How to choose the right golf waterproofs

None of us like playing in the rain, but sometimes – or a lot of the time, if you’re in the UK – you don’t have much choice. So it’s important to have the right gear. With that in mind, let us help with how to choose the right golf waterproofs for you. 

There are plenty of options out there, and they’re all fantastic. The likes of Abacus, Galvin Green, FootJoy, Ping, and Kjus all make industry-leading waterproofs. But which is right for you?   

Abacus have been developing waterproof clothing for more than three decades now, and in that time have established themselves as a market leader in rain gear products. 

And what they’ve done is create the ‘Abacus School of Rain’ – a step-by-step guide to help golfers pick the perfect waterproofs for them.

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We’ll let Chris Mattsson, the brand’s design manager, explain: “There is a lot of talk about waterproofness in rain garments, and although rain wear must be able to keep the rain out, there is a lot more that the golfer needs to consider when buying a waterproof if they are to enjoy their game while playing in bad weather.

“The most important thing is that rain wear doesn’t adversely impact the golf swing resulting in a lack of, or restricted movement. A high amount of stretch in a lightweight material is vital to preventing this from occurring.”   

With that in mind, here are the five tips from the Abacus School of Rain for choosing the right waterproofs. 

5 tips on how to choose the right golf waterproofs 

1. Focus on playability  

Make sure you can move freely by choosing lightweight garments with a high amount of stretch.

2. Breathability 

Choose garments with high breathability and excellent wicking properties to prevent getting wet from the inside. 

3. Make sure garments are highly waterproof  

Fabrics with a waterpillar of more than 10,000 WP are best and will be able to withstand long periods of rain. 

4. Fitting 

Avoid garments that feel uncomfortable or fit badly, use heavy fabrics, rustle when you move, or do not have a high level of stretch. 

5. Adjustability 

Garments that offer good options to adjust the fit, for example draw cords in the waist and velcro in the arms, legs and neck can feel like they have been made just for you. 

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James Tait is bunkered’s Gear Editor. Want to know how the latest Callaway driver, Vokey wedge or Scotty Cameron putter performs? He’s the guy to ask. Better yet, just watch his videos on the bunkered YouTube channel. One of the biggest hitters in the UK, James also competes on the World Long Drive circuit and is a descendent of former Amateur champion Freddie Tait.

Gear Editor