With the rainy seasons right around the corner, it’s about time that we all start finding our next best rain jacket. You should stay dry and warm, but that old cotton hoodie simply won’t do. It absorbs the water, which is quite the opposite of what you’re trying to achieve. Don’t worry though, we have a list that’s stacked with top of the line rain jackets to make sure that you’re prepared for the worst and dressed for the best.

Instead of asking you to do all the work yourself, we went ahead and put together this list after searching through every corner of the web. From countless article reviews to unboxing videos, we wanted to get the clearest perspective of each of them before they were rated near among the greatest valued jackets. If you’re in the market for a new one, check out our list below!

You might find it difficult to pick out which one is right for you. Look over the selection and follow our buyer’s guide and breakdown at the end if you have any further questions!

View The Best Rain Jacket Below

1. Columbia Men’s Glennaker Lake Front-Zip

Columbia Men's Glennaker Lake Front-Zip Rain Jacket

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First on the list is the Columbia Men’s Glennaker Lake Front-Zip Rain Jacket. Made up entirely of nylon, it’s great for keeping water from penetrating the lining. The whole point of a rain jacket is obviously to stay dry, making this jacket a top-notch solution for simplicity paired with longevity. Not to mention the high collar and hood that keeps you warm throughout the day.

Since jackets are such an important part of the style, we figured it’d be a good idea to break down a few of the options that are available to you. Boulder & Pine Green, Hyper Blue & Marine Blue, Fuse Green & Shark, and Delta & Black are just a handful of the wide variety that they have. Columbia always does a wonderful job at providing a unique twist to the appearance of their rain jackets.

The interior mesh lining is also a welcome addition to this coat because it promotes breathability through a material that might otherwise cause excess perspiration. It’s a softshell jacket, which allows you to move whichever way you want to without being restricted as you might be with other jackets.

Pros:
+ Includes a big selection of unique color combinations
+ Comes with a high collar and a hood to keep you warm
+ Uses nylon and mesh for a breathable, water-resistant mix

Why We Like It – We like this Columbia jacket because it meets the high standards that we’ve set for such a well-known brand. It’s comfortable, stylish, and fairly budget-friendly in exchange for a multi-year rain jacket for cycling, hiking, camping, and other activities.


2. The North Face Women’s Venture 2

The North Face Women's Venture 2 Jacket

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The North Face is another very well-trusted company that continues to find its way onto several of our lists thanks to the consistency in high-quality outdoor gear. Their Women’s Venture 2 Jacket looks fantastic with any outfit that you could put together due to the variety of solid colors. If you want a straight-to-the-point hiking rain gear, this is your match!

The aforementioned solid colors with the Venture 2 Jacket are Turquoise Blue, Fiery Red, Heather Grey, Four Leaf Clover Heather, as well as a plethora of other choices that you can view before purchasing. All colors come in plenty of sizes, ranging from Extra Small all the way to 3X Large. They even provide a sizing chart if you want to be exact.

This rain jacket for women uses a single zipper down the center to keep it closed, while an overlapping flap prevents wind and rain from entering. It also has a hood with a drawstring to let you adjust it, as well as two hand-warming pockets that double as small storage compartments for items you might bring with you.

Pros:
+ Crafted by one of the best brands in the outdoor industry
+ Simple solid colors to match with any outfit or wardrobe
+ Perfect for keeping out wind and rain, even in the worst scenarios

Why We Like It – We like this women’s rain jacket because it takes a minimalist approach which allows it to match with everything. You never know when it might rain, so having this lightweight jacket by North Face handy is a priority!


3. Columbia Men’s Watertight II Jacket

3. Columbia Men's Watertight II Jacket

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Another worthy option for people who enjoy Columbia products is the Men’s Watertight II Jacket. It fits much looser than other entries on the list, which might be of preference for people who don’t like the ultra-snug feeling when wearing a jacket. The 100% Polyester exterior is excellent at wicking moisture right off without letting in a drop.

The center zipper on this jacket goes right up to the chin on the collar. It’s reinforced with a series of Velcro patches to keep it shut, double-sealing it for rain or wind. You’ll also enjoy the drawstring hood that closes tightly to the face or loosely hanging depending on your personal preferences. Paired with the two side zipper pockets, you’ll have everything you need all in one product.

