Inov8 Raceshell HZ Review

So minimal it's borderline transparent, the Inov8 Raceshelll HZ is still a really protective running jacket. It features a pull-over design that we're not crazy about, but it enables the Raceshell HZ to strip away all unnecessary add-ons, leaving you with the perfect running jacket for all conditions and elements. All of this at a crazy good price.

Breathability

The Inov8 Raceshell HZ tied for the top spot in breathability. The pull-over design and lack of other venting options had our expectations low, but our team was surprised to find that this layer was a joy to run in even during high output activities. The 2-way half-zip turned out to be a very effective venting method, allowing us to quickly adapt to changing temperatures.

The jacket has a 15,000 B-1 Breathability Rating, which is noticeable on those higher output sessions. The material is soft against the skin and helps transfer built-up moisture away from the body. Thanks to the combination of the front vent and breathable membrane, the Raceshell HZ adapts to all of your runs.

Weather Resistance

The Inov8 Raceshell HZ is not the most waterproof jacket we tested, but it surprised us by being quite protective despite the thin fabric. It features a 15,000mm HH waterproof rating and taped seams and so meets the technical standards for races that require you to bring a fully waterproof layer. The elasticated hood is not adjustable, but it fits snugly around the face, effectively blocking the wind, especially if you zip the collar all the way up. Elasticated cuffs and waist hem also help keep the breeze from running up your back and arms. From gnarly fall races in moody overcast skies and spots of rain to high alpine adventures in Colorado, the Raceshell HZ adapts to all environments.

We wore this layer on the famous 14,000ft Longs Peak. Known for its harsh winds and high altitude, this was the perfect testing ground for the Raceshell HZ. While we were out running, we encountered some mild rain that put the 15,000mm HH rating to the test. We found that it lasted longer than other jackets of this weight, but it did wet out eventually. It's not a rain jacket, but if you are looking for a versatile jacket for most running conditions, this is the one for you.

Comfort and Mobility

The pull-over design helps shed the weight that comes with having a full zipper, but it isn't as easy to get on and off. Once on, the Raceshell HZ is one of the most comfortable jackets we have run in. It doesn't feature any stretch panels or adjustability, but the material is so incredibly lightweight that we barely feel it when it's on. We didn't mind the skin feel of the material directly on our arms, but Inov8 says that wearing a long sleeve underneath the jacket will help with moisture wicking and comfort.

We did a series of high-intensity downhill reps while wearing this jacket. Bouncing and hopping down the trail, the jacket allows for a full 360 degrees of fluid arm movement. We never felt restricted through the shoulders or had trouble turning our heads while wearing the hood. The Invo8 Raceshell HZ is slim-fitting and tailored yet mobile enough for fast runs and wild movements.

Portability

Coming in at just over 100 grams, the Inov8 Raceshell HZ is one of the lightest jackets that we tested, only losing out to models that are half as protective. This makes it a great option for race kit requirements when a waterproof jacket is mandatory or for your next long-distance run where every gram counts.

The Invo8 Raceshell HZ cuts unnecessary features like pockets or stow pouches, and it definitely doesn't come with a separate stuff sack. Instead, an elastic band at the back of the hood allows you to tightly bundle, fold, or roll the jacket into itself and secure it by wrapping the bungee around once or twice. Rolled up and secured this way, it is a pretty small package, and it was easy to stow into our running belts or vests without slowing our pace.

Invo8 made no compromises on weight when creating this jacket, but the ultralight fabric feels very delicate. We didn't have any issues with durability, but it definitely doesn't have the bombproof feel of some other models we tested.

Features and Visibility

The Inov8 Raceshell HZ has no reflective or visibility features. No pockets, adjustable fit, or other bells and whistles. Inov8 really keeps it to a minimum here. However, the fabric is translucent so as to be permitted in a race environment where you are pulling the jacket over your race bib, but need your number to remain visible at all times. Not many jackets have this feature. The pull-over design is pretty intuitive to use while on the move, but maybe not as convenient as a full zip model.

In practice, the Raceshell HZ performed with excellence, and we didn't regret the lack of features. We wore it in a variety of testing environments and runs; we just didn't take it out at night or when we were running in highly-trafficked urban environments.

Should You Buy the Invo8 Raceshell HZ?

The Inov8 Raceshell HZ offers one of the best balances of breathability and weatherproofing that we've seen without breaking the bank. It is a high-performance, ultralight layer that you'll be happy to have along during your next shoulder season race. The Raceshell HZ will keep you dry and feeling fast! Luckily, it feels just as at home on a recovery jog through your backyard trail, and comes at a price where you'll feel comfortable using it for both. Unless the half-zip design is a dealbreaker for you, then the Raceshell is the right choice for most people.

What Other Running Jackets Should You Consider?

The Nnormal Trail Rain is another option that offers a near-perfect balance of water resistance and breathability, but is designed with more premium fabrics and features like an adjustable hood and wrist cuffs. It has a higher price tag to match. Looking for a running jacket that performs well in the wind? Check out the Brooks Canopy, Adidas Own the Run, or the Patagonia Houdini, all of which offer a bit more protection from the breeze, but aren't quite as waterproof. The Patagonia Storm Racer is a truly waterproof layer, almost on par with a legit rain jacket. It comes at the cost of breathability, but depending on the climate you run in, the tradeoff might be worth it.