WHO MAKES THE BEST WOMEN’S WATERPROOF RUNNING JACKET?

Arc’teryx does. Most mountain athletes trail run in some form or another, so it only makes sense that the best mountain clothing brand also makes the best lightweight waterproof running jackets. But we do more than women's running jackets, including shoes, base layers, hoodys, toques, and hats. We have running in our DNA at Arc’teryx, and Arc’teryx performance is in the DNA of every lightweight waterproof running jacket we make.

Here are a few standout items from the Arc’teryx trail running line. It’s more than a waterproof breathable running jacket because we need more than jackets to take us to the top. Slip on our shoes. Put on our caps. Run like the wind.

TOP WOMEN’S RUNNING JACKETS & TRAIL RUNNING PRODUCTS

THE BEST RUNNING JACKET FOR WOMEN. FULL STOP. | ARC’TERYX NORVAN HOODY

Finding your rhythm while running is like a little gift from the universe. That steady cadence. The pace that finds you rather than the other way around. Tapping into the flow state. Forest bathing with the birds. It’s glorious.

The seasons like to shape our runs too: wind, rain, sleet, and snow. When you love running like we do, doing it all year means a little preparation goes a long way, so we invented the world’s best women's windproof running jacket.

The Norvan is named after North Vancouver, our home and home to incredible trails. It’s a light, breathable GORE-TEX shell for trail runs and high-output mountain activities like XC skiing or cycling. Anything that requires protection that meets the exceptional demands of an elite mountain athlete, even if you may not be one.

Weighing mere ounces, the Norvan delivers windproof, waterproof protection in a lightweight, efficient run-specific shell. Made from GORE-TEX fabric with GORE C-KNIT™ backer technology, it is quiet and highly breathable. The trim fit minimizes bulk, articulation adds freedom of movement, and the fitted hood provides additional coverage.

This is our best running jacket for women who go the distance.

ALREADY HAVE THE BEST WATERPROOF ULTRA RUNNING JACKET? ADD A TOQUE. | ARC’TERYX RHO LIGHTWEIGHT WOOL TOQUE

Sometimes it’s the little things that make the biggest difference. This low-profile, highly versatile Merino wool toque is the perfect complement to even the best waterproof running jackets.

This is a high-performance must-have toque that stuffs easily into a pocket or running jacket with hand covers. Rho delivers efficient thermal performance across a range of temperatures.

Light and breathable, its Merino wool fabric is naturally comfortable, stays warm even when soaked, and is blended with elastane fibres to hold the streamlined fit and shape. It all adds up to a future favourite toque. Top off your kit in style.

A LEGENDARY WOMEN’S TRAIL RUNNING JACKET | ARC’TERYX ATOM LT HOODY

Long before we even had a trail running line, the Atom LT was a go-to for fleet-footed mountain folk. As a light and versatile synthetically insulated hoody, you can use this mid layer as a standalone trail running partner.

Built to handle a range of conditions and output levels, the latest-generation Atom LT’s Coreloft™ Compact insulation retains its warmth even if wet. It also has loft retention to withstand years of packing and unpacking.

The water-resistant Tyono™ 20 face fabric is breathable and durable, stretch side panels improve fit and freedom, and the insulated StormHood™ adds warmth. As a breathable running jacket for women, this is an all-around, all-season contender.

TRAIL RUNNING SHOES THAT GO LONG. | ARC’TERYX NORVAN LD 3

Bring your best waterproof running jacket because these shoes intend to run through the weather and keep going until you can’t. The Norvan LD 3 is a supportive trail running shoe for lasting comfort on extended runs.

Settle in for the long run with an optimal blend of comfort, lightweight, support, and grip for your most ambitious trail runs.

Advanced materials like the Vibram® Litebase sole and InFuse® midsole shed grams, and the grippy Vibram® Megagrip outsole’s aggressive 4mm lug pattern delivers a confident bite.

The upper is breathable and durable. The dual-layer internal construction minimizes friction. The toebox is sized to accommodate splay. The heel and forefoot stack absorbs shock. See? We thought of it all. Put it on. We’ll see you tomorrow.

