Love them or just love their function, a jacket is a staple in any runner's wardrobe, especially in Vancouver. Choosing the right option can be daunting, especially if you want something that will last you through to spring and beyond. Before committing, it’s worthwhile thinking about what you plan on wearing your jacket for, and which of the elements you want the most protection from.

Are you looking for something you can easily take on a trail run as an extra layer of protection from the wind and rain? Something to throw on to get you to and from a Flight Crew run? Or are you looking for a warm layer against the chilly seawall breeze?

Whatever the weather, let us guide you through some of the best options for every occasion...

PACKABLE JACKETS

Perfect for: throwing in your pack on a trail run, layering over a short sleeve on a mild, wet day on the seawall.
Key features: lightweight, portable, water resistant

What we say: a must-have for any trail runner year-round, packable jackets are great for those indecisive days when you don’t want to commit to the weather. The Salomon Fast Wing Hoodie folds into it’s own pocket making it small enough to toss into your pack, or tuck into your waistband if the weather changes mid-run. Bright colours ensure you stand out in the trails, and its water and wind resistant qualities will keep the elements at bay for the duration of your run. For early morning or evening runs on the road, the reflectivity of the Pearl Izumi Pursuit Barrier Hoody will keep you visible to cars.

WARM JACKETS

Perfect for: keeping the chill out on frosty mornings, getting to and from a run or workout
Key features: warm, insulating, form fitting

What we say: lucky for Vancouver dwellers, many warm jackets also have an element of water resistance about them too. The stretch in the Newline Iconic Protect men’s jacket makes it perfect for pairing with a long sleeve on colder winter days, and the reflective pattern on the water resistant front panel keep you pavement safe and dry. The snug fit keeps you warm before, during and after your run - a perfect transition piece from the road to the post-run beers.

For women, the Adidas Ultra Energy jacket has a droptail hem for coverage, while the tailored fit ensures a cozy run - perfect for layering on top of a form fitting base layer. Both jackets have stand collars to keep the winter chill off your neck.

WATERPROOF/WATER RESISTANT JACKETS

Perfect for: rainy days, whatever the season
Key features: waterproof/water resistant, breathable, lightweight

What we say: very few running jackets are truly waterproof as they wouldn’t offer the level of breathability needed for an enjoyable run, but pair a water resistant shell with a light merino-blend base layer and enjoy the comfort of a perfectly regulated body temperature throughout your workout. The Newline Imotion Warm women's jacket is both wind and water-resistant, and has a thermal lining for those days when the weather makes you want to throw in the towel. The adjustable cord string waist adds definition and keeps things snug when the wind picks up.

Using their AdvancedSkin Dry technology, the Salomon Park Waterproof Hoody offers a high level of protection against the elements, with the added bonus of being lightweight and highly reflective. With waterproof zips and an adjustable hood, even Vancouver’s wettest days are no match for this running jacket.

FASHION/UNCONVENTIONAL JACKETS

Perfect for: protection from the elements in unconventional pieces
Key features: fashionable yet functional

What we say: if you’re a running apparel addict, or just looking for something a little outside of the norm try the Newline Imotion Printed Poncho. Team it over a long sleeve for the perfect accompaniment to a blustery fall run, or a stroll along the seawall on a lazy Sunday - the printed graphic design and flattering fit make it a perfect crossover piece for when you can’t quite justify another piece of running attire.

Stay warm and look the part in the Salomon Elevate zip-through hoody, which boasts soft, ribbed fabric with water resistant shoulder panels and hood in perfectly contrasting patterns.

If you're still feeling spoilt for choice, it always comes down to one key feature: comfort. As a runner, you know what you like from your gear and even if you want something to protect you from everything the elements could throw at you, the perfect fit and confidence in what you are wearing will go a long way to making sure you always love the run.