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  • 10 Best Rain Jackets for Running in 2022 (Personal Trainer-Reviewed) 1
  • 10 Best Rain Jackets for Running in 2022 (Personal Trainer-Reviewed) 2
  • 10 Best Rain Jackets for Running in 2022 (Personal Trainer-Reviewed) 3
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  • 10 Best Rain Jackets for Running in 2022 (Personal Trainer-Reviewed) 5

10 Best Rain Jackets for Running in 2022 (Personal Trainer-Reviewed)

Are you a die-hard runner, committed to getting a few miles in rain or shine? If so, your best friend will be a good rain jacket that is made specifically for running. This kind of jacket keeps you well-covered from the rain but doesn't hold you back with too much extra weight. But alas, of the gazillions of jackets to choose from, how do you know which one to add to your cart?


Well, that's what we're here for! After doing some digging, we found several tips to help you choose the best rain jacket to put on during a run with Mother Nature. Turns out, factors like weight and breathability play a big part in singling out the best jacket to wear on a run. Topping our list is Marmot's Lightweight Rain Jacket, which meets all six of our pointers and comes with ventilation! Check out our top 10 list to see our other choices, and read our buying guide to find out how to choose the best running rain jacket for your needs.

Last updated 09/26/2023
Gentry Washburn
Expert
Personal Trainer
Gentry Washburn

I am the manager and head personal trainer for a local fitness facility. I graduated from college with my bachelor's in Exercise Science and have been in the industry for the past 5 years since. I am super passionate about fitness and how our bodies work!

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Table of Contents

How to Choose Rain Jackets For Running

When it comes to picking out a rain jacket for running, here are a few things to help you narrow it down.

1

Look for Water- and Wind-Resistant Jackets

Look for Water- and Wind-Resistant Jackets

If you're going running in less-than-ideal running conditions, you'll want something that can keep you protected from the elements. When it comes to rain, a waterproof jacket works better than a water-resistant one. While a water-resistant jacket lets moisture in over time, a waterproof one keeps all liquids out. 


When it comes to wind, a windproof jacket will keep all that cool air out, while a wind-resistant jacket lets some air in over time. The more waterproof or windproof a jacket is, the less breathable it's likely to be, so consider the weather you're going to run in. Water- and wind-resistant jackets work better in hot weather. 

Gentry Washburn
Personal Trainer
Gentry Washburn

Not all rain jackets are built with the same level of water protection. Crazy, right? They can vary from waterproof, to water-resistant, to water-repellent. To break this all down, a fully waterproof jacket uses material that make it more resistant to moisture. Water-resistant jackets provide a thin layer between your body and the rain. This material may sometimes allow water to soak through depending on how long you are running for. 


With water-repellent jackets, you'll see water beads on the surface that can't easily penetrate. But, that doesn't mean that this jacket will hold up forever.

2

Choose a Jacket Made of Lightweight Material

Choose a Jacket Made of Lightweight Material

No one wants extra weight when out on a run (unless you're trying to build muscle). To make sure this uncomfortable and taxing problem is avoided, look for a rain jacket that is made of lightweight material.


Materials like cotton and wool aren't just absorbent, but they're also quite heavy. On the other hand, materials like nylon and polyester are light, and they can be waterproof too


If you're not sure whether or not it's going to rain, lightweight jackets come in handy as they're easy to pack. You can even wrap one around your waist and then just put it on when needed!

Gentry Washburn
Personal Trainer
Gentry Washburn

Choosing a lightweight material is essential, but rain jackets for runners range from lightweight to heavy-duty. This can depend on personal preference, though. For me, I like to keep the rain out, but I don't want to feel bogged down by a heavy-duty jacket. I want to feel cool and light while running as much as I can.

3

Pick a Jacket That is Adjustable

Pick a Jacket That is Adjustable

Though sizes help narrow down the right jacket for you, looking for one with adjustable features will help ensure a good fit. Because beauty comes in all shapes and sizes, an adjustable jacket will look tailor-made for you.


Drawstrings, elastics, and Velcro make it easy to fit perfectly into a new jacket. Plus, if you lend it to someone else, they'll have an easier time fitting into it as well. An adjustable hood won't fall off your head while you run in the rain, and adjustable cuffs will keep water from seeping into your wrists. 

