By Randy O. Williams
With all your years of shopping for foul-weather apparel for golf and other outdoor activities, it really comes down to understanding the glossary of the apparel industry as you try on new garments to take on Mother Nature. You’ve heard them before, but it bears repeating so here’s a simple list of keywords to keep in mind regarding some of the features one should be looking for in the marketplace:
- mechanical stretch for freedom of movement
- fabric that is lightweight and comfortable
- easily packable
- machine washable
- providing thermal support
- waterproof guarantee
- wind-blocking liner
- detailed reinforcements
- wicking technology that absorbs and transports perspiration
- seam-sealed
Zero Restriction’s multi-functional jacket from Summit Golf Brands is easily packable and waterproof. Machine washable, it features a fully lined hood, dual direction zippers and two-way entrance, gusseted flap pockets.
This wool Cortina hat from Dale of Norway is rib knit with skin-soft merino wool on the inside. A timeless classic (first introduced at the 1956 Winter Olympics for the country’s athletes), the yarn offers incredible lightness and a unique, crisp look.
This Moritz wool sweater from Dale of Norway is made from 100% skin soft merino wool. A long-time best-seller, it is made with an innovative Comfort knit technology, giving it a comfortable fit with a bit of stretch, in a double layer skin soft merino wool.
The men’s Distillery Boot from Baffin is another example that all boots are not created equal. This Canadian company continues to innovate when it comes to keeping your feet warm and dry in inclement weather. Stylish and slip-resistant, the Distillery features Therma-plush, a soft next-to-foot wicking layer for warmth along with form-fitting BTek-Foam lining for comfort.
Seam-sealed and waterproof, the Hydrolite X Rain Jacket from FootJoy offers a four-way stretch and is designed for warmer playing conditions with specifically placed knit panels in arms and back for increased movement and flexibility in the golf swing.
Seam-sealed with a gripper stretch waistband, FootJoy’s Hydrolite rain pants are constructed from advanced technology-packed materials that deliver 100% waterproof, breathable protection for golfers in cool, windy and rainy conditions.
Galway Bay’s Roscam Hybrid Vest is very versatile and combines warmth and freedom of movement. With multiple pockets as well as an elastic waist fabric on both sides, providing a better fit and ensuring maximum comfort, add in its water-resistant fabric that repels wind and rain, you’ll find yourself wearing this for a lot more than golf.
The Ornamore Hybrid Jacket from Galway Bay is designed with block insulation and works well for layering under a rain jacket or wearing on its own. It features an elastic waist fabric on the right and left sides, ensuring a better fit for all body types. Whether you’re teeing off or going for a leisurely stroll, this jacket moves with you, providing unrestricted motion and comfort.
The Heatrub Move – The Zero Sweat golf BaseLayer shirt from Zerofit regulates temperature and wicking. The key to its popularity is its successful blend of polypropylene and polyurethane strategically placed on the underside of this base layer which promptly removes moisture from your skin and sends it outside the garment by way of capillary-like action.
- adaptable insulation
- 100% merino wool
- warmth without adding excessive bulk
- breathable protection for golfers in cool, windy and rainy conditions.
Finally, pay close attention to the offerings of companies that have been successfully making foul-weather apparel for a long time. Firms like Dale of Norway, Canada’s Baffi n and America’s Smartwool have enjoyed great success because they emphasize listening to their customers and are constantly innovating.
Smartwool’s Intraknit Merino Insulated Jacket provides packable warmth, breathability, and insulation. Smartwool’s patented Intraknit technology keeps you moving with ease and comfort, even through higher-intensity activities. And a knit-in Durable Water Repellent helps protect you from the elements, so you can take on some lower temps with no fuss.
The Merino Wool Half Zip Cable Knit Sweater from Romeo NYC is modern upgrade to the classic Aran sweater with a convenient half-zipper, a tailored collar and cuffs. Featuring the classic cable knit design and super-soft merino wool, this cozy pullover sweater combines modern detailing with timeless style.
From the classy collections of Romeo NYC comes this Merino Wool Cable Knit Scarf. Made from 100% merino wool and available in four colors, it is meticulously made with hand-linked seams. A year-round staple this scarf provides insulation in the winter and moisture-wicking, cooling properties when the temperatures rise.
The Stratus Jacket from Sun Mountain is a world-class garment. The fabric was developed by Sun Mountain’s Japanese partner specifically for use in hot, humid climates. It has a 20K/20K waterproof/breathable rating, mechanical stretch for freedom of movement and is lightweight and comfortable. Additionally, it has a packable hood, plus front and back venting for added breathability as well as a two-year waterproof guarantee