The best waterproof running jackets must be lightweight, completely water-resistant, and breathable. They also need to fit well and move with your body.
Breathability is measured by how much moisture (sweat) permeates through a square meter of fabric over 24 hours. Good values start at about 15,000 grams of water vapor.
Waterproof
The Higher State Stretch Waterproof Mountain Running Jacket is designed for various outdoor activities. It’s lightweight, breathable, and comfortable, with plenty of added features for everyday use.
Its waterproof rating is 5,000 mm, ideal for light to average precipitation. It’s also insulated, keeping you warm and cozy.
Using waterproof materials is essential in ensuring you’re protected during a run in the rain. A material needs to keep out a column of water 1000mm high without leaking and taped seams so that you don’t get wet around the seams.
The in-8 Protec Shell is Inov-8’s most challenging waterproof running jacket, and it’s perfect for long days out, multi-day races, or winter training in the harshest conditions the mountains can throw at you. It has a hydrostatic head of 15,000 and breathability of 20,000, weighs 115 grams, and folds neatly into its back pocket.
Breathable
Breathability is crucial in a running jacket, especially if you wear it for long distances. An excellent running jacket should be breathable enough to let air in and keep your body dry but not so breathable that it gets hot when you run.
This means you can wear your jacket when the weather is dreary and still be comfortable. The Higher State Stretch Waterproof Mountain Running Jacket is a great example of a jacket that offers excellent breathability and waterproof protection.
The jacket has pit zips to vent heat and a moisture-wicking liner, which helps keep your skin dry and your core temperature comfortable. It’s also incredibly lightweight and perfect for runners who want to run in the rain.
Another standout feature is the reflective design, which makes you visible in the dark and helps you avoid getting lost. This is particularly useful for trail runners, who may not be able to see cars if they’re running through the mountains at night.
Lightweight
The Higher State Stretch Waterproof Mountain Running Jacket is a lightweight garment designed to give you maximum freedom of movement during sports. This jacket also has a casual feel, making it an excellent choice for everyday wear.
The jacket is very light, weighing only 255g, and it packs down to a small parcel when compressed. This makes it ideal for fast runners who require lightweight gear.
It is also an excellent option for cold-weather running, as it keeps you warm even when it’s raining. It also has a hood that is easy to adjust.
This jacket also features a handy zipped shoulder pocket, convenient for carrying small items during the run. It’s highly waterproof, and its breathability ratings suit various races.
Comfortable
A jacket that is breathable and waterproof at the same time is a good option for those that want to run in the rain without getting wet. However, it is essential to remember that not all jackets are created equal.
Breathability is vital in a running jacket because it will keep you cool, reducing your sweat and making you less tired during your run. This will also help keep you regulated in terms of temperature so that you don’t overheat or get too cold and lose interest in running.
The Higher State Stretch Waterproof Mountain Running Jacket is a lightweight, windproof, and waterproof jacket that will help you to stay dry during long-distance runs in varying weather conditions. The jacket also features a hood that can be folded away when not needed, which is useful when running in windy conditions. There are also pockets for your phone and keys, which will come in handy during long-distance sessions.