Reflective Running Jacket – 9 Best Options for Men and Women
Investing in the best reflective running jacket is essential for runners of all skill levels. This is because wearing reflective running gear can help keep you safe while you run.
As the name implies, these unique running jackets are designed to reflect light, which makes you more visible to vehicles, cyclists, and other runners whenever you run in low-light conditions. By making you more visible to others, you significantly decrease the chances that you will be involved in an accident.
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How Can We Help?
Since reflective running jackets are so popular, there are countless options to choose from. There are plenty of styles, designs, colors, and features that distinguish one jacket from another, so choosing the right one can be tricky. This is where we can help! We have compiled a list of nine of the best reflective running jackets out there.
Not only will we highlight and review some of the best running jackets from some of the best brands, but we will also explain in greater detail why wearing one can be so crucial for your safety and confidence when you are out for that morning or nighttime run. So, if you’re ready to find the perfect running jacket, let’s get started!
Quick Look at Our Top Picks for the Top 5 Reflective Running Jackets
ASICS is one of the most trusted running brands on the market today, so it is no surprise to see their Accelerate Runner’s Jacket at the top of our list. This jacket is 100% polyester, so it has outstanding water resistance. The fully seam-sealed design also helps to keep water and moisture out. It has a reflective surface all over the jacked and extra reflective dots and details in critical areas.
The molded cuffs, zippered chest pocket, and media ports make it ideal for any serious runner. The lightweight design also means it will not disrupt your strides or cause discomfort on lengthy runs.
If you are looking for a budget-friendly reflective coat that is available in both men’s and women’s options, this cycling and running jacket from BALEAF is an excellent choice. It is 100% waterproof thanks to its water-repellent exterior and seamless design, and it is also extremely lightweight. In fact, it is so lightweight that you can pack it into a self-contained bundle in its own back pocket.
As you would expect, this waterproof jacket also has highly reflective surfaces so that you will be completely visible in low-light conditions. This is especially true if you choose one of the neon colors BALEAF offers. We also like the zippered utility pockets distributed inside and outside the jacket. An elasticated and adjustable rope hood also helps keep you dry if you run in the rain.
Nike has a reputation for offering running gear that meets the perfect balance between style and performance. This men’s reflective running jacket lives up to this reputation, as it is incredibly comfortable and stylish but also has all of the features you would expect from a high-quality piece of running equipment.
It has reflective details throughout the jacket that help to make you visible in low light conditions without overwhelming the jacket if you wear it during the day. The stretch-woven fabric moves with you as you run, but it retains the water-repellant properties you would expect from a running jacket. It can be vented, which keeps you cool and dry. We also like that you can pack it into one of its own pockets, so you can easily take it with you wherever you go or take it off if you get too hot. It even features a shoulder strap, so you can carry it with you after it has been packed up.
As a bonus, this lightweight jacket even protects against UV rays, so you don’t have to worry about your upper body being exposed if the sun comes out midway through your run. Overall, it is an outstanding option!
4. Best for Versatility
Little Donkey – Andy Women’s 3-Season Running Jacket
This unique three-season running jacket from Little Donkey is an excellent choice if you are looking for a jacket you can wear in most weather conditions. It has insulation so that you can run with it on cold days, but it has vented areas to keep you cool if the weather warms up or you are overheating from a strenuous run.
It has reflective elements at the front and back of the jacket, which helps with visibility. The entire jacket is made from a four-way stretchable fabric so you can run comfortably. Thumb holes and a zip-up chin guard also help for those crisp morning runs. It keeps you warm, and the quick dry surface is also great in the rain. Despite these unique features, it is still very breathable and lightweight.
This full-coverage reflective rain jacket from adidas is perfect for those that don’t want to let a bit of rain ruin their running streak. Reflective details designed to shine bright in the lowest light conditions help keep you safe and visible.
The entire jacket is impressively water-repellent, but it is still surprisingly breathable and comfortable. It has a regular fit, so it works for most body types. It also offers extra coverage along the neckline. You can adjust the hood to help keep the rain out, while zippered pockets help protect your phone, wallet, and anything else you want to take with you on a rainy run.
