Best Running Jackets For Women 2023
Running jackets can help to keep you warm, dry and visible. We bring you what you need to know and pick five top options
Running jackets are essential pieces of gear, especially if you’re running throughout the seasons and in all weather conditions.
As well as the obvious benefit of helping to keep you shielded from the wind and rain, a good running jacket can also contribute to your safety by helping to make you more visible in low-light conditions, while also providing handy storage options for your items.
In this article, we’re going to bring you all of the key things to bear in mind when selecting a quality running jacket, and also bring you our pick of some of the best options on the market at the moment.
So, with the introductions out of the way, let’s begin taking a look at some of the main points to consider when shopping for a women’s running jacket.
Women’s Running Jackets – Things To Consider
There are a few things to bear in mind while you’re shopping for a running jacket. Here are some of the main points to consider while doing your research.
• Material – The material the jacket is made of is a key consideration to take into account. Most running jackets are made from synthetic materials that are designed to be waterproof and keep you feeling warm – but that are also lightweight and not movement-restricting. Many running jackets are made entirely from polyester, but you can check the product details before making a purchase.
(Photo: Adobe Stock)
• Visibility – If you run close to roads or in low light conditions, then choosing a running jacket featuring reflective materials in the design can help you to stay visible when it’s darker. Most running jackets have reflective materials built in on both sides to help keep you visible even when it’s getting dark. As well as looking for the reflective design elements that most good running jackets have these days, choosing a lighter-coloured design can help you to stay more visible when its darker.
• Zip Pockets And Hood – Having an extra set of zipped pockets while running is never a bad thing, so we recommend choosing a jacket which has some zip pockets so that you can easily stash away your phone, cards and keys. A hood is also a nice added bonus. A hood can keep you drier when it’s raining but can also keep your head shielded and warmer in colder conditions. We generally recommend going for a running jacket which has both a hood and zipped pockets.
• Colour and Style – There is no shortage of sports jackets out there. However, selecting a running-specific jacket will usually mean that it’s been specifically designed for the sport and therefore will not restrict the movement of your upper body while running. For this reason, it’s always better to go for a running-specific option rather than a generic sports or warm-up jacket. The colour and style of the running jacket you go for will ultimately come down to personal preference. That being said, if you tend to run in darker conditions, selecting a lighter-coloured jacket to provide added visibility is probably a wise choice.
(Photo: Adobe Stock)
• Brand – In this guide, we only featured jackets from well-known sportswear brands. However, it’s never a bad idea to do some of your own research into the companies and manufacturers behind the products to check that they have good reviews from customers. If you’re shopping online, it’s also important to check the returns and exchanges policies of the site you purchase from, so that you’ll know what to do if your jacket is the wrong size or if you decided to return it for another reason.
Best Running Jackets For Women 2023
So, now that we’ve take a look over some of the key things to think about when shopping for a women’s running jacket, it’s time to bring you our pick of five of the best options on the market at the moment.
1) Nike Shield Women’s Running Jacket
Where to buy: www.nike.com
(Photo: Nike)
The first jacket on our list is the Nike Shield Women’s Running Jacket. This is an excellent option if you’re looking for a good running jacket to help you take on the elements. As well as being designed to resist wind and rain, this jacket has some nice added features such as a knit balaclava built into the hood, and built-in knit mittens to help keep you warm in colder conditions. The jacket also features a hood, some reflective design elements and zip pockets so that you can store some small items while running. This machine-washable jacket also has a vent at the lower back to boost airflow and help prevent overheating.
2) Under Armour UA OutRun The Storm Jacket
Where to buy: www.underarmour.com
(Photo: Under Armour)
Next up is the UA OutRun The Storm Jacket from Under Armour. This is a highly water-resistant running jacket designed to help keep you dry even in rainy conditions (Under Armour describe it as “super water-resistant”). It features a four-way stretch material for ease of movement, has been designed to offer protection from the wind and has a back-vent construction to help boost airflow. This jacket features a hood, reflective design elements and zip pockets to help keep your items secure while running. It also features a right-side interior media pocket for your device.
3) Lululemon Mist Over Windbreaker
Where to buy: www.lululemon.com
(Photo: Lululemon)
Lululemon’s Mist Over Windbreaker has been specifically designed to bring you added comfort during your runs. It’s made from a four-way stretch material for optimal ease of movement and is constructed from a water-repellent material. It features a no-bounce loop to keep the hood in place while you’re not using it, and also has a zip side pockets with a hidden phone sleeve. This jacket has thumb holes on the sleeves and also has a large zippered back pocket for another storage option. It’s available in white plus a number of other colours to suit your taste.
4) Adidas Own The Run Hooded Windbreaker
Where to buy: www.adidas.com
(Photo: Adidas)
Next up is Adidas’ Own The Run Hooded Windbreaker. Adidas are one of the biggest sportswear brands in the world and they have a rich history in the sport of running. Their Own The Run Hooded Windbreaker is made from 100% recycled content and features a full-length zip at the front to make it easy to put it on and take it off. The hood features a drawcord for adjustability and the jacket has reflective details for visibility in low light. Built to be wind resistant and with zip pockets and a hood, this is a solid option if you’re looking for a straightforward running jacket made by a reputable brand.
5) New Balance Fast Flight Jacket (UK / Europe Only)
Where to buy: www.newbalance.com
(Photo: New Balance)
The final product on our list is New Balance’s Fast Flight running jacket, which at the time of writing is only available in the UK / Europe. New Balance are well-known for their quality range of running shoes and gear, and this jacket features water and wind-resistant technology to help keep you dry and warm. It has a relaxed fit which has been designed for comfort and ease, and features zippered hand pockets and long sleeves with elastic cuffs. It has a hood and features reflective logos as part of its bold block-coloured design.
Anything Else To Consider?
Be sure to carefully check the size guide provided by the brand you’re shopping from to ensure that your new running jacket will be a good fit. Most manufacturers offer detailed size guides on their official websites.
As mentioned above, it’s also a good idea to check the returns and exchanges policy of the site you’re shopping from so that you’ll know what to do if your jacket is not the right size or if you decide to return it for another reason.
We also recommend doing some of your own research before making a purchase, and that may include reading some product reviews online from other customers, or checking out other buying guides such as this one to help you make a decision.
(Photo: Adobe Stock)
If you’re specifically shopping for a women’s running jacket with zip pockets to hold your phone, be sure to check that they will be large enough to fit your device, as some side pockets are smaller and may not be able to house plus-sized smartphones.
Wrapping Things Up – Our Final Thoughts
So, that brings us to the end of our guide to the best running jackets for women. We’ve walked you through some of the key things to think about before shopping for a running jacket, including design points such as the material, pockets and visibility.
We’ve also picked out five of the best women’s running jacket options on the market at the moment. The Nike Shield Women’s Running Jacket is currently our top choice, but all of the jackets featured on this page are excellent options to help you brave the elements and keep achieving your running goals no matter the season.
