Just as sure as the sun sets in the west, summer eventually gives way to fall. That’s a poignant thought for many of us. However, as we all know, we can’t change the weather. Even though we’re in autumn’s infancy and it still feels very much like summer, the glimpses of cooler weather are ever-present. Mornings are certainly cooler and so are evenings. Then, there’s the smell—that unmistakably sharp, light reddish-brown aroma of the changing leaves with a hint of dew. I could wax poetic about autumn weather but we’re not here for that; we’re here to talk about how to dress for the weather. Here’s what you need to look and feel good on the course this autumn.
1. A Crewneck Sweater
Polo shirts are the foundation of your golfing wardrobe—we know this. However, a crewneck sweater is the salt and pepper. It adds some much needed flavor and texture to your look, but more importantly, it keeps you warm. In fall, morning rounds are chilly, and some rounds are just chilly in general. A good sweater will get you through those rounds. Don’t let your hubris get the better of you… It’s not macho or cool to go short sleeves only in the chilly weather. You’ll play better when you’re comfortable, and a sweater accomplishes that. My recommendation is the Mongolian Cashmere Crewneck Sweater from Quince.
If you’re going to buy a crewneck sweater, cashmere is one of the best materials that you can buy. It’s soft, warm, and oh, so comfortable. Because of that, cashmere has gotten the reputation of being quite expensive. The Mongolian Crewneck from Quince has been a game changer in the industry by providing exceptional value at an affordable price. I have quite a few of these in my rotation. During fall rounds, I always have one with me.
2. Golf Pants
I just mentioned it, but the trend of wearing shorts when it’s too cold to comfortably do so needs to stop. Every golfer needs pants. If you don’t have some, get some because I promise you, being appropriately dressed for the weather will help you play better. Being uncomfortable on the course makes no sense. Golf’s hard enough as it is. Why make things harder by also taking unnecessary abuse from the elements?
For golf pants, I will always recommend the Ultra-Stretch 24/7 Smart Chinos. They’re affordable, look great, fit great, and can be worn anywhere. Personally, I don’t understand buying golf-specific clothing; that’s a waste of money. Taking the mature route and wearing pants during the fall is always a good idea.
3. A Cooling Pullover
You’re probably thinking to yourself that a cooling pullover doesn’t make sense, but hear me out. As a guy who has a tendency to run hot, sometimes I like to wear layers that let me regulate my temperature. While I’m usually a critic of performance fabrics, they certainly serve their purpose, and this is one such purpose. Autumn weather is often unpredictable: cold in the morning and downright hot in the afternoon. That can make dressing head-spinning.
The problem with cotton and cashmere sweaters is that when it’s too hot, you understandably have to take them off. With a cooling pullover, you don’t have to. They allow you to stay layered and keep a consistent temperature throughout the entire round. I’m the first person who likes to look good on the course by wearing organic materials but sometimes it’s just not practical or worth the hassle. The B. Draddy Cool Colt Pullover is a staple in my year-round golfing wardrobe. It’s genuinely amazing. I’m not sure how they created such a temperature regulating garment but it’s miraculous.
4. A Packable Puffer Vest
One of the most ubiquitous items on the golf course is a puffer vest. That being said, where most golfers go wrong is that they don’t have a packable puffer vest. Emphasis on the word packable. If you need or are looking to buy a new puffer vest, don’t waste your money on one that can’t easily fit into your golf bag or one that’s too expensive. Usually those two things go hand-in-hand. A puffer vest should not cost you more than $100—in fact, it shouldn’t cost anywhere close.
5. A Rain Jacket
Last but certainly not least, every golfer needs a good rain jacket. Again, fall weather is unpredictable, and there’s nothing worse than getting caught in a downpour halfway through your round without proper protection. Trust me, being cold and wet for nine holes is a miserable experience.
When it comes to buying a jacket, we’ve got you covered. My advice is buying a good rain jacket because you want something that is truly waterproof. If you need a recommendation, I promise you, the Abacus Pitch is worth the investment.
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