Jackets? There’s windproof, waterproof, lightweight—take your pick

Photos by Kebs Visuals/Pexels and courtesy of brands

Whether or not there’s a hierarchy that exists among runners, what’s even harder to question is the fact that every runner needs a good running jacket. It’s not about how good you are at running—good gear is simply necessary for anyone who’s tried running. So we’ve compiled a list of one of the most essential pieces for the sport. They can be a bit pricey, sure, but a nice, lightweight outerwear that can protect you from wind and harsh weather conditions is definitely a wise investment.

Adidas Response wind jacket (P2,076)

This lightweight option may seem too basic a piece, but with its sweat-wicking fabric and an added feature of elastic binding on the droptail hem (perfect for extra coverage), you’ll find that it’s actually more of an essential piece. Made with Adidas‘ Climalite fabric (which can sweep away sweat), you’ll be sure to enjoy a cool, comfortable run even in the warmest conditions.

This lightweight jacket may seem too basic but its sweat-wicking fabric and elastic binding on the droptail hem make it an essential piece

Nike Epic training jacket (P2,984)

Another seemingly basic piece, this is a classic from Nike: It’s lightweight, sleek, and features two-side zippered pockets as well as a full zip mock neck to block out unwanted elements.

Another seemingly basic piece but this jacket is a classic from Nike

Brooks LSD jacket (P4,495)

This LSD may as well be the epitome of convenience—at least when it comes to running apparel. Offering both windproof and water-resistant protection, it’s a lightweight jacket that can be packed into its own pocket and even comes with an elastic carry handle. It also has a chin guard and draft flap as well as good retroreflectivity, making it an ideal piece for night running.

The Brooks LSD jacket is lightweight enough that it can be packed into its own pocket

The North Face Windwall jacket (P5,247)

The North Face’s Windwall fabric offers wind protection like no other windbreaker: The material has a mesh liner and makes use of a unique fabric-bonding process that blocks off as much wind as possible. It’s a jacket that, while not necessarily the lightest, is sure to bring you warmth and comfort during hikes.

The North Face Windwall is a jacket that is sure to bring you warmth and comfort during hikes

Craft Brilliant 2.0 light jacket (P5,915)

The Brilliant 2.0 light jacket is a lightweight, high-visibility jacket great for running in dark conditions. Made of wind-repellent fabric and featuring ventilation panels at sweat zones, this is a specialized running jacket that’s perfect for serious runners. It has almost everything: wind protection, retroreflectivity, and body temperature management. Not to mention, it also comes with two front pockets with integrated music and key pockets.

Made of wind-repellent fabric, the Craft Briliant 2.0 is a specialized piece that's perfect for serious runners

Salomon Bonatti Pro waterproof jacket (P10,874)

Here’s something more specialized than Craft’s Brilliant 2.0 light jacket. The Salomon Bonatti Pro, which was named after famous Italian mountaineer Walter Bonatti, is a waterproof jacket especially designed for running in the mountains. Weighing about seven ounces, it easily stows into its chest pocket and can provide enough protection for hours’ worth of running.