When it comes to running, consistency is better than doing 100km one week and zero the next. But with the British weather being unpredictable and often very wet in the winter and spring months, some days you might need some extra motivation to lace up your trainers and get out the front door.
Investing in a waterproof jacket that keeps the rain off while allowing heat to escape as you run could mean the difference between sitting at home on the sofa waiting for the rain to pass, and enjoying the physical and mental benefits that follow cardio exercise in the great outdoors.
When shopping for a running jacket, look to see if it has a waterproof rating. A rating of up to 10K is enough to handle light to average rain for a short amount of time. Ratings between 10K and 15K can handle a moderate amount of rain for much longer, and jackets rated between 15K and 20K or higher are serious shells for heavy, intense rain over a prolonged period.
Other important factors to look for are reflective details – especially if you prefer to run in the early mornings or after sunset – and freedom of movement. Your core is under a lot of pressure to support the leg muscles when you run, so you need to have an ergonomically fitted jacket to be able to perform at your best, without restrictions.
It’s a bonus if the jacket has a good hood, too, so you can concentrate on the path ahead without rain getting into your eyes. Last but not least, make sure to pay attention to pockets. You’re going to need to carry your keys, might want to carry a phone and, if you’re running longer distances, you’ll also need space for gels or a banana.
How we tested
We tested a selection of waterproof jackets during light showers, misty rain and torrential downpours. Each was worn for a run of at least an hour, or around 10km, to fully test how breathable it was. At the end of each session, we finished with a sprint to check whether it could keep us dry and comfortable during interval sessions, as well as long, steady runs. We assessed the jackets on hoods, pockets, length, weight, freedom of movement and cost.
Jackets with lots of technical features, such as performance fabric and an ergonomic fit, can often cost upwards of £100. But bear in mind they are designed to last, so you will get a few years out of them, making it worth the expense if you have a race target in mind. That said, we’ve included some great waterproof jacket options that cost much less and still keep you dry.
The best women’s running jackets for 2023 are:
- Best waterproof running jacket overall – Proviz classic waterproof running jacket: £76.49, Provizsports.com
- Best waterproof running jacket for a flattering fit – Columbia women’s flash challenger windbreaker: £65, Columbiasportswear.co.uk
- Best waterproof running jacket for insulation – Lululemon down for it all jacket: £149, Lululemon.com
- Best waterproof running jacket for comfort – M&S goodmove waterproof zip up hooded jacket: £79, Marksandspencer.com
- Best waterproof running jacket for freedom of movement – Decathlon women’s waterproof windproof jacket – kiprun rain+: £69.99, Decathlon.co.uk
- Best waterproof running jacket for versatility – Tog 24 craven women’s waterproof packaway jacket: £37.50, Tog24.com
- Best waterproof running jacket for high performance – Castore women’s onyx prism lightweight windbreaker jacket: £210, Castore.com
- Best waterproof running jacket for keeping rain off the face – Asics accelerate waterproof 2.0 jacket: £158, Asics.com
- Best waterproof running jacket for being ultra-lightweight and breathable – On Running weather jacket: £190, On-running.com
- Best waterproof running jacket for value for money – Tu active black running jacket: £25, Sainsburys.co.uk