IT’S NOT A WATERPROOF RUNNING VEST. IT’S BETTER. | ARC’TERYX ATOM LT VEST

A waterproof vest makes no sense, but the Atom LT Vest totally does. Light, warm, and highly versatile, this insulation performs as a standalone and mid layer. It’s a proven performer across a range of seasons, landscapes, and activities. Like any uniquely awesome piece of gear, vests have their fans and detractors. If you know the freedom of a good vest in the field, you know how well they can help you find your flow.

Elevated with advanced insulation and material technologies, Coreloft™ Compact synthetic insulation retains warmth when wet. It withstands years of packing and unpacking. The breathable, durable Tyono™ 20 shell resists wind and light weather.

Stretch fleece side panels aid ventilation and freedom, and the entire vest packs into its own pocket. Feel the freedom of no sleeves now.

THIS IS THE BEST INSULATED WOMEN'S WINDPROOF RUNNING HOODY | ARC’TERYX NORVAN INSULATED HOODY

A suite of features and multiple fabrics come together in this beautiful piece made for trail running. The Norvan Insulated Hoody combines stretch, airflow, and weather protection so you can get out in the worst weather and put kilometres in comfortably.

Created specifically to manage unpredictable weather, the Norvan Hoody frees you to focus on the run, and isn’t that why we do this, for focus and movement?

This best lightweight running jacket for women uses air-permeable recycled polyester fabric to stretch with you. It provides light warmth in cool situations. Allows cooling airflow in warm situations. And allows movement in all situations.

Weather protection comes from windproof, water-repellent, highly breathable GORE-TEX INFINIUM™ panels at the shoulders and chest. The minimalist design is lightweight and articulated for freedom of movement. You will be able to soar through the forest with ease.

Crafted at a Fair Trade Certified facility. Arc’teryx is working hard to transition 80% of its products through Fair Trade Certification by 2025.

ANOTHER UNDER-THE-RADAR WINTER RUNNING JACKET WOMEN HAVE BEEN USING FOR DECADES | ARC’TERYX SQUAMISH HOODY

The legendary Arc’teryx windshell was built for mild but shifting conditions in the namesake town it represents. Squamish, B.C. is home to climbers, hikers, and skiers, and is a unique place where mountains meet the coast. It’s also chock full of trails always being run by smiling happy people in, you guessed it, this hoody.

Over time, the Squamish Hoody has proven itself as essential, packable wind protection. Made with Tyono™ 30 nylon, an advanced, highly wind-resistant fabric that offers surprising strength for its weight, the Squamish Hoody features ultralight minimalist construction.

Add an adjustable Stormhood™, No Slip Zip™, dual hem adjustments, and a chest pocket so you can easily stash it in itself and then in a pack, or clip it to a harness. Chances are you’ll just wear it. Always. Everywhere.

CAP OFF THE PERFECT WOMEN’S WINDPROOF RUNNING JACKET WITH CALVUS | ARC’TERYX CALVUS CAP

Keep the hair in check. Stop the sweat. Hold the sunshine back. Repel the rain. A good running hat is almost standard issue these days, and there are many to choose from. But don’t just go on looks alone. Just like our simple, lightweight waterproof running jackets, there’s way more going on underneath the surface with the Calvus Cap from Arc’teryx.

This lightweight cap with DWR (durable water repellent) treatment provides sun protection and moisture management during fast-paced runs in warm conditions.

Designed for mountain training across a range of conditions, the Calvus Cap provides sun protection, water resistance, and moisture management on the move.

The Socora™ polyester fabric is light, air permeable, and wicks moisture. Polydel™ mesh side panels and the Spacermesh™ sweatband add next-level comfort, and a DWR (Durable Water Repellent) treatment adds a layer of protection from light rain. The adjustable stretch closure strap with a low-profile quick-release buckle secures the fit without binding. Because—as every dedicated runner knows—you have to keep your head straight to keep your feet moving.

THANKFUL FOR SHEEP AND THE SOCKS THEY GIVE US | ARC’TERYX MERINO WOOL LOW CUT SOCK

For centuries, people who live in the mountains have looked to Merino wool to help them stay warm and comfortable in the elements. Fast forward to all the modern-day miracle fabrics that go into something like the best waterproof running jackets, and it’s incredible that we still rely on the humble sheep to make the best socks we can get.

