How to Pick the Best Running Jacket for the Rain

Whether you're training for a big event or just trying to keep your exercise consistent, you shouldn't allow the rain to slow you down. Besides, running in the rain can be a fun, exhilarating experience. But if you need to run in wet weather and would rather not get soaked, a water-resistant or waterproof jacket could be just what you need to keep you dry and comfortable.

Simply put, the difference between waterproof and water-resistant jackets is how long each type keeps water out. Waterproof jackets will never allow pouring rain to penetrate the jacket's material, while water-resistant jackets allow some moisture in after prolonged exposure to precipitation. As a general rule, you can expect the most water-resistant jackets to keep you dry for about 35 to 45 minutes.

While keeping water out is key, a jacket's breathability can be just as important. A jacket that doesn't breathe well may cause you to overheat and feel clammy, even on a cold day. Maintaining a comfortable body temperature is vital to running success. A quality, breathable running jacket allows sweat vapor to escape through the material, which reduces sweat buildup on your skin.

The ideal rain-ready running jacket has to keep water out while allowing body heat to escape, which is not an easy feat. The best waterproof running jackets will keep you dry and comfortable indefinitely. These jackets will generally start at about $200, and the price goes up with added features or more advanced technologies.

Water-resistant running jackets generally cost quite a bit less than waterproof jackets. Not only are water-resistant jackets less expensive, but they're also more breathable than their waterproof counterparts. This makes them an ideal option if you tend to run hot or are not looking to run in the rain for more than about 45 minutes.

Ultimately, finding the right rain jacket will depend on a few key factors. Your answers to these three questions will determine which jacket will be best for you:

• How long will you usually run in the rain?
• What will the temperature be like?
• How much will it rain?

If it's 15¡C or warmer, you probably won't need a jacket. You can just run in your normal running clothes, realizing they will get soaked through and a little heavy. If you're dead set on protecting yourself from the rain, wear a vest instead of a jacket.

If you're running for less than an hour, the temperature is the most important factor. A water-resistant jacket will be more breathable than a waterproof jacket, so if it's between 10-15¡C, you'll be better off in a water-resistant jacket. Once the temperature drops below 10¡C, you might want to wear a warmer layer under a water-resistant jacket or a waterproof jacket over a lighter layer of clothing.

If you really want to keep the rain out, you'll need a waterproof jacket. Keep in mind that you may feel damp under the jacket, but that will be due to sweat, not rain. So while you may feel wet, you won't be getting chilled from the cold water. A great moisture-wicking base layer will help prevent that damp and clammy feeling. A waterproof jacket using GORE-TEX will also help increase breathability while remaining completely waterproof.

When it might rain for part of your run, your jacket choice largely depends on whether or not the sun will come out. As long it's only raining for a short period of time, say 20 minutes or less interspersed with sunshine, then go with a water-resistant jacket. The periods of sunshine will allow the jacket to dry enough to keep the water out. However, if it will be a dreary day and you plan to run longer than an hour, go with a waterproof jacket that will continue to keep the rain out. A packable waterproof jacket will keep the rain out completely during storms, but it's compact enough that you can remove it and pack it down once the rain has passed.