Winter is fast approaching, and with it comes the rain. Lots and lots of rain. Make sure that your training plan isn’t thrown completely off track with a waterproof running jacket that keeps you dry and comfortable on every run.
When considering the best waterproof running jacket for you, you will look for a jacket that ticks all the right boxes. You’ll want a jacket that is not only water and wind resistant, but that is also breathable to let the moisture from your sweat out as you run. You will also want to think about hoods, pockets, and even whether it can be folded up and shoved into a pocket in a bag or another layer if the sun comes out.
Puff jackets look great, but aren’t a good choice for rainy runs!
There’s a lot to think about, so thankfully for you, we’ve reviewed the best selling jackets in the UK this year and put them through their paces. Based on fit, function, price and of course, style, we’ve narrowed it down to a short list. Here are our top 8 running jackets for women on the UK market today:
Reviews
Item 1: Nike waterproof running jacket
Keep on running even when the weather tries to keep you indoors with the Nike waterproof running jacket. This water repellent jacket features all the style you expect from Nike, and will keep you covered up and dry as you run in the rain.
The Nike jacket is a lightweight waterproof running jacket with a loose fit, so you won’t even know it is there. The fabric is 100% recycled polyester, with a zip all the way up to your chin to keep you warm, a hood to keep rain off your head, and a curved hem for extra coverage. Get the jacket in your usual size or the arms may come out a bit short.
Even though it is officially water resistant, it should keep you drier than that. Rain is simply not an excuse to skip your run – choose your best waterproof running jacket and head on out today!
- Lightweight waterproof running jacket
- Loose fit
- Made from 100% recycled polyester
- Water resistant
- Curved hem for extra coverage
Item 2: Time to Run Pace Spirit lightweight running jacket
It’s always Time to Run with this high visibility jacket. Even when it’s dark and gloomy out there, the 360 degree reflectivity will keep you visible and safe through the rain and on the trail.
This jacket is water resistant, windproof, and breathable to keep you cool and comfortable as you pick up speed. The mesh panelling on the back of the jacket allows the jacket to breathe, and is ideal if you run with a backpack. The lycra hem keeps air inside, and thumb loops keep your sleeves in place, your arms dry, and your hands warm!
The lockdown zip doesn’t have gaps to allow the wind and rain to get inside, and the hood is windproof to stay in place as you run. This jacket is also built for convenience- the hood rolls away when you don’t need it, and the jacket also has a pocket for your key or phone.
The fit is as expected, but if you like loose clothing when you run, go up a size. Especially if you want to pile on the layers underneath in the colder months. What are you waiting for? Don’t miss your time to run with this best waterproof running jacket.
- High visibility in gloomy weather
- Water resistant
- Wind resistant, roll away hood
- Breathable
- Comfortable fit
Item 3: Gregster lightweight rain jacket
This great value running jacket is the perfect companion for any UK run. It’s comfy and lightweight with a foldable hood for showery days, and it folds up into a pocket if it is dry and you don’t need a waterproof layer after all.
The Gregster lightweight rain jacket is made from 100% polyester. Mesh inserts in the sleeves make it breathable, and allows it to regulate moisture and dry quickly on the inside. Reflective inserts on the sleeves and lower back ensure that you are visible to cars on the road. The hood can be folded away when you don’t need it.
The jacket has three pockets each with zips so you can lock up your valuables dry and safe as you run.
Whether you prefer a sleek all-black look, or an orange that stands out, this coat will be with you wherever you run. Just choose a size larger than you normally wear if you will be wearing layers underneath, and off you go in your new best waterproof running jacket.
- Waterproof, lightweight rain jacket
- Mesh inserts for breathability
- Reflective bands for visibility in low light
- Packs into pocket when not needed
- Three zip-up pockets
Item 4: Under Armour Forefront rain jacket
Get out there for your run in any weather with the Under Armour Forefront rain jacket. The comfortable fit, and water repellent material mean that you will stay dry on every run. This jacket is made with Under Armour’s Storm technology which combines maximum dryness with breathability.
The jacket has two layers, a smooth outside, and a full mesh lining for added breathability which will also make this jacket slightly warmer than some others. But if you are planning to wear it with additional layers beneath, you may want to get it in a larger size.
Look good when you are out on the run with Under Armour’s best waterproof running jacket.
- Made with water repellent Storm technology
- Full mesh inner lining
- Comes in four great colours
- Comfortable hood
Item 5: Karrimor women’s running jacket
Stand out in the rain with this vibrant jacket from Karrimor. This jacket is made for maximum visibility in bright high visibility colours, and with reflective detailing on the sleeves and back so that you stay safe as you run in the gloom.
The Karrimor women’s running jacket is made from polyester, and features quick drying technology. It is lightweight and has a breathable back so you stay comfortable as you go. The two zipped pockets keep your valuables safe and dry as you go.
The only thing is it doesn’t have a hood, so don’t forget to wear a hat as you run.
Stand out and bring some brightness to a rainy day with this best waterproof running jacket!
- High visibility jacket with reflective detailing
- Lightweight running jacket
- Breathable back
- Quick dry technology
- Two zipped pockets
Item 6: Columbia Women’s Tapanga trail jacket
For the serious trail (and road) runners out there, this active fit jacket from Columbia has everything you need in a running jacket – lightweight, breathable, waterproof, and comfortable.
The Omni-Tech technology in the water-repellent fabric, and the heat-sealed seams make this jacket extremely waterproof without compromising on breathability. The adjustable rain hood, drawstring hem, and elasticated wrists mean that water can’t get in anywhere!
