It took me a while to come around to waterproof running jackets. So many options offer decent waterproofing, but at the cost of sacrificing an unacceptable amount of breathability. You might be avoiding rain, but after a few high intensity KMs, you'll still end up roasting in your own juices like a supermarket bag chicken. No good.
Thankfully, after plenty of testing over the 2024/25 winter period, I've managed to select a handful of running jackets that are actually a pleasure to wear. My criteria was understandably tough - each jacket needs to be comfortable in a wide range of conditions, breathable during the high intensity exercise, durably constructed, and cost less than a four bedroom house in with an outdoor yoga-lates studio.
Let's not get it twisted, despite my disdain for most waterproofs on the market, a good running jacket is still an essential piece of kit for any runner – especially if you like going off road. Not only will they protect you from harsh rain and winds, but they'll also provide a sometimes-well-needed bramble barrier which can be a godsend during an arm-flailing descent down a particularly wild trail.
Also, having a nice running jacket on standby has been a crucial factor when it comes to simply getting my ass out the door in recent months. That extra warmth and insurance against a turn in the weather gives me a confidence boost when I'm hitting the trails in winter – here's hoping we can do the same for you.
How we tested these women's running jackets
These jacket's were tried and tested by Lily Canter, one of LFTO's top reviewers of women's running gear. She's already taken the best women's trail running shoes to task, and now she's appraising the top jackets on the market today.
Lily founded women’s running club Great Bowden Runners. As a qualified England Athletics running coach, she loves nothing more than seeing women achieving their running goals. Many of these jackets were tested during stormy evening club runs, while others were used across long snowy winter training sessions and even the odd trail race.
Discover more about our methodology at our How we test page.
The best running jackets for women at a glance
Best in test: Montane Minimus Lite
Best value: Patagonia Stash Houdini
Best for breathability: Janji Rainrunner
Best for racing: Compressport Hurricane
Editor's note:
This article was last updated on 17/01/25. In addition to the six core jackets that Lily has tested, we've also included two jackets that stood out to us as the best of last year's crop. They're still available at a discounted price, so move quick!
What are the best running jackets for women?
The Montane Minimus Lite balances lightweight design with rugged waterproofing, making it a top choice for trail runners tackling unpredictable weather. Weighing just 215g (women’s size small), it offers a 20,000mm hydrostatic head rating and fully taped seams, effectively shielding you from moderate rain and snow. During testing, it kept tester Lily Canter warm and dry in temperatures below zero with only a single base layer.
Its standout features include a trim, stylish fit, lightweight packability, and an adjustable hood with a stiff peak for clear vision in harsh conditions. The nylon ripstop fabric is durable yet soft, with a stretchy design allowing for unrestricted movement. However, the jacket isn’t flawless—hood drawstrings can flap distractingly, and unzipped sides tend to billow.
Breathability is solid for a waterproof jacket, managing sweat better than cheaper options, though moisture can collect at the seams after extended runs. Sustainability-wise, Montane avoids PFCs, though the use of 100% nylon keeps the eco-rating low.
While pricier than alternatives like the Janji Rainrunner, the Minimus Lite justifies its cost with superior waterproofing, durability, and a flattering, versatile fit that performs as well as it looks. Ideal for those seeking style and substance on wet, rugged trails. A deserving winner in this list.
Read our full Montane Minimus Lite review here
Pros
- Stylish trim fit
- Warm and flexible
- Solid waterproofing
- Adjustable hood with stiff peak
- Lightweight and packable
Cons
- No option to clip back sides when partially unzipped
- Drawstring hood toggles flap in face
| RRP | £185 / $235 |
| Women's sizes | UK 6 - 16 |
| Men's sizes | XS–XXL |
| Waterproofing | Stretch fabric, 20,000mm |
| Weight | 215g / 7.6 oz (size 10) |
The Patagonia Houdini Stash delivers lightweight warmth and portability for winter running. Weighing just 94g, it packs down to the size of a tennis ball, making it an ideal backup layer for unpredictable conditions. While not fully waterproof, its DWR coating offers decent protection against light rain or snow, and its windproof nylon material excels at keeping out the chill. The half-zip design and vent slits provide extra breathability, though these features can let water in during heavy downpours.
Fit is loose, with an adjustable hem for customisation, but the cropped length may feel awkward for taller runners. Without a hood, you’ll need a cap in rain, and the large, far-back side pockets—secured with Velcro—aren’t entirely watertight. However, we found the chest pocket’s dual function as a stuff sack and key clip practical for quick storage.
