Running is perhaps the simplest, most intuitive form of exercise available. You simply need to get started and keep going.
Given the lockdowns of the past couple of years, it's unsurprising that running has become the go-to form of exercise for many of us. In 2010, just 2 million Brits ran at least once a week, but by 2020, that figure had trebled to 6 million. Though running's popularity spiked for obvious reasons, participation figures have remained higher than pre-pandemic levels.
Running is also one of the cheapest forms of exercise, in that you only really need a pair of running shoes. However, having the right kit can not only help you run further, but also reassure you in less appealing conditions.
That's where a great running jacket comes in; if you can invest in a lightweight, weatherproof, temperature-regulating jacket, it's going to make those chilly early morning runs feel more manageable.
Esquire Approves
Not all running jackets are created equal, as you’ll soon see.
The six jackets featured below bear the esteemed Esquire Approves logo, meaning they have been rigorously tested by our dedicated fitness testing team.
Our panel of 24 testers trialled a selection of running jackets on their outdoor pursuits. Each jacket was worn for at least three sessions, covering a range of paces, distances and weather conditions.
Our avid runners critiqued the jackets under the following categories:
Ease of use: Each jacket had to pass the official ‘easy to put on and take off’ test. It also had to remain comfortable mid-run, enabling our athletes to pick up the pace.
Design: Our panel rated each jacket's style, awarding points for aesthetic extras such as zipped pockets for your keys and reflective panels for late-night runs.
Performance: Our lab experts used a hydrostatic head machine to check how waterproof each jacket would be in a downpour. Our testers also ran in light showers and heavy rain to see how they performed in real life.
This super lightweight pull-on jacket had excellent wind- and waterproofing creds but no pockets, so our runners recommend it as a race day option. While it runs true to size, some of our guys found it quite snug, so opt for a thin base layer underneath. It also comes with a handy carry bag, perfect for camping trips and the like.
Inov8
Weighing in at just 100g, our panel rated this unisex jacket for its comfort and ease of wearing, with some folk saying they forgot they were even wearing it. Designed to withstand more than 15,000mm of rain in a 24-hour period, it scored 4/5 in our in-lab waterproofing testing. It's a solid choice if you’re going the distance, too, as testers felt they kept at a regulated temperature and didn’t get clammy. Nice.
Columbia
This jacket got high praise from our testing chaps, scoring a whopping 95/100. The minimalist design and comfort of wear, even during speed sessions, were just some of the reasons this got such rave reviews. Keep this one stashed in the wardrobe until we have warmer weather, however; testers reported that thick base layers were noticeable under the jacket’s uber-thin material.
If you’re a keen hiker, cyclist and runner, then this jacket – designed to protect in harsh mountain weather conditions – could be a sound investment, according to our testers. With a hood that entirely wraps around your head and enough give in the material to allow for layering up underneath, it means business when it comes to battling the elements. Thumbs up from our testers for the handy thumb slots for added all-weather protection, too.
While this colourful jacket comes up large (one tester described themselves as looking like Kenny from South Park – not necessarily a bad thing), it has velcro straps and an adjustable hood which can be fitted tighter to your body. Got a casual ride or hike coming up, then this has you covered. For anything more high intensity, move along – our panels found they overheated pretty quickly.
This high-vis number would be the perfect jacket to throw on if you’re heading out into light April showers for a short and snappy jog or cycle. While it scored 4/5 in our waterproof lab testing, it’s not as effective as other models. Our runners rated the adjustable waist toggles highly, enabling the jacket to be tightened to the torso (its larger size created billowing for some of our runners). If you're running longer distances, this might not be the jacket for the job, as some of our testers found it lacking in breathability.
Esquire Editors' Picks
Our Esquire editors have also pulled together an edit of their eight favourite running jackets, at a range of price points. So now it's just down to you to get running.
District Vision
One for those that need a little avant-garde energy in their kit, this woven jacket by District Vision is constructed from recycled, water-repellent fabric. The woven panel isn't just for looks, though, as the extra layers will insulate your chest on those cold-weather runs.
Nike
Designed for blustery days, Nike has consulted its team of trail runners to design this windproof, water-resistant jacket. It has a vented hood for better breathability, and even built-in mittens.
Patagonia
You simply cannot go wrong with Patagonia, and this weatherproof jacket is cut from 100% recycled nylon. It packs down into a little pouch, too, so you can easily carry it when the sun comes out.
Salomon
Salomon's Bonatti jacket is packed with useful features. It uses Advance Skin Shield to improve comfort, a durable water repellent treatment (that lasts longer) and is tailored to allow for maximum range of movement.
Arc'Teryx
One of the leaders in technical sportswear innovation, Arc'Teryx is the brand for those that need their kit to deliver, without fail. The Trino SL jacket is cute from Gore-Tex Infinium fabric designed to deal with wind, light snow and cold drizzle.
Soar
This yellow Soar Ultra 4.0 jacket has been crafted with a stretch fabric to a relaxed fit. Breathable and waterproof, the DWR coating has been pre-treated with plasma etching to increase its durability.
Asics
A brilliant option for those that prefer to run at night, Asics' jacket is equipped with Lite-Show reflectivity for maximum visibility in low-light conditions.
Satisfy
Water repellent and cut for improved range of movement, Satisfy's packable windbreaker is woven with aluminium to radiate heat when you're on the move.
