Salomon Bonatti Waterproof review: A cult classic, updated

Known globally as a benchmark in quality, we’ve grown to expect the best from Alpine mountain brand Salomon. I’m no stranger to the Bonatti Waterproof shell jacket, having run in the previous iteration for over five years, so I was curious to put the updated version of the ultralight layer to the test.

The Bonatti is my go-to waterproof running jacket for trips when packability and breathability are the priority. In fact, it’s such a staple in my life that it was my only run layer during a year-long world trip, which included trekking in 1000% humidity across the Malaysian Taman Negara Rainforest.

I could happily stake my life on the Bonatti’s superior breathability and light weight (plus excellent mosquito coverage). But how does this performance translate to European running and Salomon’s newest version of the Bonatti Waterproof? Let’s find out…

Design and features

The Bonatti Waterproof is built with Salomon’s AdvancedSkin Dry 10K/10K construction, which the brand says makes it “perfect protection against rain, snow, and wind.” What this boils down to is a 100% nylon shell coated with durable water repellent (DWR) to make it waterproof. It’s good to see PFC-free weatherproofing, which means the repellent is not made from synthetic chemicals.

Fabric construction is crucial in a waterproof layer; the Bonatti has a 10,000mm hydrostatic head, which I’d say is the minimum you’d want in a waterproof. All zips are waterproof too, and do a good job of sealing out the rain.

Alongside this weatherproofing is a breathability rating of 10,000g/m², which promises moderate ventilation, boosted by two diagonal ventilation slits that form a peak across the upper back and a chest press-stud to increase airflow.

Weighing in at a slight 146g (5.15oz), it’s among the lighter waterproof jackets we’ve tested on LFTO, and this is immediately evident when on or compactly stuffed into the small chest pocket.

The jacket’s minimalist design is most apparent in the lack of adjustability, which is by no means a negative. The partly elasticated hood, side hems, and cuffs draw in the coat flush to the body to form its characteristically slim, athletic fit.

A happy update on v1 is the three zip pockets for valuables, which really boost the Bonatti’s versatility as a run/hike layer. As mentioned, there’s a chest pocket that perfectly fits my large smartphone (once the case is removed) and two larger hand pockets for valuables. These two front pockets are best used while stationary or for hikes, as anything stuffed here while running does jangle about.

Last but by no means least, the built-in hood is a slimline affair. There’s a touch more rigidity at the peak, paired with an inner seal to hug the forehead and a high-rise zip at the neckline to secure it in place without a drawstring.

Performance and comfort

The women’s version of the Bonatti offers a slim fit, without being restrictive. It cinches together in all the right places to reduce necessary movement, including at the hem, waist, and wrist cuffs. An ‘S’ in this slim fit is true to size on Salomon’s size chart, and fits this size UK8 well with some wiggle room to spare for a running base layer.

Granted, there’s not as much adjustability here as in a higher spec running jacket, but the only area this feels apparent is in the hood, whose fit offers a narrowed range of vision from side to side. Though the hood stays up well, the peak doesn’t offer much protection from sideways rain across the face, so I’d pair it with a run cap for the best coverage.

While running, the material does produce a bit of a rustling sound, which is most apparent with the hood up, but not as extreme as other run shells I’ve tested. This version is overall less stretchy and soft than its predecessor, likely to enhance durability and rip-resistance, but comes with the added benefit of being 12.5% lighter and able to pack down more compactly (see picture below).

The main drawback of using the Bonatti while running is its lack of breathability. Despite the build promising “a breathable micro-porous waterproof membrane”, it under-delivers when it comes to offering adequate airflow for temperature regulation while running.

For rainy runs in 13°C weather, it’s a trade-off between unzipping and getting wet, or finishing the run drenched in sweat anyway. I run pretty hot, so this may not be so much of an issue for others.

Enter, chest popper. A chest clip behind the zip was supremely useful in allowing me to unzip and continue running with the jacket open, without it turning into a parachute. However, unzipping does increase bounce from any phone or heavy object secured in the chest pocket.

Weatherproofing does the job, with the jacket designed to be both fully waterproof and windproof. That’s a high order for its 10,000HH rating, but it doesn’t disappoint. Water simply beads and rolls off the coat thanks to the DWR.

Alongside running, I wore the Bonatti on several hikes, and despite the thinness of the layer, it did an excellent job of keeping away wind chill.

Breathability aside, comfort in all other aspects is spot-on. The zip garage is comfortable, and I like the high collar, which provides good coverage from the elements, without feeling scratchy at the neck. The two stow pockets are great for additional storage, though it’s a little fiddly to find the small zippers at first.

The black colourway on test here offers a sleek and suave, yet unmemorable look. Thankfully, there are several striking shades of blue, tan, orange, and yellow to choose from, which should add visibility points on top of the minimal reflective detailing.

Sustainability

Like many high-performance outdoor products, the Bonatti Waterproof doesn’t boast an eco-first design. Constructed entirely from nylon, its only notable nod to sustainability is a PFC-free water-repellent finish.

This feels like a missed opportunity, especially as more outdoor enthusiasts seek eco-conscious gear. That said, its robust build suggests long-term durability, which could help offset its environmental impact.

Price and competition

At £160/$180 RRP, the Bonatti Waterproof sits at a medium price point for a good, waterproof running jacket. At almost double the price but with a very similar look, the Compressport Thunderstorm (£300) boasts over double the Bonatti’s waterproofing and breathability rating.

Meanwhile, at the same weight, same £160 price tag, and similar streamlined fit, the Inov8 Stormshell FZ V2is an LFTO favourite and offers a touch more adjustability and waterproofing than the Bonatti.

If the price still stings a little, then the heavier Decathlon Evadict has the same waterproof rating, also with dual stow pockets and partial elastication, for a fraction of the cost, at £69.99.

Verdict

Overall, the Salomon Bonatti Waterproof Running Jacket offers great value for money thanks to its light weight, packability, versatility, and fit. It would suit any runner from beginner to advanced who appreciates a chuck-on shell layer for when bad weather rolls in. Best for colder runs, the Bonatti only misses out on top marks due to some minor issues with breathability.

While the Bonatti provides great comfort and performance, it won’t be for everyone. This review only speaks to the women’s fit; the men’s version may offer a different experience.

About the author

In her career as a specialist sports journalist, LFTO writer Kate Milsom has worked with industry-leading titles including 220Triathlon, Cycling Plus, Road.cc and Cyclist.

When she's not off exploring a new trail route in her backyard of the Costwolds and Bristol, Kate's busy ticking off her adventure list which has seen her cycle across Europe solo, complete 70.3 Ironman triathlons, and dive head-first into the world of ultra running.