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I don’t know too much about running because I rarely, hardly, almost never do it unless I’m absolutely required to, and I rarely (read never) run outside. But I imagine for those who do willingly choose to run, or participate in some other outdoor kind of exercise, you’re going to want something capable of withstanding the erratic elements the coming season is known for. Even a seemingly perfect spring day with clear skies can quickly turn into a downpour and produce some chilly winds. The last thing you want is to be unprepared.
If you count yourself among those who frequently find themselves running outside or want to become an outside runner or are just outside a lot for some reason, there’s a plentiful market of jackets made just for the job. Besides protecting you from the elements, they’re also handsome pieces of outerwear. You can show people that you’re both active and stylish — you contain multitudes.
Below you’ll find ten jackets ideal for being active and moving your body. Or you can just wear them, no strenuous activity required, because why the hell not?
Arc’teryx Incendo Hoody
If you’re going to wear a jacket while exercising, you want something that will actually allow you to move. Arc’teryx’s Incendo is made for moving (a lot) thanks to the gusseted underarms.
Patagonia Airshed Pro Pullover
Patagonia’s Airshed Pro pullover is extra-light, meaning it won’t hinder your movements and it drys fast, so if you do happen to get caught in a torrential downpour, you won’t be completely chilled to the bone.
Nike Windrunner
The majority of activewear jackets out there predominantly come in fairly dark colors, like black or blues. But why waste a perfectly good opportunity to wear something that’s a little more fun? Nike’s Windrunner in yellow is ideal for running, but you also stand out from the pack wearing it.
Saturdays NYC Tatsu Packable Windbreaker
In the event you find yourself running at night or anytime it’s dark, you might want to consider wearing something that’ll alert, say, someone driving a car, to your presence. You’ll certainly be hard to miss in this neon chartreuse windbreaker from Saturdays. It’ll look equally cool as day-to-day wear, too.
Hill City Active Jacket
This jacket gets straight to the point: it’s black, it’s lightweight and it’s made for running. If that’s all you want out of a jacket then look no further.
By Parra No Mountains Windbreaker
While this windbreaker is probably the least athletic out of the list, that doesn’t mean you still can’t wear it while being active. You probably don’t want to run a marathon in this thing, but you could wear it on a brisk walk or a light hike. Let’s be honest though, if you’re buying this, it’s purely for its looks. And we wouldn’t blame you one bit.
The North Face Flight FUTURELIGHT™ Jacket
Most windbreakers and are made from nylon, which isn’t exactly a quiet fabric. So if you’re easily annoyed by the sound nylon makes while moving, or you’re trying to be stealthy and wanna sneak up on someone, The North Face’s Flight FUTURELIGHT™ jacket is designed specifically to be quiet, so you can run in peace.
Uniqlo Pocketable UV Protection Parka
Uniqlo makes pretty much every piece of clothing imaginable, so naturally they also make a jacket for running. The added benefit of theirs, however, is the UV protection, meaning your chances of getting sunburn through the fabric are less likely. Better safe than sorry.
adidas Own the Run Hooded Wind Jacket
Another jacket ideal if your preferred time of working out or running is when it’s absolutely pitch-black outside. We just don’t want you to get hit by a car, people! And you shouldn’t want that either!
Lululemon Sojourn Jacket
Lululemon specifies that this jacket is designed for both running and commuting to the office, so why not kill two birds with one stone and wear it as you run to work?
We've put in the work researching, reviewing and rounding up all the shirts, jackets, shoes and accessories you'll need this season, whether it's for yourself or for gifting purposes. Sign up here for weekly style inspo direct to your inbox.