We like that the entire jacket is made from recycled materials, as it helps with sustainability and offers hope for plastic waste reduction. Overall, it is an innovative jacket perfect for running in the rain.
Other Top Picks for Reflective Running Jackets
TSLA – Men’s Reflective Running Packable Jacket
Product
Overall Score
Pros
Seam-sealed design
Reflective logos and other details
Mesh back panel helps ventilate the jacket
Cons
Not available in “Tall” sizes, so it is not a great option for those over 6’4”
Pros
Seam-sealed design
Reflective logos and other details
Mesh back panel helps ventilate the jacket
Cons
Not available in “Tall” sizes, so it is not a great option for those over 6’4”
This is another affordable option that combines a reflective exterior with impressive water-repellent qualities. It can be packed into one of its own pockets, so it is highly portable and can easily be kept in a car or gym bag.
Despite its lightweight design, it can keep you warm and dry in the worst weather. A zippered back pocket is perfect for storing a smartphone or cash. The slip-resistant interior band prevents the jacket from riding up your back as you run or cycle. A covered mesh back panel is also great for ventilation, so sweat is wicked away from your body.
adidas – Men’s Tiro Reflective Athletics Jacket
Product
Overall Score
Pros
Slim profile is stylish and functional
Reflective details throughout the jacket, including the sleeves
Affordable price
Cons
Only available in one color
Pros
Slim profile is stylish and functional
Reflective details throughout the jacket, including the sleeves
This versatile jacket from adidas is a great option for those that are looking for a reflective running jacket that isn’t as bulky as a raincoat.
It helps wick sweat away from your body and vent it outwards, thanks to the unique and patented adidas AEROREADY interior. It features front pockets for storage and a full front zipper so you can lower the zipper during warm weather runs.
It has a slim-fit design, which helps cut down on wind resistance when you are running. Reflective detail is visible on all sides of the jacket, so it is a great option for low-light runs. Although it was designed as a men’s jacket, its slim-fit design can be worn as a unisex running jacket.
BTR – Women’s High Visibility Reflective Running Jacket
This is one of the most reflective running jackets on our list, so it is a great option for those with serious concerns about visibility, such as those who enjoy running at night.
Reflective panels along the sleeves and back of the jacket help you maintain perfect visibility in all conditions. Not only is it highly reflective, but it is also very lightweight and breathable so you can wear it during the summer and spring months. The elasticated cuffs and waistline allow for a snug and comfortable fit that will not slide upwards as you run.
It features a mix of internal and external pockets, so you can comfortably carry items on runs. It is available in two color combinations and is a great, low-cost option for nighttime runners!
Nike – Women’s Lightweight Packable Full Zip Running Jacket
This eye-catching running jacket from Nike is stylish enough to be worn in non-running situations but still acts as a highly functional running jacket. It has a colorful design that looks great but also reflects light extremely well.
It is also designed to be packable, so you can fold it and pack it into its own hood. The attached bungee cord allows you to wear the packed jacket around your arm, so you can take it off if you overheat and still run hands-free.
Zippered pockets keep your belongings dry and secure as you run. The polyester and spandex mixture means it is waterproof but still flexible enough to be comfortable during runs.
Why Do You Need to Wear a Reflective Running Jacket?
Reflective jackets are essential when running in low light conditions. They help reflect light from oncoming vehicles and overhead street lights. This is really important if you run at night, as it can be dangerous if drivers and cyclists cannot see you coming.
Knowing that you are visible on the roads and running paths can also increase your confidence, so you can focus on beating your personal record rather than worrying about your safety. Most reflective running jackets also double as athletic rain jackets, so they can keep you dry if it starts to rain or snow while you are out on a run.
For More Information
If you want to learn more about running equipment, we recommend reading our Best Rain Jackets for Running guide. You can also check out the Best Winter, Rain & Cold Weather Running Jackets if you plan on running in the winter.
If you plan on running in cold weather, we recommend looking at the Best Winter Running Gloves.
