The 8 Best Winter Running Jackets to Make Cold-Weather Runs Bearable
From lightweight rain shells to heavy-duty insulated layers that can stand up to snow and wind, these jackets will keep you comfortable in the cold.
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In the heat of summer, the idea of running through a snowstorm might sound like heaven. But winter brings its own set of challenges, and we don’t just mean icy sidewalks and slick trails. Sticking to a training cycle (or just continuing to run) throughout winter means getting out for runs of varying intensity and distances in all sorts of weather. You need to be able to keep your body warm without overheating, and your layers need to insulate, protect from weather, and wick sweat.
Achieving the perfect balance of layers can feel like solving a college-level math equation, involving variables like temperature, run time, windchill, and cardio output. You’ll also have to factor in potential rain or snow, which requires a waterproof, breathable membrane so you don’t get soaked from precipitation or your own sweat. Getting it right takes some trial and error, which ultimately begins with finding a dependable winter running jacket. These are our top picks for the upcoming cold, dark days of winter.
Best Winter Running Jackets
- Most Flattering: lululemon Another Mile Jacket
- Durable, Lightweight Shell: Brooks High Point Waterproof Jacket
- Bonded Moisture-Repelling Material: Athleta Women’s Inlet Jacket
- Core Warmer: The North Face Core Winter Warm Jacket
- Weatherproof: Tracksmith NDO Jacket
The Expert: I am a Montana-based hiker, runner, and cyclist who gets outside in all seasons. This means running in a variety of sometimes terrible weather conditions. I rely on versatile layering to stay comfortable, and have tested lots of gear in the process. I’ve been testing outdoor apparel and gear for 10 years and have run and traveled for outdoor adventures all over the U.S., including some pretty frigid winters here in the Northern Rockies.
How to Dress for Winter Running
Winter weather can vary from day to day and region to region, so the best winter running jacket will depend on the conditions in which you expect to run. You'll also warm up as you move, so a good rule of thumb is to dress for temperatures 10 degrees warmer— including windchill—than the forecast.
If you’re planning to run through rain or precipitation, you’ll need a jacket that also repels water—look for DWR finish or a waterproof/breathable membrane. The winter running jackets we listed cover a range of winter weather, from below-freezing temps to sleet and snow, along with more moderate conditions and rain.
What to Consider in a Winter Running Jacket
Winter running jackets need to keep runners warm while being breathable for higher output runs, and they need to provide at least some weather protection. Runners often opt for a lightweight jacket on top of a base layer, or a vest paired with a base layer and weatherproof shell.
Even when it's wet or cold, many runners try to avoid wearing a bulky outer layer, but there are plenty of sleeker options that still provide warmth and weather protection. Look for a winter running jacket that keeps you warm and dry, allows movement, and has breathable fabric and insulation to avoid overheating.
Materials
Most winter running jackets are made from fleece, nylon, or polyester. Some might also include merino wool, which has natural wicking abilities and excellent temperature management. If you run cold, wearing an insulated jacket is a good option, but look for one with venting panels and synthetic insulation. If you heat up quickly, choose a thinner jacket, or one that can be taken off and tied around your waist mid-run.
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Weatherproofing and Insulation
Not all weatherproof properties are created equal. Water-resistant jackets (as opposed to waterproof) provide a lightweight, water-resistant layer, but won’t block downpours. Water-repellent jackets are treated with a durable water repellent (DWR) coating that makes it harder for rain to seep through. That coating loses effectiveness after about 20 washes, but you can spruce up an older DWR jacket with spray. A waterproof jacket is more expensive and often less breathable, but they are the gold standard for staying dry.
Some jackets with a tighter weave or special membrane will say “wind-resistant” or “windproof.” The tighter the weave, the less wind can cut through the jacket. Winter running jackets might also provide extra insulation from linings like fleece, wool, down, or a synthetic material, but too much insulation can cause you to overheat if you already run hot.
Hoods
It can be hard to find a hood that stays on when you start running. Cinched hoods (where you adjust the hood using a cord on the back of the head) struggle with staying in place. Hoods with drawstrings or a jacket with a high zipper tend to work better.
For us, a hood isn’t a deal breaker—if it works, great, if not, we’ll grab a hat. Because of this we don’t necessarily rule out jackets without a hood.