Other than the Columbia logo on the top-left chest area, these rain jackets use solid colors only. Your selection will include Rocket, Glacier Green, Mustard, Tapestry, and a wide range of other choices. The size chart is where things get interesting because they offer Small through XX-Large as well as multiple sizes for taller people.

Pros:
+ Comes with an array of water-proofing features
+ Includes quite a big selection of unique colors
+ You can choose from a massive range of sizes

Why We Like It – We really like this jacket because there’s something for everyone. Whether it’s a unique size or color, you’ll be able to find one that works for your everyday living situation without a doubt.


4. Gioberti Men’s Waterproof Rain Jacket

Gioberti Men's Waterproof Rain Jacket

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The Gioberti Men’s Waterproof Rain Jacket is a great alternative for people who are hiking on a budget, and who want a casual style coat without having to break the bank. Unique features like a drawstring waistline for body heat retention and a full mesh lining make it one of the best rain jackets that money can buy. Much like the previous jacket at number 3, this one is made out of polyester.

Zip up the jacket or leave it open for airflow, and you’ll also have the option of Velcro patching the collar on extra cold days. The hood comes with an adjustable drawstring as well, allowing you to prevent the rain from getting in. When you’re all done with it, you can pack it away in the provided mesh carrying bag.

The size choices include Small, Medium, Large, X-Large, and XX-Large, making it one of the biggest that we could find. For a closer match, try consulting their sizing chart before making your purchase. This jacket comes in Royal Blue, Black, Green, Orange, and a few other solid colors that all have a black interior.

Pros:
+ Much more budget-friendly without sacrificing durability
+ Includes a free mesh carrying bag with the purchase
+ Comes with a drawstring on the hood as well as the waistline hem

Why We Like It – We like this jacket by Gioberti because it’s very breathable, but it still manages to prevent any rain from getting in. The multiple drawstrings add a nice touch of customization to the mix as well.


5. Columbia Women’s Arcadia II Jacket

Columbia Women's Arcadia II Jacket

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We’ve all been had those days where you don’t know if it’s going to rain or stay dry and carrying around a big rain jacket from place to place isn’t always an option. However, the Columbia Women’s Arcadia II Jacket comes with a carrying bag, letting you pack it down into a small pouch to throw in your purse, car or hiking daypack.

It has an adjustable hem with a drawstring that tucks away so you don’t have to show it off all the time. The hood comes with a similar string, giving you complete control when you need it the most. Velcro straps on both wrists let you adjust the width, which is very useful for pairing it with gloves or simply keeping the cold out.

Using their provided sizing chart, you can determine whether you need X-Small, Small, Medium, Large, or X-Large. Once you’ve figured out what size you need, it’s time to figure out your favorite color from the available lot. Geyser, Blush Pink, Stormy Blue, and Purple Lotus are a few options, but there are plenty more.

Pros:
+ Comes with multiple adjustable features to fit as comfortably as possible
+ Includes a carrying bag to let you bring it around with ease
+ Choose from a few colors and a decent size range

Why We Like It – We like this jacket because it’s great for people who want to find a lightweight alternative for casual and emergency situations. Pack it up in the carry bag and leave it in your car for whenever you need it or match it up with your favorite outfit.


6. The North Face Men’s Resolve Jacket

The North Face Men's Resolve Jacket

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The North Face Men’s Resolve Jacket is the ultimate grab-and-go coat for any type of cold weather. Even when it’s not raining you can still wear it around thanks to the fact that the hood rolls up and tucks away behind the collar. It’s so thin that you’ll barely feel it there, but it’s completely waterproof when it’s in action.

Banded wrists give you top-quality rain protection while doubling as a great feature to keep your natural body heat inside. Although this jacket feels thin and lightweight, it’ll let you stay warmer than almost any other option you could find on the market. It even has Velcro patches as an additional layer of weatherproofing.

As with all other running rain jackets, the colors that you’ll find here are rather interesting. There are more than enough to choose from, such as Zion Orange, Tin Grey, Hyper Blue & Urban Navy, and Cargo Khaki. The sizes that you can pick out range from Extra Small all the way up to XXX-Large, so you won’t have an issue finding your fit.

