If you don’t want wind and rain to stop you from going for a round of golf, you need to find the best golf waterproofs that will not only keep you dry but will be lightweight and non-constricting, so they don’t throw you off your game. 

But with so many options, how do you know which are the best golf waterproofs for you? This article will guide you through all the things you need to think about when buying golf waterproofs, and then we’ll give you a list of our favourite waterproof golf jackets and waterproof golf trousers.

What to Look for in the Best Golf Waterproofs

There are a few things that you should look at to find the best golf outwear:

Level of Protection

If you’re a tee up whatever the weather kind of golfer, you’ll want to be prepared for all the elements. However, if you’re typically a fair weather golfer, you can maybe get away with a little less protection. Think what sort of level you need.

• Windproof – The lowest level of protection you are likely to find in a jacket is ‘windproof’. This will shield you from the effects of cold winds but not from water.

• Rainproof – This will keep you drier in light rain or showers than your normal golf jacket but will not be able to withstand heavier rains.

• Waterproof – The best level of protection is ‘waterproof’. This protects you from heavy rain no matter how long it lasts. Ideally, you want your waterproofs to mention both, but the term “waterproof” is best even if you don’t intend to be caught out in anything heavy. Even a misty rain will drive through a light proof if the wind is strong enough. 

Short Sleeve or Long Sleeve? 

Some golfers struggle to swing their best when they wear waterproofs. Some find them restricting and this throws them off their game, particularly as a majority of waterproof jackets are long sleeve. 

A short sleeve option will potentially offer you more freedom, but you have to make a compromise on having dry arms and shoulders, so it is really up to you whether you want to stay as warm and dry as possible or maintain your swing.

Practicality

Next to the level of protection a waterproof gives you, practicality is possibly the most important thing when choosing the best golf waterproofs. You want to find a waterproof that is easy to put on and remove whenever you need to, especially on a showery day. 

The most practical jackets can also be adjusted with Velcro or elastic. Not only to provide you with the optimum fit and to help you swing easier, but this also helps to put on over your golf shoes, jumpers and anything else. 

You’ll also want some waterproofs that are lightweight enough to tuck into your golf bag, and are easy enough to get out of that you don’t get wet as you take them off before you go home. Consider whether you usually carry your golf bag or use a large cart bag on a trolley and how much space you have.

Finally you need a jacket and/or trousers that have pockets to give you easy access to tees, your golf glove, and your scorecard to disrupt your game as little as possible.

Best Waterproof Golf Jackets

1. Galvin Green Apollo GORE-TEX Waterproof Jacket

The Galvin Green Apollo golf jacket is part of Galvin Green’s latest range, but incorporates the same old trusted GORE-TEX technology to give a full level of waterproof protection.

If you prefer to carry your golf bag, the Apollo is a great option as it also features Paclite® Technology. This means whilst being 100% waterproof, windproof and highly breathable, the jacket is ultralight and ultra-packable. It weighs just 300g grams and will fold down smaller than most of the other options.

If you’re looking for cons to this jacket, the most obvious is the price. But when you buy a Galvin jacket, you’re buying one of the best pieces of garment technology on the market that will last you years, so don’t be put off by the initial price tag – they are certainly an investment.

2. FootJoy Hydrolite Jacket

Fully waterproof and backed by a 3 year waterproof guarantee, you can’t go wrong with this jacket from FootJoy.

The jacket is made from just 3 panels making it really lightweight and super packable, again a great option for those who like to carry their golf bags to avoid lugging heavier golf waterproofs.

With FootJoy, you’re buying from a reputable brand that produces high quality gear. A couple of nice features like the Stadry collar and the waterproof cuffs make this jacket stand out from the rest and deliver to a higher level on the course.

3. Under Armour Storm Proof Rain Jacket

This loose fit jacket from Under Armour combines 2.5-layer bonded windproof fabric with Storm technology to create a really lightweight, breathable jacket that will actually repel water so the rain will just roll off, keeping you dry and comfortable.

Notable features include Storm flap over the zip with a snap closure collar, zipped hand pockets, and sleeve zips with a snap closure.

More affordable than the first jackets on this list and looks great, but obviously lacks the advanced technology of the first and fewer pockets. 

4. Cross Golf M Pro Golf Jacket

This Cross Pro golf jacket is made using 2-layer laminate fabric that stretches to move with you so you are not constricted in your swing. Completely water-resistant, this jacket is breathable and lightweight, and the fabric is quiet so it will pose no unwanted distractions to you or other golfers.

Notable features include adjustability, zipped fleece-lined pockets for convenience and warmth, and a 3-year waterproof guarantee. 

5. ProQuip Tour Flex Golf Jacket

This ProQuip Tour Flex jacket was designed to give you the best fit without compromising your freedom of movement, using 4-way stretch knitted fabric and a super-fine mesh inner liner, this jacket does just that. 

This waterproof golf jacket can easily be slipped on over base or mid-layers and is crease-resistant, even after being packed into a golf bag, so you can ensure that you will always look smart.

Notable features include waterproof zipped pockets, adjustability, Velcro cuffs, and a 3-year waterproof guarantee.

6. Sunderland Vancouver Waterproof Jacket

This waterproof jacket from Sunderland is made from a stretchy, super soft laminate outer layer, with a mesh lining, that protects you from the elements without taking away comfort by allowing your body to breathe.

Notable features include hand pockets, adjustability, an inner pocket, elasticated cuffs, and a 3-year waterproof guarantee. 

7. Callaway Corporate Waterproof Jacket

Finally, on our list of best waterproof golf jackets is this waterproof jacket from Callaway. Not only is this jacket lightweight, it is both water and wind-resistant through the sealing of each seam and has a natural stretch that allows you to move freely.

It’s a great budget choice, but it’s certainly not as fitted and or arguably as stylish as the other jackets higher on the list. 

Best Waterproof Golf Trousers

1. Galvin Green Andy GORE-TEX Waterproof Trousers

Also from Galvin Green are these Andy waterproof trousers with a GORE-TEX membrane and solid lining. These trousers are lightweight and breathable with an elasticated waistband to provide you with maximum comfort while protecting you from the rain.

Notable features include zip-fly, fleece-lined side pockets for warmth, a rear pocket, adjustability, and reinforced fabric where it is most needed to prevent wear. These are some of the best golf waterproofs on the market, and that’s reflected in the price.

2. Under Armour Storm Proof Rain Trousers

These waterproof golf trousers from Under Armour are made from a 2.5-layer bonded fabric coated with Storm technology to repel water from the trousers so that you can remain dry and comfortable in wet weather. 

Taped seams protect you from winds but still allow for breathability. The pants also include ankle zips, quick-drying, an elasticated waistband with further adjustability, zipped front pockets, and a reverse entry back pocket.

3. Cross Edge Waterproof Golf Pants

Finally, on our list of waterproof golf trousers is this pair from Cross Edge. Composed of a 3-layer laminate, stretchy fabric these trousers are soft, lightweight and breathable with ultimate mobility, and they are even quiet to minimise any annoyance to you and other golfers.

Notable features include Velcro tab adjusters at the bottom of the leg and on the waist, zipped hand pockets, secure back pockets with a Velcro closure, long leg openers, and an elasticated waistband.

Any of the waterproofs on this list are sure to keep you dry and playing even in the wettest of days!