How We Evaluated
The winter running jackets in our roundup have been tested by Runner’s World writers, test editors, and professionals. We looked for varying fits that allow for layering without restricting range of motion, materials and insulation to suit a variety of conditions, and winter-ready weatherproofing. Each pick is judged on value, technical fabrics, comfort, warmth, and intended use. Heather Mayer Irvine, Caitlin Giddings and Michael Charboneau also contributed to these picks, as they wrote previous versions of this article.
Pros
- Warm
- Stylish
Cons
- Slim fit makes for limited layering
“When I tried on this jacket, I was surprised by how well cut and flattering it looked, compared to other boxy jackets (or, you know, ragged sweatshirts) I’ve worn to stay comfy when it’s cold outside,” said one tester.
The hemline hits right at the hip, with stretchy material on the sides and sleek, yet still incredibly warm, padding through the torso. And the sleeves—which feature thumb holes—end perfectly at the wrists.
Key Specs
| Estimated Temp Range | 10 to 30 degrees F |
|---|---|
| Weather Features | Water-repellent, windproof |
Pros
- Keeps out wind and rain
- Elasticized hood
Cons
- No pockets
This stretchy jacket is a combination of softshell and breathable rain layer, which makes it work well for rain and wind, but with a brushed face fabric that doesn’t feel crunchy. This is better for moderate-temperature winter runs, and can be paired with a vest and base layer for chillier days with wet snow or cold rain.
The four-way-stretch fabric is easy to move in, and the fitted hood doesn’t block your view when you turn your head. The cut is a bit short and we’d love to see some pockets, but overall this jacket is a great crummy-weather layer.
Key Specs
| Estimated Temp Range | 20 to 40 degrees F |
|---|---|
| Weather Features | Waterproof, windproof |
Pros
- Water repellent
- Wind resistant
- Zip pockets
Cons
- Women’s cut rises in the front
Although billed as a lightweight winter running jacket, users are impressed with how well this option provides warmth; some reviewers noted they're toasty in temps as low as 15 degrees. The slim fit may be a turn off for some or prevent adequate layering.
The jacket's DWR finish adds a water-repelling feature, allowing runners to withstand cold and wet conditions. Pockets with zippers help to keep your belongings secure and prevent them from falling out entirely.
Key Specs
| Estimated Temp Range | 15 to 35 degrees F |
|---|---|
| Weather Features | Insulated core, DWR finish |
Pros
- Insulated but not restrictive
- Removable hood
- Ample coverage
Cons
- Too warm for sunnier days
Though it’s stuffed with 800-fill down insulation, the Inlet is a standout for its coverage. Its water-resistant bonded nylon-spandex blend staves off the elements, while the long length blocks from the high collar down to the hem that reaches below the hips. The removable hood has adjustable toggles should you want to cinch it down against the wind. Thumbholes keep the sleeves secure and keep cool air from seeping in.
Key Specs
| Estimated Temp Range | 0 to 25 degrees F |
|---|---|
| Weather Features | Windproof, water-resistant |
Pros
- High-quality fabric and construction
- Two-way zipper
- Merino wool insulation
- No added bulk
Cons
- One of the most expensive running jackets on the market
Every season, Boston-based Tracksmith comes out with something new and exciting. Although some models run their course, the No Days Off (NDO) Collection has stood the test of time, particularly for runners who want to brave the elements no matter what.
The NDO jacket is billed as a “deep winter” running jacket, thanks to its merino wool lining for insulation, and water- and wind-repellent features. Tracksmith offers a number of pieces that provide exceptional warmth without added bulk, and this jacket is one of them.
Key Specs
| Estimated Temp Range | 20 to 35 degrees F |
|---|---|
| Weather Features | Two-way zipper for venting, wind- and water-repellent |
Pros
- Excellent breathability for an insulated layer
- Articulated patterning for full range of motion
Cons
- Overkill for runs over 20 degrees F
This is a great do-it-all jacket for runners who want an insulation layer that can hold up to backcountry ski tours, hikes, and other high-output winter activities. It has a streamlined fit that pairs well with an outer shell and a base layer, and it’s meant to be worn during activity, so the synthetic insulation is breathable and the wicking lining pulls moisture away as you heat up.
