The FAVORITE JACKET for outdoor exercise thread.

NorthCascades
NorthCascades Posts: 10,968 Member
edited November 2024 in Fitness and Exercise
For everybody living in the northern hemisphere (and that’s most of humanity), summer is over, the nights are getting longer, and it’s getting colder. The cold is especially hard to deal with this time of year because we’re not adjusted to it yet. But a lot of people don’t want to stop having fun just because it’s getting chilly out.

When you exercise, you make your own heat. You tend to need protection from the elements, but less insulation than you’d want for sitting around a campfire looking at the stars.

So, what jackets (and other outdoor gear) have you had success with, and for what types of exercise?

Replies

  • jjpptt2
    jjpptt2 Posts: 5,650 Member
    For me, cool weather gear is mostly about wind protection. Getting/keeping warm is fairly easy if I can keep the wind off my skin.

    My go-tos are -

    Outdoor Research Deviator hoodie for almost anything off the bike
    Sugoi RS shell for almost anything on the bike
    Polartec fleece for warmth as needed
  • NorthCascades
    NorthCascades Posts: 10,968 Member
    I found a jacket that works perfectly for cycling, running, and skiing (Arc'teryx Accelerometer). High output stuff where I want wind protection but don't want to overheat. They stopped making that jacket, I stocked up and have four of them.
  • BrianSharpe
    BrianSharpe Posts: 9,247 Member
    I've got a couple of ratty old running shells that I got from Running Room (house brand) years ago that are my go to items as the weather cools down and then just layer for the temperature. They're suitable for running, cycling, x-country skiing etc.

    My first concession to colder weather is wearing gloves as winter approaches freezing (I get some strange looks running in a pair of shorts while it's snowing, I do cave in and wear tights when it gets really cold)

  • GottaBurnEmAll
    GottaBurnEmAll Posts: 7,722 Member
    This is the first year I'm going to attempt to run in the cold. I'm watching this thread with interest.

    I like to be cool when I run (even though my body naturally runs cold, I easily overheat when I run). So far, the coldest I've had to deal with was mid 40's. That simply called for a long sleeved running shirt and some fingerless gloves (my hands get cold easily) with knee-length compression shorts.
  • nowine4me
    nowine4me Posts: 3,985 Member
    I'm always cold. And I run in the winter pitch dark at 5:45. From 50-60 degrees I'm good with UA cold gear half zip. Below that, I bust out my old, black LL Bean puffy coat.
  • kcjchang
    kcjchang Posts: 709 Member
    Only thing that really works for me is Craft thermos. I sweat too and haven't found a jacket that stays dry (out and/or inner). For me, it works almost like a wetsuit. 50s is freezing for me.
  • DX2JX2
    DX2JX2 Posts: 1,921 Member
    I've got a couple of ratty old running shells that I got from Running Room (house brand) years ago that are my go to items as the weather cools down and then just layer for the temperature. They're suitable for running, cycling, x-country skiing etc.

    My first concession to colder weather is wearing gloves as winter approaches freezing (I get some strange looks running in a pair of shorts while it's snowing, I do cave in and wear tights when it gets really cold)

    This. Gloves are key. I'm fine with regular shorts and a normal long-sleeve top down to about freezing but gloves become a necessity for me below 50F. When we get below freezing, I'll switch over to long jogging pants (I still can't make myself wear the tights) and add layers to my top as needed.

    I will admit to being a bit soft. I don't run when it's cold AND windy out. I can handle either one by itself, but both in combination are my kryptonite.
  • rsclause
    rsclause Posts: 3,103 Member
    I had to break out the long sleeve running shirt this morning for the first time this year. I have a running jacket that is very breathable when it comes to sweat and will add under armour shirt made for cold weather when it gets colder and gloves are a must. My favorite is checking runnersworld/what to wear before getting dressed. It put an end to the end of the first mile "oh God I am way overdressed" panic attack.
  • BruinsGal_91
    BruinsGal_91 Posts: 1,400 Member
    rsclause wrote: »
    I had to break out the long sleeve running shirt this morning for the first time this year. I have a running jacket that is very breathable when it comes to sweat and will add under armour shirt made for cold weather when it gets colder and gloves are a must. My favorite is checking runnersworld/what to wear before getting dressed. It put an end to the end of the first mile "oh God I am way overdressed" panic attack.