True to Patagonia’s eco-conscious ethos, the Houdini Stash is crafted from 100% recycled nylon and produced in Fair Trade Certified factories. Its durability and retro aesthetic are divisive, but its current sale price of £59.99 makes it a solid value for light, cold-weather runs. While it isn’t suited for heavy rain or all-day wear, this layer is a dependable choice for chilly, windy days.
Read our full Patagonia Houdini Stash review here
Pros
- Incredibly light and stowable
- Warm in windy conditions
- Great sustainability credentials
Cons
- Loose fit
- No hood
- Slow drying
| RRP: | £129.99 / $162.78 |
| Women's sizes: | UK XS - XL |
| Men's sizes: | UK S-XL |
| Weight: | 94g/3.3oz women’s, 105g/3.7oz men’s |
Janji’s Rainrunner jacket stands out for its bold design and ultralight construction, weighing just 204g. With a 20,000mm waterproof and breathability rating, it promises to keep you dry without overheating, thanks to its innovative 360-degree venting panels. While the relaxed fit isn’t as trim as competitors like the Compressport Hurricane, it’s comfortable and enhances airflow, making it a practical choice for both humid runs and rainy days.
Testing on a Highlands ultra highlighted its strengths in light to moderate rain, with a C6-DWR coating effectively repelling water. However, the soft peaked hood and lack of adjustability in the waist or hood mean it’s less suited to heavy downpours or strong winds. Tapered, elasticated sleeves help keep water out, while the dropped hem protects against mud splatter—a thoughtful touch for trail runners.
Made with 100% recycled polyester and certified sustainable processes, the Rainrunner aligns with Janji’s eco-friendly ethos. Though its pockets are on the small side, details like a stowable hood clip and zip garage enhance practicality. At £120, it’s a stylish, lightweight option for runners prioritising comfort and breathability over stormproofing.
Read our full Janji Rainrunner review here
Pros
- Breathable panels
- Moderately high waterproof rating
- Stowaway hood clip
- Pocket mesh to reduce bouncing
Cons
- Lacks waist and hood adjustments
- Soft peak cap
- Pockets a little small
| RRP: | £120 / $148.13 |
| Women's sizes (UK): | XS - XL |
| Men's sizes (UK): | S–XL |
| Waterproofing: | 20,000mm |
| Weight: | 204g / 7.2 oz (Women's small) |
The Compressport Hurricane jacket is a sleek, lightweight option that’s ideal for runners who prioritise freedom of movement and performance in moderate weather conditions. With its second-skin fit and stretchy material, I found it incredibly comfortable during long runs and races, including a frosty 10-mile Canicross event. Despite its close fit, the jacket allows for layering, making it versatile for colder days without feeling restrictive.
What really sets this jacket apart is its face-hugging hood, which stayed put in the wind and did an excellent job of keeping my head dry during light rain and snow. However, I did notice water creeping in through the seams and hood during heavier downpours, so it’s better suited for drizzly or snowy conditions rather than sustained rain.
At just 92g, it’s impressively lightweight and packs down small enough to fit into a race belt, perfect for carrying as a backup. The lack of pockets was a minor inconvenience, and the diagonal zip can be awkward when undone, but these quirks are offset by the jacket’s performance and unique design.
While the Hurricane shines in its snug fit, breathability, and wind resistance, its 10,000mm waterproof rating limits its use in extreme weather. Overall, it’s a solid choice for runners seeking a stylish, race-ready jacket for light to moderate conditions.
Read our full Compressport Hurricane review here
Pros
- Funky design
- Snug facial fit
- Lightweight and breathable
- Extremely packable
Cons
- No pockets
- Unclear sustainability efforts
- Seams can leak in heavy rain
| RRP: | £159.99 / $199.95 |
| Women's sizes: | UK XS - L |
| Men's sizes: | XS–XL |
| Waterproofing: | 10,000mm |
| Weight: | 92g / 3.24oz |
I tested the Proviz REFLECT360 during night-time club runs, and its reflectivity is outstanding. The innovative material, embedded with reflective glass beads, lights up brilliantly under headlights or torches—so much so that fellow runners joked about needing sunglasses! It’s a perfect choice for evening or early-morning runs, offering 360-degree visibility to keep you safe.
The fitted design is sleek and snug, with mesh panels under the arms and at the back that strike a great balance between warmth and breathability. At 170g, it’s wonderfully lightweight, and the elasticated cuffs and hem add extra comfort. The two side pockets are generous enough for essentials, though I did notice some rustling while running, which might annoy sound-sensitive runners.
While it handles light drizzle well, the mesh lets rain in during heavy downpours. During a stormy Welsh parkrun, I was soaked within minutes, so this jacket is best saved for dry or lightly wet conditions. On the sustainability front, it’s made using recycled polyester and designed to last, with the reflective beading holding up far longer than many competitors.
