Trail Running Jackets

WHAT DO I NEED TO KNOW BEFORE BUYING A TRAIL RUNNING JACKET?

A good trail running jacket will help keep you at the top of your game: trail running works your legs, upper body and cardiovascular system hard while maintaining concentration to choose your line and safely negotiate rugged ground. 

LIGHTWEIGHT AND COMPACTABLE

So what should you look for in your trail running jacket? Essentially, you want some of the qualities of a hiking jacket, but in a much more lightweight package. Something that provides protection against the wind and rain and is breathable for any intensity you'll be working at. As well as being compact, with zipped pockets perfect for storage and adjusting the ventilation within the clothing.

RAINPROOF AND BREATHABLE

Most of all you need to choose a jacket suited to the route and the conditions. In the winter or in the colder climates, warmth is critical, while in wetter climates you’ll prioritise waterproofness. What will you be carrying and where will you put it? Do you need something with reflective prints? And will a gilet suffice, keeping your upper body warm while maximising your movement? Or do you need a jacket with full arms and maybe a hood? For cold but dry conditions, a technical fleece layer or softshell jacket may be the answer.

SMART AND COMFORTABLE

Given the workout your upper body gets in the course of a trail run, comfort is key – so the make of the jacket is crucial. Stretchable fabrics add a dynamic feel to trail running jackets, and look for durable materials in the right areas – if you’re wearing a backpack, the shoulder and back areas benefit from tougher finishes, allowing you to take all the essentials. There are some advanced, multi-layer technical fabrics on the market that combine incredible waterproofness and breathability, at a low weight. Obviously at a higher price range.

Finally, respected independent trail running bodies such as the ITRA add their approval mark to certain jackets, offering you the assurance that you’re buying a quality product.

Find out more about our trail jackets:

- Waterproof Trail Running jackets

- Warm Trail Running jackets to wear as a second layer in cold weather

- Windproof Trail Running jackets