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Bring on the rain.
Are you a fair-weather golfer? Then this article isn’t for you.
This golf rain gear buyer’s guide is for the grinders, the golfers who make a tee time and stick to it, rain or shine.
Golf is a game played in the elements. Don’t let the inevitable storm rain on your 18-hole parade. Golf rain gear is designed to keep you dry in the worst of conditions.
Who needs a rain check, anyways? Here is the best golf rain gear for 2023.
Here are a few things to consider when choosing golf rain gear.
Golf rain gear can get expensive. If you want the best of the best, plan on spending about what you’d shell out for a new driver. That said, there are good value options in the golf rain gear space. The NIKE Storm ADV Golf Jacket and Galway Bay All Weather Jacket are some of the more budget-friendly options.
While most golf rain gear is marketed towards all playing conditions, some are specifically aimed at a certain climate. The KJUS Dexter II is great for warm climates where it’s important to stay cool and dry. The Callaway Stormguard is made for colder climates and aims to keep you warm and dry.
Know your size. When and where possible, try on your golf rain gear to ensure a proper fit. Remember, sizing can vary from brand to brand and even across product lines within the same brand. This is why it’s important to shop in person (if possible) or pay close attention to company return policies in the event you order the wrong size.
| Product | Waterproofing | Breathability | Comfort | Fit | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| KJUS Pro 3L 2.0 | 1st | 3rd | 4th | 1st | 98.75 |
| Galvin Green Alister | 2nd | 1st | 6th | 2nd | 98.5 |
| Abacus Pitch 37.5 Jacket | 10h | 3rd | 1st | 6th | 97.75 |
| Galvin Green Armstrong | 2nd | 5th | 6th | 2nd | 97.5 |
| KJUS Dexter II 2.5L | 17th | 2nd | 4th | 4th | 97 |
 | KJUS Gemini | 2nd | 6th | 8th | 6th | 96.25 |
 | Galway Bay Long Sleeve All-Weather Jacket | 2nd | 11th | 9th | 8th | 94.75 |
 | Abacus Bounce Rain Jacket | 10th | 6th | 11th | 10th | 94.75 |
 | Abacus Bounce Waterproof Hoodie | 15h | 6th | 1st | 13th | 94 |
 | Abacus Links Stretch Rain | 10th | 16th | 12th | 8th | 93.5 |
 | Nike Storm Fit ADV Golf | 19th | 11th | 1st | 11th | 93 |
 | FootJoy HydroKnit Pullover | 14th | 10th | 9th | 13th | 93 |
 | FootJoy HydroTour | 2nd | 11th | 13th | 11th | 92.75 |
 | Callaway StormGuard | 17th | 6th | 13th | 13th | 91.5 |
 | Adidas Rain RDY Jacket | 15th | 11th | 13th | 13th | 91 |
 | Jack Wolfskin Tapeless 2.0 Jacket | 2nd | 17th | 13th | 13th | 90.75 |
 | Jack Wolfskin Prelight 2.5 L Jacket | 2nd | 17th | 13th | 20th | 90.5 |
 | FootJoy Select LS | 21st | 11th | 13th | 13th | 88.5 |
 | Nike Gore-Tex Infinium | 10th | 17th | 13th | 21st | 88.5 |
 | FootJoy HydroLite | 20th | 17th | 13th | 13th | 87.75 |
How can a waterproof golf jacket be breathable? The difference lies in the definition. Breathability is not a function of air permeability but how much moisture is allowed to pass through from the inside to the outside of the jacket.
In layman’s terms, breathable fabric allows water vapor produced by your sweat and body heat to escape, further keeping you comfortable and dry.
The best golf rain gear is exceptionally breathable while also maintaining its waterproofness. The most breathable golf rain jackets are the KJUS Dexter II 2.5L and the Galvin Green Alister. Both are great options for those of you who run hot.
Adding a layer of clothing can be detrimental to your swing without a proper fit. The last thing you want is baggy golf rain gear restricting your freedom of movement. The fit is also important for the sake of waterproofness. Tight-fitting sleeves with adjustable cuffs and a well-constructed collar aid in keeping you dry all while providing the perfect fit.
The Galvin Green Alister rain jacket provided a great tailored fit, with the addition of chest straps to tighten any loose material around the chest and midsection.
The KJUS Pro 3L 2.0 also provided an exceptional and unrestricted fit. The adjustable drawstrings within the pockets allow you to dial in the waist and stop the midsection from becoming baggy.
