Midlayers for Golfers: A Look at Half-Zip Sweatshirts, Hoodies, and Vests

On the way back from the ninth hole, the wind picks up, the sun disappears behind a bank of clouds, and suddenly you realize that your polo shirt isn’t enough anymore. It’s precisely in moments like these that a midlayer proves its worth. It’s the layer you quickly slip on when it gets cooler and just as quickly take off again when your swing makes you break a sweat. For changeable fall rounds, it’s therefore often the piece of clothing you put on and take off most frequently.

Before you buy a midlayer, it’s worth asking yourself: Should it provide the main source of warmth on dry days, or function as a second layer under a rain jacket? The answer determines how much insulation, wind protection, and stretch are needed. The following five models show just how varied the designs can be.

Five Midlayers for Men

Under Armour Layer Drive Full-Zip

‍TheFull-Zip is made of super-soft, stretchy double-knit fabric consisting of 86% polyester and 14% spandex. According to the description, UA Storm technology is water-repellent without compromising breathability. Textured panels are designed to provide warmth, while the 4-way stretch follows every movement. Two zippered side pockets offer storage space, and an integrated Tee holder on the right side allows for quick access. The full-zip design makes it easy to regulate body temperature.

Read more: Men’s Golf Rain Jackets—Five Styles for Fall

Galvin Green Layer Dean

‍TheDean is a half-zip midlayer with a stand-up collar made from recycled INSULA™ material. According to the manufacturer, it offers Warming Effect #2, providing comfortable warmth and high breathability. The soft, stretchy fabric is designed to ensure full range of motion during your swing and is also quick-drying. The Dean is bluesign® approved and is ideal for golfers looking for a lightweight, sporty midlayer, both on and off the course.

Abacus Banff Hoodie

‍TheBanff is a fleece hoodie made of 92% polyester and 8% spandex, double-brushed on both the inside and outside. According to the manufacturer, Drycool technology wicks moisture away from the body. An adjustable drawstring hood and elastic cuffs and hem ensure a snug fit. The hoodie is exceptionally soft and is ideal for cool morning rounds as well as for leisure wear.

adidas Ultimate365 Tour Twistknit Hoodie

‍Thishoodie, made from Twistknit fabric, consists of recycled polyamide, modal, polyester, and wool. The 10% wool content is designed to provide extra warmth. The Snug Hood can be quickly pulled up when needed, and the Regular Fit offers plenty of room for layering. With 34% recycled polyamide, it contributes to sustainability. The description does not mention any technical weather protection features. The hoodie is therefore primarily a warm midlayer for cool days.

Read more: Golf umbrellas for Trolleys, rain, and sun—8 models compared

J.Lindeberg Clinton Padded Vest

‍Thevest combines a 60-gram filling of Primaloft® Silver and recycled polyester with the Flex Tech 2.0 outer fabric, made of 87% polyamide and 13% spandex. According to the description, the material is windproof and water-repellent, and the stretch is designed not to restrict your swing. A tapered fit, elasticated cuffs and hem, and a 2-way front zipper enhance the fit. Two zippered pockets provide space for Tees or Ballmarkers. According to the care instructions, the vest is machine washable at 30 °C on the gentle cycle.

Comparing the Models

Which model is right for you?

• Weather protection and plenty of pockets: Under Armour Layer Drive Full-Zip
• Lightweight midlayer with warming effect: Galvin Green Layer Dean
• Soft fleece with a hood: Abacus Banff Hoodie
• Wool-blend knit with a hood: adidas Ultimate365 Tour Twistknit Hoodie
• Warmth for your torso while keeping your arms free: J.Lindeberg Clinton Padded Vest

It’s best to try on the midlayer together with your rain jacket or windbreaker. Only then will you know if your shoulders and arms have enough room to move when you swing.