Pros:
+ Made with lightweight, heavy-duty materials throughout the jacket
+ Includes a foldable rollaway hood that tucks into the collar
+ Comes with two side zipper pockets to keep your hands warm

Why We Like It – We like this North Face rain jacket because you can adjust it to your liking each time you go out. Whether it’s cold or pouring rain in every direction, you’ll be prepared when you’re wearing it.


7. Portwest Men’s Classic Rain Jacket (S440)

While it might be convenient to have banded wrists and hems on a coat, it’s not always practical for the situation. The Portwest Men’s Classic Rain Jacket is a loosely fit option that comes with open sleeves a drawstring for you to choose how you’d like the hem to sit. It’s perfect for boating, fishing, and so on.

One of the notable features on this jacket is the ventilated back. It’s important to let airflow come through any article of clothing to reduce sweating and bacterial buildup. This jacket has a mesh lining as well as a zippered front which allows you to stay dry and warm all day long. You can also use the drawstring on the hood to pull it closely or let it stay loose.

There are 6 colors all in all for you to pick out with the Portwest rain jacket. These options are Olive, Grey, Navy, Black, Orange, and Yellow. As you can probably see, they’re fairly simple and they don’t have any offsetting shades. Even the drawstrings and stitching are colored to perfectly match the jacket.

Pros:
+ Designed to fit comfortably loose on the collar and wrists
+ Choose from six different solid colors
+ Uses a mesh lining with a back vent to cool you off

Why We Like It – We like this rain jacket because it’s lightweight, breathable, and loose-fitting for people who don’t want that snug feeling. It also has elastic storm cuffs instead of a drawstring as an alternative.


8. Marmot PreCip Men’s Lightweight Waterproof Rain Jacket

Marmot PreCip Men's Lightweight Waterproof Rain Jacket

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Last but not least is the Marmot PreCip Men’s Lightweight Waterproof Rain Jacket. It’s definitely one of the most heavy-duty coats on the list, which a special layer of technology that lets the airflow out of it without allowing rain to permeate the exterior. You’ll even notice that it’s windproof for those stormy days.

The zipper in the center of this jacket goes all the way up to your chin, and it also has a Velcro patch to help double seal it at the top and a button to seal it at the bottom. All of the seams have a special tape that keeps it from allowing any water in, which is easily the biggest problem with the vast majority of rain jackets these days.

There’s a rain jacket for anyone who wants to get this Marmot coat since it comes in such a wide range of sizes. You can select from Small, Medium, Large, Extra Large, 2X-Large, and 3X-Large. The color variety has Green Lichen, Blue Sapphire, Mars Orange, and Black among all sorts of other unique choices.

Pros:
+ Comes with a unique triple-layered coating for waterproofing
+ Includes a massive color selection and a decent size range
+ Uses a button, a Velcro patch, and a zipper for security and comfort

Why We Like It – We like this jacket because it has all the comfortable properties of most of our list’s entries, as well as a few unique additions. The color selection is also a nice added touch for those who like to match it with their style.


Rain Jacket Buyers Guide

Now that you’ve been able to narrow down the seemingly endless selection of rain jackets on the internet, it’s time for you to choose which one you like the most. The truth is that the best rain jacket for one person could be disliked by another, which is why we ended up with so many.

If you’re trying to determine which one is meant for you, or you simply have a couple of questions about rain jackets in general, read on for our buyer’s guide and breakdown section.

What should you look for in a rain jacket?

Other than the obvious ‘to stay dry’ response, there are plenty of features to look out for on a rain jacket. For example, you might want to consider adjustable wrist cuffs, a drawstring hem, or side zipper pockets. Then there’s the possibility of having a hood, or one that tucks away when you’re not using it.

The final feature you should think about having is a carrying bag. Quite a few of our list’s rain jackets have bags that come with them, which is super convenient when you’re on the go.

How long does a rain jacket last?

Generally speaking, rain jackets last around 3 to 4 years they start to wear down. That being said, some of the options listed above work for 10 or more years with good care!

Expert Tip

Although rain jackets don’t absorb moisture, they can still have a little bit of rain left on them when you are done using it. You should always hang dry it when you finish up the day to prevent bacterial growth!

Did You Know?

Wearing a high-quality polyester rain jacket prevents any rain from coming through to you. You don’t really need an umbrella at that point, which saves you money in the end! Who knew it’d solve more than one problem?