The coat is designed to be an active fit – it follows your form without being too tight, and aims to be comfortable as you run. The two external pockets, and one internal pocket will keep your valuables safe and dry as you go.
And finally, it folds up into its pocket so you can take it off and tuck it away without worrying about it. Rain, what rain? With this women’s waterproof running jacket you are covered and ready to go.
- Waterproof and breathable
- Folds into its own pocket
- Active fit
- Lightweight jacket
Item 7: Gore Wear R3 ladies jacket
Get out for your run in all weathers with this Gore Wear jacket. Made specially for runners and other active people, this women’s waterproof running jacket is comfortable, lightweight, and fully protective from the rain and the wet.
Made with GORE-TEX Active technology, this running jacket is waterproof, windproof, and extremely breathable. The adjustable hood won’t interfere with your peripheral vision, and the adjustable elastic waistband with a draw cord will hold the jacket in to prevent water and wind from going up the bottom of the jacket. It also has a full length front zipper which fastens securely at the top to prevent it from slipping.
The reflective stripes on the cuffs and logos make sure you can be seen in gloomy conditions, and the 2 front zipped pockets will keep your phone and keys safe and dry. The soft material moves with you and isn’t stiff and doesn’t rustle as you move.
The Gore Wear R3 jacket is expensive, but it is a best waterproof running jacket that will last you a long time, and is an investment you won’t regret.
- GORE-TEX Active technology
- Waterproof, windproof, and breathable
- Adjustable hood and waistband
- Soft, comfortable fabric
- Zipped pockets for valuables
Item 8: Abollria waterproof running jacket
If you are looking for a great value jacket, look no further than this lightweight waterproof running jacket from Abollria. It’s also available in a choice of colours, so you can get a jacket that suits your running personality.
This jacket is waterproof and wind resistant as well as breathable and quick drying. It has a mesh lining which adds a layer of protection while maintaining breathability. It is lightweight and thin enough to fold up into a pocket or small bag. The hood is fully adjustable so you can pull it tight around your face in wet and windy conditions to keep the rain out.
The jacket fits as expected with a light layer underneath, but if you plan to wear it with thicker layers underneath in the winter months, consider getting a bigger size to prevent it restricting your movement.
All that remains now is for you to decide on a colour. Decisions, decisions.
- Waterproof, wind resistant and breathable
- Full mesh lining
- Great choice of colours
- Lightweight and foldable
- Adjustable hood
What is in the best waterproof running jacket?
The best waterproof running jacket is one that keeps the wind and rain out as you run, without making you too hot and sweaty on the inside. When you run every gram of weight counts, so you will also want a lightweight waterproof running jacket. And if you are running in the UK where the weather can change from wet to dry and back to wet again in seconds, you will also want a waterproof running jacket that you can fold up and shove in a pocket when you don’t need it anymore.
What else is important in the best waterproof running jacket?
1) The hood. A good hood is adjustable so that you can pull it tight around your face, and will stay there even when the wind is howling. It is also important to get the hood in as close as you can so that it doesn’t disturb your peripheral vision.
2) Visibility. Many of us run along roads and busy paths where it is important that other people see us. One option is to wear a brightly coloured, high visibility jacket. But even if you prefer a waterproof running jacket in black, many come with reflective stripes on the front, back, and arms which will pick up the light from cars or streetlights in the gloom of the rain.
3) Pockets. You need somewhere safe and dry to keep your essential valuables as you run (think your phone, keys, and even some money, sweets, or bus pass!). The best running jacket will have zips and interior security pockets so you can feel safe and secure as you run.
You might also want to invest in a running backpack for longer runs.
What’s the difference between waterproof and water resistant?
The best waterproof running jackets come in lots of different grades of waterproof-ness.
Water-resistant means that it will stay dry inside during a very short shower, or very light rain. But if you are outside in heavy rain for a long time, you will most likely get wet inside your jacket too.
Water-repellent is when the jacket’s material is treated with a coating of some sort that will make it less likely to be penetrated by water. A water-repellent jacket is more likely to stay dry than a water-resistant one, but you may still get wet.
Waterproof means that the jacket is made from materials and in such a way that it won’t leak water even on a longer run or in heavier rain.
Our recommendations for the best waterproof running jacket
Best value women’s waterproof running jacket
The Time to Run Pace Spirit lightweight running jacket is a great value waterproof running jacket that has it all. It is water resistant, windproof, and breathable to keep you cool and comfortable as you run. It has a mesh back, lycra hem, and best of all, thumb loops to keep your hands warm in a sudden downpour. It has 360 degree reflectivity, and a pocket for your phone and key, giving you the secure feelings you need when running in the wet. And best of all, the name reminds you that it is always time to run.
Best waterproof running jacket
The Nike waterproof running jacket is made from 100% recycled polyester, so you can feel that you have done your bit for the environment every time you put it on. The jacket also contains all the style and quality you expect from Nike, making it a solid favourite for every runner.
Best waterproof running jacket overall
If you really, really need to make sure you will get out in the rain at every scheduled run, look no further than the Gore Wear R3 ladies jacket. This is our very best waterproof running jacket for women despite the heavy price tag because it has everything you need to keep you going. It is super waterproof, wind-resistant and breathable, it is soft and comfortable and designed to remain that way through your long runs no matter how wet it gets.
References:
https://www.nbcnews.com/better/health/6-tips-stay-fit-warm-winter-ncna944061
https://www.dynafit.com/en-us/trail-running-apparel
https://www.runnersworld.com/training/a20803133/what-to-wear/
Last update on 2024-04-08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
