Living somewhere cold or rainy doesn’t have to stop you from running outdoors. Wearing a great running hoodie will allow you to go for a run, do some speedwork, or even train for a marathon in the cold or the rain.
Choosing a hoodie is as much about style as it is about practicality, and we’ve kept both of those in mind.
Our top choice is the Icebreaker Merino Quantum, which comes in men’s and women’s versions, and is crafted from a blend of warm Merino wool and stretchy Lycra. Zippered pockets and a storm flap at the neck keeps the nippy cold breezes out.
Here are our top choices. Get that hood up and get out there!
Top 3 Best and Favorites
Best Overall
|
Best Overall
|
Icebreaker Merino Quantum Long Sleeve Zip Hoodie
|
|
CHECK MEN’S PRICECHECK WOMEN’S PRICE |
Top Men’s
|
Top Men’s
|
adidas Z.N.E. Fast Release Hoodie
|
|
CHECK MEN’S PRICE |
Top Women’s
|
Top Women’s
|
PEARL IZUMI Flash Hoodie
|
|
CHECK WOMEN’S PRICE |
Best Overall
1. Icebreaker Merino Quantum Long Sleeve Zip Hoodie
The Icebreaker wins top spot, and as its name suggests, it’s a super barrier against the cold. Icebreaker gets a thumbs-up for having a men’s and a women’s design, each of which is created with style and shape in mind.
There’s a size for almost everyone, with the ladies’ available in extra small to extra large, and the men’s in small to extra-extra large.
The reason for the price tag on this hoodie (which has made some customers raise an eyebrow) is that it’s crafted from Merino wool. If you’re worried about the wool being scratchy, there’s no need. Merino wool is also known for its softness, which is unusual when it comes to woolen products.
Merino is not only a tough fabric – it’s also very insulating, which is perfect for cooler weather. It has wonderful temperature-regulating properties, so while you’ll be warm in the nippy weather, you won’t be so hot that you start to sweat.
A chin guard and storm flap ensure maximum coverage to keep you safe from wind or rain. The zipper sports a reflective strip, which is an added element of safety when on the road.
The three zippered pockets are a nice touch, and allow you to carry more with you than you might normally be able to.
- Made from warm, soft Merino wool
- Machine washable
- Zippered chin guard and storm flap
- Three zipped pockets
- The price is high, but it’s to be expected for Merino wool
Best Cold Weather Hoodie
2. Nike Therma Full-Zip Training Hoodie
As its name suggests, this hoodie is a thermal one that’s designed specifically for running in cold weather.
Being a Nike product, you know you’re getting quality and style all in one. Both the men’s and the women’s hoodies are available in a variety of colors, and in the classic Nike minimalist style, with just a swoosh on the chest.
Although this hoodie is fairly form-fitting (some say it runs too small), the hood is generous and will keep your head warm without feeling like it’s constricting your face.
A drawstring allows you to close the neck as tightly as is comfortable for you and stops nasty little winds poking at you.
The wide waistband and sleeve bands are comfy and not tight, so you’ll have the freedom to run in comfort. Completing the look is a full-length zipper.
The women’s is available from small to extra large, and the men’s comes in small to double-extra large.
- Available in a variety of colors
- Spacious hood
- Drawstring for a close fit to keep out wind
- Fleece construction for warmth
- Customers report that they run small
- Be careful buying from non-reputable suppliers
Best Hoodie with Zippered Pockets
3. The North Face Canyonlands Hoodie
The North Face is a renowned name, and their running hoodie is of solid quality. Designed in both men’s and women’s styles, and available in a range of colors to suit every runner’s preference, these hoodies are both versatile and stylish.
The fabric is a blend of polyester and fleece, which makes it warm, abrasion-resistant, and moisture-wicking. A high neck with a full-length zipper ensures that you’ll be warm from waist to chin, with no breezes getting in.
We love the three zippered pockets for carrying a phone, cash, or a snack for the road. Even if you aren’t taking anything with you, they’re great for warming up your hands!
