Brooks Adapt Jacket Review
Active Gear Review is supported by its audience. If you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.
The cold weather is creeping up on us, and for some, it’s already here. Living in the Rocky Mountains, I’ve already had the pleasure of experiencing early morning frosts and some of snow up high. I’d like to think of myself as “tough” and ready to take on all the elements, but truth be told I’m more of a fair-weather runner. So what do you do to achieve an instant set of armor against mother nature’s brutal conditions? Go and get yourself the Brooks Adapt Jacket!
Brooks Adapt Jacket general function and features
Warmth:
The jacket is designed to keep you cozy in conditions 40 degrees and below. This is made possible by the added panels of TheromLite – which is a polyfill insulation. During my testing I was never once chilled, if anything I would get too hot.
Water resistant, thermal, and ready for Winter!
Water Resistant:
The stretch woven fabric that coats the outside of the jacket will definitely defy a light drizzle or snow fall. Keep in mind, if you were to get stuck in a down pour the material would eventually get water logged and the rain could seep in through the seams.
Breathable:
Brooks did a great job with adding a thermal yet breathable stretch panel that reaches from your underarm all the way down to your wrist. I could feel the difference in temperature between my core and my arms right away. Personally I hate when my arms get hot and sweaty because it always leads to the uncomfortable fabric stick and restrict problem. The Brooks Adapt Jacket held the heat where it needed it to be while balancing a perfect amount of breathability in all other areas.
Breathable Thermal Panels
Brooks Adapt Jacket Innovative Features
My favorite part of reviewing is toying with all the neat and innovative do-dads, otherwise known as killer features you wish all gear had! The Brooks Adapt Jacket definitely does not disappoint when it comes to bonus perks. My favorite is the stowable balaclava which is housed in the collar. It is extremely easy to access and pack because of the elastic pocket it’s attached to. If temperatures drop or the wind picks up, this balaclava saves the day by providing you with extra protection and warmth.
Balaclava
Another feature I really appreciated was the sealed zippers. You can lose a lot of heat from zips all over your jacket, along with experiencing a breeze on windy days. Sealed zippers are a must have for any jacket to keep you warm and dry and dry.
Sealed Zippers
Following the zipper theme, Brooks has added a protective flap that covers the inside zipper structure on the collar. Most people don’t realize how much of a blessing this is until their chins are rubbed raw. Nice touch Brooks!
Stuff sack for balaclava
Monkey holes are a feature I wish more apparel pieces would include. They provide extra warmth and also prevent your sleeves from bunching up. I have a habit of balling my fingers into my palm when they get cold. This extra piece of fabric “saves the day” because it provides additional protection although it is not intended to be a make shift glove.
Monkey Holes!
Brooks Adapt Jacket Quick Technical Overview
The Brooks Adapt Jacket is water-resistant and insulated, but also includes breathable stretch thermal fabric in the areas where heat builds quickly. It has a full length sealed front zipper with flapper protector on the collar. There are two sealed pockets, one on each side of the jacket. The right pocket contains a mini media pocket as well. The Adapt features an innovative stow-able balaclava hidden in the collar for harsh weather. This style is to be worn as fitted, but I found that the Brooks Adapt Jacket did run large on me especially around the waist.
Final Thoughts for the Brooks Adapt Jacket
To sum things up in a few words, I really enjoy running in this jacket. The only draw back is that it is a bit too big. If I had one size smaller, I know this would be my go-to for harsh winter running conditions. The bonus features really come in handy, especially when weather turns for the worst. I’m always excited to see companies doing something that is a little “out of the box.” Shows me they care and are listening to their consumer’s wants and needs. Thank you Brooks! The price may seem high, but this jacket was created to conquer every winter condition so you will only need to buy one jacket. For more information, check out: www.brooksrunning.com or www.amazon.com/brooksrunning.
