Best Golf Jackets 2024

We appreciate you are unlikely to be a golf jacket anorak. That’s why Today’s Golfer has put in the cold, wet, and windy yards for you to create our guide to the best golf jackets.

Jump to: Waterproof | Windproof | Thermal | Lightweight | Ladies | Buying Guide | FAQs

With golf being played year-round in highly changeable conditions, deciding on whether you need your waterproof jacket, windproof, or a completely different option altogether can pose a dilemma. You decide to try your luck, and now you’re standing over a tricky par-saving, but makeable putt. The problem is you are damp and uncomfortable, too cold to bother taking the extra time you would normally to read the break and pick your line.

The putt lips out and you trudge onwards, putter between your legs. Anything to get back to the clubhouse quickly. A quality golf jacket is not just that first line of defense from the elements, but an essential performance garment that can keep your score intact and help make playing in tough conditions that bit more enjoyable.

Best golf jackets: Our top picks

Galvin Green Armstrong Golf Jacket – Best overall waterproof | Buy Now – US | Buy Now – UK

Ping Technique Golf Jacket – Best overall windproof | Buy Now – US | Buy Now – UK

Under Armour Coldgear Reactor Hybrid Golf Jacket – Best overall thermal | Buy Now – US | Buy Now – UK

Mizuno Nexlite Flex Golf Jacket – Best overall lightweight | Buy Now – US | Buy Now – UK

FootJoy Women’s HydroKnit Golf Jacket – Best overall ladies’ jacket | Buy Now – US | Buy Now – UK

So if this sounds familiar and you are looking to add or update a quality protective layer, be it a lightweight or thermal jacket to your wardrobe, then read on for our selection of technology-packed garments from some of the leading manufacturers to suit a range of budgets and styling preferences.

They can even be paired with one of the best golf mid-layers to ensure those wintry rounds are as comfortable as possible and eliminate the weather from being your biggest excuse this year.

Best Golf Jackets 2024 – Waterproof

A lightweight, breathable jacket that's 100% waterproof

Best for loose fit
Price: £130.00 / $150.00 RRP
This Stormproof 2.0 jacket from Under Armour is a lightweight jacket that's 100% waterproof to keep you dry when the heavens open.
 
It has been constructed with taped seams and Under Armour’s Storm technology to add a further layer of protection on top of the already waterproof build.
 
The jacket has a loose fit meaning you will not feel tight and restricted if you have a thicker top underneath and has adjustable cuffs which provide a secure fit around your wrists to ensure no interference with your grip.
 
We found the full zip opening particularly useful for quick removal when the showers stopped, and all in all found the jacket very difficult to fault.

Pros

  • Very lightweight
  • Simple and smart styling
  • Adjustable cuffs

Cons

  • Only two color options
Sizes: S-2XL
Colors: Blue, Black
Waterproof: Yes

A versatile waterproof with an excellent warranty

Best for mild temperatures
Price: £139.99 / $195.00 RRP
Footjoy describes their HydroLite jacket as “versatile rain protection for warmer temperatures”, meaning this jacket is designed to be exceptionally breathable in all conditions.
 
We found this to be the case also, performing well in wet but mild conditions so you may want to consider pairing with one of our best base layers for those colder days.
 
The jacket can withstand 20,000mm of water column pressure which ensures protection in the wettest of conditions, easily beading away water from the shell.
 
The adjustable waterproof cuffs ensured a customizable fit around the wrists and the jacket’s lightweight design helped maintain range of motion throughout the swing.
 
A three-year waterproof warranty speaks to the quality confidence Footjoy has in the quality of this product and we find it hard to disagree.

Pros

  • Highly breathable
  • Good choice of colors
  • 3-year warranty

Cons

  • Not as warm as the FJ HydroTour
Sizes: S-3XL
Colors: 7
Waterproof: Yes

A high-tech, golfing-friendly premium jacket

Best overall waterproof
Price: £299.99 / $369.00 RRP
The Armstrong is one of many quality offerings from Galvin Green, an iconic Swedish brand in the world of golf apparel.
 