Amazon Recommends:

Bestseller No. 1
Columbia Men's Watertight II Jacket, BLACK, Large
  • OMNI-TECH: Our proprietary technology provides air-permeable protection...
  • WATERPROOF AND BREATHABLE WINTER COAT: Made with advanced technology...
  • LIGHTWEIGHT AND PACKABLE: This versatile rain shell is so compact it can be...
Bestseller No. 2
Columbia Men's Glennaker Lake Rain Jacket, Mountain Red/Graphite,...
  • WATERPROOF TECHNOLOGY: You’ll love our Columbia Men's Glennaker Lake Rain...
  • COMPACT AND PACKABLE: A versatile waterproof jacket with an attached hood...
  • HANDY FEATURES: Featuring a convenient stow-away hood, zippered hand...
Bestseller No. 3
COOY Rain Coats (2 Pack) - Reusable EVA Rain Ponchos For Adults Rain...
  • SAFE & HIGH-QUALITY RAINCOAT: Made of 100% EVA, an environmentally friendly...
  • LIGHTWEIGHT COMPACT & REUSABLE: This transparent raincoat is lightweight,...
  • PERFECT FITS MOST Size:60" by 27.5" with a big drawstring hood, perfect...

 

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If you’re looking for the ten best running rain jackets, then you know that there can be times when bad weather conditions can get in the way of exercise. A good running rain jacket will protect you against the rain, without causing you to overheat.

Not only will it make running more pleasant, but the best running rain jackets will look good too. And the very best running rain jackets will protect you from more than just rain but wind and snow too.

Running rain jackets come in a huge range of styles and materials, with some more lightweight, and others thicker and more durable. To choose which one is best for you, then have a look at this list of the 10 best running rain jackets:

View The Best Running Rain Jackets Below

1. Marmot PreCip Men’s Lightweight Waterproof

Marmot PreCip Men's Lightweight Waterproof

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This 100% polyester running rain jacket by Marmot is lightweight, breathable, and also waterproof, all thanks to Marmot’s NanoPro coating. It has an adjustable hood that is attached to the rain jacket. And it also has a lined chin guard. It’s a stylish rain jacket that comes in several different colors.

It features ‘angel wing movement’, which means that the sleeves won’t ride up when you’re running, and it will remain comfortable and airy too. The hand pockets are zippered, and the jacket is easily portable, as it can be stuffed inside one of its pockets.

Pros:
+ Lightweight and breathable
+ Portable
+ Comfortable to wear while running
+ Completely waterproof
+ Trendy design

Why We Liked It – It has everything you need from a running rain jacket, as it is waterproof, lightweight, and the angel wing movement means that you’ll have a comfortable run too.


2. Baleaf Unisex Rain Jacket Packable

Baleaf Unisex Rain Jacket Packable

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This unisex running rain jacket has a hideaway hood, adjustable cuffs, and an internal drawcord hem. It is 100% nylon and offers excellent water resistance. In fact, the front zip and also the zippered side pocket entries are also both waterproof too.

The back pocket can be used for storage, and the coat can also be packed into it, which makes it a convenient, efficient coat that you can keep in your backpack until it starts raining, without it taking up too much space. To improve visibility, the logo is made of reflective material, handy for when those dark clouds start to gather.

Pros:
+ Unisex
+ Reflective logo
+ Portable and easily storable
+ Very affordable price
+ Water resistant material

Why We Liked It – This is a great running rain jacket that comes at a low price, but is waterproof and made from lightweight nylon.


3. Columbia Men’s EvaPOURation Rain Jacket

Columbia Men's EvaPOURation Rain Jacket

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It doesn’t matter if you’re in torrential rain or just a light shower, this running rain jacket from Columbia will keep you dry. This jacket is made from premium, high-end materials, ensuring that you have excellent waterproofing. It features advanced wicking technology that will keep you comfortable.

And the Omni-Tech proprietary technology assures that the jacket is breathable, so you won’t get over-heated on a long run. The underarm vents also help to keep you cool. The superior materials of this running rain jacket is made from are also very durable and long-lasting, so it’s a good long-term investment.

