Ahhh, running in the rain. You either love it or hate it. While I can appreciate the beauty of a rainy day, my personal preference is to stay indoors when it's raining.
But if you do decide to go out for a jog and it starts pouring, you need to ensure that you're protected from those harsh weather elements — especially if you plan on running for more than a few minutes! That's why we've compiled a list of the best rain running jackets on the market.
I wear the best rain jacket whenever I run outside in the rain. It keeps me warm and dry and prevents my sportswear from getting ruined. But with so many running rain protection jackets on the market, how do you know which one to choose?
How We Search For The Best Choice
Finding the best rain water resistant jacket for running is a challenge. There are so many options on the market, and they come in so many different designs and styles that it can be challenging to know where to start. We’ve put together this list of our top picks for the best running rain jackets.
Waterproof
If a jacket isn't waterproof, it's not worth your time. Waterproofing is an essential feature in any piece of outdoor gear, especially when it comes to running through rainy conditions.
We look at how waterproof each jacket is rated by its manufacturer, like fully taped seams jackets, and how durable they are against water over time.
Breathable
Breathability is also an important factor in what makes an excellent running rain jacket. The idea behind breathability is that if you're working hard enough during exercise to break a sweat, you want your clothing to let off some moisture so that you don't get too sweaty or clammy inside your clothes (which can lead to chafing).
Water-resistant materials have pores in them that allow air to escape while keeping water out of the material itself, while fully waterproof jacket materials keep both air and external elements from moving through
Comfort
Running in rainy weather can make your run less enjoyable if your protective rain jacket for running isn't comfortable or doesn't fit well. We consider comfort when looking for running jackets because we want our readers to be happy with their purchase.
A good running jacket should be lightweight and breathable so that it doesn't feel like an extra layer of clothing during a run (even though that's precisely what it is). It should also have enough room around the chest area, so you don't feel restricted.
Our Top Picks
Of all the hundreds of different rain jackets we looked at for this article, these are our five top choices:
Why It’s A Five-Star Choice
This highly functional rain jacket is made of high-quality material and is very comfortable to wear. It's lightweight and portable so you can bring it with you anywhere. The waterproof & windproof fabric will keep you dry in the rain and protected from cold, windy conditions.
This rain jacket fits very well on your body, especially with its elastic, stretchable cuffs at wrists and waistline for easy wearing. The hood can be folded into the collar for added protection from wet weather; it also has a drawstring closure to adjust to different head sizes and hairstyles.
This is an excellent choice if you need something beyond just keeping your clothes dry. It allows for a full range of motion during any activity without feeling restricted by its design!
Things That Are Good To Know
The BALEAF Men’s Light Rain Jacket is an excellent option for runners who want to stay dry but don't want to put on too many layers. It's made of 100% nylon, and it's very lightweight. This makes it easy to move around and also helps keep you cool when you're running.
The jacket has a drawstring with an adjustable hem to help keep clothes dry and elastic cuffs that help keep your wrists dry while keeping you comfortable while running.
It has two side zipper pockets to store essential items such as your keys or wallet. Three reflective logos on the front of the jacket provide high visibility so other people can see you at night if there is no other light source available.
Fun Story From A Product User
A delighted customer said:
"I needed a rain jacket that could withstand my active lifestyle and keep me dry during those unexpected rain showers. I came across this rain jacket and decided to try it based on the positive reviews. I am happy to report that it has exceeded my expectations.
First and foremost, this jacket is 100% waterproof. I have worn it on multiple runs in heavy rain and have remained completely dry. The material is also very lightweight, which is essential for me as I tend to get hot when running. The jacket allows for a good range of movement and doesn't restrict my arms or body. I also appreciate that it has a waist and sleeve tightening feature, allowing me to adjust the fit to my preference.
In terms of durability, this jacket has held up well after multiple uses. It still looks brand new, and I have seen no wear or tear. The price was also very reasonable, especially considering the high quality of the product.
