# Packable Performance Running Layers New Balance RC Jacket Is Lightweight And Packable By Grace Mahas | Written with AI assistance | Published 2026-09-10 | Fashion Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/rc-jacket-trend References: [mindbodygreen](https://www.mindbodygreen.com/articles/avid-daily-runner-and-health-editor-puts-new-balances-new-apparel-collection-to-test)  New Balance's RC Collection is a [high-performance apparel lineup](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/jim-performance-collection) tested by mindbodygreen editor Carleigh Ferrante, featuring the RC Jacket, RC Bra and RC Essential Short. The review highlights the jacket's [packable design and durable water-repellent coating](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/isola26-waterproof-adventure-jacket), the RC Bra's encapsulation and NB Sleek 4-way stretch fabric, and the shorts' role in the tester's rotation. Ferrante wore the pieces across easy runs, a tempo in rain, and a 10-mile outing in NYC heat to assess comfort and function. The RC Jacket proved breathable in humid rain, with a hood, elastic cuffs and the ability to pack into itself via an elastic loop. The RC Bra offered [encapsulated support](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/workout-ready-sports-bra), channeled cups that move sweat, bonded seams to reduce chafing and sizing through A to G cups. The RC Essential Short held up across repeated wears and washes during the week of testing. Image Credit: Image courtesy of mindbodygreen.com ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 4.7/10 - Popularity: 26% | Activity: 24% | Freshness: 91% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Fashion](https://www.trendhunter.com/fashion) ## Key Themes ### Why This Trend Is Growing - **Packable Weatherproof Layers:** Ultralight garments that compress into minimal carry formats create space for premium running gear built around unpredictable urban weather and convenience-led mobility. - **Chafe-free Support Apparel:** Bonded seams, encapsulated construction and sweat-channeling materials signal a shift toward performance intimates that merge technical fit with inclusive sizing. - **Tested Multi-condition Kits:** Apparel validated across rain, humidity, heat and repeated washing reflects demand for versatile running wardrobes that reduce gear changes across training scenarios. ### Industries Being Reshaped - **Performance Apparel:** Advanced textiles, water-repellent finishes and packable silhouettes are reshaping athleticwear through lighter, more adaptable products for endurance consumers. - **Running Gear:** Specialized designs for tempo runs, long distances and daily training open opportunities for integrated apparel systems tailored to specific runner needs. - **Sports Bras:** Expanded cup sizing and technical sweat-management features highlight growth potential in high-support activewear that better serves diverse body types. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Weather-Resistant Performance Jackets](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/nano-puff-jacket.md) - [Spring Trail Running Collections](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/spring-trail-running-collection.md) - [Performance Running Apparel](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/new-balance-x-dover-street-market.md) - [Spring Transitional Outerwear](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/Sequoia-Outerwear-Collection.md) - [Refined Spring-Suited Fleece Jackets](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/owens-fleece.md) - [Ultralight Runner-Friendly Garments](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/rc-outdoor-supply-griffith-collection.md) - [Packable Golf Apparel](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/zero-restriction.md) - [Accessible Adventure Garments](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/rc-outdoor-supply-reyes-collection.md) - [Performance-Driven Ultra-Light Wind Jackets](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/aerolight-wind-jacket.md)