Nothing can spoil a great day's golf faster than a sudden downpour. But with the right equipment, it's easy to ignore the wet spoilsport. For the serious golfer, a quality rain jacket is more than just a piece of clothing - it's a crucial piece of kit that will help you stay focused and dry whatever the weather. But what should you look for when buying one? We'll show you what really counts.
A good rain jacket for the golf course is a successful combination of technology, functionality and comfort. It has to do more than just keep you dry.
Freedom of movement is of the utmost importance for golfers. The perfect golf swing requires unrestricted flexibility, which is why a stiff, bulky jacket is not an option. Look for elastic stretch materials and a well thought-out cut. The Galvin Green Ames, for example, has been designed with an offset side seam and adjustable chest tabs that are specifically tailored to the dynamics of the golf swing. Thanks to its pre-shaped sleeves and stretch material, the Galvin Green Apollo is also particularly flexible and adapts to every movement.
Every rain jacket must of course be waterproof, but there are big differences in quality. Models such as the Galvin Green Apollo rely on proven GORE-TEX technology, which is known for its absolutely reliable waterproofness. The secret often lies in the membrane, which keeps the water out but at the same time wicks water vapor (sweat) to the outside. Also look out for taped seams, as these are often the weak points of a jacket. The Ping Taran 3L impresses here with its fully taped seams and three-layer waterproof material.
Nothing is more unpleasant than a jacket that gets wet on the inside. High breathability is therefore essential. Many modern jackets such as the Cross Thor or the Abacus Links use special membranes to ensure optimum moisture exchange. Functionality is also reflected in small, well thought-out details. The Callaway Waterproof Jacket offers lockable zippers on the front pockets to prevent the sliders from rattling or accidentally opening. On the Cross Cloud, fleece-lined pockets keep your hands warm between shots.
When choosing the right jacket, you should focus on your personal requirements. If you play in all weathers, invest in models with high-end technologies such as GORE-TEX. If environmental friendliness is important to you, then jackets made from recycled materials are a good choice. For maximum freedom of movement in the swing, models such as the Galvin Green Ames or the Ping Taran 3L are ideal.
21 Aug 2025
With good rainwear, golf is fun even in bad weather. (Photo: Imago)