There are a bunch of golf-friendly features packed into this jacket including an adjustable chest width, front pockets, elasticated cuffs, and shaped sleeves for added range of motion.

We felt the standout advantage of this jacket to be the premium high-tech Gore-Tex Paclite fabric that maximized freedom of movement without compromising on the essential protection from the elements you require from a rain jacket.
 
The jacket is Bluesign approved meaning no harmful chemicals were used during the production process demonstrating the brand’s commitment to sustainability.
 
Galvin Green’s tagline is “never compromise”, and in our experience, the quality of their products and outstanding reviews epitomizes this and justify the higher price-point of this waterproof that has a lifetime guarantee.

Pros

  • High-tech construction
  • Eco-conscious
  • Lifetime guarantee

Cons

  • Requires hybrid use to extract maximum value
Sizes: S-3XL
Colors: 10
Waterproof: Yes

A sustainably constructed water and windproof jacket

Best for sustainability
Price: £199.99 / $214.99 RRP
Oceantee places sustainable and responsibly sourced materials at the heart of their operation which will be a huge draw to golfers who value the importance of protecting the environment.
 
Their Beluga jacket is constructed from a blend of recycled polyester, nylon, and elastane which makes them totally waterproof, windproof, and extremely durable.
 
The elastane component provided a suitable amount of stretch throughout the swing, however, it's worth noting the athletic fitting of this garment and we recommend going for a size up if this is of concern.
 
We also appreciated the fact that this jacket was quiet, unlike some others which can be slightly distracting when trying to concentrate on a solid contact.
 
A high-performance waterproof from a pioneering brand in the golf World.

Pros

  • Good durability
  • Eco-driven brand
  • Water and windproof

Cons

  • The slim fit design may not suit all sizes
Sizes: S-2XL
Colors: Blue, Grey
Waterproof: Yes

A weather-defying waterproof to keep your score on track

Best for heavy rain
Price: £140 / $224 RRP
Scottish golf jacket specialists Sunderland claim that their apparel is “weather-defying”, allowing determined golfers to perform exceptionally in exceptional conditions.
 
The Matterhorn, available in eight color options, is a lightweight yet high-performing jacket, rated an impressive 8,000mm for waterproofness, which is more than adequate for a four-hour round in sustained rain.
 
The jacket has been engineered with a waterproof membrane sandwiched between breathable mesh linings and has an outer layer finished with a durable water-repellent coating.
 
The natural mechanical stretch fabric enabled a full range of motion when swinging and we appreciated the fleece-lined handwarmer side pockets.
 
Sunderland’s ‘Neverweatherbeaten’ lifetime waterproof guarantee is another reason to champion this excellent waterproof and wind-resisting jacket.

Pros

  • Strong waterproofing
  • Reputable jacket brand
  • Lifetime guarantee

Cons

  • Not as robust as some heavier options
Sizes: S-3XL
Colors: 8
Waterproof: Yes

Best Golf Jackets 2024 – Windproof

An affordable windproof with impressive insulation

Best for low-cost warmth
Price: £59.99 / $75.00 RRP
Punching above its weight for the price point this Pro Shell X Hybrid jacket from Benross features synthetic down-filled panels to protect from cold winds.
 
Its fleece-lined body, pockets, and raised collar were a welcome addition providing much-needed warmth and shelter when the wind picked up on the links.
 
Despite the down-filled panels, the 4-Way stretch fabric ensured that range of motion was not restricted through the swing, and the hemmed drawstring and wrist adjusters kept the jacket firmly in place.
 
The Pro Shell X Hybrid is a superb lower cost windproof that will be a trusty companion in your golf bag for those blustery rounds.