Overall, I am extremely satisfied with my purchase and highly recommend this rain jacket to other active individuals. It has proven to be a reliable and practical choice for keeping me dry during my runs."
Best Choice For Women
BALEAF Women's Cycling Running Rain Jackets Waterproof Windbreaker
Why It’s A Five-Star Choice
This windbreaker is an excellent choice for women who want to stay dry on their next run. It's waterproof, lightweight, and breathable. Plus, its packable hooded design makes it easy to fold up into your backpack when you're done using it.
The jacket has reflective strips on the front and back for extra visibility at night or in low-light conditions. The hood also has an adjustable drawstring, so you can tighten it up if necessary without the worry of anything getting caught in the cords.
The fabric is made from weather protection material—which means that even if raindrops form on top of your clothing during a workout session, they won't be able to pass through onto your skin!
Things That Are Good To Know
It is made of 100% polyester, which makes it lightweight, breathable, and durable. The jacket is also water-repellent to keep you dry while in the rain.
The zipper closure keeps everything secure so that you know everything will stay in place when the weather gets bad. This jacket is also packable! If you want to take this on your next trip and don’t have room in your suitcase or backpack, then fold it up and put it away until you need it again!
This product also comes with an elastic rope hood which allows for increased ventilation during those hot summer days or rainy nights without compromising style.
Fun Story From A Product User
One happy buyer wrote:
"As a 30-year-old woman who frequently runs and cycles in the rain, finding a reliable rain jacket is crucial. I recently purchased this rain jacket and have been extremely happy with my purchase.
First and foremost, the jacket is completely waterproof. I have worn it on multiple runs and bike rides in heavy rain and have remained completely dry. The material is also very lightweight, which is important for me as I tend to get hot when exercising.
The jacket allows for a good range of movement and doesn't restrict my arms or body. The deep pockets are a great feature, as they allow me to easily store my phone and other small items while on the go. The hood with a small visor is also a great addition, as it keeps the rain out of my face and off my glasses.
I have found the sizing to be accurate, as I was able to layer a sweater underneath the medium size jacket comfortably. The material is of good quality and has held up well after multiple uses. The price was also reasonable, especially considering the high performance of the jacket.
I think it's a great jacket and definitely recommend it to others."
Best Men’s Choice For Running And Cycling
BALEAF Men's Cycling Rain Jacket Waterproof Running Gear
Why It’s A Five-Star Choice
This is a lightweight, breathable rain jacket that protects from the elements. The fabric used for this jacket is soft yet lightweight and long-lasting. This rain jacket features an elastic cuff at the wrist to help keep out water if you're caught in a downpour or if it rains while you're on your bike ride.
There are two pockets on either side of this raincoat where you can store your cell phone or other items while out on your ride or run. The hood also has an adjustable drawstring so that you can tighten or loosen it depending on how much coverage you want over your head when riding in the rain.
Things That Are Good To Know
Don't be fooled by the low price tag. This jacket is designed with high-quality material that's both waterproof and non-staining. The slim fit makes it great for running or biking, but you can also wear it over your regular clothes if you're going to be out on a rainy day.
The hood folds into a pouch in the collar, which is especially useful if you're trying to stay dry while keeping your hair dry. In addition, there is one chest pocket where you can store things like keys and phones, so they're easily accessible when needed.
Fun Story From A Product User
A satisfied buyer said:
"Having a reliable rain jacket is important to me. That's why I was excited to try out this rain jacket, and I have to say that I am very impressed.
One thing that sets this jacket apart from others on the market is how it feels to wear. It is incredibly lightweight, perfect for those warmer rainy days when you don't want to feel weighed down. The material is also very breathable, which is a big plus as I tend to get hot when I'm active. The jacket allows for a good range of movement, and I never feel restricted when wearing it.
Another standout feature of this jacket is its waterproof capabilities. I have worn it in heavy rain and remained completely dry, even during extended periods of activity. The hood is also a great addition, as it fits snugly over my head and keeps the rain out of my face.
