When you head out for outdoor activities — whether running in winter, hiking in the mountains or training at your sports club — a suitable sports jacket becomes an essential part of your kit. But how do you choose the perfect jacket from all the options available? In this article, we'll guide you through the key factors to consider in finding the ideal sports jacket that meets your needs and performs when it counts.
Functionality first
When choosing a sports 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 easy ventilation and a hood to shelter you from wind and rain. If you tend towards mountain activities, a softshell jacket can be ideal. It offers a combination of wind and rain protection while allowing a great freedom of movement.
Fabric quality and cut
Fabric quality is a crucial factor. Opt for sports 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 more relaxed cut will allow you to layer underneath.
Personal preference: Style and colour
While functionality is paramount, the style and colour of the jacket can also play an important role. Go for a colour you like and that motivates you. Brands typically offer a range of colours, from understated to bold. You can also choose personalised sports jackets featuring your sports club's 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 provide extra warmth to protect you from bitter cold. Look for jackets with a high collar to shield your neck from the cold wind.
Waterproofness for rainy days
If you plan to exercise in the rain, look for waterproof and water-repellent jackets. These jackets are specially designed to protect you from the rain while allowing moisture to escape, keeping you dry and comfortable during your efforts. The Schmerber is the unit of measurement for waterproofness. 1 Schmerber = 1mm water column. A garment with a value of 10,000 Schmerber — that is, 10,000mm — withstands 10 metres of water. A garment is considered perfectly waterproof from 20,000 Schmerber. However, a result of 10,000 Schmerber is already a mark of very effective waterproofness.
Breathability for rapid moisture evacuation
A breathable sports garment is designed 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. The MVTR measures the rate of water vapour transmission. MVTR is expressed in g/m²/24h: that is, the quantity of water vapour evacuated through a 1m² surface of fabric in one day. The higher this figure, the better the fabric's breathability. A value of 30,000 g/m²/24h is considered a sign of an extremely breathable garment, and 20,000 g/m²/24h that of 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 sports jacket for your outdoor activities requires a careful assessment of your needs and the specific features of each jacket. Whether you're looking for a lightweight jacket for running, an insulating jacket for winter or a waterproof jacket for rainy days, there's a model out there to meet your expectations. Don't forget to consider quality, functionality and style while keeping your planned activities in mind. The right sports jacket will accompany you on your adventures and let you make the most of every moment outdoors.
