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All you really need in order to properly dress for a run is a sports bra, good running shoes, leggings and, once temperatures get below 40 degrees, a winter running jacket. While you can probably get away with wearing a cotton tee or sweatshirt through most of fall, a techy, run-specific jacket is imperative for keeping you warm and dry in truly cold weather. Why, you ask? Clothing that doesn’t properly wick away moisture or insulate for warmth can put you at risk for developing hypothermia (yes, even on a sunny 40-degree afternoon) or frostbite, among other preventable ailments. All ten of these winter running jackets have been designed specifically for cold weather runs, whether the leaves are just beginning to turn or you’re gearing up to brave single digit temps. All that’s left for you to decide is how much you want to spend and, most important of all, which fabulous color options will help you pop on gray winter days.
RELATED: What to Wear Running for Any Temperature or Weather Situation, According to the Experts
Estimated Temperature Range: 10 to 35 degrees F
This double-layer pullover functions like two pieces in one thanks to a slim-fit FrostKnit inner lining (that functions like a sweat-wicking long sleeve) and a LiTron shell (which functions as an anorak). There are also bungee cords galore at the waist and on the hood so you can achieve the perfect amount of cinch to combat wind or bad weather. It comes with thumb holes as well for added warmth at the hands. Some reviews suggest you size up, especially if you’re between sizes or want to wear another layer underneath, but runners in NYC, Philly and Chicago all raved about how warm and comfortable they felt on runs ranging from 32 degrees down to below freezing. Our only gripe is the front zip tab is very small, making it difficult to pull if you’re wearing gloves, but adding a ribbon or rubber band should help fix the issue.
Available in sizes XS to XL
Estimated Temperature Range: 0 to 25 degrees F
Best for truly frigid runs, this slim-fit hoody is made from 700-fill-power goose down combined with PrimaLoft insulation to keep you toasty warm, even in wet conditions. Seriously, one reviewer says she wore this beauty on a sub-zero degree run and was perfectly comfortable, and another says she actually felt warm during a 10-degree workout. Most reviewers do suggest going up a size to better accommodate layers underneath, but otherwise this jacket runs true to size, and we appreciate that is comes in number sizes for a more precise fit. It is also water- and wind-proof, comes with reflective paneling and the hood is removeable should you decide to go without.
Estimated Temperature Range: 20 to 40 degrees F
There are a ton of reasons to love this Brooks jacket—it’s wind- and water-proof, has spacious pockets, there’s a chest pocket for your phone—but one of our absolute favorites is that the hood can roll up and be clipped in place so on sunny days you won’t be bothered by loose fabric flopping on your back. Similarly, the Canopy jacket folds up into its own pocket, converting into a mini backpack should you decide it’s actually too warm for your outer layer. Per one review, “I wore it for my first marathon and had to take it off at mile 2 due to weather. However, I completely forgot it was on my back for the duration of the race, it was so lightweight.”
Available in sizes XS to XXL
Estimated Temperature Range: 0 to 25 degrees F
Another good option for single digit temperatures (and lower) is Athleta’s Inlet jacket. Like almost every other pick on our list, it is resistant to both water and wind, and the 800-fill-power down insulation is sure to keep you mighty warm. But what drew us most to this particular design is the elongated fit. The high neck provides extra protection starting just below the chin, and the hem hits about mid-hip on most frames. Even those with long torsos will find it provides ample coverage from the cold, but just in case you’re really concerned, it also comes in Tall sizes (up to an XL) to guarantee it fits just right. The material also has a good amount of stretch, especially in the arms, so you can easily work in a pre-run stretch without feeling constricted.
Available in sizes XXS to 3X, also Tall
Estimated Temperature Range: 10 to 30 degrees F
New Balance’s proprietary Heatloft material is designed to be super-lightweight with maximum moisture wicking abilities to ensure you stay dry and warm without feeling bogged down by heavy fleece or limited by excess puff. Although this zip-up isn’t weatherproof, it does have two features we’re particularly excited about—enormous front pockets and a large zipper pull. Now, a large zip may not sound like much, but it makes it so much easier to adjust mid-run so you don’t have to pull off a glove to let out excess heat or step off the track to zip back up. There are also thumb holes and an extra tall collar to provide better coverage on days when you need it most.
Available in sizes XS to 2XL
Estimated Temperature Range: 20 to 30 degrees F
This fleece zip-up may not have a waterproof outer shell, but it is one of the best jackets on this list at quickly wicking away excess sweat or moisture. It also comes with thumb holes for added warmth and protection on your hands, and the hood has two adjustable drawstrings on the sides so you can cinch it in place on windy days. The Mono Air Houdi is also one of the most eco-friendly jackets we’ve come across and is made entirely of recycled fleece, which sheds 80 percent less microfibers compared to traditional fleece and can, in turn, be recycled once you’re worn it to bits. The front zipper also zips both ways should you want a little extra room in the hips while doing warm-up lunges or to accommodate a running fanny pack.
Available in sizes XS to L
Estimated Temperature Range: 15 to 30 degrees F
If you’re looking for something to wear in rainy or snowy conditions, this pullover anorak by Arc’teryx is definitely a top contender. Although the fabric has minimal stretch, a more generous cut and articulated elbows give you great range of motion without feeling oversized or baggy. The hood is adjustable with drawstrings on each side and while some may not love the front kangaroo pocket, it also has another zippered internal pocket for smaller items and to help prevent your phone from bouncing around. Reviewers mention running in temperatures ranging from 23 degrees to down below 15 in comfort, though they also highly suggest layering a merino wool shirt underneath for maximum warmth.
Available in sizes XS to XL
Estimated Temperature Range: 20 to 40 degrees F
This lightweight shell is both water- and wind-proof, yet still manages to be breathable, and the material has enough stretch to give you full range of motion. The looser silhouette also helps make sprint sessions or post-run burpees more comfortable, although there is a drawstring at the waist if you want bit of a snugger fit. That said, this jacket really works best in the 30-degree range, so if you hope to wear it on even colder runs, we highly suggest sizing up one to better accommodate layers underneath. We also love that there is an easy-access chest pocket that’s large enough to fit a phone.
Available in sizes XS to XL
Estimated Temperature Range: 20 to 40 degrees F
As the name suggests, this Decathalon jacket is fit for all sorts of inclement weather conditions. There is a built-in neck warmer that can be pulled up over your nose (a particularly handy feature that can almost double as a face mask if need be), extra material with thumb holes that be easily folded back on warmer days, underarm zippers for extra ventilation and the hood can be folded back and zipped into the collar. Basically, it’s a one-and-done must-have for fall and winter running, and it doesn’t hurt that you can get all these fabulous features for under 100 bucks. Note: The website says this jacket runs small, so be sure to check the size chart before you order and consider going up a size if you’re unsure.
Available in sizes XS to XL
Estimated Temperature Range: 10 to 30 degrees F
Kari Traa makes some of our favorite cold-weather base layers, so we weren’t surprised to find its outer layers also come highly recommended. The Sanne Hybrid jacket is water repellent and the lightweight polyester insulation won’t feel heavy or cumbersome, even in the rain or snow. The hood may not be removeable, but it is adjustable, and we love the high collar to really help keep out the chill or rain. The looser fit also allows for greater range of motion and more room in the hips. (P.S. There are even more fun colors to choose from on the brand’s website.)
Available in sizes S to XL
RELATED: The 13 Best Winter Jackets for Extreme Cold, So You Won’t Be Left Shivering
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