- Created from fleece and polyester
- Abrasion-resistant
- Three zippered pockets
- Machine washable
- Hair, fur, and fluff stick to it
Best Slim Fit Hoodie
4. ASICS Fujitrail Hoodie
Many runners prefer to run in form-fitting clothing to reduce flopping fabric and added wind resistance. If you’re all about the streamlining, this is the hoodie for you. It’s very form-fitting, so if you’re not comfortable with a skin-tight hoodie, you may need to look elsewhere.
This hoodie is specifically designed for trail running, but our highly scientific testing has found that it can be worn on the road, and order will still be maintained in the universe. It has some specific features that give it an edge over others. Aside from its streamlined nature, it’s all-round reflective, which means you’ll be seen by every other runner, cyclist, motorist, and animal, so nobody will get in your way.
We like the non-slip grips on the shoulders, which are designed to keep a hydration pack firmly on your shoulders as you run. They may be less useful if you only plan on running on city streets!
The three storage pockets and flatlock seams round this hoodie off nicely as our best choice slim fit.
- Polyester/spandex blend
- Flatlock stitching for no chafing
- 360-degree reflectivity
- One chest and two side pockets
- Some may find the tight hoodie uncomfortable
Men’s Hoodies
These top hoodies only come in men’s versions. Keep reading to see our favorite women’s hoodies below.
Best Men’s Hoodie
5. adidas Z.N.E. Fast Release Hoodie
Men, this hoodie is our top choice for you. It’s a nice mix of 61% polyester and 39% recycled polyester double knit, known as Climalite. It’s entirely synthetic and great for both insulating and moisture-wicking.
You’ll be warm, but not too warm. If you do happen to sweat a little, it’s sweat-wicking enough that you won’t overheat and your hoodie won’t get soaked.
One of the best things about this hoodie is its range of sizes. It begins at an extra-small, and runs through the range until 4XL. In addition, there’s the option for XXL or 3XL-Tall. This is unusual, but means that those guys over 6-feet tall won’t struggle to find a hoodie that fits their arms. Thumbs up!
- Climalite fabric wicks moisture
- Fast-release zipper
- Available in various sizes, including tall
- Thumbholes for mitten-like feel
- The heat-transfer logo may peel off
Best Men’s Nike Hoodie
6. Nike Dri-FIT Full-Zip Training Hoodie
If you’re a Nike fan, this hoodie could be your next buy. It’s a sleek, minimalistic design that comes in a variety of colors, and in sizes from small to XX-Large.
The full-zip design is handy and makes for a quick on-and-off. A three-paneled hood and drawstring mean you can cover your head and neck quite adequately when running in icy weather.
The Nike Dry fabric and raglan sleeves add extra comfort to this already comfortable hoodie. The only downside we can see is that the pockets aren’t zippered, so they’re more for resting or warming your hands than they are for storage.
- Drawstring neck closure
- 3-panel hood
- Nike Dry fabric
- Raglan sleeves
- Reported to run small
- Pockets aren’t zippered
Best Men’s Lightweight Pullover
7. Under Armour Armour Fleece Twist Hoodie
We love the pattern on this hoodie, and you’ll be eye-catching and very stylish when stepping out on the road or trail when wearing it.
The fleece is lightweight but warm, and wonderfully flexible, so you’ll be able to run comfortably without feeling restricted.
A paneled hood with a drawstring allows you the option to wrap your head up nice and warm if you encounter rain or colder weather.
- Light and breathable
- Kangaroo pocket
- Flexible for a wide range of motion
- Paneled hood with drawstring
- Runs small
- Arms may be too short for tall runners
Women’s Hoodies
Our favorite hoodies for women will keep you warm and dry on your runs.
Best Women’s Overall
8. PEARL IZUMI Flash Hoodie
This lightweight, form-fitting hoodie is as pretty as it is practical. Made from 92% polyester and 8% elastane, it’s light, snug, moisture-wicking, and stretchy enough to accommodate most movement.
You can choose from a range of feminine colors, and from size X-small to X-large. These beautiful hoodies are machine washable, which always makes life easier.
