Running is so popular and such a big business that there is no end to the types of apparel you can buy to assist you once you’ve planned your route and laced up your shoes. Once you’ve got the basics of a running top and a pair of running shorts out the way, you’ll want to start thinking about investing in a running jacket.
Ideal for use in the colder months or those fresh summer mornings, a running jacket will help to keep your body warm and your blood pumping, allowing you to keep pushing yourself for longer. They’re not simply a winter accessory though – far from it – you never know when you might be caught out in a rain shower and a running jacket can once again be your saviour, as more often than not they’re made with water resistant material.
Of course, sifting the genuinely useful and high-performance jackets from the imposters isn’t always easy, so we’ve taken the challenge upon ourselves to bring you a definitive guide to the very best running jackets available right now. Expect big-name brands, up-and-coming independents, and a few others that you may have heard of, but would never have expected to produce running gear.
Men’s Running Jacket FAQs
The best running jackets are extremely lightweight, ergonomic, and allow for maximum freedom of movement. They also protect your body from the elements without hindering your running performance. It should be big enough to fasten at the front and loose enough to be breathable, giving you enough flexibility of movement as you run. Your running jacket should be comfortable to train in. Yes. Wearing a jacket while running increases your body temperature and circulation. As your heart rate increases, you burn more calories. However, it is always not a good idea to wear a running jacket, particularly if the weather is hot. We suggest only wearing running jackets in cold weather or when it’s raining or extremely windy.What makes a good running jacket?
How tight should a running jacket fit?
Does wearing a jacket while running burn more calories?
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If you’re wanting to stay protected during runs in wild weather, or want to improve your running technique in the upcoming winter months, a running jacket is imperative; we’ve rounded up the best running jackets that are high-performance as well as stylish.
1/15Under Armour
2/15Gymshark
The Speed Running Jacket is the only jacket in Gymshark’s running range but it does come in various colours, and is made from an incredibly lightweight, water-repellent, and breathable material. It also features a hood to keep your head dry during showers and a couple of pockets give you somewhere to store your phone.
3/15Lululemon
4/15New Balance
New Balance’s range of running jackets feature sporty, classic, and athletic looks, and these water-resistant, lightweight outerwear options make the perfect layering attire for an outdoor run - rain, shine, or snow. New Balance’s collection features several options constructed with their NB HEAT fabric, optimally designed to wick away moisture and ensure cool, comfortable, and dry support time and time again.
5/15Brooks Running
This includes, of course, a comprehensive range of running jackets that all have seriously impressive features. While all of Brooks Running’s jackets are high-quality, we have to single out the Canopy Jacket that offers complete wind and water protection thanks to a breathable DriLayer Seal fabric, which also happens to let heat out from your body to prevent you from boiling over when pounding the pavement. When you're not using it, the jacket will stow away inside an integrated bag and a few zipped pockets will keep your valuables close to you.
6/15Vuori
Vuori has a huge range of men’s jackets that have been specifically designed for running. Whether you run on the road or a trail, Vuori’s running jackets are breathable, moisture wicking, and will keep you comfortable while you run.
7/15Nike
8/15Patagonia
Patagonia has a great running jackets collection which includes the Houdini Packable Jacket. As its name implies, the jacket has a disappearing act whereby it packs up into the chest pocket. It's a star performer when in use too, thanks to its nylon-ripstop construction which protects you from water and wind, and itself from ripping.
9/15Arc'teryx
Arc’teryx running jackets are all completely windproof, lightweight, and highly breathable, while some also offer waterproof and quick-drying technologies. Available in different styles and colours, Arc’teryx running jackets are slightly more expensive than other brands featured but that’s because Arc’teryx seriously make some of the best running jackets available.
10/15On Running
If we had to single one out, it’d have to be the Weather jacket which features a cap-design hood for better face protection and waterproof zipped pockets (so no chance of your phone getting soaked). The Weather jacket will keep you dry too, thanks to a DWR (durable water repellent) coating and you'll barely know you're wearing it due to a lightweight construction from Japanese fabrics. Plus, it's available in some fetching colour options.
11/152XU
12/15Adidas
Adidas’ current range of running jackets still features the classic 3-Stripes (from the og track jacket) on the sleeves and come in a wide range of colours and sizes. With reversible down jackets with a full front zip and ample insulation for cold weather, and windbreakers with Rain.RDY technology that blocks the wind and rain for unpredictable running conditions, Adidas have running jackets perfect for everyone.
13/15Vuori
14/15Myles Apparel
15/15
