Ultimate Direction Aerolight Wind Jacket – The Ultimate Spring Jacket

Lately I’ve had trouble finding a light wind/rain jacket that fits comfortably and doesn’t feel like running in a sauna. So, I was super excited to try out the Ultimate Direction Women’s Aerolight Wind Jacket. And, I have to say, this jacket has tons of positives – including not feeling the sauna effect! In fact the website boasts a 360 degree micro-ventilation to prevent that clammy feeling. And that is just the start.

The first thing I noticed about this jacket is that it is crazy light and yet it somehow manages to keep the cold wind at bay. I’m not a fan of bulky layers when running and this jacket definitely has no bulk. In fact it is only 4.6 ounces! Ideal for spring running.

Second, the Aerolight Wind Jacket allows for room to move without looking baggy or frumpy. While many jackets are too fitted to wear over layers so you have to size up only to look like your jacket is way too big, this jacket is true to size. It is lose enough to layer under, but still has a somewhat fitted look. And, when running the jacket moved with me without restrictions.

Third, this jacket was clearly made for women. I appreciate that the jacket fit comfortably over my hips and didn’t ride up as I ran. The elastic around the bottom of the jacket is tight enough to stay put, but not so tight that I felt it. It was somehow just right!

Fourth, the jacket has a pocket. I’m kind of obsessed with having pockets in my running gear, even if I don’t always need them. I just like to have that option if I need a place to stash a key, gel, money, or something smaller like that. The super cool thing about this pocket is that you can pack the jacket into it easily. You just turn the pocket inside out and start stuffing the jacket in. Zip it up and you have a handy little loop and a convenient holder you can stick your hand in for an easy carrying option. I was pretty excited when I figured out that option! No more wrapping a jacket around my waist when it is no longer needed. Just stuff and go!

While this jacket also includes a waterproof coating, I have yet to encounter rain on my test runs (surprisingly), so the jury is still out for me on the rain protection. But, I have a feeling it will do the trick.

I don’t tend to wear hoods when running, so I usually avoid jackets that have them because they tend to annoy me. But, since this jacket is so light, the hood didn’t bounce around and bother me as I ran. In fact, I forgot the jacket even had a hood. I haven’t tried running with the hood on, but when I put it on it kind of tucked over my forehead and felt like it would stay put better than most jacket hoods.

In addition to running, I’ll admit I’ve been grabbing this jacket lately for every day outings. With the warmer spring weather, I’ve only needed a light layer and this jacket has been just that. The more I wear it, the more I like it for its lightweight feel and how it’s just the right layer to block the breeze and/or slight chill in the air. And, I do like the look of it.

Available in Clay, Onyx, and White.