    Oh yeah, I know that feeling.

    If it's raining, and I'm running from home, I tend to suck it up and get wet. But if it's raining really hard on race-day I will wear a lightweight Brooks jacket. It doesn't have a hood (I wear a cap, so don't need one), and doesn't have much in the way of pockets, but it folds up very small and just lives in the bottom of my race bag for the very occasional time I feel as if I need that little extra bit of protection. It keeps me dry which makes the drive home from the race a lot more comfortable.

    It does come in somewhat more conservative color schemes, but the striped version was on sale, and I like a bargain.

    07seindb7r8g.jpg
  • CSARdiver
    CSARdiver Posts: 6,251 Member
    edited October 2017
    I have yet to find one all purpose jacket and have several specialty jackets. Mostly I cycle through an old Mountain Hardwear hard shell, a TNF 200 level wool inner, and a lightweight TNF 100 wool inner.

  • MeanderingMammal
    MeanderingMammal Posts: 7,865 Member
    For most of this stuff is about layering for me.

    For running I've got Haglofs base layer and I'll wear a Berghaus fleece top of it's cold enough. I've got an Inov-8 Race shell for wind and rain that packs very small and this in my race vest easily. That's also compliant with mandatory kit lists for long races. I'm fine in shorts but in the depth of winter have some running tights. As upthread gloves are generally the first cold weather item I'll break out.

    For cycling, similar story but an Altura jacket with zip off sleeves.

    For climbing, a Berghaus GTX jacket, with a base layer for most walking. A Softie jacket and trousers for when I'm in the harbour area.
  • NorthCascades
    NorthCascades Posts: 10,968 Member
    I can't run it ride in fleece. I can hike in it, but that's where I hit the limits of breathability.
  • MeanderingMammal
    MeanderingMammal Posts: 7,865 Member
    edited October 2017
    It's a 150g/sq m rather than 300.

    And generally only when it's about 0C and for longer than an hour or so.
  • fitoverfortymom
    fitoverfortymom Posts: 3,452 Member
    Most mornings I've gone out the last few weeks have been between 35-45 degrees, which to me is cold but not unbearable. I've worn long running pants (seriously just Danskins from WalMart), a long sleeved C9 running shirt, and a pullover zip jacket from JCPenney that is a few sizes too big that I still have from when I was heavier. That with a beanie or headband to keep my ears warm has been plenty. I'm going to need a vest or something as it gets colder. Maybe gloves (which I have a few pairs I can try), although my hands have warmed up as I've run. I have a lightweight windbreaker/rainjacket for if it's drizzly that I've only had to pull out once, but it's nice to have.

    I haven't tried running in fleece yet, but I do have a fleece pullover that I might give a try as it dips down into the lower 30s and 20s in the morning.
  • NorthCascades
    NorthCascades Posts: 10,968 Member
    A few people have mentioned wool base layers. I'll throw in my two cents and say merino is really nice. It's but scratchy like an old sweater, it feels dry even after you sweat in it, and it doesn't get stinky.

    I use merino glove liners. If I'm working hard to move, I'll overheat in anything heavier.
  • lporter229
    lporter229 Posts: 4,907 Member
    I am all about layering in the winter, so I generally look for a shell that will provide the best barrier from wind and water. I also look for something that is reflective because I tend to run more in the dark. For the past few years, I have really enjoyed the Saucony Sonic Vizi pro jacket with LED lights, but the lights do not hold up well to too many washes. I am just about ready to replace this jacket and I would consider buying it again except that I would prefer to have something with a hood. Following this thread for suggestions.
  • GottaBurnEmAll
    GottaBurnEmAll Posts: 7,722 Member
    This is the first year I'm going to attempt to run in the cold. I'm watching this thread with interest.

