How To Pick the Best Nike Rain Jacket for Running

Nike signature Storm-FIT Technology uses ultra-fine microfibre polyester and highly breathable laminate to guard against wind and water—all while keeping you warm. Jackets made from this exclusive waterproof material are engineered to protect clothes worn underneath from getting drenched. You'll notice the hoods of these jackets are often equipped with a drawstring cord that cinches at the top and bottom and, in the case of the Nike Sportswear Storm-FIT Legacy, the jacket's hem also features drawstring cords.

This two-and-a-half layer jacket also has adjustable hook-and-loop cuffs, offering further protection from rain to stay dry and comfortable on your run. Small belongings (such as keys and cards) are kept safe in the zip hand pockets, whereas the zip chest pocket can shield electronic devices from the elements.

Versatility reigns supreme when it comes to running rain jackets made from this material. Designed using insights from the Nike Advanced Running Concepts team, jackets made with this technology are smooth, lightweight and can be layered up or down according to your needs. Choose from three-in-one parkas, shells and sweatshirts, some of which are armed with wind and waterproof GORE-TEX technology to keep you comfortable, even amid harsh conditions. Quick-adjust details like hook-and-loop flaps, reflective-ticked elastic cords and two-way zips will make you feel your best as you take on nature's worst.

(Related: What Are the Best Shoes for Rainy Weather?)

Stay dry for miles thanks to Nike Dri-FIT Technology. The Nike Essential Running Jacket, for example, is designed for comfort during light rain. Its water-repellent fabric and elongated hems in the front and back help wick water away from the body. Other water-resisting features include a hood, adjustable hook-and-loop cuffs, front zip pockets that can carry small items and a larger back pocket for storing oversized items, like a hat and a pair of gloves.

Nike Therma-FIT Technology employs heat-regulating fabric that uses your own body heat to keep you warm in cold-weather conditions. The fabric is also water-repellent, making it ideal for stormy weather. Packed with either fluffy synthetic insulation or a more lightweight quilted option, items in this collection were engineered for movement and offer extra room in the sleeves—perfect for layering up or down. Two-way zips, fleece-lined pockets and reversible designs are just a few of the many added bonuses.

Nike GORE-TEX jackets and gilets are made from a microporous material that is lightweight, breathable, windproof and waterproof—making these designs an easy add to your running gear arsenal. A staple from the Nike Trail Collection, the Nike GORE-TEX Infinium™, for example, is made with new technology that is fully windproof and water-resistant, making it suitable for longer runs amid light rain or snow.

The pullover design offers extra protection from the elements, as does the brimmed hood with an adjustable drawstring at the back. The jacket also features two-way underarm zips that unzip down the hem to enhance breathability, plus customisation of the jacket's look and feel. For extra coverage, the jacket comes with a detachable balaclava, an elongated hem at the back and cuffs on the sleeves.

Words by Faith Brar