Pros

  • Good level of warmth
  • Fantastic price-point

Cons

  • Not suitable in wet conditions
Sizes: S-2XL
Color: Blue
Waterproof: No

A high-performing all-rounder for on and off the fairways

Best overall windproof
Price: £100.00 / $140.00 RRP
The Technique wind-stopper from Ping is a fantastic all-weather jacket that we think looks just as good off the course thanks to its understated and classy look, particularly in the asphalt.
 
Featuring Sensorwarm technology, the Technique can provide wind resistance, water resistance, and thermal layers that trap warm air inside the jacket whilst resisting wind chill.
 
We found the jacket lived up to this billing with good stretch properties that are integral if you don’t want to feel like your swing is being modified at all.
 
The feel was light and comfortable with sufficient breathability and features two front zipped pockets for secure and easy access to your accessories.

Pros

  • Great all-rounder
  • Water-resistant
  • Looks great on and off the course

Cons

  • Choice of two colors only
Sizes: S-3XL
Colors: Blue, Asphalt
Waterproof: Resistant only

A sleek-looking windshield that performs well on the course

Best for wind-chill
Price: £140.00 / $175.00 RRP
Adidas has designed its Frostguard Padded jacket to keep you on the par train when the wind picks up and temperatures drop.
 
It’s a particularly warm jacket, made possible by the down insulation panels that run in horizontal blocks across the front and back of the jacket.
 
A nice feature is the stretch-woven fabric down the arms which came into its own for those full swings when maximum rotation is required.
 
The jacket is described as water-repellent due to a special coating on the body, providing a medium level of protection suitable for showers, but not torrential downpours.
 
A comfortable and stylish jacket that looks and performs on and off the course. It is also made with recycled content as part of Adidas’s ambition to end plastic waste.

Pros

  • Stretchable sleaves
  • Water-repellent
  • Eco-conscious

Cons

  • Limited color choices
Sizes: XS-2XL
Colors: Black, Navy
Waterproof: Repellent only

A premium-looking, versatile, comfortable quilted jacket

Best for premium look
Price: £215.00 / $230.00 RRP
Offering exceptional comfort and lightweight warmth, the Merge Elite Hybrid from Peter Millar is a formidable first line of defense when the wind blows.
 
Made from premium performance fabric, this jacket is engineered from a four-way stretch material that promotes optimal mobility on the course.
 
The jacket’s exterior does offer a level of water resistance, although is not specifically designed to provide full protection when the heavens open.
 
The quilted front provides welcome warmth without feeling overly bulky and we think it performs well regardless of your outdoor activity choice, particularly in blustery conditions.

Pros

  • Warm and comfortable
  • Lightweight
  • Good range of colors

Cons

  • Not fully waterproof
Sizes: S-2XL
Colors: 5
Waterproof: Resistant only

A free-swinging and well-insulated windshield

Best for changeable conditions
Price: £180.00 / $185.00 RRP
From performance outwear specialists J Lindeberg comes this quilted hybrid golf jacket which is a solid choice of jacket for changeable weather conditions.
 
The quilted front panel and bonded fabrics provide added insulation on cooler days and are quick-drying to help you retain as much warmth as possible.
 
We felt the main selling point of this jacket was its ability to provide the same range of movement as a mid-layer while performing jacket-level warmth.
 
This means you can swing away in the knowledge that your ability to rotate and generate clubhead speed will not be affected.
 
The jacket can be worn as a standalone piece or layered under one of our suggested lightweight options.

Pros

  • Great mobility
  • Quilted insulation
  • Good range of colors

Cons

  • No water-resistant qualities
Sizes: S-2XL
Colors: 6
Waterproof: No

Best Golf Jackets 2024 – Thermal

An ultra-versatile thermal that looks the business

Best for versatility
Price: £129.99 / $143.00 RRP
Oscar Jacobson has designed this Harrington Padded jacket with the deep, dark depths of winter in mind and helping you to stay warm and comfortable while braving the elements.
 
