Best Running Rain Jackets: Tested & Reviewed
The best running rain jackets keep moisture out and prevent you from overheating. I review the best running rain jackets. My absolute favorite is the Janji Rainrunner Pack Jacket because it is completely waterproof jacket made of nylon and has a durable water repellancy (DWR) coating for extra protection. It is also an attractive fit. My list of all the best rain jackets for runners come in various styles and prices.
Last weekend I had a 20-mile long run with a 10-mile tempo in it. I wasn’t feeling well, was super unmotivated, and the weather matched my mood–it was windy with pouring rain and temps in the upper 30s. What helped me get out the door, quite honestly, was knowing I had a running rain jacket to protect me from the elements. As I anticipated the feeling of the cold wind and rain on my body, I thought of how the right running rain jacket would block the discomfort so I could execute the workout (a workout for both my body and mind!).
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When it comes to running in the rain, there are two schools of thought: don’t fight it and get totally soaked (and get cold and chaffed). OR, find the right running rain jacket to protect you from the elements. The trouble is, for a long time, you had to choose between staying dry but also getting smothered in your own body heat and sweat in a rain jacket for running. Fortunately, technology has been advanced to design materials that keep outside moisture from getting in while wicking inside moisture out.
5 Best Rain Jackets for Running
These reviews are based on my experiences plus reviews from other runners around the globe I connected with on Instagram. I also scoured reviews online to round out runners’ experiences in these running rain jackets. I include rain jackets that are waterproof and water repellent. No water-resistant jackets made the cut due to their lack of protection. Additionally, I aimed to give a range of prices since these running rain jackets can get quite pricey.
Waterproof Rain Jackets for Running
Janji Rainrunner Pack Jacket
I have the Janji Rainrunner Pack Jacket and I love it. It is a completely waterproof jacket made of nylon and has a durable water repellancy (DWR) coating for extra protection, that is light, packable, and breathable for a 
waterproof jacket. In fact, the latest model is 3 times more waterproof and breathable. This waterproof jacket has cinching around the arms to keep water from getting it and is fitted, keeping it from flapping in the wind. There are vents in the front and back, aiding in breathability. Because it is lightweight, it is not especially warm so if you’re running in a cold rain, you will definitely need to layer.
Pros: waterproof, breathable, packable, and dries quickly.
Cons: the hood does not cinch so you can’t adjust it to you face. And it does eventually become saturated.
Best for: Medium hard rain in the 40s and above.
Bottom line: The Janji Rainrunner running rain jacket is an attractive and durable rain jacket that I actually use even when I am not running.
Price: $208
Jack Wolfskin Pre Light 2.5L Jacket
The Pre Light 2.5 L jacket is a super lightweight waterproof jacket that stands up to those April showers that bring us May flowers. I love how it is fitted, comes in a lot of pretty colors, is packable, windproof, breathable, and waterproof with Texapore Pro.
Pros: waterproof, windproof, ultra-light, packable, breathable, quick-drying, insulating, and comes in lots of bright color options. 
Cons: it’s a bit loud.
Best for: Hard rain in the 40s and above.
Bottom line: The Jack Wolfskin jacket running rain jacket is one of the most waterproof and durable running rain jackets you can get for under $200.
Price: $165.99
Arc’teryx Norvan LT Waterproof Running Jacket
If you are running in the elements, the Arc’teryx Waterproof Running Jacket is your rain jacket! It is goretex rain jacket using shake-dry technology which makes it impermeable to rain and wind but is relatively light and fitted. While you may sweat battling Mother Nature, the technology allows the moisture to evaporate, keeping you dry.
Pros: This waterproof goretex rain jacket protects you from rain and wind better than any jacket could.
Cons: It is heavy as compared to the Janji Rainrunner jacket. And the hood only adjusts in the back, thus potentially leaving it open around your face.
Bottom line: If you’re going to be facing the elements on a trail run, the Arc’teryx Norvan LT goretex tain jacket is worth the investment!
Price: $300
Patagonia Houdini
Confession. I have two Patagonia Houdini jackets. These jackets are not waterproof by any means but they do have a DWR (durable water repellent) coating that gives you some protection from light rain.Why I love the Houdini windbreaker jacket is that it is incredibly light yet powerful in blocking wind and trapping warm air in. However, it is also breathable.
(For $100 more, the Houdini Air model takes the Houdini to the next level with more wind protection. Some reviewers have complained that the original Houdini is wind-resistant, not windproof. This newer model is Patagonia’s answer to this.) In addition to rainy weather, I wear it in the winter over my base layer because it is so warm. And, if I ever warm up too much, it is packable into a small chest pocket, shrinking to the size of a tennis ball. So I can run with it in my hand. The Houdini water-repellant rain jacket comes with an adjustable and non-adjustable hood option.
Pros: The Houdini shell is extremely versatile, adding a layer of protection in many types of weather. It is fitted, packable, quick-drying, and has an adjustable hood and cuffs. It also comes in an array of colors and designs, too!
Cons: It is only water-resistant so it does not keep you dry in anything more than light rain. It also lacks reflective elements outside the Patagonia logo and I really wish it had pockets to put my hands in. If it did, I’d wear it all the time.
Best for: Trail runners who may encounter high winds and downpours. It is not best for road runners.
Price: $109
Bottom line: Rain or shine, the Houdini windbreaker belongs in a runner’s wardrobe. It comes in handy in transitional weather, light rain, and windy days.
Tracksmith Downpour Rain Jacket
This Tracksmith rain jacket is water proof and stylish. It features a fully seam-sealed shell, reinforcing the waterproof nature of the fabric while maintaining a lightweight barrier with a durable and sustainable coating. However, the tech isn’t necessarily the only thing that makes this jacket stand out from the rest but its aesthetic design. (This rain jacket is my husband’s go to!).
Pros: Waterproof, light, durable, total breathable, and keeps you bone dry no matter the elements. It is a comfortable fit and also has pockets (which clearly I love!)!
Cons: It’s pricey .
Best for: Complete downpours
Price: $400
Bottom line: The Tracksmith downpour jacket is the most powerful (and expensive) weapon you can put in your wet weather arsenal.
Which running rain jacket looks the best to you?