If you need a visibility-first jacket for dark runs, the REFLECT360 is an excellent, eco-conscious choice.
Read our full Proviz Reflect360 review here
Pros
- Excellent visibility
- Highly breathable
- Fitted design offers lots of warmth
Cons
- Limited wind and water resistance
- No hood
| RRP: | £79.99 / $97.73 |
| Women's sizes: | UK 6-22 |
| Men's sizes: | UK S – 4XL |
| Waterproofing: | N/A |
| Weight: | 170g |
The Adidas Terrex Xperior 2.5L Light Rain.Rdy is a lightweight, packable jacket designed for trail running and hiking in spring and summer conditions. With its slim, stylish fit and elasticated hem and hood, it offers solid windproofing and light rain protection without restricting movement. We loved the two-way zip for adjusting airflow mid-run and its ability to pack down into its own pocket for easy storage.
However, the waterproofing falls short in heavier rain, with seams allowing water to seep through at the shoulders and hood. Moisture management is another weak spot; during intense runs or layered use, sweat can accumulate inside. That said, the tapered cuffs and elasticated features are effective in keeping light rain out, and reflective details on the black version add visibility in low-light conditions.
Made from 100% recycled nylon, the jacket is part of Adidas’s sustainability efforts, though it lags behind competitors like Janji in environmental responsibility. At £160, it’s not the most affordable option for a jacket that’s only reliable in mild weather. For those who need a lightweight, stylish solution for unpredictable spring showers, it’s a good choice, but we’d recommend looking elsewhere for heavy rain or winter use.
Read our full Terrex Xperior 2.5L review here
Pros
- Elasticated hem and hood to keep out elements
- Extremely packable
- Sleek, slim fit
Cons
- Leaky seams in heavy rain
- Limited breathability when fully zipped
| RRP: | £160 / $195.42 |
| Women's sizes: | XS–XL |
| Men's sizes: | XS–2XL |
The Patagonia Storm Racer is a premium waterproof running jacket, offering a balance of performance, comfort, and eco-conscious design. Its 3-layer construction with a 20,000mm hydrostatic head delivers reliable protection against persistent rain, while the lightweight materials keep it packable and under 200g, depending on size. The slim cut provides a flattering fit without restricting movement, and the chest pocket doubles as a stash pouch for easy storage on the go.
In testing, the jacket excelled in breathability compared to rivals, though like all waterproofs, it isn’t sweat-proof during high-intensity or long-duration runs. The fabric feels sturdier than many competitors, providing reassurance in harsh weather, but Gore-Tex still edges out the H2No membrane for waterproof rating.
Where the Storm Racer shines is sustainability. Made from 100% recycled nylon, it’s PFC-free, Fair Trade Certified, and backed by Patagonia’s repair programme, ensuring longevity and reduced waste. While its £270 price tag is steep, it reflects not just its performance but the ethical manufacturing and environmental initiatives behind it.
For runners prioritising sustainability alongside protection, the Storm Racer is an excellent choice, but budget-conscious buyers might find better value with alternatives like the Inov-8 Stormshell.
Read our full Patagonia Storm Racer review here
Pros
- 3-layer construction
- Sustainable
- Excellent fit
- Impressive weatherproofing
- Stash pocket
Cons
- Stash pocket is a tad small
- Gore-Tex has even higher waterproof rating
| Women's sizes | XS - XL |
| Men's sizes | XS - XL |
| Weight | 179g |
| Waterproofing | H2No (20,000mm HH) |
| Construction | 3-layer (Recycled 20D nylon face, 7D tricot backer) |
The Inov8 Stormshell is aptly named and delivers on what it promises. Made to cope with the wettest conditions, the Stormshell is a performance-driven layer with a streamlined fit. The structured hood keeps the rain off and out of the eyes, with a drawstring cinching the sides for adjustability. A high collar and zip create a secure fit, while soft lining inside the zip garage avoids any uncomfortable rubbing.
At an impressively light 150g, the Stormshell remains fairly breathable in use, while also offering a high level of waterproofing thanks to the taped seams and waterproof Pertex Shield fabric. Performance and comfort are what made it our winner for Trail Running Gear of the Year 2024
If the weather clears up, the one pocket at the front of the jacket can also be used as a stuff sack to easily pack it away. We found the women's fit particularly comfortable, offering a slim silhouette without being restrictive. The partly elasticated wrists and hem keep the jacket in place well, though the sleeves seem to fall a little short for some, but we eventually got used to the thumb loops (which felt a little tight at first - give them time to relax).
