Last updated on January 1st, 2023 at 10:40 am
If you’re reading this, you’re likely a die-hard runner willing to brave the elements for a good run. Getting wet and cold can limit our performance, however, and prevent us from reaching our goals. To keep you dry on the trails we have put together a list of the best waterproof running jackets that actually keep you dry on a run.
Hopefully running more comfortably in the rain will allow you to stay focused on mile-splits and your stride.
The Best Waterproof Running Jackets Are...
With the above criteria in mind, and after comparing jackets on their ability to repel water, their weight, price, and comfort level, these three stood out as the best available:
The Best: Marmot Precip Lightweight Rain Jacket [Prevents overheating]
Second Best: Salomon S Lab 360 [Very Lightweight!]
Third Place: Marmot Precip Lightweight Rain Jacket [Best Budget!]
Check out the comparison table below to see what all six of our favorite waterproof running jackets look like when stacked up against each other.
Further down in this post we go into a lot more detail on our top jackets, so if you want to learn more about any specific one just keep scrolling.
Comparison Table of the 6 Best
To help you pick the right jacket, below is a chart that will help you compare our top six choices. You can check out more pictures, specs, and current pricing on Amazon or other retailer by clicking on the picture or the product name.
| Picture | Name / Link | Weight | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
 
|
Marmot Precip Rain Jacket | 10.34 oz | $$ |
 
|
Salomon S Lab 360 | 2.47 oz | $$$ |
 
|
Geek Lighting Running Raincoat | 8 oz | $$ |
 
|
Arc'teryx Norvan SL Hoody | 4.4 oz | $$$ |
 
|
The North Face Resolve Jacket | 16.1 oz | $$ |
 
|
Columbia Waterproof Rain Jacket | 14.4 oz | $+ |
It should be noted that the listed weights above are based on the average jacket size. If you get a larger or smaller jacket the weight will differ slightly.
That being said, the weights above provide a good basis for how heavy each option is relative to each other.
Specs On Our Winner: Marmot Precip Lightweight Rain Jacket
Breath-ability and overall weight are two of the most important factors when choosing a waterproof jacket for running. The Marmot Precip Lightweight Waterproof Jacket tops our list because it excels in both.
You Are Less Likely To Overheat With This Jacket
Our bodies produce a ton of heat when we’re running. This is why you often see runners wearing shorts during cold-weather runs… We get hot fast.
With waterproof jackets, you want to remain dry, while also limiting sweat. The Marmot Precip Jacket executes this perfectly with two main construction features:
- NanoPro Waterproofing Technology: This waterproofing technology is made up of extremely small and “densely packed pores” that keep water out, but are just large enough to allow the vapors to escape. This helps prevent the build-up of heat inside the jacket, which can help reduce sweating a bit. In other words, the helps you remain more comfortable.
- PitZips: This is exactly as it sounds. As heat and interior humidity build-up, there are literally zippers that can be undone to allow for air transfer from the inside of the jacket out.
These two features are what make the Marmot Precip Jacket perfect for rainy runs.
Constructed From Lightweight Material
The Marmot PreCip Running Jacket provides the lightweight construction you’ll need to maintain normal arm movement.
Running jackets need to be easy to move in. Bulky jackets that prevent natural movement just don’t work. You’ll run poorly, you’ll sweat, and you’ll be generally disappointed.
The extremely lightweight Nylon Ripstop construction put the entire jacket at just 10.34 oz… To put that into perspective, there are GPS watches that weigh more than that.
RELATED: Best GPS Watches for Trail Running | Own Any Single Track
With a sleek design and an incredibly lightweight construction, your running gait is less likely to change in this jacket.
Packs Down Easily And Compactly
Just because the jacket is lightweight doesn’t mean you will want to wear the jacket if the weather clears up.
If the storm dissipates mid-run, you could take it off and pack the ENTIRE JACKET down directly into the jacket’s pocket. You could finish the rest of your run with the packed down jacket in hand, or it could easily fit in a hydration running belt.
We have an entire post on the best hydration running belts for ultrarunning you can check out if you want to see what could hold a running jacket best.
Being able to pack down so easily (and quickly) has another perk: The hood on this jacket can be stowed away when not in-use. This is ideal when running because you may not want a hood bouncing around when its not being used.
Marmot PreCip Waterproofing Technology is Top Notch
We mentioned the NanoPro Waterproofing technology earlier in this post since it helps prevent overheating, but its main function is still waterproofing. Microscopic holes coated with a “patented dry-touch finish” provides a strong rain seal.
The other waterproofing technology that helps keep you dry in this coat is the seams. 100% of the seams in this jacket are taped. This taping prevents water from breaching the outer material where different segments of the jacket meet.
This Jacket Is NOT Made For Warmth
Remember that the primary purpose of this jacket is… being a waterproof jacket.
With this in mind, it is designed to be used to keep you dry. In addition to being a waterproof jacket, it is also primarily a running jacket. This means it will be designed so you can run in it, and run in it well.
