I’m a sucker for vests for cool weather running. And, even in the summer, a nice vest is always great to have, just in case. Keeping your core warm and dry is the name of the game with vests and with Gore-Tex Infinium, the new Gore R7 Partial Infinium Running Vest has been an awesome shoulder-season companion.
Gore R7 Partial Gore-Tex Infinium Running Vest Features:
- Gore-Tex Infinium Windstopper panels for wind protection, breathability and high water resistance
- Centered stretch panels on back for ultimate breathability
- Designed for freedom of movement
- Full length zip with underflap and zipper garage
- High collar to protect from wind
- Reflective details
- Seam placement designed to work with backpack
- Waist hem with elastic inserts on sides
- Back zip pocket
- Weight: 90 grams (large, actual)
- MSRP: $149.99
A fantastic running vest
When the temperatures drop, a vest can usually be all you need to stay warm on your next trail run. Keeping your core comfortable while keeping your arms from getting saturated is truthfully a bit of a balancing act. To maintain the proper amount of warmth and breathability, the Gore R7 Partial Infinium Running Vest has been a great choice.
Gore-Tex Infinium is essentially the Gore-Tex membrane alone. And, in this case, the front seams aren’t taped because, well… it’s a vest and it’s not meant to be waterproof. That said, you’ll have to get into quite the soggy situation before water penetrates the Infinium panels on the key exposed areas. The non-waterproof zipper will be the biggest weak spot. But, again, this product is intended to be breathable, windproof and highly water resistant. Those claims are spot-on.
Breathability is where Gore-Tex Infinium really shines. The breathability to water resistance ratio here is outstanding. I can confidently go out into light rain or even snow (Utah’s snow is pretty dry) without any concerns. What’s more important is just how well the fabric breathes. The centered stretch panel on the back wicks away moisture and allows everything to evaporate quite well. The Infinium panels do a great job of breathing as well. You’ll be hard-pressed to find much more than a light dampness inside — even after a long run.
I’m picky on collars and Gore has nailed the collar on the R7 Running Vest. The inside is lined with a subtly-textured fabric. It’s like microscopic fleece and it always feels cozy next-to-skin. The collar diameter and height is absolutely perfect for full neck coverage without digging into the underside of my chin. The zipper pull can be tricky to reach with gloves, but you’ll find it eventually.
I appreciate the light gathering on the sides of the hem to keep everything in place. And, the sleeve cuffs fit nice and comfortably atop any long-sleeve base layer I used. The single rear pocket is helpful to stash something lightweight (a gel or two).
Fit: At 5’11” and 170 lbs., I think I could have gone with the medium. But, the large actually fits nicely. It’s a comfortable fit without feeling “race tight.” I’ve preferred the size large with Gore’s other outerwear as well.
The Good
- The perfect balance of breathability and weather protection
- Back panel helps expel moisture even faster
- So lightweight — it feels like nothing
- Good, efficient fit
The Bad
- Zipper pull can be hard to grab on-the-fly
The Bottom Line: Gore R7 Partial Infinium Running Vest
Truthfully, I always keep a running vest or two in the back of the car. The versatility of the Gore R7 Running Vest makes it an easy choice to replace an older vest I’ve had. Infinium breathes super well and gives just enough stretch to make this jacket disappear. It blocks wind like a brick wall and keeps moisture at bay just fine for my typical use.
Buy Now: Available from Gorewear.com
