When you head out for outdoor activities — whether running in winter, hiking in the mountains or training at your sports club — the right sport jacket becomes an essential part of your kit. But how do you choose the perfect one from all the options available? In this article, we guide you through the key factors to consider when finding the ideal sport jacket for your needs.
Functionality first
When choosing a sport jacket, functionality should be your priority. If you're passionate about running, look for a lightweight, water-repellent jacket to protect you from the elements. Make sure it has zips for ventilation and a hood to shelter you from wind and rain. If you prefer mountain activities, a softshell jacket can be ideal — it offers a combination of wind and rain protection while allowing a wide range of movement.
Fabric quality and cut
Fabric quality is crucial. Choose sport jackets made from high-quality materials that offer protection from the elements while remaining comfortable to wear. The cut of the jacket should suit your activity. For running, a fitted cut will reduce wind resistance, while for hiking, a roomier cut allows you to layer underneath.
Personal preferences: style and colour
While functionality is paramount, the style and colour of your jacket can also play an important role. Go for a colour you like and that motivates you. Brands often offer a range of colours, from understated to bold. You can also choose personalised sport jackets featuring your sports club logo or other details that reflect your style.
Explore our hiking jackets for all seasons.
Thermal insulation for winter
If you enjoy outdoor activities in winter, thermal insulation becomes a major consideration. Fleece jackets or lightweight down jackets offer extra warmth to protect you from the bitter cold. Look for jackets with a stand-up collar to shield your neck from the cold wind.
Waterproofing for rainy days
If you plan to exercise in the rain, look for waterproof and water-repellent jackets. These jackets are specially designed to keep you protected from the rain while allowing moisture to escape, keeping you dry and comfortable during your efforts. The Schmerber is the unit of measurement for waterproofing. 1 Schmerber = 1 mm water column. A garment rated at 10,000 Schmerber — i.e. 10,000 mm — withstands 10 m of water. A garment is considered fully waterproof from 20,000 Schmerber. However, a rating of 10,000 Schmerber already indicates very effective waterproofing.
Breathability for rapid moisture evacuation
A breathable sportswear garment is made with materials that allow air to circulate through the fabric. This airflow lets heat and moisture escape quickly, preventing that clammy, cold feeling when sweat sits on the skin. MVTR stands for Moisture Vapour Transmission Rate. MVTR is expressed in g/m²/24h — that is, the amount of water vapour evacuated through 1 m² of fabric in a single day. The higher the figure, the better the fabric's breathability. A value of 30,000 g/m²/24h is considered a sign of an extremely breathable garment, while 20,000 g/m²/24h indicates very good breathability. At 10,000, a garment is considered breathable. If the result is only 5,000 g/m²/24h, it is considered poorly breathable.
Finding the perfect sport jacket for your outdoor activities requires a careful assessment of your needs and the specific features of each jacket. Whether you're after a lightweight jacket for running, an insulating jacket for winter or a waterproof jacket for rainy days, there's a model that will meet your expectations. Remember to consider quality, functionality and style while keeping your planned activities in mind. The right sport jacket will accompany you on your adventures and let you make the most of every moment outdoors.
