Asics Fujitrail Elite Review

The Fujitrail Elite jacket is a waterproof shell developed by Asics for trail running. It offers protection from wind and rain without compromising breathability.
It is part of the Fujitrail clothing line, which also includes shorts, socks and a T-shirt.
Lightness and quality are the keywords that describe this garment. Rich in accessories and adjustments, it is a real ‘must-have’ for long-distance runs.

Technical features Asisc Fujitrail Elite

• Fabric: 2.5-layer Pertex shield, waterproof 20k mm water column
• Breathability: 20,000 g/m²/24h
• DWR-treated water-repellent coating
• Weight: 165 grams
• Composition: 100% nylon
• Fit: Regular
• Compact and ergonomic design
• Adjustable hood with 3 elastic drawstrings (2 front and 1 rear)
• Wide hood brim and internal fabric tab for additional protection from wind/rain
• Reflective details on the arms
• Taped seams
• Cuffs with thumb loops
• Chest pocket
• Made in Vietnam
• Link to the manufacturer

Test mode

I had the opportunity to test the Fujitrail Elite during several training sessions and two races in the area where I live, in the lower Trentino region, during May and April. The routes I followed were mostly dirt tracks in the woods and mountain trails, at altitudes between 600 and 1900 metres. The days were mostly sunny but still cold in the morning and often windy at higher altitudes. On a couple of occasions, I ran in the rain, putting the jacket to the test.

Here is one of the typical routes where I tested the jacket during training:

I also wanted to try the jacket during a couple of ski mountaineering trips and spring excursions in the mountains.

Asics Fujitrail Elite on-site test

Weight and dimensions

Let’s take a look at one of this jacket’s strengths: its lightness.
Weighing just 165 grams, the Fujitrail Elite offers the protection of a 2.5-layer shell. Its footprint is also reduced to a minimum: it can be folded up and stored in the inner pocket, leaving only an elastic cord visible.

Its low weight and compact size mean it can be carried in a trail backpack or even a bum bag.

Weatherproof and breathable

The fabric of the Fujitrail Elite is nylon with patented 2.5-layer Pertex Shield technology. In practice, the outer layer protects against water and is treated with a DWR finish, while the middle layer is a waterproof membrane. This results in a water resistance rating of over 20,000 mm and breathability of 20,000 g/m²/24h.
The innermost layer is a thin laminated coating that prevents direct contact between the fabric and the skin.

For this technology the shell provides excellent protection.
I tested it in constant rain for almost two hours and remained perfectly dry.

What’s more, thanks to its excellent breathability, I didn’t feel wet inside: no ‘greenhouse effect’, which is typical of less high-performance garments.
It should be noted that there are no ventilation zips under the armpits, but overall I consider it an ideal garment for tackling wind and rain during long, intense trails.

Details

The zips are heat-sealed to ensure perfect waterproofing, and the central zip also protects the neck well.

The hood is adjustable with three elastic bands: two at the front, which adjust the opening over the face, and one at the back, which adjusts the circumference above the ears. I found this adjustment system really practical and effective: once worn correctly, the hood stays firmly in place and does not restrict your vision, even when you are moving. It is also suitable for use with a headlamp.

The front panel is slightly stiff and protrudes just enough to protect the face, while inside the hood there is a fabric flap that helps to limit wind entry, preventing the hood from inflating. A detail that demonstrates Asics’ attention to functionality.

There is a small pocket on the chest, suitable for holding keys or a gel, but not large enough for a smartphone or energy bars.

The cuffs are elasticated and do not cause discomfort even when wearing a watch. They also feature thumb loops, which are very useful for preventing the sleeves from riding up during running.

At the bottom of the jacket there are two adjustable elastic bands to tighten the garment and prevent air from entering and inflating it.

Finally, small reflective adhesive elements are present on the sleeves to improve visibility in the evening.

In ski mountaineering and hiking

On a couple of occasions, I also wore the jacket while ski touring, and found it surprisingly comfortable for those spring days when you need a waterproof layer over your thermal clothing to protect you from the wind and rain.

In these situations, I particularly appreciated the breathability, which allowed me to stay protected without sweating excessively.

Even during more demanding hikes, the jacket performed excellently, proving to be a reasonable alternative to heavier, bulkier shells.

Obviously, given its light weight, it is a garment that should not be mistreated too much and, if temperatures drop, it should be combined with a sufficiently warm mid-layer.

It should be noted that there are no actual pockets, which is a limitation in these alternative situations. However, it should be remembered that the Asics Fujitrail Elite was designed specifically for trail running, and these extra uses should be considered a bonus, not a standard feature.

Fit

The jacket isn’t particularly tight or fitted, but rather regular between the shoulders and waist. This means you can comfortably wear an extra layer underneath for extra warmth.
I am 174 cm tall and wear a size M: the fit on the shoulders and sleeves is perfect.
It is perhaps slightly long at the waist, but this is something I have noticed with other models, so it is probably a matter of personal preference. A size S would certainly not have been suitable for me.

Recommanded for

The Fujitrail Elite is a truly well-designed rain jacket, the result of extensive research and development. It is lightweight, made from high-quality materials, comfortable and breathable.

I highly recommend it both for those tackling long trails or multi-day ultras — due to its low weight and compact size — and for those heading out for a workout in uncertain weather and want to rely on a reliable shell.

In my opinion, it can also be used — with the right compromises — in other contexts: spring ski touring, fast hiking, or even as an emergency shell during trekking in the warmer months and up to medium altitudes.