Another major aspect of golf rain gear is comfort. Similar to fit, a well-designed golf rain jacket or rain pants gives the illusion of nothingness. That is to say that golf rain gear should be comfortable enough that you hardly notice you’re wearing it.
Most comfort comes from the addition of stretch panels near the back or shoulders that move with you as your swing. But the overall weight and even the softness of the material can contribute to the overall comfort of your golf rain gear.
If at any point in the golf swing your golf rain gear becomes uncomfortable or restrictive, this is a problem. The most comfortable golf rain jacket is the Abacus Pitch 37.5 and Abacus Bounce Waterproof Hoodie. A hood may not be for everyone, but there is no denying the comfort level.
As far as rain pants go, the KJUS Dexter II and Galway Bay Seagrove Chino Rain Pant are the most comfortable.
What good is golf rain gear if it doesn’t repel the rain? The best golf rain gear does all of the above and is waterproof. This feature can not be compromised or the entire rain jacket and/or rain pants are useless.
Waterproofness depends largely on the ability of a material to not only resist but repel water completely. Visually, this equates to water that beads or bounces off the rain gear rather than soaking into the material. Waterproofness is created through the chemical treatment of materials, generally in the form of a “membrane-like” coating.
A garment is considered waterproof if the pores in the material are smaller than a water droplet, thus making it impervious to water. That said, the pores must also be large enough to allow water vapor to make its way out of the jacket (the breathability we mentioned).
Equally important are waterproof seams. All premium price waterproof jackets and waterproof pants will boast seam-sealed zippers. These can often be a weak spot in lesser quality rain gear, but will be a standard, yet integral feature with the best rain gear.
While the majority of golf rain gear excels in this regard, both the Galvin Green Alister and KJUS Pro 3L 2.0 rain jackets were the best of the best.
The KJUS Pro 3L 2.0 also features rain gutter sleeves that direct water away from the grip and towards the top of your hands, a standout feature without question.
The short answer and key differentiation between waterproof and water-resistant rain gear is time. Waterproof golf apparel will keep a golf dry in the worst wet conditions no matter what. While water-resistant will repel light showers and heavier rain to a point. The fabric in water-resistant rain gear after longer exposure will start to absorb water causing underneath layers to also become wet.
The KJUS Pro 3L 2.0 golf rain gear jacket is the winner of the best rain gear for 2023. It's an all around performer. It's exceptionally waterproof and comfortable.
The stretch panels on the shoulders and back make it extremely easy to swing in. The waterproofing is top of the line. The fit was immaculate. The rain gutter sleeves direct water away from the grips which is a must.
The collar fit was a little irritating at times.
The Kjus Men’s Pro 3L 2.0 Jacket is a high-performance rain jacket designed for golfers. Made with a 3-layer stretch fabric, this jacket offers maximum flexibility and comfort while still being completely waterproof. The jacket also features adjustable cuffs, and waterproof zippers to keep you dry in even the heaviest rain.
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The Galvin Green Alister jacket provides a great fit while remaining breathable.
The straps on the back allow you to get a truly one to one fit. It's extremely comfortable to swing in and walk in. Waterproofing is top notch and it's very breathable.
It's the most expensive golf rain gear in the test.
The Galvin Green Alister Waterproof Jacket is a top-of-the-line rain gear option for golfers. Made with the brand’s renowned GORE-TEX fabric, this jacket is fully waterproof and windproof, while also providing breathability and comfort. The jacket features a full-length zipper, adjustable cuffs, and a drawstring hem for a customizable fit. Additionally, the jacket has a chest pocket for storing small items and a zippered front pocket for added convenience
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The Abacus Pitch 37.5 Jacket is a top performer for comfort, fit and breathability
The fit is extremely tailored and comfortable.
Water tends to pool a little bit on its surface.
The Men’s Pitch 37.5 Waterproof Golf Jacket by Abacus Sportswear is designed to keep the golfer dry and comfortable in the rain. The jacket is made from a 3-layer fabric that is waterproof and breathable, ensuring that the golfer stays dry on the inside and outside. The jacket has a full zip front with a chin guard, a high collar, and a drawstring at the hem to keep out the rain.The 37.5 technology used in this jacket helps maintain the body’s ideal temperature, keeping the golfer comfortable in any weather
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The Galvin Green Armstrong golf rain gear jacket provides a perfect fit.
The fit can be dialed in with cuffs and straps for ultimate swing comfort.
Could be a little more comfy, tends to get hot.
