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For running in dry or windy conditions: a lightweight windproof running jacket, worn over a first layer, will be sufficient to protect you from the cold and prevent heat loss. This type of windbreaker is thin and compressible, making it easy to pack in a bag. If it's also treated to be water-repellent, it will come in handy in light rain, while remaining highly breathable.
For a race in light rain or a little snowfall: a water-repellent trail jacket will be ideal, as it will protect you from drops of water without the textile becoming waterlogged, while remaining breathable. A water-repellent running jacket can be worn directly over a first layer.
For a race in heavy rain: a waterproof trail jacket in Gore-Tex membrane or similar will be needed to protect you from strong wind, water and moisture, while maintaining good breathability.
For running in low-visibility conditions (gray skies, night runs): a reflective running jacket with retroreflective elements on the front and back is essential for visibility.
Waterproofing: Make sure the jacket offers effective water protection to keep you dry during your runs in the rain.
Breathability: Choose a jacket that wicks away perspiration to keep you cool and dry during exercise.
Wind protection: Check whether the jacket features windproof technology to protect you from gusts and maintain your body temperature.
Thermoregulation: Choose a jacket that offers good temperature regulation, protecting you from the cold while avoiding excessive overheating.
Weight: Choose a lightweight jacket that won't weigh you down while you're running, and facilitates your freedom of movement.
Size and comfort: Make sure the jacket fits snugly and offers a good level of comfort to avoid chafing or restricted movement.
Finishes and accessories: Check the details of the jacket, such as sealed seams, practical pockets, reflective elements for better visibility, and so on.
Waterproofing is the essential criterion when choosing a trail jacket. It corresponds to a jacket's ability to prevent the penetration of rain, snow and moisture inside the garment, thanks to a hydrophilic membrane or coating applied to the textile. It's important to consider the waterproofness of the fabric as well as that of the seams and zips.
The waterproofness of a fabric is measured in Schmerber units, which range from 0 to 30,000. This index represents a fabric's resistance to the pressure exerted by a column of water 1 mm high. The higher the index, the more waterproof the fabric. For example, a trail jacket with a waterproof rating of 10,000 mm, considered waterproof, will withstand a column of water 10 meters high. A running jacket is considered perfectly waterproof from 20,000 Schmerber.
It's important to note, however, that the more waterproof a running jacket is, the heavier it can be and the less breathable it will be. A running jacket that manages to combine optimum waterproofing and breathability will therefore generally be more expensive. It's also important to distinguish between a waterproof running jacket and a waterproof trail jacket, the latter offering little or no breathability.