In the past few years we have seen a trend where more and more designer labels have looked to break into the golfing world with apparel. Brands like Lululemon, Original Penguin, Peter Millar, G/FORE and plenty more make the best golf tops, best golf pants and pretty much every other piece of clothing.
These products often look great and give your game the confidence it deserves thanks to the premium, high-quality feel and aesthetics of the garments. But which models should you go for? Well we have tested a lot of garments and put together this guide on our favorites right now so hopefully you find something you like across several categories. Alternatively if you are after something else we also recommend having a look at some of our other buying guides below too. Such as the best golf shoes, best golf rain gear or best men's golf shirts.
Best Designer Golf Clothing
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Jackets
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 1
+ Premium quality in every aspect
+ Superb look and feel
- Only one color
At the top of Peter Millar's range is the Rain Walker jacket, a totally waterproof, windproof and exceptionally breathable top designed to shield you from the elements. Not to mention that it achieves this whilst also being comfortable, unrestrictive and I must say it looks great just about anywhere. I love the way that the overall look is so smart and understated, somehow classic and yet still modern at the same time.
There are three layers including a hydrophilic membrane which allows moisture to escape. The external surface is water repellent, and the latest improvements in seam technology mean that the stitching is robust and reliable. The only slight drawbacks are the premium price (but this is a premium product so makes sense), and there is only one color.
Read our full Peter Millar Rain Walker Jacket Review
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 3
+ Stylish modern look
+ 4-way stretch provides great range of motion
- Struggles in heavier rainfall
With a stylish, modern look that looks fantastic everywhere, the Repeller 2.0 jacket from G/FORE could be the next golf top for you. During testing I felt it struck the balance between slim and loose perfectly and, because it is constructed of premium materials, there was no restriction whilst wearing it or when over a mid layer.
Made from a 4-way stretch fabric the jacket moved seamlessly especially throughout the swing but we should acknowledge that whilst this jacket dealt with rain showers well, if you want a jacket for truly biblical downpours then you are better off taking a look at our guide on the best golf rain jackets because they are the top of the range in terms of protection.
Read our full G/FORE Weather Resistant Repeller 2.0 Rain Jacket Review
Sizes: S-2XL
Colors: 1
+ Excellent protection
+ Packs down to nothing
- Only one color
Another high quality jacket from Peter Millar is the Shield Rain Shell pictured here. Despite being incredibly lightweight, and the fact it can fold down to absolutely nothing so can fit in any golf bag, the jackets protection was still excellent. It is made from a 2.5 layer performance fabric which gave waterproof and windproof protection, and I felt reasonably well insulated as well. This fabric is has a lot of stretch to it so your swing is never compromised.
Admittedly we would love more colors, it just comes in navy at the moment, but arguably this understated finish means it is versatile and can be used off the course too. Another element we really liked was the packable pouch so it can be folded down easily.
Sizes: XS-2XL
Colors: 2 Full Zip
+ Extreme stretch and comfort
+ Athletic fit and breathable
- There are cheaper alternatives
KJUS is known for their premium golf apparel and the first thing we noticed with the Pro 3L 3.0 is the quality in design and materials used. From testing a lot of different rain jackets we often see the fabric sacrifice stretch but that isn't the case here. This is thanks to what the brand call body-zoned X-stretch panels which allow for maximum stretch in the areas you need it most.
Waterproof protection was top notch as well. Water beaded off seamlessly thanks to the non-porous, stretchable membrane of this jacket. We also love the discreet, subtle aesthetics which make it usable everywhere. While this jacket is premium in price, the look and performance on offer is arguably the best in the business.
Read our full KJUS Pro 3L 3.0 Jacket Review
Sizes: XS-2XL
Colors: 5
+ Looks great and versatile
+ Premium quality
- Not fully waterproof
Next up we have the Pace Breaker from Lululemon, a brand that has pretty much just started making attire for the golf course. This jacket may not be fully waterproof but it deals with light rain well thanks to the water-repellent fabric. The jacket felt lovely too with the elasticity of the fabric, and the four-way stretch, helping me move unhindered.
But the two ways this top elevates itself are in the little design details, and the versatility. Details like the mesh ventilation aided breathability and the cuffs are close fitting but stretchy too. Overall it is also one of the most versatile tops I have tested. It looks great everywhere and the five colors all offer something a little different.
Sizes: XS-3XL
Colors: 5
+ Total performance
+ Looks great everywhere
- Not 100% waterproof
Another golf jacket worth including in this list is the Blocktech Parka from UNIQLO. It may not be fully waterproof but it has a 2.5 layer fabric with a water-repellent agent to help bead water away, and during my testing I think it dealt with the wind well too, as well as offered good breathability.
