"Water Soaks In After 5 Washes"... Adidas Running Jacket and Others Show Poor Water Repellency

Korea Consumer Agency Releases Test Results on Major Sports Brands' Running Jackets
Nike, Descente, Andar, and Under Armour Lead in Thermal Retention
New Balance, Adidas, and Xexymix Excel in Air Permeability
Water Repellency Decreases After Washing for New Balance, Descente, Adidas, and Under Armour

As interest in running apparel continues to rise, a recent survey found that major sports brands' running jackets show significant differences in durability and functionality.

On November 5, the Korea Consumer Agency surveyed 1,500 consumers who had purchased running jackets within the past three years. The study evaluated eight products from the top eight sports brands and found that thermal retention and air permeability (breathability) varied by product. It was also confirmed that for some products, water repellency-the ability to repel water from the surface-deteriorated after five washes.

The products tested were: Nike "Repel Miler," New Balance "UNI Sports Essential Windbreaker," Descente "Running Warm-Up Windbreaker," Adidas "Adizero Essential Running Jacket," Andar "Clear Feather Men's Wind Jacket," Under Armour "UA Launch Hooded Jacket," Xexymix "RX Air Light Jacket," and FILA "PERTEX Lightweight Windbreaker," for a total of eight types.

In terms of thermal retention-the ability to maintain body temperature in windy conditions-four products performed relatively well: Nike (Repel Miler), Descente (Running Warm-Up Windbreaker), Andar (Clear Feather Men's Wind Jacket), and Under Armour (UA Launch Hooded Jacket). The remaining four products were rated as average.

Regarding air permeability, which measures how well air passes through the fabric, three products stood out: New Balance (UNI Sports Essential Windbreaker), Adidas (Adizero Essential Running Jacket), and Xexymix (RX Air Light Jacket). The other five products, including those from Nike and Descente, also performed at a satisfactory level.

The Korea Consumer Agency explained, "Thermal retention and air permeability are opposing functions, so it is best to choose a product based on your intended usage environment and personal preferences. For warmth, select a product with good thermal retention, but if you prioritize vapor (sweat) release, it is better to choose a product with superior air permeability."

All products demonstrated excellent water repellency-the ability to repel water from the surface-prior to washing. However, after five washes, four products-New Balance (UNI Sports Essential Windbreaker), Descente (Running Warm-Up Windbreaker), Adidas (Adizero Essential Running Jacket), and Under Armour (UA Launch Hooded Jacket)-showed decreased water repellency, resulting in partial wetting.

In terms of zipper durability, all eight products passed tests for smooth operation and resistance to separation when repeatedly opened and closed or subjected to pulling force.

Additionally, all products met the textile product recommended quality standards established and managed by the Korea Consumer Agency in terms of resistance to pilling on the surface, colorfastness to sunlight and sweat, and shrinkage or discoloration due to washing.

The Korea Consumer Agency advised consumers to check for key features such as water repellency and air permeability according to their needs, and to carefully compare each product's design, durability, and price before making a purchase.