Braving miserable weather with Mac in a Sac gear
10.2.2025
Translation: Katherine Martin
The Mac in a Sac brand has always been on my radar for its practical, packable rainwear. It’s now expanded its range of trail running and outdoor clothing. When I took the jacket, trousers, bodywarmer and cap into the great outdoors, I was impressed by their performance.
When I think of the catchily named, Irish brand Mac in a Sac, handy ponchos and brightly coloured, pack-away rain jackets are the first things that spring to mind. With their small pack sizes, they can fit into a rucksack or laptop bag. That way, if there’s a sudden downpour on your hike or on your way to work, you won’t end up with soggy clothes.
Mac in a Sac has now fleshed out its range with a selection of down- and synthetic-lined jackets and bodywarmers. It’s also launched some lightweight, easily packable running gear. The company kindly provided me with a synthetic bodywarmer, waterproof trousers, a running jacket and a waterproof cap to test out.
Lined bodywarmer delivers cosiness on demand
The bodywarmer is so well made that it impresses me right off the bat. However, it does seem to be on the large side. I’d originally tried it in a size M so that I could wear a sweater or light jacket underneath. But this one’s definitely too wide and slightly too long. In size S, however, it fits perfectly. I’ve actually experienced the same thing with other garments from this brand. I’ve always needed to go one size smaller than what I’d normally wear.
Because of its synthetic lining, the bodywarmer (in the right size this time) manages to keep me cosy – even in damp conditions. It also has a water-repellent coating, so it’s unfazed by light drizzle or high humidity. Even so, it’s not made for real rain.
The bodywarmer can be put on and taken off quickly, and is easy to pack away. When you take it out of the bag, it doesn’t look all that creased. Besides, it soon smoothens out. Thanks to its small pack size and weight (a women’s size S comes in at roughly 210 grammes), it’s easy to carry around. If you’re on a hike, you can then pop it on when you’re taking a break, when the sun sets on the trail or when it gets chilly.
A rainy run in the jacket, trousers and cap
Next, I went out for a jog. In the rain. In weather like this, I’d typically wait until the downpour was over before lacing up my running shoes. But the deluge was perfect for putting my Mac in the Sac gear through its paces.
For starters, everything proved to be waterproof. The layer I was wearing underneath my jacket and trousers stayed dry. Raindrops simply rolled off my gear, and even the specially reinforced seams didn’t let any moisture through. If you’re keen to find out what I think of the running gear, check out this video.
The clothing’s breathable too. Mind you, if it’s particularly humid outside or if you’re really working up a sweat, it’s almost inevitable that it’ll get a little damp on the inside. However, that’s true of any jacket – it’s just the way it goes. «Totally waterproof» and «highly breathable» simply don’t go together as concepts. There’s always a balance between the two, and in this case, it’s a good one.
Although I’m unaccustomed to running in waterproof trousers, it wasn’t long before I practically stopped noticing them. That was probably down to the material not making much noise while it was rubbing. During my run, I could only hear a little bit of rustling. The trousers’ light weight and elasticated waistband also boosted my comfort while I was running.
I really appreciate the full-length zip on the side. It allows you to get into and out of the trousers quickly and easily without taking off your shoes. What’s more, the trousers aren’t just practical in rainy weather. They also shield you from the wind and stop you from getting chilly when you take a break. In future, I think I’ll wear these trousers on bike rides as well as on runs in changeable weather.
The jacket wins me over with its pockets and practical features
When I’m competing in races, I try to keep my kit as lightweight as possible. With this in mind, I prefer wearing light, minimalist, no-frills rain jackets.
As for training runs – or when I’m just running for the fun of it – it’s a different story. In those situations, I like my jacket to have pockets for keys, gloves and other bits and bobs. I also prefer the material to be more robust. This running jacket from Mac in a Sac’s Venture series falls into that very category.
Tipping the scales at a good 220 grammes (size S), it’s still very light. At the same time, it has a bunch of practical features, including side and inside pockets, an elasticated waistband and a hood. There are also rubber cuffs on the arms so you can easily roll up the sleeves whenever you need to. The running jacket can withstand 8,000 millimetres of water pressure, and is breathable.
It’s made of stretchy material, so it doesn’t restrict movement and feels comfortable when running.
If the rain stops or you’re warm enough not to need a windbreaker, you can pack it away via one of its side pockets. This turns it into a compact package that fits in your running backpack.
The rainproof cap is from the Venture series too. It appealed to me because of its combination of rain and sun protection, as well as its light weight. A Velcro fastener on the back of the cap allows you to adjust it precisely, meaning it doesn’t pinch or annoy you.
Verdict: good running and outdoor clothing for three seasons
As expected, the Mac in a Sac brand fares well in rainy weather. Overall, I’m also happy with other aspects of the clothing I tested. Each garment was lightweight, offered protection and comfort and was easy to stow away in its carry bag or in a pocket. The gear’s definitely suitable for running, cycling or hiking, and is especially good for commuting.
Header image: Siri Schubert
Siri Schubert
Senior Editor
Siri.Schubert@digitecgalaxus.chResearch diver, outdoor guide and SUP instructor – I love being in, on and around water. Lakes, rivers and the ocean are my playgrounds. For a change of perspective, I look at the world from above while trail running or flying drones.
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