The Armstrong waterproof golf jacket is the perfect combination of style, comfort, and functionality. It comes in several color-blocking options, featuring classic and bright seasonal colors. Made from GORE-TEX Paclite® fabric, it is completely waterproof, windproof, and extremely breathable. The lightweight fabric makes it easy to pack and carry in your golf bag. The jacket has adjustable chest width, front pockets, cuffs with partial elastic and tab with touch and close fastener, and shaped sleeves for added freedom of movement. The design includes an elastic drawstring at the hem and a repositioned side seam for optimum comfort. The fabric is bluesign® approved, making it environmentally friendly. The Armstrong is a slick full-zip jacket that is perfect for serious golfers who don’t want to compromise on style or performance. Whether you’re battling the elements on the course or packing it away in your bag, the Armstrong has got you covered.
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The KJUS Dexter II 2.5 L is an extremely breathable and comfortable golf rain jacket.
The Dexter II is ultra light and breatahable for a truly comfortable fit.
A little bit of water can permeate its surface when throroughly soaked.
The Dexter II rain jacket is designed with golfers in mind. It is an ultra-lightweight and compact jacket that can be easily packed into your golf bag and taken with you on the go. The jacket is made from a highly breathable, four-way-stretch fabric that ensures comfort and total freedom of movement while playing golf. It has taped seams, water-repellent zippers, and a durable water-repellent finish that offer extra protection from the elements. The ergonomic collar, elastic cuffs, and adjustable hem ensure the perfect fit for any golfer. The Dexter II jacket has exterior and interior pockets, which are perfect for storing small items. The Y-tech cut ensures mobility, and no underarm seams offer maximum wearing comfort. It has a fully seam-taped design and an extra low pack volume. The jacket also comes with a pack-it pocket, which makes it easy to store and carry.
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Everything we do and say is based on cold, hard data. We challenge any and every claim with scientific measurement and analysis. If a product performs well, you'll hear about it. We'll tell you the truth and list the shortcomings if it doesn't.
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Everything we do and say is based on cold, hard data. We challenge any and every claim with scientific measurement and analysis. If a product performs well, you'll hear about it. We'll tell you the truth and list the shortcomings if it doesn't.
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Our mission is #ConsumerFirst. We are here to help educate and empower golfers. We want you to get the most out of your money, time and performance. That means providing you with equipment reviews you can trust, as well as honest reporting on the latest issues affecting the game today. #PowerToThePlayer
| Driver Ping G30 | Hybrids PXG 0317 |
| 3/4 IRON PXG 0311XF | 5-GW Srixon Z 565 |
| SW PXG 0317 | LW PXG 0311 |
| Putter EVNROLL |
7 months ago
Last season, I held my nose and dropped close to $600.00 on a Galvin Green rain jacket. My wife actually prompted me to purchase it. Yeah, it’s a lot of money but, I play about 25 tournaments a season and it’s totally worth it. I also wear it when I go hiking especially in the spring and fall. If you’re a serious golfer, spend the money, if you’re a recreational golfer, buy a cheap shell and sweat like crazy. These jackets are very well made and should last 10 years.
7 months ago
I have purchased more expensive rain gear than I am want to admit, climbing/mountaineering, skiing, field work, sailing, leisure, travel, dress wear and outdoor activities — and I’m content with all of them. It’s only the golf rain gear that has let me down every time…yes, every time.
I have spent way too much money on various golf pieces that assure me that they are waterproof and breathable (including the top end Gore Tex and other proprietary fabrics). I have at least 5 different types of rain jackets for golf, and I didn’t skimp on any of them, except when I was caught traveling and forced to pick up a rain suit for the round (around $250 for both jacket and pants). And I am completely discontent with all of them, both the lined and unlined versions.
The thing is, you really don’t know how well these pieces are going to work until you’re actually playing in them and walking the course. They seem fine in the store, it’s dry and air conditioned. But, get them out on the course and start walking up and down hills and they are so hot and stifling that even on the coolest days, it feels like I’m wearing a plastic trash bag — at that point I’ve got more moisture inside my jacket than what’s coming down on the outside — raining from the inside out — my shirt/sweater are saturated with sweat, not rain, and the front zipper is down to cool down and release vapor, which overrides the purpose of having a raincoat. The others that are supposed to be “more breathable”, stand up to light rains, and they’ll hold up for a few holes in drizzle or intermittent showers, but when a constant rain comes down for an entire round, they become saturated and practically useless. By the time I’m finished, my clothing underneath is wet, why bother with a raincoat? I have tried using my climbing jackets, which are durable and breathable (where the moisture is controlled by pit zips or chest zips), but they are not fitted, so putting is awkward with them, even with the waistline draw cord pulled snug. They also have hoods, which I don’t use when I’m golfing and they end up filling with water or flip up with a gust of wind. The noise that comes from that type of fabric, versus the softer materials in golf raincoats becomes a distraction. These are much stiffer, less flexible, waterproof materials, that don’t have stretch built into them, like the golf-based rain jackets, so they feel sloppy and awkward during the swing. But, they’re waterproof and the breathability can be monitored and managed. Play with non golf-specific gear and stay dry and comfortable, but unsettled and annoyed with the cut and material during the swing. I’ve tried taking it off every time I swing. That gets old fast.
