The 6 Best Winter Running Jackets That Keep You Insulated on Your Run

ProsBody-mapped insulationStylish cutConsSlim fit makes for limited layering“When I tried on this jacket, I was surprised by how well cut and flattering it looked, compared to other boxy jackets (or, you know, ragged sweatshirts) I’ve worn to stay comfy when it’s cold outside,” said one of our testers. This jacket is still our top pick, with a hemline that hits right at the hip, stretchy material on the sides, and sleek (yet still warm) padding through the torso. And the sleeves—which feature thumb holes—end perfectly at the wrists.Everyone we talked to loves the fit and cut of this jacket, even with the slim, sleek tailoring, it never felt like it restricted our tester’s range of motion. It’s a bummer that men get left out of this combo of fit and insulation, and we’d love to see a men’s version at some point. Otherwise, be aware that the slim fit does make for trickier layering, and you won’t be able to wear heavier mid layers underneath.ProsThoughtful features and durable build for a good priceBody-mapped insulation for a range of temperatures ConsSome people might prefer a hooded optionYes, there are cheaper options for a running jacket. Target and TJ Maxx have a wide range of active insulation layers, and Baleaf is one of my go-to dupe brands. But considering this category requires strong performance in multiple areas (breathable insulation, durable face fabric, dedicated fit for layering), REI’s Swiftland is the winner for best value. Running jackets can be a pricey category, and $100 for this high-performing piece is a good deal.The Swiftland brings together the features, materials, and fit of much more expensive options. The articulated arms allow for excellent range of motion, and it has thoughtful pocket placement, thumb holes, and a soft zipper guard. The body-mapped design helps vent and release moisture in key areas like at the back and under the arms, and the 40 grams of synthetic insulation around the core is streamlined for layering with enough warmth to cut down on chill from both air temp and wind. I can wear a shell over this jacket fairly easily, and it fits a next-to-skin layer underneath without binding up at the arms.*The men’s Swiftland Insulated Running Jacket is almost sold out, however, the half-zip version is currently available in most sizes.Advertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsNatural insulation won't trap odorsHighly breathableComfortably slim fittingConsToo warm outside of deep winterUnless you live in the northernmost parts of the country, you won’t spend much time in an insulated running jacket because most often you turn into a soggy mess under that bulk. I’ve found the new VLVInsulator Jacket mostly solves that, even on days that only dip into the 20s Fahrenheit. Largely that’s due to smart placement of ventilated panels as well as the use of breathable materials.To keep you comfortably dry, the VLVInsulator has a mesh panel down the middle of the back, which lets heat escape through a vented flap on the jacket’s outer shell. And fleecy panels under the arms and down the sides do the same in those high sweat zones, while also making the jacket feel extremely comfortable.The insulation is a combination of wool and silk, so it’ll keep you warm even when it gets damp, but won’t build up nasty odors if you wear it a bunch between washings (guilty here). And the fit of the jacket keeps you fully covered, even in blizzard-like conditions. I first wore it during a snowstorm. I usually don’t like to zip a jacket up over my chin, but I forgot a Buff at home so took my chances. I appreciated the tall collar and snug fitting hood that stayed put around me and kept the white stuff out where it belonged.One feature I especially appreciated was the elastic cinches around the waistline. That feature alone is nothing new, but rather than use those plastic cord locks that you find on nearly every running jacket, the VLVInsulator has a keyhole-like grommet in the hem. You can quickly adjust the tightness and lock it in place by pulling the cord into the narrower opening in the grommet.Shop Men’s at cieleathletics.comShop Women’s at cieleathletics.comKey SpecsEstimated Temp Range0 to 25 FWeather FeaturesWater-repellent, insulatedProsRelaxed fit for ideal layeringTargeted panels provide insulationStowableConsWashing causes insulation to wearThe Thermalrunner is built for running in the cold without hampering your stride. The insulated jacket feels remarkably lightweight and has a relaxed fit that’s perfect for donning a baselayer (or two) underneath.The jacket is water- and wind-resistant and hoodless, so you’ll want to accessorize to keep you head covered. But we liked how warm the Thermalrunner kept us, especially when the temperature dropped below freezing.You can stow the Thermalrunner in one of its zippered hand pockets; the jacket has one on both sides and a zippered chest pocket. Bungee toggles on the hem adjust the fit and a zipper garage prevents your chin from getting scratched.*Women’s is currently low in stock.Janji Thermalrunner Insulated Jacket ReviewKey SpecsEstimated Temp Range25 to 40 degrees FWeather FeaturesWeather- and wind-resistant, insulatedAdvertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsVery stretchy and breathableStretch Grid Fleece for insulation and mobilityHighly breathableConsNot waterproofThinner than other jackets on this listSenior Features Editor Pavlína Černá was initially skeptical about the Deviator as a winter jacket. “It’s incredibly light and feels like a bottom layer more than a top one. But I was nothing but positively surprised.”Černá ran in it in temperatures hovering just above freezing with only a t-shirt underneath. “It kept me warm and cozy but not steaming inside as some of my other winter running jackets do. It’s incredibly breathable and great at wicking moisture. I sweat quite a bit once I warm up and the fleecy back panel helped me regulate my temperature. Plus, the fleece material on the sides and the back allows the jacket to stretch and move with your body. ”The hood hugged her face and didn't fall down when her hair was in a ponytail, nor did it feel restrictive.Shop Men’s at backcountry.comShop Women’s at backcountry.comKey SpecsEstimated Temp Range25 to 40 degrees FWeather FeaturesWeather- and wind-resistant, insulatedProsMerino wool provides warmth without bulkThumbholesThis merino wool-lined jacket comes from Smartwool, a pioneer in wool-based performance gear. The lightweight jacket provides heavy-duty warmth thanks to the wool in the insulation and the shell. And although streamlined, the Smartloft has ample storage: two zippered hand pockets and a zippered interior chest pocket. A bonus is the jacket’s use of ZQ-certified merino wool, which guarantees environmental, social, and economic sustainability and promotes animal welfare. This jacket has been on our list for years, and is a versatile piece for a range of temperatures that also looks tailored enough for wearing around town.Shop Men’s at smartwool.comShop Women’s at smartwool.comEstimated Temp Range25 to 40 degrees FWeather FeaturesMerino wool lining, wind- and water-resistant body mappingMaggie Slepian is a full-time freelance writer in the outdoor industry and has tested gear professionally for almost ten years—she is an avid backpacker, trail runner, bikepacker, and horseback rider and has thru-hiked thousands of miles on the Appalachian, Colorado, and Ouachita trails, along with backcountry travel on terrain including coastal trails, the desert, and high alpine peaks. Maggie has written for New York Magazine, Huffington Post, REI, and Outside. She is a columnist with Backpacker Magazine and is the co-founder of BackpackingRoutes.com. Contact her at MaggieSlepian.com.