Windbreakers: An Athlete’s Must-Have Jacket

If you’re looking for your next cycling or running jacket, then you’re likely to have come across windbreakers. They’re not a common choice of active outerwear, so you’re likely to have wondered whether they’ll meet your performance needs. 

An alternative to windproof and waterproof jackets, the windbreaker’s characteristic features lend themselves well to the requirements of endurance athletes. Ideal for runners and cyclists to layer up as weather conditions change, we’ll run through the key features to help you decide if a windbreaker is right for you. 

What is a Windbreaker?

A windbreaker is a piece of outerwear that’s designed to block out wind and keep you warm. Although they’re not completely windproof or waterproof, they can be quickly put on over other layers to protect against wind chill. This is helpful for outdoor athletes training in fall and spring, when the weather conditions are unpredictable.  

Usually made from breathable materials with water-repellency treatment, they also give protection from light rain and splashes while wicking away sweat from the inside. This helps athletes maintain their core temperature and stay comfortable, even on long training sessions. They’re also lightweight and easily packable, meaning athletes can wear and carry them without being weighed down. 

Who Needs a Windbreaker?

Outdoor athletes of all kinds will find a windbreaker useful. A lightweight extra layer, endurance athletes can quickly put it on if they encounter unexpected changes in weather (such as light rain and increased winds) on their long sessions. This will help keep their core temperature at its optimum, which is essential for runners, cyclists and other athletes to perform and recover well. 

For runners, windbreakers are easy to pull on and off or carry in a small backpack or running vest, as they’re lightweight and packable. Blocking out wind chill and protecting from light rain as well as being breathable, they are great for putting on for chilly early morning or evening training sessions. Trail runners who will be tackling higher elevations or exposed countryside will also benefit from this extra protective layer. 

Road cyclists will also find windbreakers a useful addition to their bike pack. If headwinds pick up, putting on a windbreaker will keep you warm as you focus on battling the elements. Mountain or trail bikers will also find them useful for protecting against wind chill as they go down hill and moisture or mud as they work around a damp trail. 

Differences between a Windbreaker and Rainproof Jacket

The main difference between windbreakers and rainproof jackets is their design. Typically, windbreakers are lighter and more packable than rainproof jackets because they’re made from a single layer of material. Standard rainproof jackets are made from thicker, multi-layered materials that offer complete protection from external moisture. In contrast, coatings are put on top of windbreaker fabrics to make them water-repellent. 

However, there are some key similarities between rainproof jackets and windbreakers. To make sure an athlete stays warm and dry, they both offer complete torso coverage. Features such as hoods, adjustable hems and sport-specific features (such as a longer back panel for cyclists) also ensure complete protection from the elements, even as athletes move. 

Are Windbreakers Waterproof?

Many windbreakers will be water-resistant. GOREWEAR windbreakers are water-repellent. They have a Durable Water Repellent (DWR) coating which can withstand spray, drizzle and light rain, but won’t keep athletes dry in heavy downpours or constant showers. If you need outerwear that can withstand significant moisture, then a rainproof jacket would be a good option. 

Features Of A Windbreaker Jacket

There are some key features that every windbreaker will provide. Characteristically, windbreakers have lightweight, packable designs that block wind from making contact with the skin. They’re also breathable and usually have some level of water resistance. 

GOREWEAR has taken these characteristics and adapted them specifically for athletes’ needs. They include:

• Soft and supple low-air permeable double weave fabric which blocks wind from reaching the skin and is breathable, maximizing comfort

• A 3D structure that prevents the windbreaker from sticking to the skin 

• A DWR coating which means they can withstand splash from the road or trail and light rains or drizzle

• Kinetic garment construction which gives athletes complete freedom of movement

• Lightweight and packable design which means runners or cyclists can easily carry it with them on long training sessions

What to Wear Under a Windbreaker?

Although a windbreaker will give athletes a good first barrier against wind chill and light rain, having the right layers underneath is essential to maintaining an optimal core temperature. Having breathable, sport-specific tops or base layers below the windbreaker will help athletes stay warm, dry and comfortable even during long training sessions. 

Road Cycling

Depending on your personal preferences, you’ll need a cycling jersey or shirt. In mixed weather conditions or early morning and evening sessions in spring and fall having a long-sleeved jersey will help keep you warm. 

As well as packing your windbreaker, consider taking a couple of accessories with you in windy, slightly wet weather. Gloves and a headband or neck warmer are all helpful for staying comfortable.

Running

On warmer days or for shorter sessions, a running shirt or tee is ideal for layering under a windbreaker. In cooler temperatures or for longer sessions in unexpected weather, then wearing a long-sleeve shirt will ensure you stay warm and comfortable under your windbreaker. 

MTB

On cold, long or technical days out on the mountains or trails, wearing long-sleeved shirts will keep you warm. As temperatures rise in late spring or early fall, you might fancy a switch to a short-sleeved top.

Shop Sports Jackets from GOREWEAR

Windbreakers are ideal for athletes looking for extra protection in shoulder seasons. Alternatively, if you’re looking for completely waterproof or windproof options, then we can offer you sport-specific outerwear that will keep you comfortable and help you perform. Check out our range to find the best option to suit your outdoor training needs.