Comparative impressions: A winter running jacket perfect for winter running, based on running styles

On the previous page, we introduced a ranking of the models we compared, a list of ratings and specs, and recommendations based on them. From here, we will explain what criteria were used to evaluate the evaluation, and why it was evaluated in that way.

Detailed reviews of each item

Thermal insulation

The North Face has excellent heat retention. If it's low in temperature and is reasonably windy, you won't feel cold even if it's running or even if it stops a little. In fact, it was too hot for running purposes. On the other hand, Outdoor Resarch only has padding on the entire core, so of course it does not have excellent heat retention. When it is stopped, it feels cool from your back to your arms, and you can feel the sweat coming out of the base layer, causing you to suddenly feel cold. However, the perfect balance is amazing, as long as you start running, not cold.

THE NORTH FACE, which uses stretch material only from the side of the trunk to the inside of the arm, maintains high heat retention.

Breathability (comfort)

Of course, heat retention is an important feature when it comes to winter clothing, but with active insulation, it is very important to be able to concentrate on your driving in a comfortable environment without feeling the cold. In that respect, Outdoor Resarch created an exquisite environment with both heat retention and breathability, not too hot or cold. Of course, since the filling is only available on the front of the core, it is obvious that the breathability is higher than other models, but it provides an optimal balance of comfort. Patagonia is also excellent in this regard, providing a one-level warm environment.

The back of Patagonia Outdoor Resarch is designed to be fully breathable.

Mobility

As for mobility, all models are at a level where you can drive without stress. However, the degree of freedom when wearing Outdoor Resarch is outstanding. Other models also do not feel stressed when running trails. Even when wearing the jacket above, Outdoor Resarch is more mobile than other models thanks to the overall thin volume of the fabric. On the other hand, Salomon's fabric is thick, so wearing a shell jacket or something like that on top will cause some stiffness to prevent movement.

Outdoor Resarch is made of stretchy material in the shoulders, back and elbows, which tend to make the fabric tight when you move, and is highly mobility.

Functionality

Models other than Salomon have pockets on both waists, but they seem to be weak in construction, so it's better to assume that they serve as hand warmers rather than always putting in something slightly heavier, such as smartphones. The Salomon has a sturdy pocket on the left chest, and when I actually ran with my smartphone in it, it doesn't seem to be a problem.

The only packable version of The North Face is about the size of a 500ml plastic bottle, so it can be used to put it in your bag as an emergency warmer.

If you put it in your pocket, it will be about the size of a 500ml plastic bottle.

weight

The North Face is overwhelmingly light in actual manufacturer values, and the impression that it feels right when you wear it and run. The runner-up in terms of manufacturer values ​​is Patagonia, followed by Outdoor Resarch, but when you actually wear it, Outdoor Resarch feels lighter. The manufacturer's values ​​were 286g and 321g, but the actual measured values ​​were not much different, at 267g and 275g, and the fact that there is little insulation and high mobility makes this seem like this. The Patagaonia is not too heavy, but the volume may make you feel a sense of weight when you feel it.

summary

This time, we compared the same active insulation, from those that focus on heat retention to those that are breathable. There are many different ways to enjoy it, such as a leisurely style of running around with a large group of friends while looking at the scenery, or a stoic style of making it more stoic. Also, the best choice will vary greatly depending on the season.

My best choice for myself is to keep running alone and under a very heavy load, so unless it's quite cold, Outdoor Resarch was the best choice. It was quite refreshing to see the feeling that it was "not cold or hot" as I was running. However, I'm sure I'm worried about wearing this alone, so if you're going into the mountains, a rain jacket is a must-have.

Conversely, The North Face gets quite warm when you run vigorously, making it especially recommended for slow running in cold seasons and winter. However, even so, by making fine adjustments such as up and down the zipper, this one piece can be used in a wide range of seasons, so in that sense it is a reliable piece. I think this is the best choice for those who want to have less luggage or have a lot of stop and go.

Patagaonia is positioned as a well-balanced model in between. It creates a warm environment, so if you don't know how to use it or what it is, choose Patagonia, you'll never regret it. It's very well balanced.

Finally, if you're going to use as an outerwear for road running, it's Salomon. Without the stylishness that blends in with the city and the intense movement, it will be fully functional, and I think it will be the most natural way to wear it on a street run.

When your body gets cold, you are more likely to get injured and get tired. Take good measures to keep you warm and enjoy the winter trails to the fullest!

Yokoyama Takashi

Living in Yakushima, he is a boy (heart!) who loves nature from free diving, mountain climbing, cycling, bouldering to trail running in this wonderful environment. Currently, it is trending towards American trail running culture. I'm training every day with the goal of completing the American big race, Western States Endurance Run and Hardrock 100. We will continue to take on various challenges with the motto of "I'll give it a try." I love moles unrivaled.

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