A great choice if you ask me!"
Best Women’s Choice For Running And Cycling
FitsT4 Women's Cycling Running Jackets
Why It’s A Five-Star Choice
If you're looking for a running rain jacket that will keep you dry and comfortable, consider the FitsT4 Women's Cycling Running Jackets. The breathable polyester fabric makes this jacket ideal for outdoor activities like running or cycling in the rain.
The jacket also features a full-length zip closure to ensure that you stay warm and dry. There are two pockets on either side of this rain coat where you can store your cell phone or other items while out on your ride or run.
Things That Are Good To Know
This is the perfect choice for the active woman who wants to stay dry without sacrificing style. This jacket is made from 100% polyester, so it's breathable and water-repellent. The design features a large hood that can be packed into the collar or pulled out for extra coverage.
The reflective logo makes you more visible on your commute. The hood also has an adjustable drawstring so that you can tighten or loosen it depending on how much coverage you want over your head when riding in the rain.
Fun Story From A Product User
A delighted user wrote:
"I recently purchased this rain jacket for a trip to the Pacific Northwest, and I was pleasantly surprised by its performance. The jacket is lightweight and easy to pack, yet it kept me dry during heavy downpours. I also appreciated the reflective striping on the front and back, which made me feel more visible when walking around in gloomy weather.
However, there are a few downsides to this jacket. First, the fit was a bit snug for my taste - I usually wear a medium, but I found the large to be more comfortable. Additionally, the hood doesn't have much adjustability, so it blew off my head in strong winds. Finally, the jacket doesn't have any sufficient ventilation, so I felt sweaty inside when walking for long periods of time.
All things considered, this is a good rain jacket for the price. It's not perfect, but it gets the job done, and I would recommend it to others."
Best Reflective Choice For High Visibility
Scollit Men’s Running Cycling Jackets Waterproof Hooded
Why It’s A Five-Star Choice
We have gone through many products, but the Scollit Men’s Running Cycling Jacket is still one of our top choices because of it's excellent features. If you are looking for a rain jacket that keeps you dry and comfortable during your running or cycling session, this is the one for you!
It has a fantastic design with its sleek reflective detail so that it will stay as bright as day even after continuous usage. The material used in making this jacket is 100% waterproof polyester which makes it durable yet lightweight.
Things That Are Good To Know
It is an ultra-lightweight, non-bulky rain jacket. It's made of water-resistant polyester fabric with a high breathability rating. The material also stretches to help you move freely during your run or ride.
The fit of this rain jacket is rather snug; it will keep out the wind and rain while allowing you to maintain a full range of motion during exercise on days when it rains hard.
Fun Story From A Product User
A satisfied customer said:
"With my buy, I'm pretty happy. I can quickly bring the jacket on any vacation because it is light and packable. Additionally, it is true to size and fits quite nicely.
The waterproofness of this garment is one of its best qualities. Even in a deluge, I was fully dry while wearing it. A major plus is how well the hood fits and stays put.
There are a few drawbacks to this jacket, though. First, it is not particularly breathable, so if you frequently become hot and perspire when wearing rain gear, this might not be the ideal choice for you. The pockets are also not particularly deep, so if you need to carry a lot of stuff, it could be difficult to find a place to put them.
I'm quite happy with this rain jacket overall. It is waterproof beyond my expectations and offers excellent value for the money. Without a doubt, I'd suggest it to others."
Best Running Rain Jacket FAQ
A waterproof jacket is a must-have for any runner, but it can be hard to find one that’s both functional and stylish. We’ve put together some of the most frequently asked questions about rain jackets so you can find the right one for your needs.
Do I need a rain jacket when I run?
Yes, it is a good idea to wear a rain jacket when you run. Not only will it protect you from inclement weather, but it can also help increase your performance. When running in cooler temperatures, having a layer of protective fabric between the elements and your body will help keep you warm and dry.