The newer fabrics in golf shorts, shirts and pants are so much better than what they used to be, more breathable, with great moisture management. The waterproofing in shoes has improved, though there’s a clear reason why they don’t guarantee that for more than a year or two, it doesn’t last. These are clear and obvious improvements. I’m not seeing the equivalent in rain gear for golf. Same sales pitch as before, just more expensive each iteration.
If I spend another $500 or $700 on an “upgrade” compared to the $150, $240, $300 and $420 raincoats I have, will that bring me the flexible, silent, waterproof and breathable golf-specific raincoat that I have been promised? Or will it end up just like the others, sitting in a closet, looking new, hardly worn and yet nearly useless? There are no unconditional, satisfaction guarantees for these purchases. Patagonia, Mountain Hardwear, and Marmot all gave me those guarantees, for my outdoor climbing/mountaineering jackets that I truly rely on for survival, and I paid less for those than $500 for those. When they did fail, no matter how long I had them, they replaced them for the same value product or allowed me to apply that original purchase price to a higher rated raincoat and/or pants than what I originally purchased. I would think that at these price points for golf products these manufacturers would do the same…nothing? Crickets…
Maybe they had it right in the old days — boiled wool hats, sweaters and coats and waterproof, breathable oilskin coats.
I’m an optimistic idiotic insane consumer golfer. I’ll buy the upgrade.
10 months ago
There are gore tex alternatives out there. Keep in mind about 30+% of a goretex jacket is royalties, testing and cost going directly to Gore Associates. Non-golf companies such as Columbia often have membranes similar and inson=me cases more waterproof and more breathable than gore tex for half the price. and yet many so rainwear are cheap because they have a “coating” which efective at first but after about 30 washing or rain showers before they lose their effectiveness. If you want effective and durable rainwear by one with a membrane as opposed to a coating.
10 months ago
I’m sorry but when has a best of list every really been about cost/price? I understand that for rain gear many won’t spend the money that some of these rain jackets cost but if they are the best then they deserve that recognition. Perhaps a value rain jacket award or some other recognition is in order, I’ll grant that. I don’t think it’s incumbent on MGS to tailor or narrow their reviews to a certain price point or market demographic. They want to identify and acknowledge the best of and if the best is expensive or beyond what certain individuals are willing to pay then that’s fine but I don’t think it does anything to delegitimize the review.
10 months ago
I live in the Pacific NW, and golf at least once a week if feasible. I use waterproof athletic gear for hikers/joggers for a lot less cash.
You may want to explore this as a topic or explain more fully the benefits of golf specific gear vs. other waterproof athletic gear.
10 months ago
Why no Zero Restriction?
10 months ago
Thank you for the review. Very informative.
I think there are a couple of bells and whistles that might matter to some:
1. Price – which reading the feedback, this is obvious. And in many reviews, there is the “best value” category. Surprised this one didn’t have that as well.
2. Removable sleeves. Really cool on breezy days or very light rain.
3. Vents under the arm. Really good on warm humid days.
I got the following for under 100:
* 10,000mm waterproof rated with taped seams, waterproof front zipper, and storm flap.
* Ultra-lightweight 2-way stretch fabric for a wide range of movement
* Breathable mesh back vents allow airflow for temperature control
* Zippered mesh underarm vents for optimal ventilation and breathability
* Removable sleeves zip off for versatility in all weather conditions
* Adjustable sleeve cuffs
* Zippered hand pockets
Obviously, this model doesn’t have a built in hood. Which I usually don’t like.
If playing in a down pour, I think an umbrella is a better option. MGS had reviews on these. An umbrella can keep your grips, towel and glove dry between shots, assuming you are walking.
10 months ago
Props: KJUS for larger sizing. I am sick and tired of 90% of the major brands ignoring the 2/3XL crowd.