Gentry Washburn
Personal Trainer
Gentry Washburn

An adjustable rain jacket is super convenient. Depending on the brand of the jacket that you purchase, there can be many adjustable features. Some features include Velcro cuffs for easy adjustment, a cinched waist and sleeves to keep out the cold, stand-up collars with stowaway hoods, taped seams to prevent leaking, and so much more!

4

Go for a Rain Jacket With Full Zipper Closure

Go for a Rain Jacket With Full Zipper Closure

A jacket will full zipper closure is easy to put on and take off. Aside from this, full zipper closure will wrap your entire torso with the waterproof material, preventing rain from seeping in. 


Another thing you might want to look out for is zippered pockets. Though most jackets have pockets, not all of them can be zipped up. If you're running with a few items on you, you want to make sure that they're kept safe and dry too!

5

Make Sure the Jacket is Breathable

Make Sure the Jacket is Breathable

Though you want to keep the rain out during a run, you also want to make sure that sweat doesn't get trapped inside your jacket. Breathability is a factor that measures how well a material allows body moisture to escape. This way, you're not holding in your sweat as you run!


There are specialized materials that allow for waterproof features and breathability at the same time. So, when it comes to rain jackets for running, you want to make sure the one you pick has both! If you can have the best of both worlds, why not, right?

Gentry Washburn
Personal Trainer
Gentry Washburn

A good rain jacket is great to keep the rain out, but sometimes they keep the heat in. A good quality running rain jacket allows breathability. This ensures that while it keeps the rain out, it will also release sweat vapors coming off your body. If this is a priority for you, look for a jacket that has vents in areas like the underarms, sides and midback.

6

Take the Outside Temperature into Account

Take the Outside Temperature into Account

Depending on the weather you run in, it can get pretty hot or pretty cold. Considering the temperature will help you narrow down which factors to look for in a jacket.


For example, if you plan to go for a run in hot weather, you want to look for a running jacket with breathability. However, if you plan to run in cold weather, you'll need something that can keep heat in to keep you from getting chilly. 

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10 Best Rain Jackets For Running Ranking

Here are the best Rain Jackets For Running, ranked according to 10 Best Rain Jackets for Running (as of 11-04-2022). The products are ranked independently by mybest.
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Price
Key features
1

Marmot

Precip Lightweight Rain Jacket

Marmot Precip Lightweight Rain Jacket 1

$70.43

High Mid

The Perfect Cover-Up for Light Rain

2

Baleaf

Men's Rain Jacket

Baleaf  Men's Rain Jacket 1

$19.99

Low

A Packable Jacket With Lots of Storage

3

Columbia

Women's Switchback III Rain Jacket

Columbia Women's Switchback III Rain Jacket 1

$41.66

Mid

An Easy-to-Pack Rain Jacket With a Stow-Away Hood

4

Charles River Apparel

Chatham Anorak

Charles River Apparel Chatham Anorak 1

$28.30

Low Mid

A Jacket for Cool and Windy Days

5

Columbia Men's Sportswear

Watertight II Rain Jacket

Columbia Men's Sportswear Watertight II Rain Jacket 1

$42.54

Mid

A Waterproof Jacket That Resists Stains

6

Champion

Men's Packable Jacket

Champion Men's Packable Jacket 1

$33.75

Mid

A Scuba Collar Protects Your Neck from Wind and Water

7

Naviskin

Men's Rain Jacket

Naviskin Men's Rain Jacket 1

$22.99

Low Mid

Lightweight and Ideal Option for Night Runs

8

Hount

Women's Lightweight Hooded Raincoat

Hount Women's Lightweight Hooded Raincoat 1

$24.99

Low Mid

Versatile Jacket for Multiple Activities and Travel

9

Frogg Toggs

Xtreme Lite Rain Jacket

Frogg Toggs Xtreme Lite Rain Jacket 1

$39.99

Mid

A Lightweight Yet Ultra-Warming Jacket

10

Under Armour

Women's Outrun the Storm Jacket

Under Armour Women's Outrun the Storm Jacket 1

$90.00

High

A Jacket That Keeps Your Hands Warm

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

MarmotPrecip Lightweight Rain Jacket

Precip Lightweight Rain Jacket 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$70.43
High Mid
Reference price
$70.43
High Mid

The Perfect Cover-Up for Light Rain

This rain jacket isn't just lightweight and waterproof, it's also really versatile. With an adjustable hood you can roll into a collar and extra Velcro sealing, you'll be completely protected from getting cold and wet. It's also equipped with PitZips that give your underarms some special ventilation. It comes in men's and women's sizes.