The jacket is constructed of wind-proof and thermal fabric to help retain body heat and features a horizontal and vertical mixed quilted upper body.
 
Another welcome addition to this piece of clothing was the water-repellent finish that repelled the brunt of the rain's attempts to infiltrate the jacket.
 
Despite being well insulated, there is no need to be concerned with restricted mobility here. The Raglan sleeves are designed to provide you with enhanced stretch and flexibility.

Oscar Jacobson always delivers style and performance and the Harrington full-zip jacket is no exception. ultra-versatile and looks the business.

Pros

  • Well insulated
  • Water-repellent
  • Casual styling

Cons

  • Its contemporary look may not suit all tastes
Sizes: S-XL
Colors: Light Blue, Navy
Waterproof: Repellent only

A temperature-regulating jacket that thinks for itself

Best overal thermal
Price: £140.00 / $160.00 RRP
Under Armour describe their Coldgear Reactor Hybrid as “an insulated jacket you can actually work out in.”
 
This is because the intelligent insulation system reacts to your level of exertion, meaning, as you heat up, it lets out warmth.
 
Its strength is its versatility, and we found the jacket was able to fulfill its primary function of keeping wind chill out, but also prevented overheating when the wind dropped.
 
The fleece side panels, and back stretch panels enabled restriction-free swinging and we found the tapered neck to offer little distraction.
 
Another shining example of technical weather gear from Under Armour.

Pros

  • Smart insulation system
  • Water-repellent
  • Stretchable side panels

Cons

  • The loose fit might not be to all preferences
Sizes: S-3XL
Colors: Black, Blue, Grey
Waterproof: No

A heat-generating and comfortable thermal

Best for insulation
Price: £180.00 / $150.00 RRP
Don’t be deceived by the lightly padded nature of Mizuno’s Breath Thermo Move Down jacket, as it packs a punch when it comes to insulation.
 
It has been constructed using Mizuno’s revolutionary Breath Thermo warming technology which captures body vapor to generate heat and return warmth to your body.
 
The inclusion of elasticated binding of the hem and cuffs aided with keeping the cold out and enabled restriction-free swinging. There’s even a chin guard!
 
The jacket has a regular fit and full zip design which allows you to quickly and easily strip off if the wind stops blowing.
 
No water protection on offer here though so make sure you have a look through our best golf umbrellas in case the weather catches you off-guard.

Pros

  • Heat generating
  • Comfortable

Cons

  • Lack of water protection
Sizes: S-2XL
Colors: Black, Red, Grey
Waterproof: No

Targetted upper body warmth for cooler conditions

Best for upper-body warmth
Price: £169.00 / $135.99 RRP
Thanks to Galvin Green’s patented Insula fabric technology, this Damian golf jacket ensures you will never be let down when the temperature drops.
 
Superhero-vibe Thermore padding on the chest has been strategically placed to keep key upper areas warm without compromising on breathability.
 
A plus on the sustainability front is that the jacket is a Bluesign-approved product, constructed with polyester made from recycled plastic bottles.
 
We found the jacket to have an acceptable level to stretch that didn’t impair the swing in any sense and was light enough to wear comfortably underneath a lightweight waterproof.
 
Another masterpiece of winter jacket engineering from Galvin Green.

Pros

  • Novel V-taper styling
  • Targeted insulation
  • Eco-conscious

Cons

  • Other thermals offer greater warmth
Sizes: S-2XL
Colors: Black, Blue, White
Waterproof: No

A triple-threat thermal, wind, and water-resistant option

Best for all-round performance
Price: £169.99 / $189.99 RRP
Ping’s Norse S4 jacket incorporates both PrimaLoft and SensorWarm technology in this golf jacket designed to deliver unmatched performance and comfort regardless of the weather.
 
Made with feather-like plumes of synthetic fibers, the Norse S4 delivers the lightweight warmth and softness you would expect from a down jacket and has a water-resistant finish.
 