Pros:
+ Omni-Tech and underarm vents keep you cool
+ Top-quality materials
+ 100% waterproof
+ Packs down into its own pocket
+ Advanced evaporation technology quickly repels water

Why We Liked It – This is a top-of-the-range jacket that will make you completely forget the rain when you’re running, as it offers great temperature control, quick evaporation, and impenetrable waterproofing.


4. Columbia Men’s Glennaker Lake Front-Zip

Columbia Men's Glennaker Lake Front-Zip

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This is another great running rain jacket by Columbia that features their signature Omni-Tech fabric that provides excellent breathability. This jacket has a stowaway hood, as well as adjustable cuffs and hem. Besides water resistance, it gives great resistance against the wind, so would be well-suited to trail runners who find themselves exposed to strong winds.

It is, however, better suited to warmer conditions. The wicking fabric is lightweight, but it is also durable. The fit is versatile, as well as classic, so it should suit all different male body types. It is also machine washable.

Pros:
+ Offers great wind resistance
+ Very breathable
+ Stylish
+ Interior pocket
+ Zippered pockets

Why We Liked It – It’s a lightweight, rain resistant running jacket, that can also be worn as a windbreaker. The stylish design makes it versatile and wearable for more than just a run in the rain.


5. FISOUL Women’s Lightweight Jacket Packable

FISOUL Women's Lightweight Jacket Packable

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This 100% nylon running rain jacket from FISOUL is extremely lightweight. It won’t protect you just against rain and wind, though, as it also is UPF 40+, which means you’ll also be protected from the sun. It comes with a small carry pouch that it can be packed inside.

Because the material is so thin, then it dries extremely quickly once it has become wet. You can keep the jacket nice and tight to you because the hood and the hem have buckles and adjustable drawstrings. It has two front pockets, and it has a full frontal zip closure.

Pros:
+ Offers sun protection
+ Wafer thin material
+ Easily stowable
+ Rain and wind resistant
+ Affordable price

Why We Liked It – It’s a lightweight, water and wind resistant jacket for women that comes at a low price, and it will also give you protection against the sun.


6. Columbia Men’s Watertight II Jacket

Columbia Men's Watertight II Jacket

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As with all of Columbia’s running rain jackets on this list, the Watertight II is completely waterproof due to the Omni-Tech fabric, which is also breathable and helps regulate body temperature. It is machine washable. And it is also light as a feather, and as it can be packed into itself, then it is very easy to store.

It works well as a windbreaker. It’s perfectly suited to running because it won’t lock in the heat and make you uncomfortable, which is what you want when you’re out running. The rain just runs off it.

Pros:
+ Won’t make you overheat
+ Packable
+ Completely waterproof
+ Machine washable
+ Lightweight material

Why We Liked It – It’s another great example of a Columbia running rain jacket that is completely waterproof, offers excellent wind resistance, and keeps you cool.


7. Columbia Women’s Switchback II Jacket

Columbia Women's Switchback II Jacket

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This running rain jacket for women by Columbia features a back-venting system to ensure that you stay cool when you’re out running. It is lightweight, as it is made from nylon. The waterproof fabric also repels stains, which is always handy. The classic fit means that you’re offered good comfort, even when you are in motion.

It has a large stow-away hood, and the jacket can be packed into its pocket. Petite women will like the fit that it offers. The zipper also has an inside flap, which means that water cannot permeate the jacket through it.

Pros:
+ Very comfortable to wear while running
+ Large, water-resistant hood
+ Stain repellent fabric
+ Lightweight and packable
+ Fits well

Why We Liked It – When you’re looking for a running rain jacket, then it must be comfortable and cool when you’re exercising, and this jacket from Columbia is just that.


8. Columbia Women’s Arcadia II Waterproof Rain Jacket

Columbia Women's Arcadia II Waterproof Rain Jacket

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Columbia is a leader in the running rain jacket field. This is another great example of a lightweight jacket, that offers to waterproof because of the Omni-Tech membrane, as well as the fully sealed seams. The meshing inside will keep you cool. And the Velcro cuffs are easily adjustable. The zippered pockets are nice and roomy.

It will keep you dry when you’re out running, which is what you want. And if you are searching for quality, then Columbia guarantees it, even if it might cost slightly more than other running rain jackets on the market.

Pros:
+ Large pockets
+ Waterproof
+ High-quality materials
+ Adjustable cuffs and hem
+ Perfect as an outer layer

Why We Liked It – This jacket offers good water resistance, and is also comfortable to wear, as it doesn’t offer a tight fit, which also makes it ideal to wear in the winter over a few layers.


