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Spring is coming in hot, or rather it’s coming in cool. The weather around this time of year varies from chilly days to semi-warm temperatures, meaning you should have plenty of opportunities to run outside. If you’re a runner who loves to take it to the streets, trails or wherever outdoors, you’ll absolutely need a running jacket to make it through. And with the varying temperatures in spring, a lightweight jacket is essential for keeping you warm without making you overheat.

RELATED: Marathon Gear for Your Long Distance Runs

But what do you want to look for in a lightweight running jacket? We asked Waleed M Suliman, Professional Runner for the Brooks Beasts Team, for what he looks for when he’s on the move. Check out his opinions and find a list of great running jackets below.

AskMen: What do you search for in a running jacket?

Waleed M Suliman: Everyone has their own different needs when it comes to running jackets. I look for comfort, features, and finally, style. Also, it’s really important for me to have a lightweight material that won’t get heavy when it’s wet. Living in Seattle, you never know when it’s going to start raining on a run, and there’s nothing worse than having a jacket that just soaks up all the water and makes you feel heavier when you’re running.

What does the perfect running jacket look like for you?

I prefer a lightweight jacket just because the weather might change very quickly, especially on a long run where I'm spending 1:30-2:10 hours on the trails. I like to wear a long-sleeved shirt underneath the lightweight jacket on cold spring days. You'd be surprised how warm you could get from those two layers, especially if you buy a good quality jacket. I also prefer a more lightweight jacket because it allows you to wear it more regularly throughout the year.

Some of my favorite lightweight jackets are the Canopy Jacket and the All Altitude Jacket because they have extra breathability for the sunnier days, are waterproof for unexpected rain, and have wind protection for colder and windier days. You can wear them in the winter with layers underneath or you can wear them in the spring as a lightweight jacket. A lightweight fabric is really the best option if you want to get the most use out of it.

Are there any special features you look for in a running jacket?

A pocket near the chest. It is an excellent place to put your car keys or energy gel. That jacket area is very close to your chest; therefore, whatever you put in that pocket, it won’t be bouncing around during your run. Both the Brooks’ All Altitude Jacket and the Fusion Hybrid Jacket have a chest pocket that I always use to help secure any important belongings during a run.

Do you have any tips for running in cooler weather?

Running in colder weather could make you forget about hydration. Just because you aren't sweating doesn't mean you are very well hydrated. Always drink water and mix some hydration powder/pills with your water. I always keep a jacket in the trunk of my car, both heavy and lightweight. You never know when you'd need it. Nothing is worse than not being able to stay warm.

Now that you know what to look out for, scroll through some practical and stylish jackets from Brooks and other top brands.

As mentioned by Waleed, Brooks’ Canopy Jacket is one of his favorites as it has extra breathability for warmer weather, but it’s also waterproof in case you get caught in the rain (or prefer to run in it). It’s packable, provides wind protection and is even sustainable since it’s made of 100% recycled materials. And it comes in some fun patterns and colors so you can stand out while on the run.

Although midweight is in the name, this jacket is a perfect pick for running in cool to semi-warm temperatures. It’s designed to be worn alone or layered for added warmth. It’s durable, cling-free and water and wind repellent so you can run for years without worry. The chest zip pocket has an internal headphone jack opening, and the fabric has a permanent silver ion treatment for anti-odor so it stays stink free even after a workout. It’s a real workhorse of a jacket, but it could be a bit heavy if you are looking for something extremely lightweight.

Don’t let the strange name fool you. This lightweight softshell jacket has a midlayer that is laminated with TPU membrane, meaning it’s water resistant, breathable and windproof. There’s a chin guard to help keep you warm and elastic cuffs and hems to seal out the elements. It comes in a variety of colors, including standout oranges and yellows for high visibility to keep you safe. It’s not fully waterproof, but it works in light drizzles. And at $49, there’s some bang for your buck.

This Vuori windbreaker is truly lightweight, offers UPF 50+, has instant-dry technology and a single-toggle cinching detail at the base of the hood for extra coverage in the elements while running and hiking. It has a modern fit and a fun look, especially in the red clay color. The jacket does only have one pocket overall, so some people might want more storage. However, if you’re going for a run, you’re most likely carrying the bare minimum, so it shouldn’t be a huge issue.

If you’re more of a hoodie fan, this one’s for you. Myles Apparel’s knit hoodie is a new, quick-drying performance hoodie with Storm Cotton™ ACTive Knit terry. What does that mean exactly? It means it has incredible water resistance and quick drying performance combined with the breathability and comfort of cotton. It also has a hidden zip phone pocket and reflective details for darker lighting. While it’s not the traditional running jacket, it’s an awesome pick for cooler runs or even just running errands.

This Under Armour jacket is made from ultra light, stretch woven fabric for unrestricted movement on the go. It features mesh insets across the arms, lower body and upper back for strategic ventilation to keep you cool. Being made of 100% polyester, it wicks sweat and dries quickly. The Marathon Red color is stylishly bold while still being minimalistic, so you can run in style in cool weather.

REI knows the outdoors, and this running jacket is definitely made to keep you protected outside while being lightweight. The nylon shell over the chest and shoulders repels water while the fleece-back polyester across the back and under arms provides a high level of mobility. The zippered hand pockets and sleeve pocket securely store essentials while the thumbholes hold sleeves in place while running. This jacket does not have a hood, so if that’s a dealbreaker, you’ll want to try a different one like the Active Pursuits Jacket 2.0.

This Nike trail running jacket is meant to stand up to cool winds and resist rain while keeping you cool on long runs. It even has built-in mittens that stow away when not in use. It also comes in some wildly fun color combinations to stand out and show your personality, which is always a win. Again, it’s not waterproof, but you don’t necessarily need that unless you frequently get caught in downpours.

Surprisingly the cheapest on the list is this Adidas Marathon Jacket. It’s made from recycled materials, has front zip pockets to keep objects in place and is very lightweight. Its reflective elements provide 360 degrees of reflectability, and Adidas never goes out of style, so you’ll always look effortlessly cool. It does not have a hood nor is it fully waterproof, which could be a dealbreaker if you want more from your jacket.

This Hugut jacket is 100% waterproof, so you can run in the rain while staying dry, and it features three waterproof zipper pockets to store valuables you can’t get wet. The back vents to increase ventilation and breathability to keep you cool and dry while the elastic rope hood adjusts to keep rain, wind and cold from sneaking into the openings of your jacket. The color range it comes in could be improved, but it’s a truly great pick for outdoor running.

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