Waterproof jackets for runners buyers guide 2018

Waterproof jackets for runners....

It's a weekly question I get especially this time of year...

I've written a couple of articles and done a video or two that you can find on my blog, website and Youtube if you want more details but basically I have 2 Waterproof jackets I use for running.I also have a few that aren't waterproof but let's focus on waterproof for now. Why two? One is ultra lightweight so I would personally choose this one on a race where the forecast is good and the duration is short. Eg a flat trail marathon in the summer with no rain forecast anywhere. In the winter or on a long event out in the hills or when there's a chance of rain, I'd take a more substantial jacket.

First up, any waterproof jacket for running should really have a hood and taped seams (sometimes called seam sealed) I'll assume you know what a hood is, a good one will have two adjustments, one to close it around your face and keep the weather out, another adjustment to tighten the hood around the top of your head to stop it sliding off or over your eyes (where your halo would be if you were an angel)

As for taped seams they are found inside the jacket, so where material is joined on the seams, a special tape is used on top of the stitching to keep water from seeping through.

The jackets themselves will be ideally breathable (so that you don't feel like you're wrapped in cling film) but not let the water in. Usually there's a measurement on the manufacturers website or the shops detail that you're buying from, eg 5000 or 10000m/m. Occasionally race organisers specify a jacket should meet a certain rating but really you want to make sure the jacket of choice is going to be adequate for keeping you dry, warm and alive.

The weight of the ultra light ones like my Berghaus Hyper Smock are about 100g although this one is discontinued I have found a similar jacket by Inov8 and it's cheaper on Sportshoes website than their own Inov8 Jacket (sportshoes) at the time of writing Inov8s own website Also similar Montane Minimus here Montane Minimus

For the more extreme conditions I have a Berghaus Vapour Storm HERE which has been replaced this year by newer models. I'd go for the 'Extrem' range and probably choose between the 'Paclite' 'Fellmaster' or 'Hagshu' jacket depending on your preferences.

There are a huge range of brands and jackets but as long as you stick to these guidelines you should come up good. Have a look here for ideas If you're lucky enough to have a local running shop, pop in there and have a chat, you can try a few on and see them in the flesh.

Check out my video on here https://youtu.be/DIaoWIcB-BY

Saucony Ride 10 Neutral Road Running Shoe Review * 2018 *

Saucony Ride 10 Neutral Road Running Shoe Review 2018

I've been running in the Saucony Ride 10 road shoes since July 2017. I have used a few pairs of previous editions which were great and so when the new model came out I grabbed a pair. You can see the video review below and also an update below that. If you are a runner that needs support shoes for over pronation then check out the Guide which is the same with added support. I haven't run in those as I don't use a support shoe. 

So the shoe for me has been great. Typically I destroy a pair of shoes in approximately 1 month to 6 weeks depending on the training phase. What I like about Saucony, ever since my first pair of running shoes in 2010 which were Saucony Triumph.... Is the fact that the upper is solid enough that it doesn't fall to bits within the first few runs and usually it's the sole that eventually wears out that brings the time where I decide to get a new pair. I used the particular pair of Ride 10s for all my summer races and trail running which was well over 600 miles. 

As I mention in the second video, they are far better than the lower models such as the Saucony Break thru 2 which didn't handle the abuse very well. The Saucony Jazz I have been impressed with in the past too. In terms of other brands, the Mizuno Wave Rider is similar to the Ride, I'd say the sole feels firmer on the Wave Rider but the sizing is the same for me, I'm a size UK 9 in both brands whereas Adidas I'm a size 10. 

The Ride  should last you a few months even if you're doing 100 miles plus per week and even using them on rocky trails, the grip is obviously not as good as a trail shoe but for me I'd rather have a little less grip if it's mostly dry and more comfort. In terms of road running there is plenty of cushioning for long road races and a great comfortable fit. I much prefer them to uber lightweight shoes such as the Adidas Boost which for me were too flimsy and didn't offer enough support within the cushioning.

I like the Rides so much I've bought another 4 pairs ready for the first part of 2018 as I train towards the L2M double ultra 100 miler in April.

You can get them here on sale now from their original RRP but please don't buy any UK size 9 ;)