A rain jacket can be especially helpful for running in rainy conditions as it helps wick away sweat so that moisture doesn't get trapped against your skin and cause chafing or other discomforts.
Additionally, if the weather takes an unexpected turn for the worse while you are out on your run, having a rain jacket available gives you an extra layer of protection against wind chill or precipitation without ruining the rest of your clothes! It's always better to be prepared than caught off guard by suddenly bad weather while outdoors.
What are the benefits of running with a rain jacket?
Below, we'll discuss some of the benefits of wearing a waterproof jacket while running in inclement weather:
Safety
A good waterproof jacket will help keep you warm while shielding you from the elements. The added protection will also prevent water from leaking into your shoes or pants, which could lead to blisters or chafing.
Convenience
Running in a heavy rain storm can be challenging because it's hard to see where you're going when no streetlights or lights are coming from nearby buildings. But if your jacket has reflective properties (which many do), it will help drivers see you more clearly at night so they don't run over you accidentally.
Stay Dry and Comfortable
Running in the rain can be cold, uncomfortable, and even dangerous if you go outside without proper protection from the elements. A good quality rain jacket will keep you dry and comfortable as you exercise outdoors during bad weather conditions.
How do I know if a rain jacket is waterproof?
Waterproof fabric is a must for any rain jacket, and the best way to tell if a jacket has it is to check the jacket's care instructions. Waterproof fabrics are usually treated with a durable water-repellent (DWR) coating that repels water but allows it to bead up and roll off the fabric.
Some waterproof running jackets use more than one type of fabric. For example, some might use a waterproof outer shell and a breathable inner lining made from mesh or other porous materials. The waterproof material will protect you from outside moisture, while the porous material lets your body heat escape so you don't overheat.
How do I know if a rain jacket is breathable?
Knowing if a rain jacket is breathable is vital to ensure you stay comfortable and dry when out in the elements. To determine how breathable your rain jacket is, you should look at a few key factors.
First and foremost, look for what fabric the jacket is made from. Typically, jackets with a high content of polyester or nylon will provide excellent breathability due to their quick-drying properties and increased airflow permeability compared to other fabrics. A great example would be something like GORE-TEX or WINDSTOPPER technologies which allow for efficient moisture evaporation while still being water-repellent on the outside.
Second, consider any lining inside the garment, as this can significantly affect its overall breathability. Linings such as fleece add warmth but also reduce air circulation. In contrast, mesh linings usually increase ventilation while decreasing bulkiness, so keep this in mind when shopping for a new piece of outerwear.
Finally, pay attention to features such as ventilation zippers or underarm eyelets, which help improve airflow within those areas where it’s needed most—the arms and chest area that can become clammy during rigorous activity outdoors like hiking or running, for instance.
Having multiple adjustable drawcords around your waistline can further help tighten/loosen parts of your jacket depending on temperature conditions, which will ultimately ensure comfort level stays consistent throughout any outdoor activity adventure!
What is the difference between a rain jacket and a windbreaker?
A windbreaker is usually made of thin nylon or polyester and lined with synthetic insulation. These lightweight jackets typically come in bright colors so that other people can see you in low-visibility conditions. They are designed for mild winter weather, such as breezy days or rain showers, but not for snowy conditions.
A rain jacket is made from waterproof jacket material such as Gore-Tex or other equivalent materials. These jackets usually have a hood that can be cinched down tightly around your face and neck when it's raining hard, or there are high winds. Rain jackets are heavier than windbreakers because they are more insulated and often have multiple pockets on the arms and sides to store things like snacks and keys while you're out enjoying nature.
What Is The Best Running Rain Jacket For You?
Congratulations on taking the first step toward being a more prepared runner! We know it can be difficult to wade through all of the different product reviews, so hopefully, our research will help you make a more informed purchase.
The running rain jackets we’ve outlined above are all great choices that will serve you well whether you’re training for your next marathon or just going for a short run around the block. Click on the buttons above to check the price of the best running rain jackets and get started on your journey to being a better-equipped runner today!
