They say you’ll know if you ever meet someone who’s run a marathon because they’ll tell you. But there’s another tell-tale sign that someone’s run a marathon, especially one of the World Marathon Majors: if they’re wearing one of the coveted marathon jackets.
We’re in New York to cover the race, and one thing stands above all else this weekend: everyone has a New York City Marathon finisher’s jacket. By Friday afternoon on day one of the expo, this year’s jacket had already nearly sold out, with just a few remaining in the variety of colours on offer this year. Most were extra large.
But this frenzy isn’t just a phenomenon in New York; marathon jackets have become an undeniable badge of honor for runners around the globe.
NYC vs. Boston: A New Rivalry in the Jacket World
The Boston Marathon jacket has long been a symbol of speed, grit, and, above all, qualification—it tells the world you’re fast enough to meet Boston’s infamous entry standards. It’s the ultimate flex at your local race, and of course, a seemingly mandatory part of Boston Marathon weekend. There’s a cult of the Boston jacket, with multiple-year finisher’s doing aftermarket embroilery jobs on the back, listing the year’s they’r run the race, and their finishing time for each. Vintage Boston jackets even now command hefty asking prices on eBay.
In recent years, however, the New York City Marathon jacket has also risen in popularity and is now nearly equally sought after, representing not only the challenge of running 26.2 miles but the rarity of getting into the race itself. With a lottery system that keeps hopefuls waiting for years, scoring a spot at NYC is almost as difficult as qualifying for Boston. For many, wearing the NYC jacket is a symbol you caught a lucky break (maybe consider buying a lottery ticket with that jacket, too) and is a rarity, making it a highly sought-after piece.
The Berlin Marathon jacket has also become a familiar sight on the streets of major races, and for good reason. As arguably one of the fastest Abbott World Marathon Majors (multiple world records have been set on the course), Berlin attracts runners who are chasing their best times. These jackets serve as a marker of a “major” accomplishment in the running world, and, like NYC, Berlin’s exclusivity means that every jacket is worn with pride by those lucky runners who toe the line each year.
In contrast to Boston’s classic look and Berlin’s structured style, the Chicago Marathon jacket offers a sportier, more relaxed vibe, often featuring a hood and designs by Nike. This year’s version blended athletic and lifestyle wear, making it a versatile choice for Chicago’s famously unpredictable autumn weather.
On the other side of the globe, the Tokyo Marathon jacket is known for being stylish, often incorporating unique colors and modern cuts reflective of Japanese fashion. Though it may not be as easily recognizable as Boston or New York, Tokyo’s jacket has become a sought-after item among dedicated marathoners who are ticking off each Major on their list in search of a six-star medal.
NYC’s 2024 Jacket Craze: Why It’s Selling Out So Fast
With so many runners sporting this year’s NYC jacket, it’s clear that demand is skyrocketing. The design and limited availability only add to the appeal (supply and demand, hello). NYC’s marathon is more than just a race; it’s a marathon steeped in the city’s energy and history, creating an atmosphere runners can’t find anywhere else. Sporting the NYC jacket isn’t just about saying you finished; it’s about saying you were part of one of the world’s biggest marathons.
For many runners, these jackets have transformed from memorabilia to must-have items that celebrate their achievement, endurance, and love for the sport.
