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Are you one of those runners who refuse to let a little rain get in the way of your training? If so, then you know the importance of finding the best running rain jackets. Not only does a great running rain jacket keep you from feeling chilled to the bone, but you’ll enjoy the experience more!
Do you go for the most expensive jacket with all the bells and whistles, or do you opt for a budget-friendly option that gets the job done? And what features should you be looking for?
As a long time runner and running coach who trains in all kinds of weather conditions, I’ve tested out my fair share of rain running jackets.
So I’m going to help give you a breakdown on this pricey piece of gear. The good stuff does cost a lot, but I’ve also seen that my jackets are lasting me 10+ years with lots of usage and even wearing a pack frequently to rub and pull on the material.
Let’s dive in and find the perfect rain running jacket for you!
9 Best Running Rain Jackets
Running rain jackets have come such a long way in just the last few years. Creating things that have better breathability to really help you stay dry without overheating, which was a HUGE issue for me initially.
Here’s one thing you will quickly notice…waterproof is going to cost more than water repellent!
As always with gear like this, I think of it like a running watch that should last me years and years, not 500 miles like shoes. So get ready to go running in the rain!!
#1 On Running Weather Jacket (Water-resistant)
This has been one of my top recommended pieces of running gear for the last 5 years I think! It’s light enough to be worn through all the seasons and provides enough water resistance for a light rain (or snow!).
I’ve run in this jacket for hundreds and hundreds of miles with a hydration pack and even in hail! It’s been extremely durable for the light material.
The front pocket isn’t large, but you can squeeze a phone in to it and being snug enough that it won’t then bounce around while you run. So if you don’t pull your phone out much, this has been a great option for me on some wet days.
I’m not going to lie the price point feels high, as someone who watches dollars. BUT once I averaged it out over lasting years…totally worth it. 
#2 On Running Waterproof Anorak
Heading to London the forecast was very, very wet. So I realized that my water-repellent jacket might not fit the bill for long walks without ending up soggy and thus it was time to level up with the waterproof option.
Immediately you can tell the fabric is thicker and going to provide more protection. Again the thicker it gets, the warmer it feels to wear.
The toggle hood is easy to keep in place and the front pocket is super large so that you can pack this puppy away easily. Then you can toss it in your pack or back in your suitcase without it taking up hardly any space.
#3 Nathan Sports Protector Rain Jacket (Waterproof)
After finding out that a $20 rain jacket from Wal-Mart left David sweating like he was in a sauna, he gladly accepted this more breathable jacket! David declared this one of his favorite pieces of gear last year because it kept him warmer in winter months and dry.
This is not as lightweight as some of the others mentioned below and that’s reflected it in being about $100 less. It’s not a thick jacket like the Lulu mentioned below, but not an ultralight.
Regardless, it is going to keep you dry! It also has a vent along the back, to help release heat. I wear a hydration pack usually, so that blocks this vent…and doesn’t do me a ton of good.
The toggle hood made it easy to keep in place and the zipper front pocket is large enough to hold your phone! Or technically to pack the jacket in to, but for me that’s a lot like getting the sleeping bag back in a bag.
#4 HOKA Tecsky Waterproof Jacket
Looking at all of you that enjoy trail running because that’s who they thought about when creating this piece. The athlete who is going to be out there for hours and needs protection, but needs it to remain as light as possible to carry and wear!
They’ve kept the specs on this pretty light, but here’s what I know…their elite athletes are using it and that says a lot about both durability and being a great breathable material.
Light and packable, yet waterproof?? I’m freaking sold!
#5 Lululemon Mist Over Wind Jacket (Water-Resistant)
Probably one of the best rain jackets in terms of having a waist and not just a big boxy fit. For some of you that’s not a concern, but let’s be honest for some of you it absolutely is! You feel good when you look good!
This jacket will be similar to the On Weather jacket where it’s going to be great for a variety of seasons (though probably less ability to layer under this jacket). It’s not designed to keep you perfectly dry in the rain, but it’s going to do the job on a drizzly grey day.
I don’t find that the hood on this is going to stay in place as well. So it may be good to wear a hat, pull the hood over that and get a little friction to hold it in place.
You’ll also find hand pockets, which are not on many of the other jackets.
#6 Ultimate Direction Ultra Jacket (Waterproof)
At The Running Event this year one piece of gear that caught my eye and stuck with me was this jacket! It was so light, I couldn’t believe it fell in to the waterproof category.
They’ve also thought through so other key features, like the much larger cap on the hood. That means it will provide more protection for rain hitting the face and should stay put thanks to the toggles.
