Inov-8 Performance Hybrid running jacket | Tested and reviewed

The Performance Hybrid jacket from Inov-8 is the most unique and intriguing bit of kit we've seen in some time. It's extremely lightweight, remarkably comfortable, and yet its key feature is almost unheard of in running jackets – insulation.

Taking a similar approach to the warm yet super breathable OMM CORE running hoodie, the Performance Hybrid's design hinges on the use of Primaloft Active. This is an impressive insulating material with a notably loose weave which allows plenty of airflow, making it ideal for heat and moisture management.

The question on our minds when testing this jacket was whether the Primaloft insulation could retain it's trademark breathability when combined with a Pertex shell. We were also curious to find out whether the Performance Hybrid could still stand up to changing weather conditions despite not being a fully waterproof jacket. After a full winter of testing, here are the results...

Features and design

There are a lot of bells and whistles on the Inov-8 Performance Hybrid. As its name suggests, this jacket is designed for hiking as well as running, which means it doesn't have the usual minimalist features common to most running jackets (i.e. no pockets, raised hem with no elastic, a flimsy hood, etc.).

Instead, you'll find two generous side pockets each lined with that soft Primaloft insulation, which are an absolute godsend when the wind really picks up. Each pocket also contains a mesh insert which separates the compartments into two distinct sections, with the tighter one on the inside being ideal for storing bars, gels, an earphone case, or anything small that you don't want to bounce around on your run.

The hood is also lined with Primaloft – it is extremely cozy when you pull it up, especially against the ears. In our testing, we initially found that the hood was a bit annoying when not in use since it can flap around, but we quickly discovered a clip which allows the hood to be rolled down and secured, creating a warm fuzzy collar instead. Top marks for that.

You'll also find thumb loops at the end of the sleeves which we found especially helpful on cold-outings.

Not only do they warm your hands but, they also help maintain a nicely sealed system in which air can heat up and circulate. Plus, like most Inov-8 jackets, the Performance Hybrid packs away into its own pocket, which is very easy to carry while on the move.

Performance

Breathability is hands-down the most important element in the performance of any running jacket. If we're getting too hot too fast in any jacket, it immediately loses 90% of its functionality. This goes double for jackets which have no zipped vents for controlling heat regulation, which is the case with the Performance Hybrid.

Luckily, the materials here do their job, and this jacket does manage to vent excess heat without much trouble. Adjusting the front zip has a surprisingly tangible effect when you want to lose or retain more heat, as the rest of the jacket sits loosely enough to facilitate a lot of airflow on the inside while you run.

In fact, one of the best parts of the Performance Hybrid is its relaxed fit. The jacket isn't baggy, and it doesn't flap about in the wind, but nor is it too tight and constrictive, and doesn't end up sticking to sweaty skin like many form-fitting running jackets can do. This freedom of movement is bolstered by stretch panels added to the underarm, which are highly effective. They're also nice and thin which helps with ventilation.

Insulation

As we've mentioned, insulation is the Performance Hybrid's calling card. Inov-8 say they've used precise 'body mapping' to place carefully cut panels of Primaloft Evolve active in the parts of the jacket which need extra warmth. Namely, the chest, stomach, head, neck, shoulders, upper arms, and back.

The placement is seriously pronounced when you first step out in this jacket. You'll feel a huge difference between your insulated upper arms and merely semi-protected forearms. But this turns into a blessing when on the move, as you can feel excess heat venting from your extremities, as well as through the thinner side and underarm panels.

We've concentrated a lot on not overheating, but it should also be a given that this jacket is fantastic for when you want to feel comfortable getting out in the cold. We've taken it on a good few pre-sunrise runs in the frost, and the insulation made stepping out the front door at below freezing a bearable chore.

Weather resistance

Inov-8 say that the Performance Hybrid can be "worn on its own as an outer garment or layered under a waterproof jacket." So we certainly weren't expecting full waterproofing from this jacket, but we were pleasantly surprised to find that it could hold its own perfectly fine in most weather conditions.

Rain would bead on the Pertex Quantum soft shell exterior for a good while, and we found that it took around three hours of constant light rain before it became saturated with moisture. But even at that point, we certainly weren't drowning, and the fabric remained comfortable on the skin without becoming too heavy or droopy. For plenty of wind and a bit of weather, we'd gladly take the Performance Hybrid out.

Sustainability

Being made entirely from synthetic materials, Inov-8's Performance Hybrid doesn't have the best sustainability credentials. Just over half of the insulation is recycled polyester, which is the jacket's sole use of recycled materials. However, we will admit that the jacket's construction is clearly very solid and geared toward long-term use, which may prove to be a green feature if cared for correctly.

Price and comparison

With an RRP of £175, there's no denying that the Performance Hybrid is fairly pricey. That said, there are virtually no other running jackets that tick all the same boxes, so it's difficult to say out-and-out that the price isn't justified.

For insulation, you'll usually have to go for a less run-focused lightweight fleece, like the North Face Summit Futurefleece or the On Running Climate Jacket, neither of which are as light as the Performance Hybrid, or as weather-protected.

The closest jacket we've tested is the Rab Vapour-Rise Alpine, which has excellent windproofing and is impressively lightweight. Quite fittingly, it costs exactly the same. Of course, most running jackets are waterproof, and we've found the Inov-8 Stormshell to be our ideal pick for wet conditions, though naturally it won't keep you half as warm.

Verdict

In all, the Performance Hybrid from Inov-8 achieves what it set out to do – combine lightweight breathability with effective insulation. It certainly isn't an easy task, and we're impressed with how well this jacket allows you to regulate your temperature in changeable climates. It's extremely comfortable to wear, easy to store, and it's our tester's current go-to for runs and hikes when he wants to go ultralight.

How we tested

The Inov-8 Performance Hybrid running jacket was tested and reviewed by our resident trail running expert, Milo Wilson. Milo joined the LFTO team in May 2023 after two years of reviewing gear as a freelancer while studying creative writing.

Milo tends to run hot when he's on the trail, and has very strict criteria for any garment that would dare to call itself suitable for running. He tested this jacket over a three month period in winter 2023/24, where it accompanied him on sub-zero morning jogs, brisk afternoon parkruns, and a few Sunday long runs. He also decided to wear it over a four-hour tennis tournament in the rain in order to test its weather resistance, and only mildly regrets it.

For all the latest news, tips and gear reviews, sign up to the Trail Running Newsletter.