The thermal layers trap warm air and resist wind chill, keeping you warm with minimal weight. The jacket could be described as a ‘triple threat’, with its thermal, water-resistant, and wind-resistant qualities.
 
Despite delivering excellent warmth, the jacket remains breathable and has an adequate amount of stretchability permitting you to swing without interference.
 
The design and branding are understated so this can easily be worn off the golf course, too.

Pros

  • Fantastic insulation
  • Surprisingly lightweight
  • Water-resistant

Cons

  • Slightly bulky and plain design
Sizes: S-3XL
Colors: Black, White
Waterproof: Resistant only

Best Golf Jackets 2024 – Lightweight

A professional-looking outer layer with strong breathability

Best for smart-style
Price: £150.00 / $128.99 RRP
This is a smart, lightweight jacket that gives the impression that you mean business, even if you’ve just made triple bogey.
 
Due to its construction from a four-way stretch material, the jacket did not inhibit mechanics in any way throughout the swing and features adjustable cuffs allowing you to customize your fit.
 
Another useful feature is the mesh ventilation panels on the front and back that increase breathability meaning you don’t need to keep doing a quick change act if the weather can’t make up its mind.
 
While not designed with warmth as a priority, the jacket is perhaps best suited to wear over a base layer or light pullover.
 
If you require a smart, lightweight, outer layer with water-resistant properties then this Flyweight option from Castore is a great shout.

Pros

  • Good breathability
  • Water-resistant
  • Smart styling

Cons

  • A stitched logo would elevate further
Sizes: XS-2XL
Colors: Black, Grey, Midnight
Waterproof: Resistant only

A true flyweight jacket with heavyweight waterproof credentials

Best overall lightweight
Price: £150 / $128.99 RRP
Taking up next to no room in your bag, this Nexlite Flex jacket from Mizuno offers water resistance to 20,000mm.
 
The jacket is extremely lightweight and is perfect for those drizzly April showers when the weather is getting milder due to its breathability.
 
This model carries 15% more stretch than its predecessor, enhancing its performance potential by keeping you swinging freely whilst staying dry.
 
Velcro straps on the cuffs and back allow you to adapt the snugness of the fit depending on the conditions, and the full zip enables a quick change between shots.
 
The two-year waterproof warranty and construction from environmentally friendly materials are added bonuses to this excellent lightweight jacket.

Pros

  • Takes up little space
  • Water-resistant
  • Range of bright colors

Cons

  • Not the warmest lightweight option
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 5
Waterproof: Yes

A lightweight and convertible stormproof jacket for all seasons

Best for adaptability
Price: £169.00 / $249.99
Over the course of a four-hour round, it's not unusual to experience multiple seasons as the golfing gods try to decide what they’re doing with the weather.
 
That’s where this convertible weather-ready offering from Nike comes into its own, designed to let you switch between a vest and jacket as you please with zip-off sleeves.
 
The Storm-Fit ADV technology combines windproof and waterproof fabrics to keep you comfortable in the harshest storm conditions.

The four-way stretch fabric provided ample flexibility throughout the swing and we appreciated the new quieter lightweight material.
 
Other welcome features of this jacket include an outer storm flap, adjustable cuffs, and front waterproof pockets.

Pros

  • Convertible design
  • Storm tested
  • Three-year waterproof guarantee

Cons

  • Limited color options
Sizes: S-2XL
Colors: Black, White
Waterproof: Yes

A versatile all-exercise jacket with exceptional ventilation

Best for breathability
Price: £158.00 / $155.00 RRP
This body-friendly weatherproof jacket from Asics has been designed to protect runners venturing out on those wet and windy days.
 
However, we think it has all the qualities you would expect from a lightweight waterproof that performs well on the fairways too.
 
For starters, its multi-layer fabric and taped seams protect you from wind and water, while allowing excess heat to escape via the specially designed ventilation area at the back.
 
