A waterproof running jacket is an essential part of your gear and ensures you can continue to train even when the weather is bad.
There are lots of great jackets on the market designed for running in the rain, some for protecting you against passing showers, and some able to withstand a major deluge!
But it’s not always easy to know which type to go for, and some of the terminology used to describe waterproof clothing can be confusing.
So to make things easier, we’ve put together this simple guide to what to look for in waterproof running jackets.
It includes a look at the different levels of waterproofing available and other features you’ll need.
We’ve also included our top 9 jackets available right now and described who they are suitable for.
This will make it easier to pick the perfect jacket for staying dry on your next run.
Features to Look For in Waterproof Running Jackets
Obviously, the best waterproof running jackets should keep you dry when the heavens open – but just how much rain they can cope with depends on the type of protection they offer.
There are three main terms you’ll come across when reading the descriptions for waterproof clothing – water-resistant, water repellent, and waterproof!
A water-resistant jacket will protect you from a brief shower but isn’t designed for extended exposure to the rain. After a while, water will begin to soak through.
Your next best option would be a water-repellent jacket.
These are normally treated with a coating that’s pretty effective in keeping out water and you can usually see the raindrops roll right off.
A water-repellent jacket can cope with heavier, longer downpours but won’t be 100% waterproof.
There’s also a chance that the coating will wear off over time, although you can buy a spray-on waterproofing treatment and apply it yourself to extend the jacket’s life.
If you’re looking for some SERIOUS protection against the elements, then you’ll need a fully waterproof jacket. And if you’re a trail runner, then this would definitely be the best option for you.
In this guide, you’ll find everything from water-resistant to fully waterproof running jackets.
But you might want to check out our list of running jackets for heavy rain too, as these are specifically designed for the very wettest conditions.
All waterproof running jackets should be:
Adjustable
Looks for features like adjustable hems, cuffs, and hoods.
Being able to cinch them in will stop any water from seeping in and help keep out chilly drafts, too!
Breathable
Whilst some fully waterproof jackets do a great job at keeping out moisture, they may be just as effective at keeping it IN.
And this isn’t so good, as it means your runs may feel uncomfortably warm and sweaty.
The best waterproof running jackets are designed to avoid this, with features like vents, perforated areas, and moisture-wicking fabrics to keep you cool.
Easy to Pack
On longer runs, you’ll often want to bring along a waterproof jacket just as a precaution in case the weather turns.
That means it needs to be lightweight and easy to stow away, ideally taking up as little space as possible.
The 9 Best Waterproof Running Jackets
#1. Outdoor Research Helium Rain Jacket
– Abrasion-resistant, 2.5-layer construction, and a wide range of color options
– Best for trail running
Adjustable at the hem, hood, and cuffs for a snug fit, this lightweight jacket packs neatly into the pocket on the chest.
It comes with a carabiner loop and key clip to make it easy to carry and all the seams are taped to keep out leaks.
Made using Diamond Fuse technology for durability, this is one of the most heavy-duty running jackets in our guide.
Its combination of windproof, waterproof, and breathable membranes ensures you stay cool and dry, no matter what the weather might have to throw at you!
#2. Brooks Canopy Jacket
– Attached hood, thumbhole cuffs, and zippered hand pockets
– Best jacket for moderate conditions
Made from 100% recycled materials, this eco-friendly running jacket is ideal for breezy, showery days.
It has a couple of cool features, like secure pockets for your phone and the snaps at the front that allow you to lower the zipper but keep the jacket in place.
We also loved the hood that you can just roll up and snap out of the way when you don’t need it.
The woven DriLayer® Seal fabric does just what you need it to, keeping out chilly winds and moisture, but effectively venting excess heat.
#3. THE NORTH FACE Resolve 2 Hooded Rain Jacket
– Stowable hood, hook-and-loop closure storm flap, and a durable water-repellent finish
– Ideal for layering up
The Resolve is a jacket popular for its loose fit, which allows you to comfortably wear it over other layers on cold days.
With a storm flap over the zipper and taped seams to prevent moisture from seeping in, it uses DryVent™ technology to protect you from the elements and a mesh drop liner for breathability.
The secure hand pockets are useful for carrying your phone or a key, and the hood is designed to be easy to stow away.
It also has a cinch cord to tighten it, with another at the hem to ensure a snug fit.
#4. New Balance Impact Run Light Pack Jacket
– Durable ripstop shell, athletic fit, and elasticated cuffs
– Best lightweight waterproof running jackets
Don’t rely on this jacket from New Balance to keep you warm – it’s one of the thinnest jackets we tried!
