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The Winners (Womens)
Best overall runner’s waterproof jacket:
GORE WEAR R7 ShakeDry Running Jacket (Amazon Link)
Best budget runner’s waterproof jacket: BALEAF Running Rain Jacket (Amazon Link)
Best looking waterproof running rain jacket: North Face Venture 2 (Amazon Link)
The Winners (Mens)
Best overall runner’s waterproof jacket:
GORE WEAR R7 ShakeDry Running Jacket (Amazon Link)
Best budget runner’s waterproof jacket: BALEAF Running Rain Jacket (Amazon Link)
Best looking waterproof running rain jacket: North Face Venture 2 (Amazon Link)
How We Reviewed The Rain Jackets
Before we jump into our reviews, we thought you’d be interested to know which categories we judged each of the jackets on.
#1 Water Resistance
This is the biggest factor. Ensuring the jackets are water-resistant enough to be an effective barrier for harsh rain is a must.
#2 Adjustable Hood
A detachable hood suits everyone in every circumstance. Adjustability and customization are huge advantages in our book.
#3 Outside Zippers
We want to see that any outside zippers are waterproof — or they have a waterproof flap covering them. This is essential to ensure you stay 100% dry during your run.
#4 Inside Pockets
These are typically designed to fit your keys, phone, and other valuables to shield them from the elements. A running jacket with inside pockets gets an A+ in our minds.
#5 The Fit
You need to be able to move. It’s important to have your full range of motion intact while you’re wearing the jacket.
#6 Breathability
There’s nothing worse than feeling your sweat stick to you while you run. Breathable jackets allow this moisture to escape, keeping you comfortable and rejuvenated.
#7 Packability
Chances are that you’re going to want to run while you’re away from home. Thus, an easily-packable jacket ensures you never leave home without it.
12 Best Waterproof Running Jackets
1. Gore Wear R7 ShakeDry Hooded Running Jacket
The GORE WEAR R7 ShakeDry jacket is one of — if not the — lightest waterproof running jacket on this list. At 120g, it’s almost like a second skin!
The packability is unmatchable. You can scrunch it up small enough to fit in your trouser pockets without compromising the insanely breathable fabric.
However, it’s important to note that its performance wavers when wearing a backpack. This is due to the lightweight, not-so-durable mesh fabric.
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What We Liked:
- Incredibly light and supremely breathable.
- Easy to throw in your gym bag or take on vacation (holiday).
- Jacket Dries almost immediately.
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What We Didn't Liked:
- Snug fit so buy a size larger if you need the room.
- Not durable if you wear a backpack over this jacket.
2. MARMOT PreCip Waterproof Jacket
Marmot used their all-new NanoPro jacket coating material in their PreCip waterproof jacket to make for a somewhat budget-friendly option.
The NanoPro fabric has a “superior microporous structure” according to Marmot that allows sweat to escape and air to flow. Thankfully, the fabric does not compromise movement and fits like a glove (except for the rather narrow cuffs).
Our favorite part is the outer underarm zips. This allows you to improve the airflow even more for those harder runs.
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What We Liked:
- Material is breathable.
- Lightweight.
- Underarm zips to help vent heat if necessary.
- Relatively simple to pack.
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What We Didn't Liked:
- Cuffs are rather narrow.
- No chest pocket.
3. Ultimate Direction Ultra Jacket V2
Ultimate Direction seemed emphasize features over comfort in their Ultra Jacket V2. The hood is thin yet, the waist is cinched, and there are hand covers to prevent frostbite and other unpleasant conditions.
Honestly, the hood itself is one of the reasons that the jacket made it onto our list in the first place! It can be tightened at the back and the front. Plus, the brim keeps the rain from hitting you straight in the face.
Unfortunately, the material doesn’t allow for much breathability so you will start to feel clammy and damp inside it after a while.
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What We Liked:
- Loaded with features.
- Waterproof.
- Packable.
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What We Didn't Liked:
- It's Rather Expensive.
- Little breathability.
4. Altra Wasatch Jacket
Altra’s jacket is a little different from the rest. Instead of having a plastic-esque lining, it provides a soft, comfortable innermost layer. Needless to say, you won’t feel like taking it off in a hurry!
While the outside sports the company’s newest technologically advanced water-resistant material, it is still breathable. You won’t have to suffer through the awful clammy feeling that comes with standard running jackets.
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What We Liked:
- Vents under the arms.
- Hood is cinchable.
- Outside zippers are fully sealed.
- Bottom hem can be cinched to tighten the jacket to your body.
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What We Didn't Liked:
- Jacket is a little on the heavy side.
5. Outdoor Research Helium II Jacket.
Consider this a hybrid of a light rain jacket and a windbreaker shirt. It has the packability of the latter, yet the water-resistant qualities of the former. Perfect not only for runners but also hikers, climbers, and cyclists!
The material isn’t as breathable as we’d like to see. However, the chest pocket is reversible so you can ensure all your belongings are stowed safely.
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What We Liked:
- Lightweight
- Easily packable.
- Hood design ensures good peripheral vision.
- Adequately weather-resistant.
- Secure pocket is reversible.
