Columbia Peak 2 Peak Jacket review

Rest day today but decided I would run so I did 4 miles today.

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Back in May, I was given the opportunity to review the Columbia Peak 2 Peak jacket.  I know a few of you have also done a review of the jacket as well.  It's taken me some time to do this one because the weather was warm and I have not had lots of chances to try it out.  Here a look at what I was sent:

Waterproof zipper

Zippered vents by arms

Zippered pockets near the chest

Columbia, as you all know, makes incredible jackets and this one is also a really great jacket.  I have owned Columbia jackets in the past and have been really happy with them.  However, the idea was to wear this as a running jacket.  Unfortunately, there are some issues with the jacket when it comes to running in it.

While Columbia claims this to be a running jacket, in my opinion, it's not made for that.  This is basically a really well made rain/hiking jacket.  Can you use it for running....sure.  You will not see me using it though.  While there are zippered vents to help keep you cool when running, it's just too bulky a jacket to use for this purpose.  As a runner, I also would not want a bulky hood like this jacket has on it.  If I go on a hike in the woods or mountains though, this would be an incredible jacket to have with you.

As you can see from the pictures above, the zipper on this is made to keep out water.  I used it when it was raining out and it kept me nice and dry.

Great for the rain

It also has two pockets near your chest for you to be able put things in but it did not have two pockets for your hands.  Really?  I don't get that?  I suppose the idea is that you don't need pockets for a running jacket but it would have been nice to include them for comfort when you were not running.

The other issue is that this jacket is very loud whether you are walking or running in it.  I know that it really bothered others who reviewed this.  It was not that big of deal to me since I'm going to be wearing this when it's raining and would not notice it as much.

The jacket also has a really nice "storm hood" for when it's really raining and/or snowing out.  You could definitely use this jacket in cold weather.  I think it's actually a perfect jacket to go hiking in when the weather turns.  Unfortunately, it just will not be in my arsenal for running in the winter.

If the thought is to make a running jacket, I'm sure that Columbia can put their heads together and really make an awesome running jacket.  Back to the drawing board for that.

* I was given a complementary Peak 2 Peak jacket from Columbia in exchange for a review.  I was not required to give a positive review.

Have a great day and....Keep Running!!!!!