We recommend this for cold runs, as warmer temperatures will make this jacket feel like overkill.
Key Specs
| Estimated Temp Range | 0 to 20 degrees F |
|---|---|
| Weather Features | 40g synthetic insulation, DWR finish |
Pros
- Merino wool provides warmth without bulk
- Thumbholes
- Media cord-compatible
Cons
- No hood
This merino wool-lined jacket comes from Smartwool, a pioneer in wool-based performance gear. The lightweight jacket provides heavy-duty warmth thanks to the wool, which is found in the insulation and shell. And although a streamlined design, the Smartloft has myriad pockets: two zippered hand pockets, a zippered chest pocket with a media cord outlet, and two internal pockets.
A bonus is the jacket’s use of ZQ-certified merino wool, which guarantees environmental, social, and economic sustainability and promotes animal welfare.
Key Specs
| Estimated Temp Range | 25 to 40 degrees F |
|---|---|
| Weather Features | Merino wool lining, wind- and water-resistant body mapping |
Pros
- Underarm perforations for temperature regulation
- Abrasion-resistant outer material
Cons
- Only available direct-to-consumer
Known for smart design and weather-resistant comfort in the fastpacking world, Outdoor Vitals is quietly making some of the best active layers on the market. Since many of their layers are built for high-output backpacking, they’re remarkably odor-resistant, have durable fabric weaves, and dump heat without sacrificing core warmth.
The Venus Hoodie is a half-zip, synthetic-insulated jacket with underarm perforation and a deep hood for protection from driving snow and wind, and the drop tail doesn’t ride up. This is a stretchy jacket that protects during down time but has excellent temperature regulating properties during high-output runs.
Key Specs
| Estimated Temp Range | 20 to 45 degrees F |
|---|---|
| Weather Features | Body-mapped synthetic insulation, DWR finish |
Runner Heather Mayer Irvine Shares What to Wear on a Winter Run and Whether You Need a Weatherproof Jacket
At what temperature do you actually need a winter running jacket?
Like all things running—gear, nutrition, training plans—what works for one runner might not work for another. A good rule of thumb for determining what to wear while running is to add 10 degrees to the temperature because your body is going to warm up once you get moving. For example, if you head out and it’s 35 degrees, you’ll want to dress for about 45 degrees, which might be too warm for a jacket for some runners. Personal preference and body dynamics—do you prefer to be a little chilly or does your body have a hard time warming up—will factor in to whether you wear a jacket or not.
The elements will also play a role. If it’s 40 degrees with a windchill of 30 degrees, you’ll likely want that extra, wind-resistant layer. Or, if it’s raining and 50 degrees, you might want a water-resistant jacket.
What are the most important body parts to keep warm while running in the cold?
Over the years, we’ve learned that we don’t actually lose 50 percent of our body heat through our head, but keeping your noggin toasty will help mitigate heat loss, which is predicted to be about 10 percent for adults.
Warm running socks can help prevent frozen toes, which can be painful while pounding the pavement, and can help warm the rest of your body up. Finding a winter running jacket is a good way to keep your core warm, which, in turn, can help warm your extremities.
Should I invest in a weatherproof running jacket?
Even a simple jacket that has heavy-duty protection against the weather can cost a pretty penny. But if you’re an all-weather runner with big training plans in the winter months, staying warm and dry is priceless.
A good way to think about an investment of, say, $150 to $300 for a piece of running gear, is how much it will cost per run (shoes are another story because they won’t last as long as a jacket): If you spend $200 and wear the jacket for 20 winter runs, that’s just $10 per run. And if you properly care for that piece of gear, it can last for years.
Maggie Slepian is a full-time freelance writer in the outdoor industry and has tested gear professionally for almost ten years—she is an avid backpacker, trail runner, bikepacker, and horseback rider and has thru-hiked thousands of miles on the Appalachian, Colorado, and Ouachita trails, along with backcountry travel on terrain including coastal trails, the desert, and high alpine peaks. Maggie has written for New York Magazine, Huffington Post, REI, and Outside. She is a columnist with Backpacker Magazine and is the co-founder of BackpackingRoutes.com. Contact her at MaggieSlepian.com.
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