Comparison Review: Considering your running style, the perfect winter running jacket

On the previous page, we introduced the rankings of the compared models, a list of their ratings and specifications, and our recommendations based on that. From here, we will provide additional information about the ratings, the criteria used, and why we came to those ratings

Detailed review of each item

Heat retention

The North Face's insulation is outstanding. In low temperatures and with a moderate wind, you won't feel cold while running or even if you stop a few times. In fact, it was almost too hot for me to use for running. On the other hand, the Outdoor Research only has padding around the entire torso, so of course it doesn't have much insulation. When you're standing still, it feels cool from your back to your arms, and you can feel the sweat wicking away from your base layer, which cools you down quickly. However, once you start running, it's an excellent balance of not feeling cold

THE NORTH FACE uses stretch material only on the sides of the torso and inside the arms, maintaining high heat retention

Breathability (comfort)

Naturally, warmth is an important feature of cold weather clothing, but when it comes to active insulation, it's also extremely important to be able to concentrate on running in a comfortable environment without feeling cold. In that respect, Outdoor Research created an environment that was neither too hot nor too cold, with just the right amount of warmth and breathability. Of course, since the padding is only in the front of the torso, it's only natural that it has higher breathability than other models, but it does provide the optimal balance of comfort. In this respect, Patagonia also excels, providing a warmer environment

The back of the Patagonia Outdoor Research jacket is designed for maximum breathability

mobility

In terms of mobility, all models offer a level of freedom for stress-free running. However, the Outdoor Research offers a level of freedom that is unmatched. The other models also offer no stress when trail running. Even when wearing a jacket over it, the Outdoor Research maintains greater mobility than the other models thanks to the overall thinness of the fabric. On the other hand, the Salomon itself is made of a thicker fabric, so when wearing a shell jacket or similar over it, the fabric feels a bit stiff and restricts movement

Outdoor Research is made of stretchy material in areas such as the shoulders, back, and elbows, which tend to become tight when moving, allowing for excellent mobility

Functionality

All models except Salomon have pockets on both sides of the waist, but they feel weakly made, so they're best used as hand warmers rather than for carrying heavy items like smartphones. The Salomon has a sturdy pocket on the left chest, and I actually put my smartphone in it while running, and it didn't seem to be a problem

The only packable product is The North Face, which is about the size of a 500ml plastic bottle, so it can be put in a bag as emergency thermal clothing

When you put it in your pocket, it's about the size of a 500ml plastic bottle

weight

According to the actual manufacturer's weight estimates, The North Face is overwhelmingly lighter, and the feeling when wearing it and running is consistent with that impression. The next best in terms of manufacturer's weight estimates is Patagonia, followed by Outdoor Research, but Outdoor Research feels lighter when actually wearing it. The manufacturer's weight estimates are 286g and 321g, respectively, but the actual measurements were 267g and 275g, so there wasn't much difference, and perhaps this is due to the smaller insulation and greater mobility. Patagonia isn't heavy either, but its volume may make it feel heavier to the touch

summary

This time, we compared active insulation ranging from those that prioritize warmth to those that prioritize breathability. People enjoy riding in a variety of ways, from leisurely rides with friends while admiring the scenery to more rigorous riding. The best choice also varies greatly depending on the season

For me, the best choice is Outdoor Research, because I often run alone, steadily, and under a lot of strain, so unless it's extremely cold, it feels the most comfortable. The feeling of not being "cold, not hot" while running was quite refreshing. However, I'm not confident wearing just this jacket, so if I'm going into the mountains, I'll definitely bring a rain jacket

On the other hand, The North Face jackets get quite warm when you run hard, so I recommend them for cold seasons or gentle winter runs. However, with some fine adjustments, such as opening and closing the zipper, I think this jacket can be used in a wide range of seasons, so in that sense it's a reliable piece. I think it's the best choice for people who want to carry less and do a lot of stop-and-go running

The Patagaonia is positioned as a well-balanced model that falls somewhere in between. It creates a warm enough environment, so if you're not sure how to use it or what purpose it will serve, you won't regret choosing the Patagaonia. It's extremely well-balanced

Finally, for outerwear for road running, I recommend Salomon. It's stylish enough to blend in with the city, and functional enough for when you're not doing intense movements, so I think it's the most natural look for city runs

If your body gets cold, you're more likely to get injured and get tired, so be sure to take proper measures to protect yourself from the cold and enjoy the winter trails to the fullest!

Takashi Yokoyama

Living in Yakushima, a beautiful environment with both sea and mountains, he is a boy (at heart!) who loves nature, from skin diving, mountain climbing, cycling, bouldering to trail running. He is currently interested in American trail running culture, and is training daily with the goal of completing the Western States Endurance Run and Hardrock 100, two of America's biggest races. He continues to take on various challenges with the motto, "Just give it a try." He is also an avid mole lover

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