READ: RUNNING JACKET BUYING GUIDE / WHAT TO WEAR RUNNING IN THE RAIN
A high-quality running jacket is your primary shield against the elements. A fully waterproof running jacket offers a complete barrier against downpours, while a windproof running jacket is the perfect solution for blustery days. Advanced fabrics offer this protection while remaining highly breathable, a key function that allows perspiration to escape so you stay dry from the inside.
For cool, dry days when a full jacket is too much, a running gilet is the ideal choice. It focuses on protecting your core, keeping you warm without the bulk of sleeves, which allows for maximum freedom of movement and ventilation. Many jackets and gilets are exceptionally lightweight and packable, making them easy to carry and deploy when the weather turns