The fabric is low noise, allowing you to focus fully on your swing thoughts without distraction, and has an adjustable hood and elasticated cuffs so you can customize the fit.
 
 We also liked the inclusion of the zipped chest pocket in addition to the side pockets, providing ample storage space for your key accessories.

Pros

  • Excellent ventilation
  • Multi-purpose exercise
  • Low-noise fabric

Cons

  • Body-hugging fit may not be to all tastes
Sizes: XS-2XL
Colors: 4
Waterproof: Yes

A lightweight quarter-zip jacket with plenty of room

Best for layering
Price: £109.99 / $116.99 RRP
Constructed from extremely lightweight fabric, enabling you to swing freely, this Phoenix golf jacket from Oscar Jacobson will ensure you are shielded from the worst of the weather.
 
The jacket has a relaxed, roomy fit allowing you plenty of scope to layer up underneath, perhaps with one of our best golf gilets, depending on how much insulation you require.
 
The fabric itself is water and wind-resistant, featuring a quarter-zip design with branded puller. The jacket also has two side zipped pockets.
 
Binding on the sleeves and waist secures the fit to prevent the jacket from flailing around wildly as you fully rotate the driver.
 
The simple block color design with raised collar will have a broad appeal.

Pros

  • Extremely lightweight
  • Relaxed, roomy fit
  • Water-resistant

Cons

  • Some may prefer a full zip design
Sizes: XS-2XL
Colors: Grey, Navy, Teal
Waterproof: Resistant only

Best Golf Jackets 2024 – Ladies

Top-performing lightweight golf waterproof from the footwear giant

Footjoy’s HydroKnit fabric provides a 100% waterproof shell, protected with a two-year warranty period such is FJ’s belief in the quality of their product.
 
The footwear specialists claim this to be one of the lightest garments they have ever produced which will be music to the ears of those looking for a waterproof overlayer that doesn’t add bulk.
 
The jacket is smart and classic in appearance, featuring a zip-off hood and adjustable cinch waist, allowing you to easily customize depending on the day’s conditions.
 
Being so light the jacket is unnoticeable throughout your swing, and we recommend it as a quality lightweight waterproof for golf.
 
You may want to consider choosing a size up if you are between sizes as the fit comes up slightly on the small side.

Pros

  • Extremely lightweight
  • 100% waterproof
  • Two-year warranty

Cons

  • Can come up slightly tight
Sizes: XS-2XL
Colors: Navy, Charcoal
Waterproof: Yes

High-performance lightweight protection

The Tenley Women’s golf jacket has been constructed from J Lindeberg’s lightest windproof fabric with super stretch functionality and elasticated cuff and hem to keep the garment in place throughout your swing.
 
The jacket is water-repellent to keep you protected during any unwanted showers and features a two-way front zipper and zipped side pockets, lined with J Lindeberg branding.
 
In every step of their creative and manufacturing process, J Lindeberg considers their impact on the planet, and this jacket is a testament to those values being PFC-free and made from Oeko-Tex-certified fabric.
 
Understated simple style, this jacket is a great choice of lightweight protection for the course or any other outdoor activity.

Pros

  • Extremely lightweight
  • Multi-functional outdoor sportswear
  • Eco-conscious construction

Cons

  • Not suitable for heavier downpours
Sizes: XS-XL
Colors: Green, Navy, Blue
Waterproof: Repellent only

A classic in the world of women's golf jackets

Best ladies' waterproof
Price: £80.00 / $100.00 RRP
Providing excellent value for money, the Ciganda has been a mainstay on Stromberg’s jacket roster and it’s easy to see why.

The jacket is highly waterproof with a rating of 10,000mm offering exceptional dryness when the rain starts to hammer down.

To aid with golf performance, the jacket has a technical stretch permitting you to fully rotate through your swing without interference.

The design itself features a full zip opening, waist pockets, and a detachable hood to shield you from the worst of the weather.