I’ll be taking it out for a run as soon as we have a wet day to update on feel while running, but having tried it on I was as noted impressed and quite excited! Like many others listed, it packs down really small, which makes this another winner for trail running or longer days where you may drop layers.
#7 Brooks Canopy Jacket (Water- Resistant)
All right, this one wins in the convenience space for me. Not only does it pack down, but then you could strap it across your body to carry. No more tying things to your waist and having them continually slip down your hips as you run!
Toggle chords on the hood will keep it in place and a snap means you can also roll it away so it’s not flapping around behind you if that’s bothersome.
I’d say this falls in line with the Nathan Jacket, where it’s not super thick like a winter jacket, but it’s not top of the line ultralightweight. It’s absolutely going to the job for most of us!
#8 Lululemon Cross Chill Jacket Shell (Waterproof)
If you live in the Northwest and find yourself running through a lot of very wet winter conditions, this might be a go to piece. It’s heavier than many of the other options and thus going to help keep you warmer in that very cold rain.
I like the zippered back pocket as a place to keep my phone. Because let’s be honest even if my phone is supposed to be ok in the rain, I’d rather not find out! Placed at the back in this slim fit jacket it’s not going to bounce around too much. Though I should note there is also a front chest pocket available for easier access.
Sleeves also have the thumbholes which help to keep them pulled all the way down on your arms.
Also a fan of the reflective pieces on this jacket and the cinchable hood, which I’d use along with a hat.
#9 Janji Rainrunner Pack Jacket 2.0 (waterproof)
If you need something that’s actually a tad thicker, but still really comfortable for running this is going to be your pick. Many of the ultra light jackets are great for seasonal runs in the 30’s or even 40’s, but if you run a bit cold or are dealing with even a shorter run in the rain where you don’t warm up as much something slightly thicker can be good.
It feels thicker because it’s fully laminated, but again, you will be dry!!
- $198
- Waterproof
- 2 colors
- Available on REI (right now you can find the previous version on sale!)
Arc’teryx used to have a SUPER light trail running jacket that is often recommended, but it wasn’t very durable. And at the price point, I think that’s why it’s no longer available on their site. They do have plenty of other top notch options, as do Patagonia and The North Face.
I definitely could have included more of those, but tried to keep the budget lower on as many of these as possible to give you some ideas of the best running jackets for the rain that won’t break the bank.
Just remember to make a conscious choice of waterproof fabric if you really want to be truly dry and not mostly protected.
Do You Need a Waterproof Running Jacket?
Super important to know if you buy a waterproof or water repellent (water resistant) jacket!! They are different.
A waterproof jacket is designed to completely block out water, even in heavy rain or snow.
It’s made with a specialized waterproof membrane or coating that prevents water from penetrating the fabric. This means that a waterproof jacket will keep you completely dry in wet conditions, but often is not as breathable as a water repellent jacket.
On the other hand, a water repellent running jacket is designed to repel water, but it is not completely waterproof.
It may be made with a durable water repellent (DWR) coating or a water-resistant fabric that can withstand light rain or drizzle, but it may not be effective in heavy rain. A water repellent jacket can be more breathable than a fully waterproof jacket, but it may not provide as much protection in wet conditions.
When deciding between a waterproof jacket and a water repellent running jacket, it’s important to consider the conditions you’ll be running in. If you live in an area with frequent heavy rain, a waterproof jacket may be the better choice. If you’re more likely to encounter light rain or drizzle, a water repellent jacket may be sufficient.
In either case, it’s important to look for a jacket with good ventilation options to prevent overheating and discomfort during your runs.
Common Waterproof Terms on Gear
Here are some of the common technology names you might see brands refer to:
- Gore-Tex: Gore-Tex is a popular waterproof and breathable fabric that is often used in outdoor apparel. It’s made up of a membrane with microscopic pores that are too small for water droplets to penetrate, but large enough to allow sweat to escape.
- eVent: eVent is another waterproof and breathable fabric that is commonly used in outdoor clothing. It uses a patented Direct Venting technology that allows moisture to escape while keeping water out.
- Pertex Shield: Pertex Shield is a waterproof and breathable fabric that uses a microporous coating to keep water out while allowing moisture to escape. It’s often used in lightweight rain running jackets due to its packability and durability.
- Polartec NeoShell: Polartec NeoShell is a waterproof and breathable fabric that is designed for high-performance outdoor activities. It uses a membrane with air-permeable technology that allows heat and moisture to escape while keeping rain out.
I hope this breakdown of running rain jackets gave you some insights on what to look for and what the different technology even means!
If you’ve got questions, we always love to hear them in the comments.
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