The Best Running Rain Jackets In 2026

Welcome to my guide to the best waterproof running jackets, where I’ve rounded up lightweight shells that actually keep you dry without turning every run into a sauna. These jackets are built for road and trail runners who want to train year-round, not just when the weather plays nice.

A quality running rain jacket can get pricey, so it’s worth choosing one that delivers: durable waterproof protection, reliable breathability, and a fit that lets you move freely.

When a storm rolls in mid-run (or mid-race), you want a jacket that keeps rain out and your core temperature stable.

Many mountain and ultra races even require a waterproof layer as part of their mandatory gear list, which makes a good jacket not only useful but essential if you’re heading into the hills.

I test all the jackets featured here, in real conditions, and I keep this roundup regularly updated; so if you’re shopping for a new waterproof running jacket, you’re in the right place.

1. GOREWEAR Concurve ($148)

Right now there’s a total of 40% off when you combine our 15% off with code ‘TrailandKale15‘ – ($148.75, down from $250)—which makes it a seriously appealing buy for anyone looking for a high-end waterproof running jacket without paying Arc’teryx-level money.

The GOREWEAR Concurve (reviewed here) delivers the rare combo of full waterproof protection and excellent freedom of movement. The softer, lighter GORE-TEX ePE membrane avoids that stiff rain-shell feel, so it moves naturally when you run. At just 7.1 oz (201 g), it also disappears once you find your rhythm.

I’ve been using the LE4 edition, which adds bold reflective panels for better visibility on dark or rainy routes, and right now it’s 20% off; strong value for a premium waterproof.

Breathability is good for a true waterproof layer: steady efforts feel comfortable, and it never gets swampy inside. The body-mapped cut and secure hood (with a neat magnetic stow feature) make it reliable in windy mountain weather too. It packs small enough for vests and belts, and includes two zip pockets for essentials.

It’s comfortable enough for daily road miles, durable enough for trail running or hiking, and refined enough to wear year-round. A well-balanced waterproof you’ll actually enjoy running in.

Weight: 7.1 oz (201 g)

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If you are planning on running at night and need a running headlamp for those runs, check out our buyer’s guide to the best running headlamps.

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2. Arc’teryx Norvan Shell Jacket ($400)

The Arcteryx Norvan Shell Jacket (reviewed here) is a high-performance waterproof jacket that’s designed to be ultralight and compact, crafted with a minimalist approach, using advanced construction techniques and lightweight materials to shave off every gram possible.

Waterproof, windproof, and breathable, this GORE-TEX jacket delivers environmental shelter without compromising on comfort as it’s also very breathable (for a waterproof running jacket) making it an excellent choice for high-output activities.

The low-profile hood adds coverage and versatility, providing a shield when the weather takes a turn. Other great features including the low-profile hood, reflective elements on the cuffs, chest, and hood, and embedded RECCO reflector, which is a potentially life-saving technology that can aid in backcountry search situations.

Weighing in at just 190g (6.7 oz), it’s available in sizes from XS to XXL and packs small when you don’t need it. This is important when you have other trail running essentials that you may need to carry with you on your run.

While not the cheapest option, considering its high-end materials, advanced technology, and impressive performance, it’s a worthwhile investment for runners who won’t let challenging weather or terrain stand in the way of their training – making it an excellent addition to any mountain lover’s hydration pack/vest, especially if moving fast and light is your jam (like it is mine).

Weight: 6.7oz (190g)

3. Salomon Bonatti Waterproof Jacket ($180)

The Salomon Bonatti lightweight winter running jacket is a minimalist waterproof running jacket that checks all the boxes for technical trails: stay dry, stay fresh, and run light.

It’s built with technical fabric engineered to deliver weather protection with less weight. This running jacket also has a fitted hood, waist adjustment, and reflective details as well as elastic cuffs to protect you from harsh conditions like driving rain.

It also packs down into its own zippered chest pocket for compact storage when you need to stash it in your running hydration pack, and another cool feature Salmon has introduced is the extra volume on the back of this lightweight running jacket to allow for enough room for your hydration vest to be worn underneath.

Everything about this waterproof running jacket has been thoughtfully designed, and this style has protected me personally from the elements over many wet long runs and mountain ultramarathon races.