Pros

  • Strong waterproof rating
  • Breathable
  • A Stromberg classic

Cons

  • Limited color options
Sizes: (UK) 8-16
Colors: Castlerock + Tapshoe, Tapshoe + Desert Flower
Waterproof: Yes

"Stay warm, enjoy golf" is the moto from this Puma jacket

Best ladies' thermal
Price: £130.00 / $160.00 RRP
The Cloudspun WRMLBL combines two technologies to keep your core temperature up on those deep dark winter rounds.
 
The jacket has been Cloudspun with a heavier weight for maximum warmth and incorporates Primaloft gold quilting for maximum heat retention in key areas.
 
We think this jacket can double up to serve two purposes depending on the chill factor, either as an overlayer on top of a polo shirt for milder conditions or as a mid-layer on especially cold days.
 
The Dassler-inspired quilting pattern adds some subtle style to the understated design which would look just as good off the course.
 
Aside from offering excellent warmth and comfort, the jacket is super lightweight, making it easy to tuck away into your bag.

Pros

  • Good thermal qualities
  • Lightweight
  • Simple non-offensive design

Cons

  • Only two choices of dark colors
Sizes: XS-XL
Colors: Black, Navy
Waterproof: Yes

Sun, wind, and rain protection are packed into this versatile jacket

Best ladies' all-rounder
Price: £100.00 / $110.00 RRP
This casual-style performance garment from Callaway provides wind and water resistance to keep you comfortable in any weather.
 
Callaway has incorporated their SwingTech technology into the fabric of this jacket, providing you with a full range of motion on every swing.
 
The jacket is complete with UPF 50 sun protection to help guard against damaging ultraviolet light rays for those bright, chilly mornings.
 
The high mock collar and packable hood extend the protection offered by this jacket to keep your head and neck dry when the rain comes.
 
This is a practical jacket, built for golf, but will also serve you well off the course.

Pros

  • Water-resistant and windproof
  • UV light protection
  • Versatile use

Cons

  • Some may prefer a more active-looking jacket
Sizes: XS-2XL
Colors: Green, Navy, Black
Waterproof: Resistant only

Core temperature controlled with an incredible warmth-to-weight ratio

Best ladies' vest
Price: £95.00 / $119.99 RRP
The insulating paneling placed strategically across this AT Hybrid golf contains 37.5° active particles to help control your core body temperature.
 
This premium insulation technology is chemical-free and really does provide an extreme warmth-to-weight ratio.
 
Further credentials of this vest include water-resistant and windproof technologies that ensure you will stay dry and warm when the course is blowing.
 
There is also no need to worry about your swing being restricted with this jacket either, the sleeveless design and 4-way stretch fabric will move with your body.

Pros

  • Core temperature control
  • Water-resistant
  • Lightweight

Cons

  • No arm protection being a vest design
Sizes: S-XL
Colors: Aqua, Navy, Grey
Waterproof: Resistant only

Best Golf Jackets 2024: Buying Guide

Whether you live in a seasonal climate or one that is relatively consistent all year round, one thing we have in common is that we will likely be exposed to some tricky playing conditions that require us to be suitably prepared for.

The first thing to consider therefore must be the typical conditions that you are likely to experience the most. The technological advancements in fabrics mean that manufacturers now have multiple jacket options designed with specific conditions in mind, and unless you are able to make multiple purchases, it’s worth weighing up where you will get the most bang for your buck.

Here are some of the things worth considering.

Waterproofing

Note, water resistant does not mean waterproof. To be considered highly waterproof, jackets will have a rating of 10-20,000mm. This means that during testing, the material can withstand this level of water pressure without it penetrating the fabric and is therefore suitable for heavy rain. Many of the jackets included on this list are finished with a water-repellant coating providing a medium level of protection that can repel water intrusion, ideal for light to average rain.

There are lots of excellent articles exploring this subject further, but if you play in an area with high rainfall like me (Wales!), then waterproofing should be a key consideration.

