As running and “Running Core” fashion gain popularity among younger generations, interest in functional running apparel is increasing. The Korean Consumer Agency (director Yoon Su-hyun) conducted a quality inspection of running jackets from major sports brands and found noticeable differences in product performance.
The agency evaluated running jackets from eight popular brands for their thermal retention, air permeability (breathability), durability, and safety. The results, announced on the 5th, indicated significant variations in thermal retention and breathability between products. Some products were found to have reduced water repellency (moisture resistance) after washing.
In the thermal retention test, the Nike “Repel Miler,” Descente’s “Running Warm-Up Windbreaker,” Andar’s “Clear Feather Men’s Wind Jacket,” and Under Armour’s “UA Launch Hood Jacket” performed relatively well. On the other hand, New Balance’s “UNI Sport Essential Windbreaker,” Adidas’ “Adizero Essential Running Jacket,” and Xeximix’s “RX Airlight Jacket” were rated highly for breathability.
The agency advised, “Given that thermal retention and breathability are opposing functions, it is advisable to choose products with good thermal retention if warmth is a priority and those with high breathability if sweat-exhaling performance is more important.”
Before washing, all products had the highest water repellency rating of grade 5. However, after five washes, four products (from New Balance, Descente, Adidas, and Under Armour) dropped to grade 3, showing some water penetration.
All products passed the durability and washing resistance tests, meeting the standards. No issues were found during the 2000 zipper-opening tests or in assessments of color change, shrinkage, and pilling. All products satisfied the recommended quality standards for textile products from the Korean Consumer Agency.
In the hazardous substance safety evaluation, all products met the safety management standards for electrical and household goods concerning formaldehyde, pH, aromatic amines, and other chemicals. Perfluoroalkyl compounds (PFOA, PFOS), known for environmental concerns, were also undetected in any of the products. Some products were confirmed to use eco-friendly materials by recycling PET bottles.
A consumer survey showed 76.6% use washing machines, although three products (from Descente, Andar, and Xeximix) recommended hand washing. The agency suggested that it would be beneficial for products that are machine washable to improve their labeling, and some companies have responded that they are reviewing improvements.
Product prices ranged from a minimum of 89,000 KRW to a maximum of 199,000 KRW, showing up to a 2.2-fold difference. Brands also differentiated themselves through design features such as foldability and the use of hoods and mesh materials.
The Korean Consumer Agency stated, “When purchasing running jackets, it is good to prioritize personal preferences for features like water repellency and breathability, and then compare design, durability, and price.” They also mentioned plans to continue providing quality and safety information about functional clothing through “Consumer 24.”