Slops: I play rain or shine and have the fancy black irons with custom shafts, and even *I* think a $500 rain jacket is a little much. There’s a ton of companies that make rain gear for the trail runner crowd that’s every bit as good as what was tested here for half the price. Not even a case of ‘if you have to ask the price…’ – this was every bit as useful as a $100 toilet paper review…
10 months ago
I live in AZ. Might wear it 3-5 times a year. $719 is ridiculous. It’s like rating a driver with a $1000 custom shaft. Think you missed the mark on this one. Maybe a top 3 budget rain jacket would be beneficial to your audience. I like looking at Lambos but I’m not buying.
10 months ago
Who in the world pays between $395 and $719 for a rain jacket?!? I love MyGolfSpy, but come on guys….know your audience.
10 months ago
gotta tell ya-the best rain jacket I have ever owned (and not in your review) is a ProQuip “Tempest” which I ordered from The Open website last year. Adjustable cuffs and waist. Totally impervious to H20 yet light, breathable, packable, and great looking. I don’t see ProQuip much in the USA, mostly international sales I believe.
10 months ago
Not 100% sure on this but it’s possible ProQuip is still available on the TGW site but now sold under the TGW house brand name. If someone could validate yes/no that, it would be great. Used to have some ProQuip outerware and it was both waterproof and comfortable. Also definitely affordable. I have a Galvin Green rain jacket that I bought while on a golf trip to Ireland. VERY waterproof and very comfortable except for the dog bite chunk out of my tail end.
10 months ago
Here’s an idea… go into the clubhouse enjoy a few adult beverages until the storm passes. Use the money you would have spent on these ridiculously priced rain coats and buy a new top of the line driver. I have waterproof hunting gear that is cheaper than these things!! What a joke.
10 months ago
I was legitimately waiting for this guide as I’m unhappy with my current non golf specific rain jacket I occasionally need. Can’t help but feel pretty disappointed by this writeup.
10 months ago
Please include both men and women in your product reviews and recs.
10 months ago
I normally would not pile on the negative comments, BUUUTTTT this is maybe the most useless review I have ever seen here. Paying 400+ for a rain jacket to play golf is the most asinine thing I have ever seen..
I am thinking that MGS has had a brain fart about who actually reads these articles and buys products because of them, or at least tests them out..
But if this is a joke, then well played MGS, well played…
10 months ago
I’ve found terrific rain gear at a fraction of the price. Check out Decathlon’s rain jackets for $89.
This was certainly not one of MGS’ better reviews. Completely out of touch.
10 months ago
Article: “you should always try on the gear before you buy it.”
Also, article: “Here are 5 brands that your local shop and golf stores will never carry, so good luck with that, And they are $700 so just buy a Footjoy/Nike/etc. jacket anyway…”
10 months ago
You can walk into any PGA Tour Superstore and try on some Galvin Green. Hope this helps.
10 months ago
That does, actually. I had never heard of Galvin Green until this story, but we don’t have a PGA Tour Superstore near me yet. Stuck with Golf Galaxy, Dicks and local golf shops at the moment.
10 months ago
Is this also a list of the most expensive rain jackets?? I’ll stick with my Under Armour closeout special rain jacket! Geez!!
10 months ago
I have a lot of rain gear because I travel to Bandon every year and other areas where rain may be a possibility. I have a Zero jacket ( for colder weather ) that is almost 22 years old and it is still great ! I have a Galvin Green lightweight jacket that is perfect for warm temps and rain; the only issue with Galvin is that you want pockets on the outside you need to source the right jacket . You need to have lined and unlined pants depending on the temps.
10 months ago
Thanks for the useless review of rain gear that cost between $400 and $720 dollars per jacket. Pretty humorous (or maybe unintelligent) of you guys to think any of us would give 2 shirts about a $719 rain jacket.
10 months ago
LOL… $500 for a rain jacket…… LMFAO…. I live in Florida… where it rains every day in summer…. I’ll pass thanks. Last I checked I have not melted from the rain yet.
10 months ago
Ok there’s no way a common Joe like me is going to pay $500 for a rain jacket. How many times would it be used for me in a year maybe 3-4 times.
11 months ago
Informative article. But for me, golf sucks in the rain, about as much fun as outdoor basketball in the rain. So I’ll pass. Besides, in my area, when it rains in the warmer months, usually lightening follows. And since I walk my rounds, strutting around with a bag full of metal isn’t the smartest or safest option.
11 months ago
I would think that a MAJOR con for the #1 choice would be the $499 price tag. A rain jacket that costs the same as a driver!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!
11 months ago
Right?! I said the same thing! For $500 I could pay people to stand next to me with an umbrella for the couple rounds a year that get enough rain to justify a rain jacket.
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Christian
7 months ago
Would be cool to see a ranking of best winter gear for those of us up north!