Protection

Cold and windy conditions can really impact your enjoyment if you are not well prepared. Investing in a quality protective outer layer that can resist wind chill and maintain your core body temperature will make all the difference. If you regularly play on courses wide open to the elements or in those cold winter months, then you may wish to opt for something with wind-penetrating fabrics and enhanced thermal qualities. There are plenty of great models that do just this.

Breathability

It’s worth ensuring any jacket you’re eying up has an appropriate level of ventilation incorporated into its design. They provide increased airflow, helping you to remain comfortable without the need to remove it. It’s common that you will be playing in mild but rainy conditions where you require protection without overheating.

Freedom of movement

This is critical otherwise your golf jacket may as well be, well…a jacket. Thanks to the prevalence of stretchable fabrics in the sports apparel industry today, this is rarely something overlooked. Effectively this means that you can swing away knowing that your full range of motion will not be restricted, and you can still reach your highest swing speeds. Just ensure if you choose an athletic, or slim-fitting design, that your freedom of movement is not restricted, especially if you are wearing it over other layers.

Styling

With quality golf jackets sitting at premium price points, we believe you should feel just as comfortable wearing them in other social or professional settings. If you feel the same about getting more value for your money, then why not choose something more understated with just a nod to golf? Luckily manufacturers have cottoned on that this is something golfers want and for this reason, most jackets are designed with versatility in mind.

Tom Kim had his best-ever finish in a major championship at the 151st Open at Hoylake.

Best Golf Jackets 2024: FAQs

What is a golf jacket for?

A golf jacket is an essential piece of clothing required by golfers to protect them from elements such as wind, rain, and cold temperatures. They must be able to perform this function without compromising the player’s freedom of movement.

Do golf jackets keep you warm?

If you are playing golf during the colder months of the year, then it is important to make sure your golf jacket has good thermal qualities to keep you comfortable and focused on your game. Many jackets are designed with protective fabrics that help keep you insulated and shield you from the effects of wind chill.

How should a golf jacket fit?

The sign of a good golf jacket is one that does its intended job of protecting you from specific weather conditions without impacting your freedom of movement. You should be able to fully rotate through your backswing and follow through without feeling restricted in any way. As you will be wearing the jacket over other layers, it is important to consider sizing to make sure it is comfortable.

How do I choose a waterproof golf jacket?

Waterproof materials offer the highest level of protection from rainfall, whereas water-resistant and water-repellant materials and coating offer lower to medium protection. You should consider the level of protection you think is appropriate and also take into account the breathability of the jacket to prevent you from overheating if the temperature is still mild.

READ NEXT 
– Best waterproof golf shoes
– Best waterproof golf bags

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About the author

Ross Tugwood is a Golf Equipment Writer for Today's Golfer.

Golf Equipment Writer

Ross Tugwood is a golf equipment writer for todays-golfer.com, specializing in data, analytics, science, and innovation. He’s also an expert in golf apparel and has a keen interest in sustainability.

Ross is passionate about optimizing sports performance and has a decade of experience working with professional athletes and coaches for British Athletics, the UK Sports Institute, and Team GB.

He has post-graduate degrees in Performance Analysis and Sports Journalism, enabling him to critically analyze and review the latest golf equipment and technology to help you make better-informed buying decisions.

Ross lives in Snowdonia National Park with his wife and 40 kg Bernese Mountain dog! He is a member of Porthmadog Golf Club with a handicap index of 15.4.

Away from golf, Ross enjoys hiking, trail running, and supporting the mighty Bristol Bears.

Ross uses a Cobra King SZ Speedzone driver, Titleist TSi2 3-Wood, TaylorMade Sim2 Rescue, Callaway Apex Pro irons (4-PW), Cleveland 588 RTX wedges (52°, 58°), Odyssey White Hot Pro-1 putter, and a TaylorMade Tour Response golf ball.

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