9. Marmot PreCip Women’s Lightweight Waterproof Rain Jacket

Marmot PreCip Women's Lightweight Waterproof Rain Jacket

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The outer shell of this running rain jacket from Marmot is made from MemBrain 100% polyester, so you get excellent protection from moderate rain. The NanoPro fabric will also offer decent protection against snow and wind. The hem has a drawstring and the cuffs are adjustable because of Velcro, which will prevent any leaks.

This jacket has good temperature control, so you shouldn’t get too overheated, nor too cold when out running in it. It also has a hood that can be rolled up and put into the collar when it isn’t being used.

Pros:
+ Stowable hood
+ Proofed against leaks
+ PitZips give good ventilation
+ Perfect for not just running, but skiing and hiking too
+ Can be stuffed into its own pocket

Why We Liked It – It is a high-quality running rain jacket that offers protection against more than just rain, which makes it versatile and useful for a number of activities.


10. Charles River Apparel Women’s New Englander Waterproof Rain Jacket

Charles River Apparel Women's New Englander Waterproof Rain Jacket

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This is a stylish looking running rain jacket that is made from 100% polyurethane. It won’t restrict your movement when out running because of the two-way front zipper. There is also a reflective stripe accent on the front and back which enhances visibility, something which is especially useful when running in the dark.

There are air vents under the arms, so you get good breathability, and the cuffs are adjustable with a hook and loop closure. There are also front-vented capes, which also help with breathability and air-flow circulation.

Pros:
+ Looks great
+ Lots of vents for breathability
+ Enhanced visibility
+ Fleece-lined pockets
+ Completely waterproof

Why We Liked It – This running rain jacket is contemporary and stylish in looks, while also lightweight and completely waterproof, which makes it a great investment.


Running Rain Jacket Buyers Guide

The very best running rain jackets will offer you a range of features that will ensure that you’re not just dry while you’re out on a run, but also keep you cool, be comfortable, and have added features, such as adjustable cuffs and hem. Before you choose your next running rain jacket, then consider these following features, and work out what is most important for you.

Waterproof

Obviously, a good running rain jacket will be waterproof. The level of waterproofing of fabric can be ascertained by something called the ‘Hydrostatic Head’. For a fabric to be classified as being waterproof, then it must be able to withstand a column of water that is 10m without the water leaking through.

Each manufacturer offers its own signature waterproofing membrane or material. Some work better than others. Make sure when you’re reading about the running rain jackets that they are waterproof, rather than simply water resistant. A running rain jacket that is waterproof will protect you against moderate and heavy rain, but it might come at a cost, as full waterproofing can sometimes lead to breathability issues. A water-resistant running rain jacket will protect you from light rains, but once the rain becomes heavier, you might find the water starting to leak through.

It isn’t simply the membrane or fabric that will give you a proper waterproof rain jacket. It is important that the zips are sealed too, and, preferably, they will have an inside flap behind the zipper to ensure that water will not permeate through it. An adjustable hem and adjustable cuffs are also important, as once tightened, they will also offer a seal that won’t allow rain to get underneath your jacket.

Breathability

If you’re out running, then there’s a good chance you’re going to be hot and sweaty. If you choose the wrong running rain jacket, then you will become overheated and uncomfortably sweaty, as all of the heat and moisture will be locked inside the running rain jacket.

To ensure that this doesn’t happen, then you must select a running rain jacket that has been designed for improved breathability. The inner mesh should be made from a light material, and the waterproof, outer shell material should also allow for temperature control.

Vents are extremely important for aiding breathability. Some running rain jackets will offer vents under your arms. Others will have vents in the back of the jacket. And some will have vents at the front, in the chest area. Vents will keep you cool when out on a long run.

If you’re looking for a running rain jacket that you wish to wear all year round, then choosing one with a decent number of vents will make sure you don’t get overheated, and will allow you to be able to enjoy your run, regardless of the rain.

Hood

A hood is integral to a good running rain jacket. Of course, if it is raining, then you’ll need a hood to protect your head and hair from the rain. Not all running rain jackets come with a hood, though, so make sure that the one that you choose does have one.

