REI Co-op  Swiftland H2O Running Jacket - Women's

TLDR: The 9.7 oz REI Swiftland H2O is an extra-ventilated rain layer that easily handles wind, rain, and layering, though the elastic-only hood and cuffs are minor drawbacks. It's an ideal choice for cooler runs and hikes where temperature management matters. I'm mostly a hiker and backpacker, though I also enjoy lunchtime trail runs or a 5K. I have a few hiking rain jackets, but none are specific to running. Overall, I'm very happy with the REI Swiftland H2O Running Jacket - it has a ton of thoughtful features. First impressions - this jacket is light at only 9.7 ounces! Quality is good and solid, though it definitely has an ultralight feel. I had no worries on a rough New Hampshire herd path, but I would choose another jacket for a true bushwhack. Visually, the deep teal is rich and cheerful without being loud. The reflective elements are present but understated, and they don't distract from its visual appeal. The jacket did well in both wind and rain (didn't wet out on me on a 3 mile run in moderate rain) and was quite comfortable on a breezy 60°F/16°C summit. It has multiple ventilation points—horizontal pit slits and a long horizontal back vent (these are always open), plus the option to open the pockets for more airflow. I did find the ventilation useful. But, like any water barrier, if you sweat enough it still gets wet inside, though the generous ventilation allows for extra drying - more than my jackets with pit zips alone. I run hot, so I wouldn't wear this on a steep hike or a run until temps drop to 50°F/10°C. I recommend wearing a very thin long-sleeve layer if you dislike that feeling of sweaty skin against a hardshell. The seams are nice and flat, and I didn't notice any chafing while running with a belt or hiking with a pack. One minor complaint (which I might fix myself with micro shock cord): both the hood and the wrist openings have elastic, but no drawstrings. In practice, this meant I was rolling up one sleeve to see my sports watch, and unless I zipped the jacket up all the way, the hood wouldn't stay up. Fit-wise, I'm a size 14 with a curvy figure, and I'm in between an L and XL (shoulders and bust being my pivot points). I also have a long torso (men's L in backpacks), but the length was plenty generous. The XL fits generously, but not so much that I would size down. It was roomy enough that I could easily wear another tee and fleece underneath. I did get a little bit of "tenting" in the front, but since I usually wear a pack or running belt, this wasn't a big deal for me. I would probably choose my Marmot 2-layer Gore-Tex for a rainy town day, though, since it's more flattering for curves by itself.

This light rain coat is perfect. Lots of space to move but the thoughtful use of elastic details keeps it in place with movement. The ventilation is spot on to keep you comfortable and I love the taper of the sleeves to protect your hands. Color is rich. Overall a wonderful find and great for running, hiking or just keeping in your car. Folds up extra small for convenient storage.

True to size, high quality material, nice air vents for airflow during exercise and quite comfortable. I absolutely love the deeper hood to keep my hair and face dry!

Had to get my long run in today and naturally it was going to rain! Threw this bad boy on and was hoping for the best! Luckily for me, it didn’t rain which made the jacket a little bit too hot for me to wear in 75° weather. I also wish that the arms cinched a little bit of the wrist so I could see my watch. Definitely excited to give it a try in the rain..