Running Jackets

Finding The Perfect Running Jacket For You

When you head out for a run, having the proper apparel can make a big difference. Your outfit needs to be breathable enough to prevent overheating and yet warm enough to keep the elements at bay. A top-grade running jacket is a vital piece of your fitness kit, whether you're tackling trails or hitting paved paths. Let's explore the key features to consider when selecting a running jacket.

Assessing The Intended Use

Before shopping, determine when and how you plan to wear your new running jacket. Key questions to ask yourself include what climate and conditions will I use this in most - rain, cold, wind? Do I need insulation for winter months or just weather protection during transitional seasons? Will this jacket pull double duty for trails and road running or will I use it primarily in one setting? Do I run at night often and thus need visibility features like reflectivity? Having clear intended use parameters allows you to zero in on the technical features that matter most, whether that’s exceptional waterproofness for wet climes or breathable insulation to battle frigid winter winds. Also, consider variability - some regions see rapid weather shifts even by season calling for adaptable tech and ventilation to prevent overheating or chill. Finally, assess speciality use cases like night running which demand visibility enhancements for safety along unlit roads. Outlining running jacket needs upfront makes finding that perfect fit much simpler when evaluating options.

Consider Fit and Layering Ability

An off-the-rack running jacket needs customisation via smart layering to perform at its best. When trying on prospective picks, be sure to accommodate layers you’ll pair with them. Have base layers and mid-layers on hand to test roominess and mobility. Move fully through your running motions while layered up to catch any restrictions.  Loosen the hem, cuff, and hood cords fully then snug each one gradually to dial in the right closeness at openings without impeding circulation. Check sleeve length to ensure no gap between jacket cuff and running glove overlap for full coverage. Testing a jacket’s adaptability ensures your running layers cooperate seamlessly across seasons. If sizing up for more room, make use of adjustment features for a secure fit. Remember you’ll likely wear this jacket over varied thicknesses of layers depending on the weather so fit versatility is key.

Assessing Key Technical Properties

Running jacket tech comprises waterproof yet breathable membranes, insulating materials, and fabrics focused on wind resistance, visibility, quick drying and more. Identify the needs most vital to your running environment then seek those specific properties out. For example, daily running in rainy Seattle demands waterproofing first, calling for a GORE-TEX or similar shell. Frosty yet clear Minnesota winters need insulating down or PrimaLoft with weather-resistant, sweat-wicking outer fabric. Nighttime roads mandate reflectivity via prints, piping or LED strips to maximise visibility after dark. While it's tempting to seek out a “quiver of one” jacket to rule all conditions, specialised performance often requires targeted tech. Determine absolute necessities then seek those details out even if sacrificing some all-around versatility. And don’t forget to assess ventilation options like zip vents that fine-tune temperature modulation as you build running heat then pause to cool down. Finding the right balance of essential features, fit and flexibility keeps you comfortable mile after mile.

Getting the features, fit, layering ability and technical specs dialled for your specific running needs ensures your jacket performs as a second skin across seasons. Test pieces on runs before committing as only road and trail experience reveals a jacket’s rightness. When the miles fly by unnoticed, you've found the perfect fit.

How To Choose The Correct Size and Fit For Your Running Jacket

When selecting a new running jacket, pay special attention to size and fit. An ill-fitting jacket can hinder your range of motion, chafe your skin, expose you to the elements, and otherwise ruin your run. Follow this guide to find a jacket with optimal comfort and coverage for your needs. Start by considering your usual apparel sizing. While every sportswear brand will size their jackets somewhat differently, checking the size charts for chest, waist, and hips against garments you already own can give you a baseline idea of what size range to start with. Be honest with your measurements - there's no shame in numbers and getting the proper size is vital. Some brands also list their jackets’ intended usage: casual, fitted, race, etc. Choose the option that aligns with how you plan to run in the jacket. If you need room for extra layers underneath or prefer a looser feel, size up accordingly so that your mobility isn't restricted. On the flip side, track jackets designed for racing tend to taper closer to the body.

When trying on the jacket, lift your arms over your head, stretch them out to the sides, bend at the waist - anything to test the jacket’s flexibility and comfort during running motions. There should be no pulling across the shoulders or tightness around the hips. Aim for a fit close enough to block wind and wet without impeding your stride. Most running jackets today have adjustable waist cords and often adjustable hoods, cuffs, and hems. Use these customisation features to your advantage, tightening elements that feel loose and loosening any areas that are too snug. Test run the jacket with the cords pulled tight, then loosen each one and do another mobility check to find your optimal fit. Don’t forget to check the jacket length as well - the back hem should rest just below your waistline without sagging. Take the time to customise and properly layer, so that your running jacket feels like an extension of your body rather than a hindrance.

Essential Features To Consider Based On Weather Conditions

Where you live and run determines the must-have features of your running jacket. Let's break down top properties by climate.