But it’s also one of the lightest, meaning you can run in it for many miles without becoming drenched in sweat!
Our favorite feature, though, has to be the strap in the pocket.
This allows you to pack the jacket in on itself, then wear it like a running belt – perfect for those days when you’re just not sure what the weather has in store!
With a full-length zipper at the front and an attached hood, this jacket is water-resistant, meaning it’s best suited to light showers rather than real downpours.
#5. Gore WEAR Insulated Running Jacket, R5, Gore-TEX INFINIUM
– Highly water-repellent, 2 side-zippered pockets, and subtle reflective details
– Ideal for cold, wet conditions
This is one of the best waterproof running jackets in our guide for wintry weather and features POLARTEC ALPHA insulation to keep you cozy on the chilliest days.
Surprisingly low in weight, it feels comfortable and breathable, even whilst the long sleeves and close-fitting hood effectively keep out any moisture and cold drafts.
We’d recommend it for anything from light rain to short heavy showers – but we don’t think it would stand up well to prolonged use in a real downpour.
Admittedly, the price is eye-watering, yet this is reflected in the quality of the materials, especially the strong zipper that glides smoothly.
#6. MONTANE Minimus Men’s Stretch Ultra Jacket
– Water-repellent coating, tight seams, and articulated elbow darts for an ergonomic fit
– Versatile enough for a range of activities
Perfect for trail running, this light and breathable jacket packs down to a small size so it’s easy to stow.
As its name suggests, it has a minimal design to keep the weight down. But this doesn’t mean it’s lacking in features!
We loved details like the well-tailored hood, the zippered pockets (one with a cord exit point), and the internal storm guard behind the front zipper.
Constructed with a 2.5-layer Pertex Shield fabric, the Minimus features fully taped seams which give you great protection against wet weather.
It is also highly durable, and stretchy enough to allow for a good range of movement – ideal if you’d like to get more bang for your buck and use it for other activities besides running.
#7. MOMO OMM Kamleika Running Jacket
– 4 way stretch, water-resistant YKK Zip, and a tab away adjustable hood
– A good choice for all wet weather conditions
This is a highly waterproof running jacket that will provide reliable protection from even the hardest rain.
And it boasts a range of thoughtful design details that make it one of the most comfortable jackets in our guide!
These start with the fabric which is stretchy enough to provide great freedom of movement.
They also include a peaked hood for better weather protection and active cuffs that hold your wrists snugly without chafing.
The reflective detailing helps keep you safe in low light conditions and the pockets are zippered, so you know that whatever you bring along with you will stay safe.
Meanwhile, the zip garages throughout the jacket ensure the zips won’t irritate your skin as you train.
#8. Proviz REFLECT360 Reflective & Waterproof Outdoor Jacket
– Adjustable waistband, multiple pockets, and handy zip pulls for easy access
– Best reflective waterproof running jackets
From a brand known for its highly reflective clothing, this jacket features exceptionally shimmery fabric that incorporates millions of tiny glass beads.
The effect is pretty spectacular, making you highly visible when running at night or early in the morning.
It has a waterproof rating of 5,000 mm, meaning it’s ideal for light to average precipitation.
It also has a cozy micro-fleece lining and durable cuffs with hook and loop attachments.
These are great, as you can adjust them to fit you perfectly and protect yourself thoroughly from chilly wind and rain.
#9. Showers Pass Cloudburst Jacket
– Highly breathable, fully waterproof, and made with 4-way stretch fabric
– Our favorite waterproof running jackets
The problem with many waterproof jackets is that they can quickly cause you to overheat.
Not so with the Cloudburst from Showers Pass!
Not only is it capable of protecting you from hard rain and snow, but it is also one of the most breathable jackets we tried.
That’s because it uses eliteAIR material, made up of a waterproof membrane bonded between a face fabric and a moisture-wicking liner.
Its cuffs are partly elasticized and there is a double cinch cord at the waist, so you’re assured of a snug fit.
If only it had a hood it would be 100% perfect!
But if you’re a runner who prefers to run hood-free anyway, then you really can’t go wrong with this durable and high-quality jacket.
The Best Waterproof running jackets: Key Takeaways
There’s no reason to let unpredictable weather stop you from doing what you love best!
These waterproofing running jackets are designed to keep you dry and comfortable, whether you’re facing a drizzly shower on a gray day or need heavy-duty protection from driving rain.
When Is It Too Cold to Run Outside?
Most of us like to keep up with our training, whatever the weather!
But running in extremely cold conditions can be problematic, particularly if you have breathing issues or a very low percentage of body fat.
Find out more and read our tips for staying safe in our Guide to Cold Weather Running.
