Women's Essential Run Jacket

Comments about Essential Run Jacket:

Most clothing designers seem to think that women don't need pockets, so I was pleasantly surprised at the number of pockets on this jacket: 2 outer, and 3 inner (one for an ipod). It's also quite warm for such a light jacket. I wore it in 50 degree weather with only a tank top underneath and was comfortable. The only real downside is the fit. I'm 5'6, 117 lbs, and ordered a small. The jacket fits a little loose everywhere except at the shoulders, where it is tight and restricts movement a bit (and I do not have big shoulders by any means). I wish that the fit was more figure flattering, and less tight in the shoulders because this is otherwise a great jacket.

Comments about Essential Run Jacket:

I purchased the Brooks 2011 San Diego Rock n' Roll marathon jacket (esstential run jacket) to celebrate my first marathon. I absolutely loved this jacket until it started coming apart at the seams in less than 10 months. Since it was my first marathon jacket I am devestated and have no way to replace it. Almost all of my other running apparel is Brooks and I am satisfed with all my purchases except this one :(

Comments about Essential Run Jacket:

I recently returned to running for fitness and occasional races. I needed a lightweight, waterproof, warm jacket that I could layer for various weather conditions. I have used it 3 times in temperatures from 50 and rainy to 30 and windy and it has really lived up to it's name. I will likely get another one in the fall and would recommend this to any outdoor runner. I am 5'5" and 120 lbs and normally wear a small. I bought a medium and it fits well.

Comments about Essential Run Jacket:

I love this jacket! Perfect for cooler weather! It does have limited movement in the shoulder area, it seems to run a touch small. But over all amazing. I would order up if your between sizes!

Comments about Essential Run Jacket:

I live in a windy area next to the sea. This keeps the wind off on my run on a cold and windy day. I wear a warm layer underneath. I read that the jacket does not fit women with broad shoulders, but I have broad shoulders and my size, a large, fit.

Comments about Essential Run Jacket:

Another great product guaranteed to make you run happy! :) I remember opening the package for the first time, taking out the jacket, and being surprised at how it was light as a feather, so you don't have to worry about constricted movements from bulky gear.

I've worn this jacket in cold weather (down to mid-30's), wet weather (both sprinkles/drizzles and downpours), and bitter windy weather sure to make you suck your breath in.

The high neck keeps the rain from rolling down inside, and the two "pulls" at the waist allow me to tighten the bottom of the jacket for a custom fit. Not only does this keep the jacket from moving around, but it also serves to keep your core dry by preventing splash-ups from puddles. The wrists are elastic and fit snugly.

The Essential Run jacket is fairly water-resistant when it comes to light rain and "sprinkles;" however for heavier bouts of rain/downpours, I would choose a different model. Then again…can you honestly stay dry in a downpour? I mean really? The good thing about this jacket is it dries VERY quickly, so if you need to use it again soon, it's there for ya!

It's also does an EXCELLENT job at keeping the wind at bay too! The neck area has a very soft almost fleece-like lining that I love, nothing scratchy or rough here!!! I wore this jacket when I raced in the Sleighbells on the Square 5k where I PR'd and took 3rd in AG. It was VERY windy that morning, and while the cold froze the air in my lungs, the jacket kept the bitter wind out! When dealing with colder weather, this jacket serves as a fantastic insulating outer layer. I usually throw on a long-sleeved techie as a base-layer, some gloves, and I'm golden. Now mind you, I live in Georgia, so our winters are fairly mild compared to states north of us. The flap on the upper back with the mesh storm guard is a nice touch as well, as helps to keep things circulating, so you don't overheat. You would be surprised as to how much warmth this jacket holds in!

And what would a jacket be without pockets?! You have a zippered pocket on each side of the waist that can store an IPhone, GU, car keys, Sports Beans, you name it. You can load a lot into these pockets! There is also an internal media pocket with a Velcro clasp, which I have only used to keep my Garmin or my keys dry when there's light rain. Near the neck area, you'll find a little loop to string your media cord through so it doesn't slide about. I don't think the interior panels behind the zippered pockets are supposed to count as pockets, but I use them as additional pockets to store various items on a longer run or when out and about like all those race fliers that magically appear as you cross the finish line. I mean, where am I suppose to put those things?!? I certainly can't stuff them in sports bra. I mean a few dollars (don't go there…:P ) or a key might fit there, but that's about it.

Notes: If you are a bit broader in the shoulders than most gals, you will be thankful to order a size up. I ordered a small, and it is almost a perfect fit everywhere, except for in the shoulder and upper arm/armpit area, where it is too snug for my liking. This doesn't affect my running when wearing the jacket; however, if I want to cross my arms or wave them in the arm, etc., that type of stuff…that's when it's too snug. This is definitely a more form-fitting jacket, so keep that in mind when you order.

Overall, I'm very pleased with the jacket. Not only does it have a great shape that gals will LOVE, it has cute little reflective flowers on the upper arm. What girl doesn't like to receive flowers!!! Definitely a good jacket choose for running in cooler weather, windy weather, or light rain.

Comments about Essential Run Jacket:

I really do love this jacket. I needed something light and breathable to wear on cooler days, but not something bulky. This is a winner! I ordered up a size since I have long arms, and while the body is slightly loose (great for layering, not so great for just one layer underneath), the arm length is perfect. I've struggled with this my whole life, so I can give in one for the other :) It also looks great with jeans!

Comments about Essential Run Jacket:

This is my second Brooks running vest. Ordered this one for the color! :)

Comments about Essential Run Jacket:

Very nice jacket. It is a little thinner than i was expecting though. However, great jacket for layering and reflictivity.

Comments about Essential Run Jacket:

I've taken this jacket out for a few wet runs so far and I've been satisfied. It does an excellent job keeping out wind and rain. Down side, it does a pretty good job keeping in heat on the warm wet days. While on cooler days this jacket is amazing and vents sufficiently, I think I'm still stuck with getting wet and using copious amounts of Glide on during warm summer rains.

The sleeve length is perfect, same with length of the jacket. I had thought from pictures online that it would be more form fitting than it is.

Other good stuff: The bottom of the jacket can be cinched in to make sure that water isn't coming up from below. I love the upper tie to run head phones through so they aren't flapping around. Also, there are plenty of pockets (a must in any jacket!).