Cold, Dry Locales

Places with crisp, low-humidity air need jackets to block wind and lock in warmth. Details like brushed fabric interior to retain body heat next-skin while wicking moisture outward, nylon shell that resists gust penetration better than stiff fabrics, PrimaLoft/down insulation types trapping air pockets for lightweight warmth, underarm/back vents with zip closure to rapidly cool you when building heat, and elastic or adjustable wrist, waist and hem bindings sealing out icy drafts. Test mobility in jackets with warming layers on. Loosen then gradually tighten adjustable cords until reaching a comfortable secure fit. Verify back vent placement suits your running posture and stride before purchasing. Also, examine the jacket's ability to adapt to shifting exertion levels - when winter running you'll heat up then rapidly chill at intervals so being able to modulate insulation and ventilation on the fly becomes vital. Finally, assess wallet warmth for phone storage and easy-grab gel packets that save freezing fingers while in motion.

Wet Weather Regions

Jackets for rainy running prioritise waterproofness and breathability to avoid soaking and chilling. Ideal specs include waterproof fabric membrane like GORE-TEX blocking precipitation from outside while allowing internal sweat evaporation, fully seam-taped interior sealing gaps where moisture could enter, light insulation like mesh or fleece that retains some warmth when wet, adjustment cords/elastic at openings to seal out rain while avoiding overtightening, and packable design to stow the jacket when intense weather passes. Try raising arms overhead and bending side-to-side to confirm waterproof jackets still allow free movement when worn. Shake the jacket vigorously then examine the interior for moisture penetrations along seam edges. Also, check visibility features like reflective bindings or prints that enhance safety on gloomier days. And consider secure zip pockets for phone protection. Finding high breathability with reliable waterproofness empowers wet weather runs.

Windy Areas

Battling blustery conditions requires windproofing paired with some insulation for warmth. Key characteristics are tightly woven face fabric with a DWR finish that blocks airflow while shielding light rain, brushed fleece or soft shell interior stopping wind chill, hood, hem and cuffs to seal out gusts, lightweight insulation retaining warmth without adding bulk, and vents that open and close for rapid heat modulation. Zip vents fully open and then closed again while wearing the jacket to verify cord locks function smoothly. The check hood conforms to your head shape and allows peripheral vision on both sides when tightened. Tug at the waist, wrist and hem bindings to confirm they close gaps without compressing circulation. Windy running demands sealable openings, and insulation balancing enough warmth without overheating. Try jackets on long enough runs to gauge adaptability.

Top Running Jacket Fabrics and Materials to Know

A running jacket stands up to the elements thanks to innovative fabrics and insulation inside. Let's explore key material tech to understand what makes different jackets tick in winter winds or summer rains.

Waterproof, Breathable Membranes

GORE-TEX ranks as the premium waterproof, yet breathable membrane, shielding wind and rain while allowing sweat vapour to escape. Its porous structure features over 9 billion tiny pores per square inch, each 20,000 times finer than a water droplet, enabling moisture release outward while blocking external water. This microporous construction also greatly reduces wind penetration for all-around weather protection. Meanwhile, the membrane retains excellent next-to-skin comfort thanks to an inner laminate integrating stretch and quick moisture wicking. Alternative budget-friendly waterproof breathable fabrics exist too. Coated nylon layers featuring H2NO shields or similar polyurethane laminates effectively repel moisture infiltration while allowing some ventilation. These economical options will get you through a sudden storm but fall short of GORE-TEX’s unmatched breathability. Test budget pieces via vigorous arm waving and short jogs to check they still breathe enough for your needs during high aerobic output.

Insulation Materials

Running jackets insulate using either synthetic fills or premium down. Popular synthetic options like PrimaLoft mimic Down’s ultrafine fibres and resulting air pockets minus the moisture sensitivity. PrimaLoft insulation retains loft and warming performance even when wet for weather-resilient warmth. As a bonus, its finely woven fibres dry rapidly while allowing excellent airflow circulation to manage sweat buildup. The alternative insulation is downfill, utilising clusters of tiny feathers from ducks or geese. These soft microplate structures trap incredibly high volumes of air for very effective weight-to-warmth ratios. Premium goose down in particular offers stellar insulating power yet requires a water-resistant outer shell to shield when wet weather strikes. Test prospective down jackets for adequate water protection via light spray exposure if planning to run in rain or snow.

Wind Resistant Fabrics

Battling gusts demands tightly woven, yet flexible nylon blends optimised against air penetration. Look for high-denier ripstop nylon utilising high tensile fibres that resist tearing when snagged. Parachute nylon offers similar dense weave construction as well. Such serrated fabrics fend off winds without sacrificing much-needed stretch for running motions. They also pair well with durable water repellent (DWR) finishes or embedded silicone beads causing water to roll rapidly off the surface while also plugging gaps breezes could penetrate when wind, rain and cold team up on exposed runs.

Whether you prioritise breathability, warmth or wind resistance, seek out purpose-driven fabrics and fill purpose-built ones to empower the runner against the elements. Field test prospective picks under simulated conditions checking flexibility and high exertion ventilation if possible. Soon you’ll discover the optimal construction to match regional climes and your personal comfort preferences so winter winds hold no fear.