Reviewers fell head-over-heels in love with the adjustable hood since it prevents any unnecessary flapping. The subtle cooling effect of the underarm zippers was also a big plus on reviewer scoreboards. Some felt it was not waterproof enough for heavy rain, but most liked how lightweight it is and say it's perfect for travel.

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No.2

Baleaf Men's Rain Jacket

 Men's Rain Jacket 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$19.99
Low
Reference price
$19.99
Low

A Packable Jacket With Lots of Storage

If you're a runner who can't leave the house without a couple of things in tow, this just might be the jacket for you. Though it doesn't have full zipper closure, its storage compartments totally make up for it. Not only does this jacket have two zippered-up side pockets, but it also has a 7-inch back pocket!


Users love its packability too. The entire jacket folds into a pocket attached to the back, making it super easy to carry around. Some say it isn't as waterproof as they'd hoped, and others wish it was more breathable. Most say the sizing is true and recommend it as a jacket for warm, rainy weather.

No.3

ColumbiaWomen's Switchback III Rain Jacket

Women's Switchback III Rain Jacket 1
Source:amazon.com
Women's Switchback III Rain Jacket 2
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$41.66
Mid
Reference price
$41.66
Mid

An Easy-to-Pack Rain Jacket With a Stow-Away Hood

Going on a trip and planning to get a run in? This jacket comes with the perfect feature for you. With a front left pocket that can turn into a pouch, adding this to your suitcase is hassle-free! The stow-away hood is also a major plus since you can easily store it in one of the jacket pockets.


Some reviewers recommend that you wear something underneath if you want to keep warm since the jacket is made of such light, unlined material. Most say the fit and adjustability are good. It has ventilation as well, and many say it stays comfortable in hot weather.

No.4

Charles River ApparelChatham Anorak

Chatham Anorak 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$28.30
Low Mid
Reference price
$28.30
Low Mid

A Jacket for Cool and Windy Days

If you plan to go running in a particularly windy climate and you want to keep your neck warm, this jacket should do the trick. Though it doesn't have full zipper closure, the quarter zipper extends to the neck, so you can zip it up high enough to keep your upper area warm. It also has a jersey lining for warmth.


A few reviews say that the sizing of the jacket runs a bit large, but more say it runs small, so you may want to measure before picking out a size. Many love the inner cotton lining and say it's especially great to use in the fall. 

No.5

Columbia Men's SportswearWatertight II Rain Jacket

Reference price
$42.54
Mid

A Waterproof Jacket That Resists Stains

Some runs can get a little dirtier than others. This jacket has an anti-stain shield, which keeps moisture out and dries quickly. It also features an abrasion-resistant chin guard to keep the material from grazing against your chin while you run. 


There were reports of buyers receiving unauthentic products, so we've also included the official site. But most were happy with their purchase and like the mesh lining and adjustability. They also say it really is waterproof!

No.6

ChampionMen's Packable Jacket

Reference price
$33.75
Mid

A Scuba Collar Protects Your Neck from Wind and Water

This jacket's winning feature is its scuba collar. Because its half zipper can go all the way up to your chin just like a scuba suit, it's perfect for both wet and cold climates. Oh, and did we mention that it comes in both men's and women's sizes too?


It can also be packed into one of its front pockets, making it easy to take with you on a trip. A few reviewers think they were sent fake items, so use the official link if you're concerned with the seller's reputation. Most love the jacket, saying that it's even comfy enough to work out in! Many praise its wind-breaking feature too.

No.7

NaviskinMen's Rain Jacket

Men's Rain Jacket 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$22.99
Low Mid
Reference price
$22.99
Low Mid

Lightweight and Ideal Option for Night Runs

If you're one of those daredevils who likes going on night runs, this bad boy is the jacket for you. With reflective elements, you'll be more visible in low-lit areas. Also, it's super lightweight, weighing less than half a pound! 


