polished. (I haven’t been thrown out of a golf course, yet. I’ll keep trying.)

The addition of the spandex and the three, yes, three, legit pockets, with heavy-duty zippers, makes it a little beefier than other packable jackets, 4.5oz, compared to, say, a jacket like the Patagonia Houdini, which is 3.4oz. That being said, it just comes down to use case. If I’m racing and I need to carry a jacket, you can bet I’m carrying something uber light. If I’m not concerned about weight and I want a versatile jacket that can do it all, the Outdoor Research Deviate is ideal.

SAM: The refrain you’ll see repeated all through our writing on jackets is that these things we throw on as an overlayer must be breathable. After all, what good is the protection a jacket offers (from wind, rain, cold, or sun) if it turns into a swamp inside by mile 3? We want to feel like a jacket holds little inside besides warmth (if needed), and keeps the elements outside. It’s a tall order. 

Fortunately, the Outdoor Research Deviator Wind Jacket tackles this head on. Or, I suppose I should say “front on,” because the Deviator foregoes an all-around nylon shell construction for a “hybrid mapped” jacket that features wind and water resistant nylon in the front and arms and stretchy, loosely woven and perforated nylon/spandex on the back and underarms. This makes for a wildly breathable jacket that still does a great job of protecting from the elements. I took this out on a lightly misting day in the low 60s, and this kept me dry and comfortable until it started to pour. Even fully waterlogged, this wasn’t particularly bad to run in, but the back and underarm panels cling and dry more slowly than the rest of the jacket. 

This jacket runs just a tad big on me, and fits comfortably all the way around. I had full range of motion while running and found that I was only thinking about what I had on because I had to write this review. Otherwise, I would have forgotten it was on. I particularly liked the wide semi-elastic cuffs and the three pockets, but Reese is right that this runs a tad heavier than other comparable wind jackets. I grab this jacket if I need light protection and high breathability. It’s perfect for those late March days where the weather could come at you like a curveball any moment.

SAM: The OR Shadow Wind hoodie is ostensibly the cheaper little sibling to the Deviator Wind Jacket, which might just be my favorite wind layer of the year. But calling the Shadow Wind Hoodie anything that smarts of degrading language  like “little,” fails to realize just how good Outdoor Research is at doing what they do (that is, making high performance outdoor clothing).

This is not a flashy jacket packed with tech, but instead is perhaps the most reliably solid wind layer you can get for the money. Sure, it’s a little weighty at 5 ounces, but you’re not going to feel that on the run. That extra weight gets you three whole fully functional pockets, one of which the jacket packs into, and a hood storage system so you don’t have a micro sail flopping off your neck.

But you and I both know that pockets aren’t what make a jacket reliable. The Shadow Wind Hoodie has a very comfortable four-way stretch nylon shell that fits perfectly. My men’s large fit like a European or running large, which is to say that it’s very slightly bigger than traditional American medium sizing. The nylon isn’t obnoxiously swishy, and the great fit makes this jacket look good and avoid binding when running.

Sometimes you just need a jacket that will unflinchingly deliver just what it needs to, and for a no-frills wind layer, this is it.

SAM: The Peak Performance Freelight Wind Jacket is an ideal layer for those shoulder season runs when the sky is grey and the weather always seems like it’s about to turn. It can even be pushed into case specific use on cool summer evenings and early mornings thanks to its thin, elastic highly breathable back panel and laser cut ventilation holes. Those elements push the breathability quotient up high, which is good because this jacket weighs in a little heavier than some other comparable jackets on the market.

I’m about 6’1” and 180 lb., and a large fits comfortably, but it’s not tightly cut. I could probably size down to a medium because of the back panel, but I don’t think I’d enjoy running in a fit that slim.

Outside of the versatility brought by the ventilation, the real perks to the Freelight Wind Jacket are the thoughtful additions peppered over what could otherwise be a pretty standard windbreaker.

First, there’s an easy to use hook-and-loop closure on the zipper at chest level. This keeps the sides of the jacket together when you inevitably unzip it halfway three miles into your run. Second, there’s an elastic hem on the hood that does its best to keep the thing on your head when you need it to stay there. When you don’t need it on your head, theres a hook and loop stow system to keep the inevitable flopping under control.

ROBBE: Stealth style is always in and Path Projects is always at the top of the list when it comes to pure performance mixed with muted design. We’re perennially touting their gear, from their Graves PX shorts to their incredible Wildwood pants to their high-quality base liners which we wear almost every day.