These design attributes come at the sacrifice of warmth. In other words, the jacket keeps you dry and keeps you moving freely, but if you are needing to add layers for warmth, you should consider doing just that.
Add an additional long sleeve shirt, a fleece, or something else focused on warmth.
Marmot PreCip Rainjacket Pros and Cons
Marmot Lightweight Rainjacket PROS
- Lightweight
- Breathable
- Quality construction
- Trusted brand
Marmot Lightweight Rainjacket CONS
- More costly
What Runners Will Like This Waterproof Jacket?
This is our favorite waterproof jacket because it is a jacket TRULY made for people in motion. Whether running a 5k with mom, or hitting the Steamboat Springs 50 or 100 miler, this jacket will help keep you dry while also providing the most desired feature for any running jacket: The ability to run freely.
With waterproofing tech that touts breathability and an extremely lightweight design, we don’t feel many other jackets compile a wider range of attributes ideal for runners. If you are interested in a wet-weather running solution, but don’t want to sacrifice comfort this jacket needs to be on your shortlist. You can check out more specs, pictures, and current pricing on Amazon here: Marmot PreCip Lightweight Running Jacket.
Second Place: Salomon S Lab 360
Our second favorite is the Salomon S Lab 360. With an extreme lightweight of just 2.47 oz., this jacket is the lightest of all those we researched. This jacket will fit like a glove, won’t weigh you down, and is perfect if you don’t want to feel bulky or have extra material weighing you down.
This Jacket is Breathable
This jacket really checks off the breathability and durability claims.
With mesh built into the body, it will breathe quite well, while still keeping you dry from rain or sleet.
The Salomon Pertex Shield Waterproofing technology keeps you dry, but if you start getting a bit warm inside there is a solution. The jacket can unzip in the front but continue providing protection because of the connection tabs beneath. This really gives you the option to remain comfortable AND dry at the same time.
Tougher Construction Prevents Rips
This jacket provides valuable Ripstop protection in its construction. You’ll have more durability, which is specifically for jackets intending to keep water out.
For ultramarathoners or trail runners this jacket is the perfect answer to overhanging vegetation you might experience on singletrack. Just think of how many times a branch or thorn scraped your arm on the trail. Wouldn’t it be nice knowing that these small scrapes won’t damage the effectiveness of your waterproof jacket?
Extremely Lightweight Design
Like all shell jackets, the intent is to provide free movement and rain protection. With that in mind, you won’t be kept particularly warm in this jacket, but its 2.47 oz. weight will allow you to produce your own heat and energy because you will be able to move freely.
This jacket is definitely among the best for unrestricted free movement and a lightweight, nearly unnoticeable, feel.
Packs Down Easily and Quickly
If you’re running for any prolonged period of time you might run long enough to experience a change in weather. If the rain clouds disappear and the sun pops out, you may want to get rid of your waterproof exterior layer… and fast.
The Salomon S Lab 360 can be quickly rolled down into the waistband for storage on the go. This is perfect for ultrarunning, as it is not unlikely that you need to get rid of the layer.
Plenty of Space for Hydration Vests or Packs
For those planning to take on 30 to 100 miles, you will likely need some form of hydration running pack or belt. The Salomon S Lab 360 has been designed to provide a bit more space on your back for your hydration vest or pack.
While a little more space is provided in the back of the jacket its sleek design keeps the rest of the jacket fitting to your form. Having slightly more material on your back simply means you won’t feel constricted when you’re piling on the miles.
Salomon S Lab 360 Pros and Cons
Salomon S Lab 360 PROS
- Extremely lightweight
- Sleek fit
- Ripstop material guards against rips
- Reflective coating
Salomon S Lab 360 CONS
- Does not come with a hood
- Costly
What Runners Would Love The Salomon S Lab 360
The Salomon S Lab is likely best for long-distance runners wanting to maximize their ability to move freely through long distances. This could mean ultrarunning, or those just wanting to do some long-runs on the weekend.
Since the jacket is just 2.47 oz. your movement is not going to be impeded at all, and this is specifically beneficial the longer you’re running.
With a tighter form-fitting construction, this is likely more of a jacket for slimmer runners. That being said, it is available up to XL. With breathable material and Ripstop technology this is definitely a jacket that will keep you dry and comfortable. Check out more specs, pics, and current pricing on Amazon here: Salomon S Lab 360.
Third Place: Geek Lighting Waterproof Running Raincoat
For budget-conscious runners, the Geek Lighting Waterproof Running Raincoat is the best option. With many of the design elements found in more costly waterproof jackets, this is a great find.
Waterproof and With a Hood
Like many of the higher end waterproof jackets, the Geek Lighting raincoat is constructed with Ripstop nylon and waterproof exterior. Also worth noting is the seams and zippers are sealed to protect against leaking. This is huge for a budget option.