    I don't know how long you run for. I like to spend a few hours on the bike, or on skis in the winter. And I'm not set up to carry stuff (like an extra jacket) on the bike. So, the rules I've learned are:

    1 Dress for the second mile not the first.

    2 Drink something warm right before you leave to stay comfortable until the exercise warms you up.

    I've already learned the first one from running this summer when the mornings were a little cool but not quite as cool as thought on my second mile!
  • pomegranatecloud
    pomegranatecloud Posts: 812 Member
    Lululemon and Hind for running and cycling
  • JMinney7
    JMinney7 Posts: 61 Member
    My face was freezing this morning. I'm not sure what to do about it. I considered one of those (motorcycle) cloth face shields but wouldn't your breath just make it wet?
  • DX2JX2
    DX2JX2 Posts: 1,921 Member
    JMinney7 wrote: »
    My face was freezing this morning. I'm not sure what to do about it. I considered one of those (motorcycle) cloth face shields but wouldn't your breath just make it wet?

    Google FTW. Try a buff - it's basically a tubular scarf made out of sweat wicking material that can be worn a number of ways (including pulled up over the chin and cheeks).

    http://womensrunning.competitor.com/2015/10/shoes-gear/a-buff-is-a-versatile-piece-of-gear-every-runner-should-have_47642
  • jjpptt2
    jjpptt2 Posts: 5,650 Member
    edited October 2017
    On a related note, can anyone recommend a vest or convertible jacket (i.e. removable sleeves) with

    - a slim(ish) fit
    - wind/water resistant
    - decent breathability
    - no/minimal warmth or insulation
    - reflective elements would be great, but not required
    - extra credit if I can get it from REI.


    Thanks.
  • sgt1372
    sgt1372 Posts: 3,997 Member
    jjpptt2 wrote: »
    On a related note, can anyone recommend a vest or convertible jacket (i.e. removable sleeves) with

    - a slim(ish) fit
    - wind/water resistant
    - decent breathability
    - no/minimal warmth or insulation
    - reflective elements would be great, but not required
    - extra credit if I can get it from REI.


    Thanks.

    You can't get these at REI but if you need a lot of pockets, you should check out this line of convertible jackets offered by SCOTTeVEST:

    https://www.scottevest.com/mens-best-travel-clothing.shtml

    It's still on my list of possible purchases.
  • SchweddyGirl
    SchweddyGirl Posts: 244 Member
    jjpptt2 wrote: »
    On a related note, can anyone recommend a vest or convertible jacket (i.e. removable sleeves) with

    - a slim(ish) fit
    - wind/water resistant
    - decent breathability
    - no/minimal warmth or insulation
    - reflective elements would be great, but not required
    - extra credit if I can get it from REI.


    Thanks.

    I have a Pearl Izumi jacket that I use for running, and I love it.
  • AnnPT77
    AnnPT77 Posts: 38,162 Community Helper
    JL Racing's Purist splash jacket in hi-viz, for the rower-friendly features: High front hem; low back hem that still doesn't catch in the seat tracks; extra-long sleeves with a cuff that neither binds nor slips down; nothing to catch a sculler's thumbs; and that fetching "power boat please don't hit me" color. ;)
  • spiriteagle99
    spiriteagle99 Posts: 3,854 Member
    I have an old Marmot windshirt/jacket that I wear for running when it's cold. It has a very light fleece liner. I wear it walking when it's in the 40's and 50's, or running in 20's and 30's. Light but warm and I can tie it around my waist if I need to. I've been comfortable down to about 15 degrees in it, with a fleece shirt underneath. Some days that are cold but not windy I'll wear a fleece vest that keeps my core warm but can be unzipped if I get warm. It also has big pockets, which i like. For hiking I'll usually wear fleece, though I have a down jacket for really cold hikes.
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