The Best Trail Running Waterproof Jackets

Last Updated on January 19, 2024 by Amanda Bowden

Find The Best Waterproof Trail Running Jacket For You

It can be tricky to find the best trail running waterproof jackets when you scour the shops, do a search online, or even on amazon. But don’t worry, we’ve done the research for you and found the best jackets to choose from.

All these are great waterproof trail running jackets, but each has different features that we highlight below. Be sure to scan down and have a look at the pros and cons of each to find the jacket that’s perfect for you.

What Are The Best Trail Running Waterproof Jackets?

• Rab Kinetic Ultra Waterproof Jacket
• inov-8 Stormshell V2 Waterproof Running Jacket
• Montane Minimus Lite Waterproof Jacket
• OMM Kamleika Running Jacket
• Montane Phase Lite Waterproof Jacket

Not sure what to look for in a good running jacket? Check out these FAQs:

• What Is A DWR Coating?
• What Is The Hydrostatic Head?
• What Do The Breathability Ratings Mean?

Best Trail Running Waterproof Jacket By Rab

Rab Kinetic Ultra Waterproof Jacket

This is one of the most breathable waterproof jackets on the market, but it’s not the most waterproof. It will handle showers, and drizzle, but not endless torrential rain. If your priority is being comfortable, and the jacket not filling with sweat, this will be a fantastic jacket for you.

Best Trail Running Waterproof Jacket By inov-8

inov-8 Stormshell V2 Waterproof Running Jacket

This is a new version of the popular trail and ultra running jacket from inov-8, and it’s even more lightweight!

The Stormshell has both high waterproof and breathability ratings, making this a fantastic jacket.

You may find the old version (which is still a great jacket!) available on offer, although the size selection is limited to the stock they have left.

The Best Lightweight Trail Running Waterproof Jacket By Montane

Montane Minimus Lite Waterproof Jacket

This running jacket from Montane is just what you need when going out for a wet and windy run, whether that’s on the mountains, or just around the park.

This is a lightweight jacket, although not as lightweight as the inov-8 Stormshell, it does have the same waterproof and breathability ratings as that jacket. However, it has the bonus of hand pockets, which the Stormshell lacks.

The Best Trail Running Waterproof Jacket By OMM

OMM Kamleika Running Jacket

This is a lovely fitting waterproof trail running jacket from OMM. It is lightweight and breathable, with a good amount of stretch, so it’s comfortable to wear and easy to move in.

Best Gore-Tex Trail Running Jacket from Montane

Montane Phase Lite Waterproof Jacket

Another jacket from Montane has made this list of best trail running waterproof jackets. This jacket may look similar to the Montane Minimus Lite, but this one is a heavier, tougher jacket made from 30 Denier Gore-Tex Active material. It is a higher spec jacket, with a higher price, but will serve you well if you’re often out in very heavy rain.

What Is A DWR Coating?

A DWR coating stands for Durable Water Repellent coating. It’s a special treatment applied to the outer surface of fabrics, including trail running jackets, to make them water-resistant.

DWR coatings work by causing water to bead up and roll off the fabric instead of soaking into it. This helps prevent the fabric from becoming saturated and allows the jacket to remain lightweight and breathable in wet conditions.

Over time, the effectiveness of DWR coatings can diminish due to wear and exposure to the elements, but they can often be rejuvenated through washing and reproofing.

What Is The Hydrostatic Head?

Hydrostatic head, often abbreviated as HH, is a measurement used to indicate the water-resistance of a fabric, such as the material used in waterproof jackets.

It measures the pressure at which water will start to penetrate the fabric. The measurement is typically given in millimeters (mm). For example, if a fabric has a hydrostatic head rating of 10,000mm (or HH), it means the fabric can withstand the pressure exerted by a column of water 10,000mm (or 10 meters) tall before water begins to penetrate through the fabric.

A higher hydrostatic head rating indicates a higher level of water resistance.

What Do The Breathability Ratings Mean?

Breathability ratings of waterproof jackets refer to the ability of the fabric to allow moisture vapor (such as sweat) to escape from the inside of the jacket while preventing water from entering from the outside.

Breathability is measured in grams per square meter per 24 hours (g/m²/24h). A higher breathability rating indicates that the fabric allows more moisture to pass through, making the jacket more comfortable during high-intensity activities like trail running.

It’s important to note that breathability and waterproofness are often a bit of a trade-off – as a fabric becomes more waterproof, its breathability might be compromised to some extent.

Manufacturers often use advanced fabric technologies and design features to find a balance between keeping you dry from the rain and allowing your body’s moisture to escape.

Have You Found The Best Waterproof Trail Running Jacket?

Hopefully you have found this article helpful and have found the perfect trail running waterproof jacket, although you may have found it hard to choose between the different tempting options?

If you haven’t found a running jacket you like the look of take a look at these other articles to help you find the right one:

• The Best Running Jackets For Men
• The Best Women’s Waterproof Running Jackets in the UK
• The Best Men’s Waterproof Running Jackets in the UK