When it is raining you’ll be thankful if your running jacket comes with a hood. After all, having a drenched head can be distracting. A hood can also keep water out of your eyes making for a more enjoyable run altogether.
Durable With Ripstop Technology
Like many of the other best options out there, the Geek Lighting raincoat comes with Ripstop material. As you may expect, it makes rips, tear, and scratches less likely to break through the waterproof coating.
Durability should definitely be important for any runner looking to run singletrack or who want to ensure a long life to their jacket.
Fairly Lightweight Running Jacket
Weighing in at about 8 oz. this jacket is in the middle of the pack with regards to weight. But at nearly the lowest pricepoint out there it is still an impressively light rainproof option for nearly any runner.
Geek Lighting Waterproof Raincoat Pros and Cons
Geek Lighting Waterproof Raincoat PROS
- Affordable
- Sealed zippers and seams
- Many color options
Geek Lighting Waterproof Raincoat CONS
- No way to roll-up and store hood
Which Runners Will Love The Geek Lighting?
The Geek Lighting is ideal for almost any hobby runner doing short to middle distance runs. Constructed from the same Ripstop nylon used in higher-end jackets, and with sealed zippers and seams, there is real high-end value in this jacket for runners wanting to save a few dollars. You can check out more specs, pictures, and current pricing on Amazon here: Geek Lighting Waterproof Raincoat.
What Makes a Great Waterproof Running Jacket?
The whole point of wearing a jacket when you are running is to keep you dry from rain, sleet or snow.
At the same time, however, you don’t want to trap all of your sweat and body moisture between your skin and the inside of your jacket.
That’s why quality running rain coats usually all have some key attributes that make them most functional.
Attributes of a Good Waterproof Running Jacket
To compile our list for this post, we compared jackets designed for running that had these important attributes:
- Breathability: A good waterproof jacket will keep you dry without making you overheat and sweat underneath it. The highest quality running jackets take this into consideration to prevent you from overheating.
- Preserves Movement: An overly bulky jacket could change your gait and slow you down. A great running jacket isn’t overly bulky and helps preserve your standard motion.
- Durability: A good running jacket should be able to stand up to light scratches from bushes, tree branches, and more. This is specifically true for trail running.
- Weight: Since running jackets are intended to be used on, well… a run, they must be lightweight. If getting the waterproof elements adds significant weight or bulk to your jacket it is not going to be an ideal partner for maintaining your gait or stride. It may actually end up slowing you down; for this reason, the jacket weight is very important.
- Price: While there are some awesome waterproof options on the market, price absolutely needs to be a factor in selecting a running jacket.
Actually Being a Waterproof Jacket
There is an important distinction between jackets that are waterproof and water-resistant.
The most expensive jackets can be both waterproof and breathable, but you will pay for that combination.
Top companies, like Marmot, Salomon and Arc’teryx will deliver you a jacket that is actually waterproof; you can watch the water beading up on your sleeves.
But not all runners need that level of technology.
If you mostly run in conditions that are dry or relatively dry and only need a jacket occasionally, you can save a lot of money and potentially weight off the jacket by choosing a product that is water resistant.
With a water resistant product, the raindrops will not bead up your sleeve, but your skin won’t get drenched. Even better, water-resistant jackets are often more breathable.
A Running Jacket that Can Move With Your Body
One of the best things about running is the freedom, feeling unencumbered by any gear.
Most outdoor activities require you to haul something around, like a backpack, a bike, skis, something you need to actually do the activity.
But running lets you avoid all of that.
So, the last thing you want from a running jacket is to feel constricted or uncomfortable.
That’s why most of the running jackets you will find on the market are designed to be form-fitting.
Runners tend to like something that is not bulky.
The most popular running jackets, including those at the top of our list, are designed to be flexible in the most important areas, especially the arms and neck area.
That’s a great selling point about Ripstop material; it feels more like a soft-shell than it does a waterproof layer.
The more money you spend, the more comfortable and flexible your jacket will likely be.
The less expensive options may keep you dry, but it may feel you are running with a wet sheet on your body.
Picking a Great Jacket Will Keep You on The Trail in Rain
It can be really hard to muster the motivation to get outside for a run in wet conditions.
That’s how a good waterproof running jacket can actually change your life: With something that will keep you dry and comfortable, you will get outside more and rack up more miles even through the winter.
So don’t hesitate, grab one of these jackets, go outside and get moving.
Image Credit: Peter Mooney |(https://www.flickr.com/photos/peterm7/) | Attribution-ShareAlike 2.0 Generic (CC BY-SA 2.0)
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