As temperatures start to drop and warmth becomes scarce, it can be hard to know what type of running jacket for cold weather you need to have on hand. While what to choose depends on a lot of different factors, it is always a good idea to dress for the season and wear winter running jackets in colder temperatures to retain body heat so you can stay comfortable and avoid illness. To keep you warm and focused on your run, we have a breakdown of the best adidas running jackets and just what type of jacket you may need this winter.
CHOOSING YOUR WINTER RUNNING JACKET
When winter comes around runners often ask: “Can you run in a winter jacket?”. Well, the answer is yes (but just make sure it’s suited for running)! Regarding what jacket to wear running in the winter, there are many options. Depending on where you are located or what weather you’re dealing with, you may need a heavier or lighter jacket when out on the run. Wearing a jacket while running will keep you protected from the elements while also helping your body retain heat as it moves, a key function for winter exercise success. This article will focus on breaking down which types of running jackets to wear in in the winter based off warmth, and the benefits and materials of each.
01. Warm
- A jacket that utilizes a venting system
- A lighter material like polyester
- Something packable just in case it gets too warm
02. Warmer
- A jacket that has wind resistant technology, like our WIND.RDY products
- Materials like polyester or ripstop
- An adjustable hood to protect from the elements
- A breathable layer to maintain and moderate body heat
03. Warmest
- Waterproof technology such as our RAIN.RDY products
- Insulation or padding to keep you warm in colder temperatures
- A hood to shield from precipitation
Now, let’s dive deeper to help you choose the best running jacket for cold weather you might encounter this winter.
WARM
As winter starts, you may find the conditions outside to be a bit milder rather than cold. A nice brisk day is always welcome, however if you’re going to go on a run, you still might need a jacket. When considering a light jacket to stay warm, we suggest looking for these materials and features:
- Look for venting systems. As you run, you’ll tend to work up a sweat and pass off excess heat even in cold temperatures. You’ll need a jacket with a breathable venting system made from a light material like mesh to keep you comfortable. Venting systems can usually be found in high heat areas in the jacket such as the armpits, neck, and lower back.
- Opt for lightweight materials. Speaking of materials, you’ll want a jacket made with a lightweight material like polyester in milder temperatures. You don’t want something too heavy as it will overheat, but something like polyester will keep you warm without pushing you over the edge.
- Packable is a plus. As you’re on the go, you might experience the weather getting colder or warmer than expected, especially in the early winter weeks. In situations like this, it’s a good idea to have a running jacket that is packable so that you can take it off or put it on at will.
WARMER
As winter progresses, you may need something a bit warmer to continue getting in miles outdoors. Maintaining body warmth is key and can lead to longer and more sustainable levels of exercise. While the conditions outside may not be freezing, they are a bit chilly and possibly may have light precipitation. When looking for a running jacket that’ll keep you a bit warmer, we suggest looking for:
- WIND.RDY technology. This technology was engineered by adidas specifically to keep you going in windy conditions.
- A hood helps. An adjustable hood can keep you shielded from the elements while also not getting in your way as you move.
- Lightweight but durable. Materials like polyester or ripstop. These fabrics are resistant in nature, and also lightweight. While you run, having a jacket made from these materials will ensure extra weight is not being added on and you’ll have durable protection from the elements.
- Breathability is key. You may not realize it but having something breathable or with a venting system can prevent your body from overheating, even in colder weather. As you exercise, you’ll sweat and give off heat, and while some of it should be retained, some should be able to escape to maintain a comfortable level of warmth.
WARMEST
When winter is in full swing, you’ll need a running jacket that will keep you as warm as possible. Cold, possibly freezing temperatures can take a heavy toll on your body, especially if you’re exercising and exerting yourself in them. To combat this, body heat retention is paramount. To protect you from the cold and possible heavier precipitation we suggest finding a running jacket with:
- RAIN.RDY technology. adidas’s answer to outside precipitation. It's versatile and waterproof, and when it comes to the best adidas running jackets, our RAIN.RDY products are built to keep you dry and warm while out on a run in the elements. Plus, these styles will feature a hood to help keep your head and neck protected.
- Look for padded or insulated styles. If there is no precipitation outside, we recommend a jacket that utilizes padding or insulation to help retain your body heat.
As you explore what jacket to wear while running this winter, you can also utilize other strategies to ensure maximum warmth like:
- A base layer or thermal. Wearing a nice base layer or thermal underneath your running jacket can add an extra layer of warmth especially in colder temperatures without adding weight. Look for moisture-wicking styles that will keep sweat under control.
- Hat and gloves. You gotta keep those fingers and ears warm!
- Weather-proof shoes. Cold, wet feet are no fun, so opt for a seamless or waterproof style that’s ready for wintry conditions.
If you want more tips on what to wear while running in the cold, check out our comprehensive guide here to see what fits for you this winter. Warmth is paramount, and you should always dress for what’s best this winter.
WINTER RUNS? BRING IT ON.
With winter weather varying depending on where you live, some options for winter running jackets are better than others. During the colder months, motivation to get out and run can often be low, but with the right gear you’ll be comfortable enough to continue training. Always dress for the weather and keep in mind how factors such as precipitation and wind will affect your run. With that, stretch, zip up, and get out there!