Reviewers who took the jacket along to a super rainy climate were not disappointed! However, a few recommend that you wear an extra layer inside if you want to stay toasty since the jacket's made of light material. Though it keeps you dry, it needs some help when it comes to keeping you warm. 

No.8

HountWomen's Lightweight Hooded Raincoat

Women's Lightweight Hooded Raincoat 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$24.99
Low Mid
Reference price
$24.99
Low Mid

Versatile Jacket for Multiple Activities and Travel

This jacket's versatility makes it perfect for more than just running. You can use it for other outdoor activities like fishing and camping. Its long design gives extra coverage too, making it effective against both wind and rain. 


It also has a quick-drying feature, which makes it pretty easy to clean. Oh, and did we mention it comes with a cute little pouch too?


Reviewers especially love the item for its convenience. Because it fits so easily into its pouch, it's really easy to add to an overnight bag! While some reviewers have an issue with the sizing (particularly around the bust), others were happy with its performance against rain considering how lightweight it is. 

No.9

Frogg ToggsXtreme Lite Rain Jacket

Xtreme Lite Rain Jacket 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$39.99
Mid
Reference price
$39.99
Mid

A Lightweight Yet Ultra-Warming Jacket

Don't be fooled by this jacket's lightweight material. Reviewers love it for the warmth it provides, making it perfect for really cold weather. It comes with pretty handy adjustable features too, so it's easy to fit around yourself from the cuffs to the hem. It comes in both men's and women's sizes too.


Reviewers who tried using the jacket in heavy rains were not disappointed, but some say the seam taping could be improved. Because it's so waterproof, it's not as breathable as others. Some buyers use it as outerwear in the winter! Because of its ultra-lightweight feature, people love taking it along with them on trips.

No.10

Under ArmourWomen's Outrun the Storm Jacket

Women's Outrun the Storm Jacket 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$90.00
High
Reference price
$90.00
High

A Jacket That Keeps Your Hands Warm

This jacket doesn't leave your hands forgotten. With spacer cuffs that wrap snugly around your palms, your hands are kept warm while your fingers are left accessible. 


It comes with a zipped-up chest pocket too, perfect for stuffing in a few bills or even your phone. Some women note, however, that stuffing the chest pocket may result in an undesirably odd shape.


Reviewers love the front pockets because they go in deep. The flattering fit is a great plus too--own those curves, girl! But in case you're going for the loose, oversized look, you might want to consider double-checking the size you choose. 

Gentry's Recommended Rain Jacket for Running

Gentry Washburn
Personal Trainer
Gentry Washburn

I love Nike products and feel like they are reasonably priced for the most part, especially during a sale. This Nike Swoosh Pullover Jacket is awesome because if you're like me, you avoid full zippers at all costs. This is a lightweight jacket that propels water and even has a middle pocket, if you're a pocket kind of runner.

Frequently Asked Questions

Along with reviewing and commenting on our buying guide, Gentry also took the time to answer a commonly asked question.

What are some alternatives to running when it's raining?

Gentry says, "If you prefer not to get rained on while getting your workout in, you can always run inside on a treadmill. If you do not have a treadmill or access to one, another option would be to do a HIIT workout instead. You can burn as many calories (and even more) doing this on a rainy day instead."

Get an Extra Spring in Your Step With More Great Products

In Collaboration With Personal Trainer Gentry Washburn

Gentry Washburn
Personal Trainer
Gentry Washburn

This expert reviewed the contents of the buying guide for accuracy and provided factual corrections when necessary, as well as extra tips and advice. They did not participate in the product selection process, nor are they affiliated with any of our choices unless explicitly stated so.

Top 5 Rain Jackets For Running

No. 1: MarmotPrecip Lightweight Rain Jacket

No. 2: Baleaf Men's Rain Jacket

No. 3: ColumbiaWomen's Switchback III Rain Jacket

No. 4: Charles River ApparelChatham Anorak

No. 5: Columbia Men's SportswearWatertight II Rain Jacket

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The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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