Weight: 5.3oz (150g)

4. On Performance Jacket Waterproof ($300)

The On Performance Waterproof Jacket is a lightweight shell built for runners who want to stay protected from wind and rain without losing mobility. Its On GuardTec™ 3-layer waterproof technology blocks out the elements while allowing heat and moisture to escape, so you can keep moving at effort without overheating.

Four-way stretch fabric gives this jacket a more natural, free-moving feel than many waterproof options. The shaped, elasticated hood stays put when you’re picking up the pace, and an elasticated hem keeps the fit secure so wind doesn’t sneak in. A reflective stripe on the arm boosts visibility in low light.

Two water-resistant zip pockets keep keys and gels safe in downpours, and the inner secure pocket helps lock down smaller essentials. Fully taped seams and a PFA-free durable water-repellent finish add reliable weather protection.

Best for runners who want a sleek waterproof layer that won’t hold them back when conditions turn wet and windy.

5. Gore Wear R7 GORE-TEX Shakedry Trail Hooded Jacket ($240)

The Gore Wear R7 Gore-Tex Shakedry is another lightweight running jacket for any extremely wet winter running conditions where you need protection from the rain and wind and is available in men’s and women’s sizes.

It features ultralight and ultra-breathable materials, fully sealed seams, and packs down small when you’re not wearing it.

With winter running jackets – and especially those that are ultra lightweight and pack down small, you get what you pay for, and this Gore running jacket is an excellent choice for wet fall, spring and winter running conditions, and year-round mountain adventures.

As well as making great rain jackets, GORE also makes exceptional cold weather running jackets like the R5 Gore-tex Infinium Insulated Jacket, at 8.8 oz it’s one of the lightest insulated running jackets we’ve seen.

Gorewear gear is expensive but that’s because it’s some of the highest performance and quality running gear.

Weight: 6oz (170g)

BUYING GUIDE

Key features of all great waterproof running jackets

When buying your next waterproof running jacket there are a few essential features that you’ll want to look out for, and these features are my ranking criteria for this ‘best-of’ list.

For a waterproof running jacket to be GREAT and deserving of a place on our list, it must be:

1. Fully waterproof (not just water resistant)

If the product marketing says water-resistant or water-repellant, or that it’s a ‘rain jacket’ then it may not actually be fully waterproof.

Most winter running jackets that are actually waterproof will be made waterproof by the application of a DWR (durable water repellant) coating, like a lot of other outdoor clothing and gear designed to perform in wet conditions, so look out for this when selecting your jacket.

The jacket’s specifications or label may also say that it is made with GORE-TEX, if that material is used.

2. Lightweight & Packable

Avoid being weighed down by a running jacket that absorbs water, even if it keeps you dry underneath. The fabric should be a very thin, lightweight, technical material.

We suggest layering warm midlayers underneath, if additional insulation is needed, rather than buying a very thick insulated waterproof jacket that will be bulky to pack and carry when not worn, and not useful in warmer wet weather where you need water protection but not insulation.

3. Breathable material

At some point, you’re going to be running in the rain while the temperature isn’t crazy cold, like in Fall, Spring, and Summer when the cold weather has gone, for example.

A breathable running jacket will ensure you don’t overheat while running by helping moisture (i.e. sweat) pass away from your body.

This is a really important feature for running jackets given you’ll most likely be wearing them in wet weather but also generating your own moisture that the running jacket needs to be able to help evacuate.

4. Form-Fitting

Extra wind resistance from loose-fitting running jackets and pants while running is a real ‘drag’, especially on a wet and windy day.

Make sure your jacket fits your body’s frame closely, if that means you need to drop down a size, consider it. All of the winter running jackets in this list have the important features listed above, so whichever one you choose, you’ll make a good buying decision.

All these jackets are impressive so your final decision may actually come down to price, or how stylish you feel the jacket looks.

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Men’s vs. women’s winter running jackets

This post includes running jackets that offer versions for men and women. Women have different body shapes, and so they deserve better-fitting specific women’s running jackets.

Also if you run with your dog then consider if they also need a dog winter jacket to help keep them relatively dry and warm, too, or simply a reflective dog collar to help them be seen in the dark and low light conditions.