Weathershedding
This 2.5-layer Eider Pulsate Waterproof Jacket features their own proprietary Defender Dots fabric, a DWR treatment, and fully taped seams. It kept testers dry in the gnarliest of rainstorms, shedding rain readily and due to its slightly thicker fabric, even offering a bit of a buffer against pelting hail. Eider advertises it modestly at a 10,000mm waterproof rating, though it performed well beyond others with that rating.

Breathability
The fabric itself breathes decently well for a fully waterproof jacket. However, the Eider Pulsate Waterproof Jacket has no additional venting in the way of pit zips or mesh back vents to provide additional breathability. In warm rains or humid weather, it can feel somewhat clammy inside. In cold rain, however, there are few running jackets that work as well as this one.

Function
While many ultralight running jackets forgo zippered hand pockets to save weight Eider opted to outfit the Pulsate with roomy hand pockets. They’re perfect for stashing accessories like caps, neck gaiters, gloves or sunglasses while on the run, without having to access your pack. The hood stayed in place while running and is effective at rain-shedding, thanks in part to the same Lycra binding that graces the cuffs.

Fit/Comfort
Other than the sleeves running a bit short (a problem encountered with other Eider jackets, though this one has thumbholes at the cuffs to help prevent the sleeves from riding up) the fit on this jacket is spot-on, particularly for the typical runner build. It sports a slim, athletic fit with comfortable elastic banding at the cuffs and waist to prevent rain from sneaking in.

Packability
At 7.6 ounces, it’s on the bulkier side for a running jacket. Nevertheless, it scrunches down to the approximate size of a grapefruit. The fabric is flexible and packs easily.