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What We Didn't Liked:
- Not the breathable jacket on the list.
- There is only one pocket.
- If you have a large head this jacket might not be for you.
6. ASICS Storm Shelter Jacket
The ASICS Storm Shelter jacket sports great detailing and even has a removable hood to suit anyone’s tastes.
There are hand underarm zips to aid airflow and help keep you cool during tough runs. The vent located in the back panel also helps the breathability.
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What We Liked:
- Fabulous detaiing
- Impressive at first sight.
- Sealed seams ensure weather-resistance and durability.
- Underarm zips to aid breathability and airflow.
- Back vents also help with air flow.
- Removable Hood.
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What We Didn't Liked:
- It has a snug/athletic fit so a larger size might be required.
- Reflective features aren't as good as some other jackets.
7. Brooks Canopy Jacket
Even though the Brooks Canopy jacket isn’t as breathable or weatherproof as other options, it is very comfortable and doesn’t restrict your movements.
The packable qualities make it exceptionally easy to take it with you and can be used for everyday wear too. We love the versatility.
If you’re a super-serious runner, then you should think about purchasing one of the others we’ve discussed. However, if your main issues are money, this is an okay option.
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What We Liked:
- Affordable.
- Comfortable material.
- Packed full of features and is extremely packable.
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What We Didn't Liked:
- Not as weather-proof as the other jacktes.
- Jacket is heavier than most on the list.
- Hood has trouble adjusting.
8. Nike Aeroshield Running Jacket
The Nike AeroShield jacket gives you both wind and rain protection — all while still maintaining supreme breathability. Although, the breathable aspects are zoned. In other words, the advanced technological material is used in the generally sweatiest regions of the jacket to reduce the cost.
The jacket has side pockets that are zipped and sealed to ensure your belongings (phone, keys, etc.) are kept safe from the natural elements.
Moreover, the pockets are lined with a breathable mesh which makes the whole garment a joy to wear — even when running in terrible hot or cold conditions.
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What We Liked:
- One of the most reflective of the jackets reviewed.
- Sturdy hood that does fall forward over the eyes.
- Vented neck.
- Comfortable while still capturing style.
- Material is softer than other waterproof jackets.
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What We Didn't Liked:
- Expensive (brand name costs money).
- Jacket is not the lightest on the list.
9. North Face Men's Venture 2 Waterproof Hooded Jacket
Granted, in awfully rough conditions, the Venture 2 doesn’t stand up to the challenge. You will likely become wet pretty quickly. However, in light rain, you’ll be bone dry.
Alongside this, the breathability levels aren’t awe-inspiring. But with that being said, there are lots of features to love.
The jacket has underarm zips to cool you down quickly and the packability is exceptional. It compresses effortlessly into a sack that can fit into your backpack or be clipped onto your waistband.
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What We Liked:
- Underarm zippers to help vent and control temperature.
- Decent price when you consider all the features.
- Hood is highly adjustable.
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What We Didn't Liked:
- In downpour rain conditions, it doesn't hold up as well as other waterproof jackets.
- If you don't like a slightly baggy fit, this jacket isn't for you.
10. Under Armour Launch 3.0 Storm Jacket.
The Under Armour Launch 3.0 Storm jacket lives up to its bold claims of “water-resistance and breathability”. The vent located at the back of the jacket improves the already-breathable qualities.
It’s made from a 4-way stretch elastane cross polyester material that ensures you can move freely while wearing it.
Moreover, there are a few print options to choose from. So, if you want to inject a bit of personality into your jacket, you’re in the right place.
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What We Liked:
- Back vent allows effective airflow.
- Comes in attractive print for added customization.
- 4-way stretch fabric ensures you get full range of motion.
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What We Didn't Liked:
- No zipped pockets.
11. Eddie Bauer Cloud Cap Stretch 2.0 Jacket.
The Cloud Cap Stretch 2.0 jacket by Eddie Bauer is a jacket with a bunch of versatility. Whether you’re running, cycle, or simply running errands, the laidback style won’t make you stand out from the crowd.
The hood doesn’t block peripheral vision, however, it’s rather small and doesn’t move when you twist your head. But the true-to-size overall fit and the multitude of vents make up for it!
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What We Liked:
- Great value for the price of the jacket with features included.
- Fit is true to size and doesn't restrict movement.
- Lots of vents to enhance breathability.
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What We Didn't Liked:
- Not the most durable of the jackets reviewed.
- Hand pockets get in the way of backpack straps.
- Hood is rather small.
12. BALEAF Waterproof Reflective Hooded Jacket
For those of you who go on light runs, this is great for you since it’s breathable enough for that.
With that being said, the reflective material works wonders for anyone who loves a nighttime excursion. Plus, it’s lightweight enough to scrunch into your back pocket!
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What We Liked:
- Great value for the price (best budget pick).
- Lightweight and easily packable.
- Back vents support airflow and breathability.
- Highly reflective for night runs and bike rides.
- Unique pocket on lower back of jacket.
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What We Didn't Liked:
- Not true to size. Order one size larger than normal.
- Slightly less breathable than other jackets reviewed.
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2 thoughts on “2022 Best Waterproof Running Jackets”