These light, technical trail socks offer focused cushioning and natural performance for your trail run. Traveling on technical trails that spread through difficult mountain ranges often requires performance underfoot.

Constructed from a blend of Merino wool, the ultra-fine yarns combine Merino’s inherent wicking and thermal management with nylon for durability.

Light, soft, and breathable, their construction delivers exceptional fit and support, and the low cut provides freedom and a clean profile.

Put these between your shoes and your feet and you’ll be thanking the sheep at kilometre 17.

PART OF THE BEAUTIFUL (AND HIGH PERFORMING) NORVAN TRAIL RUNNING FAMILY | ARC’TERYX NORVAN CAP

Another cap from Arc’teryx, the Norvanis named after our flagship running line. As part of our technical trail running system that focuses on freedom of movement and moisture management, Norvan leads the way with shoes, women's windproof running jackets, and this beautiful cap, an ultralight and exceptionally air-permeable hat made from Airshell for the hottest summer adventures.

Highly air permeable and fast drying, the Airshell stretch double weave keeps you cool and comfortable and has a DWR treatment to repel moisture.

The brim is made from EVA foam to keep it light and packable, a sweatband is built in, and the single-pull adjustment lets you easily shift the fit on the fly. Whoosh.

RUNNING DOWN THE CLOCK IN SUMMERTIME | ARC’TERYX TAEMA HOODY

Hot days call for the best women’s running jackets, and sometimes a hoody is what fits best, physically and metaphorically. Plus, there’s just something so comforting about a good hoody. Enter the Taema.

This light, breathable wicking hoody provides protection from the mountain sun and the UV rays that haunt us at elevation and in general. The Taema Hoody is airy, comfortable, and designed for freedom of movement, so it’s a trail running partner you can also take out for coffee.

Taema wicks away moisture on hot days. Its hood fits over your helmet. Thumb loops hold sleeves in place. Low-profile seams are comfortable under a pack during those big ultra pushes.

Crafted at a Fair Trade Certified facility. Arc’teryx is working hard to transition 80% of its products through Fair Trade Certification by 2025.

WHERE CAN I BUY THE BEST WOMEN’S WATERPROOF RUNNING JACKET?

Runners are particular about their gear. It takes a lot to get up and going in the AM or after work, and the gear we choose matters, from the best women's trail running jackets to Merino socks to the women’s waterproof running jackets that Arc’teryx makes. But where to get it?

As one of the leading trail running brands, Arc’teryx has waterproof breathable running jackets that can be found in over 2,400 retail outlets around the world, and online 24/7. There’s simply no reason to buy inferior women’s running coats. So where to start? We’ll show you.

CLOSEST TO HOME: YOUR LOCAL SHOP

Find Arc’teryx ladies running jackets anywhere there is a quality running-focused shop. The best part of a small shop is the service you receive; there are few things more valuable than a friendly local who understands the weather and terrain of your particular locale. They are best suited to help you pick a thermal running jacket for women's running needs. A shop employee from your area will help pick the exact women's windproof running jacket that you need. It doesn’t get much more valuable than that.

Another reason to go local for the best women’s running jackets is fit and feel. The way it drapes and moves on your body is the key to feeling confident, comfortable, and sharp. Fit affects function too. Our gear’s fit can affect how well it performs, especially when it comes to a highly dynamic sport like running, and even more so with trail running, where you have to avoid more obstacles. Use a local shop to get the perfect fit, and never worry about performance again.

Warranty is another reason. In the unlikely event of a warranty issue, the shop you trust is situated in a great spot to help you in person, rather than having to chat over the phone or web. Phones suck. So does the web, unless...

CLOSE TO EVERYONE: ARCTERYX ONLINE STORE

So you can’t get to a store. We get it, life is busy and having the luxury of time to run to the running store is rare for some. That’s OK. The Arc’teryx online store is always there for runners. Start with free shipping to destinations within Canada, USA, Germany, and UK, among others. Check out the website for the full list. We ship to a bunch of places.