The high neck, comfy hood, thumb holes, and internal fist mitts are geared towards keeping you warm while wearing this jacket. On the flip side, the mesh panels increase breathability and the Transfer Dry fabric wicks away sweat. It’s suitable for all climates, and is great for staying warm but still having great airflow.
Just because you’re cold enough to be wearing a hoodie, doesn’t mean the sun isn’t out in full force! Stay protected from those rays with this hoodie, which features UPF 50+ protection technology.
- Polyester and elastane
- Transfer Dry fabric wicks sweat
- Thumb holes & internal fist mitts
- UPF 50+
- Runs small, even though it’s meant to be form-fitting
Best Women’s Lightweight Hoodie
9. Under Armour Tech Twist Hoodie
Nobody wants to feel like they’re running in a firefighter’s kit. This is our choice for the best lightweight hoodie for women – you’ll hardly feel it on you!
Created from polyester with UA’s Tech fabric, the material is quick-drying and unusually soft, so you may not want to take it off after your run! Thankfully, anti-odor technology means you may not have to, and when you finally do need to change, you can simply throw this hoodie in the washing machine.
The raglan sleeves and rolled-forward seams are nice little comfort features that minimize chafing and allow for freedom of movement.
- Raglan sleeves for better range of motion
- Minimalistic design
- Anti-odor technology
- UA Tech fabric
- Nothing major
Best Women’s Cool Weather Hoodie
10. Brooks Dash Hoodie
This hoodie has a relaxed fit, and features raglan sleeves with thumb holes for extra warming power.
It may be light, but it’s warm and suitable for running in warm and cool weather. The addition of thumb holes means you can keep your hands warm and not have them exposed to icy air or wind.
A secret stash pocket on the left wrist is a sweet addition. With sizes from extra-small to large, there’s something to keep every woman warm!
- Thumb holes
- DriLayer fabric
- Poly-stretch blend
- Secret stash pocket
- Slightly pricey for a minimalist hoodie
FAQs
The best running hoodies come in a variety of materials and have many benefits. Here are some questions you may be asking before buying one.
What’s The Best Material For Hoodies?
Running hoodies are usually created from a blend of two different materials. Some common materials include:
Wool
Wool is extremely insulating. The latest wool product is Merino wool, which is a high-quality, fine fabric that is still constantly gaining in popularity.
Usually, the item of clothing will state what type of wool it’s made of. Texture-wise, it can be a little rough, unless it’s Merino wool, in which case it’s usually very soft and cushy.
Cotton
Cotton is a common fabric for cold weather clothing, as it has great insulation properties. In fact, it can be too warm for hot weather running. It’s perfect for winter running as it’s not only insulating, but it’s also fairly breathable. The problem? It doesn’t wick moisture, and loses its insulating powers when it gets wet.
Polyester
Polyester is an alternative to cotton that has become popular due to its water-resistant properties, thin and breathable nature, and flexibility. It’s very lightweight, which is helpful for running.
Nylon
Nylon is one of the best materials for running hoodies. It’s fairly water-resistant, as well as fire-resistant! If you can find a hoodie made completely of nylon, you’ll have a water-resistant, wind-resistant piece of clothing.
Most hoodies will be mixed, though, which diminishes nylon’s properties. But it’s still considered to be a top-notch fabric for running hoodies.
Lycra/Spandex/Elastane
These are usually blended with one of the above, and the purpose of these materials is to give the hoodie a bit of stretch. Running involves a lot of upper body movement, and that little bit of stretch makes a hoodie far more functional. This is especially important for slimmer-fit designs.
Why Are Hoodies Good For Running?
A normal old hoodie may not be the most comfortable to run in. The best running hoodies are created specifically with exercise in mind, so they’re a little different than your regular hoodie.
Running in a hoodie can be really helpful if you happen to be running in the cold or you get wild winds where you live.
They’re warm but breathable, thin enough to allow you a full range of movement, and offer more storage space in the form of pockets. It’s a great piece of kit to have when you are layering up in the colder months.
Other Benefits of Running With Hoodies Include:
Running wearing a hoodie helps:
- Keep you as warm as possible
- Protect you from rain and wind
- Give you extra storage space (pockets)
- Hide messy hair or tiredness!