Golf jackets are exactly what they sound like: jackets people wear while golfing. They are usually lightweight and are designed to keep golfers dry and warm if it is raining or the temperature is cool. They are also perfect for early morning start times before the sun comes up. They are usually designed as pullovers, although some golfers choose to wear full zip or even button up jackets. They have become part of the golfing “uniform”, with almost all golf clubs allowing golfers to wear jackets on the course, as long as they have a polo shirt on underneath.
Why They Help Performance
Golf jackets keep you warm if you are playing golf in cold conditions, and dry if you are playing golf when it rains. They allow you stay comfortable in a wide range of conditions without causing you to sacrifice mobility.
What are They Made of?
Golf jackets can be made from a number of different materials. Many golf jackets are designed to be water-resistant or waterproof, and are thus constructed with fabrics like Tyvek and Gore-Tex. These fabrics allow enough air to pass through to allow the garment to breathe, which allows sweat vapor to escape. Other jackets, designed to keep you warm in colder conditions, may be made from polyester or wool. Wool absorbs moisture vapor from the skin and releases it into the air, which means you don’t remain wet. Polyester is probably the most common, because it prevents moisture from getting through the fabric. This is ideal for both rainy and cool conditions.
Washing and Care Instructions
Jackets need to be washed with the proper technique to ensure they last for a long period of time. Before you wash your jacket, make sure you have removed any material from your pockets, such as car keys or money. Next, dry-brush the jacket with a toothbrush or soft-bristled nail brush to remove any grease or mud. You can use a small amount of spot fabric remover to help the process along. Next, use a moderate quantity of waterproofing liquid cleaner combined with cold water in the washing machine. This combination should work to restore the jacket to its original look and performance. For stubborn stains, use a non-biological detergent containing no conditioners or softeners. Once you have washed the jacket, you can dry it in the dryer on the tumble dry setting. It will likely still be damp following this, so hang it to dry. Do not hang it in direct sunlight, as this may cause the colors to fade.
Who Makes Them?
There are a number of manufacturers who make golf jackets. Some of the big brands include Nike, Reebok, and Adidas. Golf specific brands, such as Callaway and Taylor Made also make golf jackets. At the end of the day, it comes down to personal preference, and how much you want to pay.
Price Range
Golf jackets vary in price depending on the brand you intend to buy. Nike, for example, makes a number of dry-fit and water-resistant jackets, costing as little as $70 and as much as $400. You can expect to pay somewhere in that price range for almost all brands of golf jackets. You may be able to find cheaper jackets from online retailers, although when you factor in various extra costs, such as shipping, it may add up to the same total. Ideally, you want to try the jacket on, especially with your golf polo shirt on underneath, to make sure it is big enough and comfortable to wear while you play.