Follow up with free returns. With free shipping and a bit of patience, all the anxiety of ordering online can be left in your wake. The super detailed sizing guide allows ordering without fear.

Another reason to order online? It’s where we keep everything. The Arc’teryx online store is where you’ll find the full spectrum of our products, including women’s running coats, running jackets, and thermal running jackets for women on the run (in the cold).

CLOSE TO AWESOME: ARC'TERYX RETAIL STORES

Lots of places will have our women's windproof running jackets, but few will be as beautiful and inspiring to visit as the Arc’teryx retail stores. Not only do we stock the best women’s waterproof running jackets, but we also stock the whole range of the best Arc’teryx running jackets.

By and far, Arc’teryx retail stores are the easiest location to find knowledgeable, friendly staff to curate the absolute best breathable waterproof jacket in the world, for you. The staff are trained in Arc’teryx gear specifically, and they know the lineup inside out. All you have to do is show up, tell them what you need, and watch them go to work.

CLOSEOUT DEALS: ARC'TERYX OUTLET

Let’s just say it: gear can be expensive. If you’re seeking deep discounts on gear that takes you deep into the forest in search of inspiring stretches of dirt ribbons, then don’t discount the Arc’teryx Outlet option. This is where you get deals on bags, harnesses, clothing, and, of course, the best women's running jackets. Arc’teryx Outlets are a great source for every kind of jacket.

Flexibility is a good reason to shop at an outlet, as there are both online and brick-and-mortar options. If you live in Vancouver or New York and need to try it on, get on down. If you live in a far flung, “don’t tell anyone about this place” kind of town, well Arc’teryx can ship there too...and you can trust us to keep your secret. Shhhh.

Either way, the Arc’teryx Outlets keep the deals coming on a regular basis, so visit often for discounts on the best lightweight waterproof running jackets and more. Plus, free shipping.

ARE WATERPROOF RUNNING JACKETS BREATHABLE?

The best women's running jacket must be breathable. As maybe the highest-output activity most people do, running—and trail running in particular—can make you perspire like a North Vancouver rainstorm. A women's windproof running jacket will keep the biting breeze away while still allowing the moisture to escape through a membrane fabric like GORE-TEX softshell.

The absolute best running jacket women can buy is the Arc’teryx Norvan, made from GORE-TEX fabric with GORE C-KNIT™ backer technology. Why? It’s highly breathable. Plus, it’s quiet which is helpful to the pace when you’re moving through the woods. There’s just something about the sound of the outdoors and your measured breath which elevates a trail run. The more your jacket breathes, the less work you’ll do in the end. Temperatures will also stay regulated. The key to any high-output activity is always breathability first.

Do you run hot? Does even the idea of the best running waterproof jacket make you sweat? Try a softshell layer or even a long sleeve like the Arc’teryx Taema Hoody or Motus AR Zip Neck LS.

WHAT ARE THE BEST MATERIALS FOR A WATERPROOF RUNNING JACKET?

GORE-TEX THREE-LAYER CONSTRUCTION

To be truly waterproof, you need layers not only under your rain running jacket for women but in the actual material itself. Gore knows best and creates a three-layer fabric that is fully waterproof. Look for it in the Norvan LT Hoody, a standout waterproof breathable running jacket from our celebrated Norvan line of trail running products. It delivers complete weather protection, something you may need if running in what some people call the “off-season.”

GORE C-KNIT™

This is the stuff we put on the inside of women’s windproof running jackets. It’s called backer, and this version from Gore is light, soft, and comfortable. When you move like a runner, your clothes need to move with you for comfort on the long pushes. There’s simply no way you can have abrasion against the skin. That’s why we use backer technology, and we use the best.

GORE-TEX INFINIUM™

Softshells are the best for the women’s running jackets. They are flexible, wind-resistant, water-resistant, and built to move. We use GORE-TEX INFINIUM™ in the panels and main material of different models of ladies running jackets. It helps keep us exploring new-to-us paths in a world of running apparel that aims to stay on the concrete. The best ladies running jackets on the market use this fabric, so you’ll see it throughout our line of best women's running jackets.