The hoods that you will find on running rain jackets will come in a variety of sizes, so make sure you’re buying a jacket that has a hood that will suit you. Ideally, the hood will also be adjustable thanks to a drawstring. This is especially useful in heavy rain.

Sometimes the hood will be either removable, or it can be folded and stored in the collar. These are both good features, as it means that you can use the jacket in other circumstances than running in the rain.

Stowable

A lot of the best running rain jackets can be folded and packed into one of their pockets. This is a handy feature, as it makes the jacket much more stowable. If you plan to take your running rain jacket with you on holiday, or like the idea of keeping it in your backpack, then this is a feature you should look out for.

Looks

As with every piece of clothing, even a functional one like a running rain jacket, you must choose one that you like the looks of. Running rain jackets come in a vast range of styles and fits. Don’t become too focused on the functionality of the jacket, as you also must choose something that suits you. These jackets are often very versatile, so having a running rain jacket that looks good on you, means that you can wear it on other occasions than just running.

Which is better Gore-Tex or Omni-Tech?

Gore-Tex is a durable material that offers excellent waterproofing. In fact, the water column that it withstands is 28m, which is incredible. It is also a breathable material too. It has a reputation as being one of the best fabrics for hard-wearing, high-performance clothing, that is often used for outdoor activities, such as hiking, skiing, and climbing.

Omni-Tech is also a waterproof material, which is used by Columbia. It has a water column of 10m, which means that it is completely waterproof. It is also breathable and light to wear. The biggest difference between the two is price. Gore-Tex products tend to be much, much more expensive compared with more affordable Omni-Tech products, but Omni-Tech fabric is waterproof and works very well for a running rain jacket.

What makes a comfortable running rain jacket?

Besides breathability, then it’s all about the fit. A classic fit will be slightly loose, so should allow for good freedom of movement while in motion. But the key is choosing the right size too. Anything that’s too small will be restrictive. If it’s too big, then you’ll also be uncomfortable. As long as the running rain jacket is made from a lightweight material, offers a good fit, is breathable, and the cuffs, hem, and hood are all adjustable, then you should be comfortable wearing it.

Are running rain jackets wind resistant too?

It depends on the jacket, but a lot of the best running rain jackets will also be wind resistant. In fact, the very best ones will also offer you protection against other elements, including sun and snow. It’s best choosing a rain jacket that acts as a windbreaker too, as that versatility will mean that you’ll get more use out of it.

Expert Tip

It cannot be understated how important it is that you select a running rain jacket that is breathable and is made from a material that will regulate your temperature. If you’re out running in the rain, then you want your jacket to protect you from it, but not at the cost of becoming overheated and uncomfortable. If you find yourself in this position, then you may be tempted to remove the jacket, which defeats the point of it.

Did you know?

The very first waterproof coat was created by Charles MacIntosh back in 1823. But the rubber it was made from was susceptible to heat and could become sticky in high temperatures. In the 1830s, vulcanized rubber was invented, and MacIntosh then used this new material for his coats, which turned them into the perfect solution to the problem of rain.

Conclusion

There are some amazing running rain jackets on the market. The very best of them offer full waterproofing made from a breathable material. They will have numerous breathable vents too, so you won’t get overheated while wearing them. A good hood is integral to protecting you from the rain when you’re out running. And to make sure that no water will leak in, then a sealed zip is also important, especially with a flap underneath it.

Another key element to keeping water out is the ability to adjust your hem and cuffs. The very last thing that you must always remember when you’re buying a new running rain jacket is that it should look good. Comfort is more than just how the jacket feels, but also how it looks.

Amazon Recommends:

Bestseller No. 1
BALEAF Men's Light Running Hiking Rain Jacket Waterproof with Hood...
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BALEAF Mens Cycling Rain Jacket Windbreaker Waterproof Running Gear...
  • Waterproof & Breathable: The men's rain jacket interior is laminated TPU...
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  • Handy Features: A versatile waterproof jacket with an attached hood to...
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Champion mens Packable - Solid Jacket, Black-549369, Large US
  • THE FIT - This unisex jacket has a standard fit that's perfect for...
  • THE FEEL - Made from a 2.8 oz. lightweight fabric blend with a slick, wind...
  • THE LOOK - Half-zip jacket with a bungee cord scuba-style hood, elastic...

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