Home » Gear Reviews » Running » Running Jackets » Running Jackets for Wind » New Balance NBx
New Balance NBx Review
March 9, 2012The Good
- Flatlock seams.
- Collar lined with soft, wicking fabric.
- Packs to the size of an organic apple.
The Bad
- Fits best without an extra layer. I’ll get over it.
I’m still trying to figure out how such a ‘barely-there’ jacket can have all the features I’ve ever thought to need in a running coat.
The first thing I noticed when I put the New Balance NBx Jacket on was how the laser cut venting under the armpits and on the back was seamless and unnoticeable. I also felt more protected from the elements knowing the jacket had a full-zipper storm guard. The collar was lined with wicking fabric, for softness and, if worn in warmer weather, should help move moisture. It was cold when I was testing it, but I was still sweating and had no condensation inside the jacket when I returned home. My one-minute arm-in-shower test resulted in lots of beading water on the surface, with just a hint of moisture on my arm. A fabric flap provides weather protection on the back ventilation zone.
The slim-fit of the jacket felt silky against my skin, and had a tapered cut with a drop hem and super-simple cinching system. Flat-seams made for smooth, chafe-free running, and the angled cuffs had a bit of stretch tape on the shorter, under-wrist side for improved fit and a longer, smooth seam on the top of my hand for extra coverage. A zip pocket held essentials while five reflective pops made me feel visible in the evening light.
As for packability, the jacket had it’s own stuff sack and packed smaller than any of the other jackets in this roundup, about the size and weight of a small apple, easily fitting into the palm of my hand.