Read our full Inov8 Stormshell V2 review here
Pros
- Fully waterproof
- Lightweight
- Well-fitting
Cons
- A little pricey
- Only one pocket
| RRP: | £160 / $194.86 |
| Weight: | 149g / 5.3oz |
| Materials: | Pertex Shield 2.5 layer waterproof fabric with 58% recycled construction |
| Waterproofing: | 20,000mm H/H |
| Women’s sizes (UK): | 6-16 |
| Men’s sizes (UK): | XS-XL |
What to look for in a women’s running jacket
Material and waterproofing: The material of your running jacket is crucial for weather resistance and comfort. Most jackets use lightweight waterproof membranes like Gore-Tex or in-house alternatives. A hydrostatic head (HH) rating of 20,000mm or higher is ideal for persistent rain, while breathability ratings like MVTR or RET can help you gauge how well the jacket manages sweat during intense efforts. Look for fabrics with a balance of weatherproofing and breathability—keeping you dry both inside and out.
Fit and mobility: Women’s running jackets often feature tailored fits to accommodate different body shapes. Consider whether you prefer a slim, athletic fit that minimises flapping or a slightly looser style for layering. Jackets with articulated sleeves, stretchy panels, or an adjustable hem can enhance freedom of movement without compromising performance.
Hood and cuffs: A good hood should stay secure while running but allow easy movement. Features like a stiffened brim or toggle adjusters are excellent for keeping rain off your face. Adjustable cuffs or elasticated sleeves help prevent rain from creeping in and offer quick temperature control.
Weight and packability: For runners, lightweight and compact designs are a priority. A jacket under 200g that packs into its own pocket is a convenient choice for stashing in a running vest or pack when not in use.
Sustainability: Many modern running jackets use eco-conscious materials like recycled nylon or are produced in Fair Trade Certified factories. If sustainability is important to you, look for jackets with PFC-free water repellents and transparent supply chain certifications.
Features: Think about the extras that will make a difference during your runs. Water-resistant zips, breathable underarm panels, reflective details, and stash pockets for gels or keys are all worth considering. Prioritise the features you’ll use most in your typical running conditions.
How to clean a running jacket
Cleaning your running jacket properly not only keeps it fresh but also extends its life and maintains its performance. Here’s how to do it right:
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Check the care label: Always start by reading the care instructions on the jacket. Each material has specific needs, and following the label ensures you don’t accidentally damage it.
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Use a gentle detergent: Avoid regular laundry detergents and fabric softeners, as they can clog the breathable membranes and degrade water repellency. Opt for a technical wash designed for waterproof clothing, like Nikwax Tech Wash or Granger’s Performance Wash.
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Wash carefully: Most running jackets can be machine washed on a gentle, cold cycle. Use a mesh laundry bag to prevent snagging, and ensure all zips and Velcro closures are fastened to protect the fabric. If handwashing, use lukewarm water and gently scrub any stubborn stains.
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Reproof if necessary: Over time, the jacket’s durable water repellent (DWR) coating may wear off. If water no longer beads on the surface, use a reproofing spray or wash-in treatment to restore its water resistance.
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Air dry: Avoid using a tumble dryer unless the care label specifies it. Most jackets dry best when hung up in a well-ventilated area, away from direct heat sources like radiators.
Regular cleaning ensures your jacket continues to perform in wet and sweaty conditions, so make it a habit after heavy use or every few weeks of running.
Should a running jacket be waterproof?
Whether a running jacket should be waterproof depends on the conditions you plan to run in. For light drizzle or short runs, a water-resistant jacket might suffice, offering breathability and protection from wind while keeping you comfortable.
However, if you regularly run in heavy rain or long distances, a fully waterproof jacket is a must. Waterproof jackets, particularly those with technical membranes like Gore-Tex or Patagonia's H2No, offer superior protection from the elements, ensuring you stay dry during prolonged exposure to rain.
That said, keep in mind that waterproof jackets are typically less breathable than water-resistant ones. If you're running in warmer conditions or expect to sweat heavily, make sure to choose a jacket with good ventilation features, like pit zips or breathable panels, to balance waterproofing with moisture management. So, if you’re often out in wet weather or running long distances, investing in a waterproof jacket is a smart choice to stay dry and comfortable.
About the author
Lily Canter is a freelance journalist and running coach (among a myriad of other jobs, including competitive ultra running) who contributes to LFTO with expert coaching advice and granularly detailed gear reviews. She also founded women’s running club Great Bowden Runners. As a qualified England Athletics running coach, Lily loves nothing more than seeing women achieving their running goals.