Stop the cold, increase performance: the layering guide for golfers

Cold and wind don't have to spoil the game. Professional golf layering ensures that you stay warm and dry without your clothing hindering your swing. Each layer - from the base layer close to the body to the insulating mid-layer - fulfills a specific function to regulate your body climate. Discover the technologies and materials from the leading brands that guarantee your comfort on the course in the cold season.

1. The base layer: Comfort and climate regulation

The first layer lies directly on the skin and is crucial for moisture management. Its main task is to wick sweat away from the body and prevent it from cooling down. The focus here is on skin comfort and a close fit.

Key materials and functions:

• 100% merino wool: Offers the best natural temperature regulation and is naturally odor-resistant. Ideal for long days.
• Functional stretch jersey: Fabric with a high stretch content, often with a brushed inside, ensures immediate warmth and maximum comfort.

Products matching this category:

• Icebreaker Merino Crew long-sleeved shirt for men: made from 100% merino wool (200 g/m²), offers natural odor resistance, has flat seams and is designed as a plastic-free base layer.
• Chervò Layer Tecnico for men: A brushed stretch jersey with a softly brushed inside, ideal as a body-hugging layer that doesn't add bulk.
• Lacoste Layer Base for men: A versatile half-turtleneck shirt in a lightweight fleece fabric with excellent stretch properties.

2. The midlayer: the insulation and Performance layer

The midlayer is the second and most important insulating layer. It stores body heat and must also be breathable and extremely elastic to ensure a full golf swing. Two main groups can be distinguished here:

A) Thermo-Performance Layers (focus on synthetic technology)

These layers use highly functional synthetic fibers and special technologies to provide maximum warmth and mobility. Half or quarter zippers are common here to quickly adjust the ventilation.

Key features:

• Special technologies: Designations such as Thermoseries (FJ) and warmCell (Puma) stand for optimized heat retention.
• Stretch: A high elastane content or 4-way stretch (J.Lindeberg, Puma, Calvin Klein) is standard for unrestricted freedom of movement.

Products matching this category:

• Galvin Green Dion 1/2 Zip: Made from soft INSULA fabric for maximum breathability and freedom of movement.
• FootJoy Layer Hr Thermoseries Brushed Back: Provides excellent thermal insulation thanks to Thermoseries technology and brushed back.
• Puma Fleece 1/4-Zip: Features warmCell technology and four-way stretch fabric as well as moisture-wicking properties.
• Calvin Klein Hybrid Polar Fleece 1/2-Zip: A hybrid layer of anti-pill polar fleece with microfiber inserts for added stretch in key areas.
• J.Lindeberg Layer Banks: Offers 4-way stretch and a 2-way front zipper as well as Ökotex100 certification.

B) Midlayer with natural fiber blend (merino & wool)

These layers offer a blend of the natural benefits of wool (warmth, breathability) and the stretch of synthetic fibers. They are often characterized by a particularly high-quality feel and an elegant look.

Key features:

• Ergonomic design: cuts such as saddle shoulders (cross) guarantee that the layer fits perfectly when swinging.
• Wool content: The proportion of merino wool or wool ensures a pleasant wearing climate and excellent insulation.

Products matching this category:

• Cross Justin 1/2 Zip Layer: utilizes a power stretch material with merino wool content and ergonomic design for maximum freedom of movement.
• Lyle&Scott Merino Jumper: Made from a merino wool blend (50% wool) and has a funnel collar.

3. Special layers: weather protection, golf function and style

These midlayers go beyond pure insulation and offer specific benefits for the golfer, be it through advanced weather protection, special design features for the swing or a particularly striking look.

Important unique selling points:

• Golf performance features: technologies such as Swing-Tech (Callaway) or features such as integrated back ventilation (Nike) maximize performance. A Tee holder (Under Armour) proves the closeness to the sport.
• Weather protection: Some layers already offer light protection, such as water repellency thanks to UA Storm technology (Under Armour) or a wind blocker function (Adidas).
• Design and environmental awareness: Many brands use recycled materials (RLX, Peak Performance, Adidas) and offer eye-catching styles (RLX tartan print) or functional additions such as a hood (Peak Performance).

Products matching this category:

• Callaway Midweight Textured Fleece 1/4-Zip: Features Swing-Tech technology for enhanced movement and convenient zippered pockets.
• Nike Layer Tour Half-Zip: A lightweight and flexible layer with integrated back ventilation for optimal air circulation.
• Under Armour Layer Driver Fleece Full Zip: Water-repellent and breathable with UA Storm technology, including an integrated Tee holder.
• Peak Performance Rider Essential Zip Hood: A versatile hooded midlayer made from recycled polyester and PFAS-free.
• Ralph Lauren RLX Layer Printed Fleece: Made from 100% recycled polyester and features a stylish tartan print.
• TravisMathew Upgraded Fleece CS: A 4-way stretch, moisture wicking and wrinkle resistant pullover for maximum comfort.
• Original Penguin Golf Technical Earl 1/4-Zip Golf Pullover: Offers stretch and moisture wicking with a classic earl tipping for a sleek look.
• Adidas Layer MR Wind 1/4-Zip: A three-button placket windbreaker made of cotton-blend fabric that blocks the wind and is partially made from recycled materials.