The Graves PX jacket takes all the best parts of Path Projects and puts it into a jacket. The first thing you’ll notice is the comfort as the whole thing is made from the Japanese Toray Prime Flex polyester that Path Projects is known for. It’s lightweight, breathable, stretchy and cut properly at all the right places.

While it’s not fully waterproof, it holds up well in light precipitation and is breathable enough that you can wear it for low-intensity efforts. Where the jacket really shines is off the run. It goes with anything, it has great storage options with the hand pockets and chest pocket, and the hood and collar are the perfect shape– not too tight and not so loose that the wind will blow it back. 

Fit is slightly relaxed, but go with your standard size.

At $139 ($83 on sale), it’s hard to find a better jacket to do it all.

What I don’t like about it: It’s not the lightest fabric in the world, so it’s also not the most breathable. It works well as a “jack of all trades, master of none” piece of apparel.

Maybe Not For Running, But Kind Of

ROBBE: This isn’t a running jacket, but it is designed for active pursuits outdoors. I love this jacket for about a dozen reasons, but the first is that it looks fantastic and different from other filled jackets. Instead of standard baffles, the Xperior has a wild geometric design that’s a real head turner.

It’s a slightly loose fit, so it’s perfect for layering. If you don’t like a loose fit, then go down a size. I’m a big stickler for hood fit and this is one of those perfect fits. Not too snug around the face, but not so loose that wind comes in and knocks it back. It’s surprisingly warm for how light it is, so I wore this through the winter with just a sweater underneath.

The hand pockets are great, but it also has an interior chest pocket and two interior stash pockets for a hat or gloves on each side, none of which are mentioned in the product description. 

What I don’t like about it: It’s not the most packable jacket, so I usually take something else if I’m traveling.

REESE: Honestly, the moment I saw “Polartec Alpha” in the name, I had a good feeling about this piece. It’s hard to go wrong with anything made from Alpha Direct. Not impossible, but pretty rare. If you’re not familiar, Alpha Direct is a lightweight, fuzzy, and highly breathable insulation that offers solid warmth without the bulk. It’s often used instead of down in gear designed for high-output activities, and for good reason. 

It’s normally paired with a wind-resistant outer for added warmth and durability. Which is exactly what Peak Performance did with this jacket, and they executed it so well. The jacket is lined with Alpha Direct around the core, but has unlined areas near the armpits and sides, cutting down on weight and allowing for some ventilation. But dang, it is warm. I’m kind of sad, for a lot of reasons tbh, the weather in Colorado is into the 90s now, as I can’t find a good time to wear this jacket anymore. I’ll have to wait till fall.

This jacket does pack some small but mighty features into the design. I love the two-way YKK Zipper. As a cyclist, I’m always keen to unzip jackets from the bottom up while riding. Creates less of a parachute effect on a bike. This jacket is a little weird with the pocket placements, but I’m adjusting to them. In lieu of traditional hand pockets on the side of the jacket, Peak Performance opted for a mesh pocket on the lower front panel and a chest pocket.

I love the mesh pocket for some reason. It’s like a little fanny pack. I put my phone, keys, and dog waste bags in that pocket while walking. However, I do miss normal pockets to tuck my hands into. Lastly, loving the hood. It’s one of the well-made deep hoods that covers your face, not the ones that kind of sit halfway back or can’t accommodate a ponytail or bun. 

One thing to note on this piece, it runs quite large. I’m 5’3ish, and the small was very big, the sleeve came over my hands, and the jacket was very loose. I’d consider sizing down at least a full size, if not two.

SAM: This ultralight jacket is so warm that I overheated wearing it around the house after slipping it on the first time. The warmth-to-weight ratio is unreal, and it’s probably best to be reserved for the coldest temperatures when used for running. I’m a particularly big fan of the hood, which can fit a helmet (for rock climbing) but also feels and fits perfectly fine without.

Backpackers will love the Nano Air as a feather light insulated layer for all four seasons, and it’s perfect for cold weather climbing. It also serves great as just a casual hoody, albeit one with a particularly aggressive hood. Honestly, this might be the most high performance do-it-all jacket I’ve seen in a long, long time.

What I don’t like about it: This is specifically cut into a slim fit in order to fit under backpack straps or a climbing harness. When zipped up, there is no extra fabric, and little space underneath.