Not only that but it stretches very nicely, aiding ease of movement, and has several adjustable features like drawstrings, and cuff fasteners so it was very easy to get the right fit for me. The pockets are roomy, it comes with a hood and the combination of the design with the color choice makes it a jacket that can be used anywhere. I also love the price too which heightens the value.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 2
+ Lightweight and breathable
+ Stylish
- Premium price point
Next up we have J Lindeberg, a brand you would've seen adorn the shoulders of Viktor Hovland out on the golf course. Known for high-quality apparel that stands out the Orson 3D Wind Jacket actually has a restrained design but still has premium performance at its core. This particular model felt extremely lightweight to the point where I felt like I wasn't actually wearing a jacket at some points. It was also breathable too and offered all of the freedom needed on the golf course whilst acting as both the perfect windbreaker and/or layer piece for winter golf.
The elasticated cuffs on the sleeves provide optimum versatility when layering and the zip up collar offers protection without constriction. Finally the two smaller negatives to mention are there are only two colors to choose from, and it does come at the premium end of the price spectrum.
Sizes: S-2XL
Colors: 5
+ Classic, premium feel
+ Looks fantastic and versatile
- Only water-resistant
At Golf Monthly we have tested many of the Merge jackets from Peter Millar and the performance has always been outstanding, and thankfully the latest version of the Merge Hybrid pictured here continues that theme. Featuring a refreshed design with several new colors, the jacket is made from a premium blend of polyester and spandex to provide a lightweight and comfortable fit.
Warmth is provided thanks to the quilted, insulated front and back panels, whilst the fabric is also wind and water resistant. Obviously for heavier rain I would recommend a completely waterproof rain jacket but for light showers it delivered sufficiently. Finally I loved the look of the jacket, the premium construction, and the sleeve length as always was ideal.
Sizes: S-2XL
Colors: 3
+ Fantastic heat retention
+ Not restricting in the slightest
- Could use adjustable cuffs or tapered sleeves
The Maverick Hybrid Stretch Jacket from G/FORE is undoubtedly one of the most versatile jackets tested this year. In testing it felt soft to touch and i found it to be very comfortable indeed when worn with a polo. The fit is athletic but not overly tight, although the sleeves could have benefitted from tapering or adjustable cuffs to prevent them from intruding on your hands when gripping the club.
Despite being wind and water repellent, golfers should still look to carry a rain jacket if they’re expecting inclement weather. The smart Silicone dotted logo on the back adds a nice modern twist to an otherwise really clean jacket.
Tops
Sizes: S-2XL
Colors: 4
+ Soft, warm and comfortable
+ On and off course use
- Would prefer a quarter zip
New to this years Autumn/Winter line from Peter Millar is the Fade Half Zip Top, which has become a fast favorite of mine. Fleeces may not be as popular as other performance fabrics these days but I loved the soft, warm feel of the fabric here, and it felt lightweight and sufficiently stretchy too. It is finished with a half zip and two pockets which really compliment the top well although the only slight negative I can think of is a quarter zip would be best.
But for me the main benefit to this top is its versatility. I have used this top everywhere and it works in most situations. There are four colors to choose from, all of which are understated and can be paired with other golf pants or shorts easily. A top performer indeed.
Sizes: S-XXXL
Colors: 1
+ Extremely comfortable and flexible
+ Versatile on and off the course
- Some may find it a little heavy
The Crew Clothing Sport Tech Panel Half Zip sweatshirt is made from 89% polyester and 11% elastane which provides great movement. In addition to the movement, there is also a nice structure to this mid-layer with a reassuring thickness that definitely keeps the cold at bay. We particularly liked the slightly weightier waistline which helped to stop the sweatshirt riding up annoyingly on our follow through.
The fit is slim to regular, not too figure-hugging but certainly not loose, which makes it a pretty versatile piece that would look just as good with a pair of jeans in the evening as it does on the course. The construction feels very high quality as you would expect from a company such as Crew. This half-zip mid-layer would make a nice addition to any wardrobe.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 2
+ Stylish look
+ Flexible
+ Warm
- Sizing isn’t accurate and comes quite small
A well designed, fashion forward mid layer, the Luke Deboss from J Lindeberg has a slick design which makes it a great option for off course. The sizing is immediately noticeable and requires a strong consideration to size up, because regular sizing makes for an extremely tight fit on the torso and arms, massively restricting movement for the golf swing. That being said when you get the right size there are design elements which really work such as the flexible inner arm mesh lining which gives a bit of stretch where needed.
Additionally the brushed inside provides a noticeable sense of warmth and comfort appropriate for a winter mid-layer.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 4
+ Stylish understated design
+ Very soft stretchy fabric
- Non-Elasticated cuffs means fit is hit and miss
Another high quality G/FORE garment is this quarter zip which sits at the understated end of the design spectrum from the brand. It features a subtle but eye-catching logo visible on the zipper when it is pulled up.
One immediate thing we noticed was the stretchiness of the fabric which moved very well indeed, and felt super lightweight too. And yet despite this lightness, it offered solid warmth and can be used year round. If there’s a criticism it would be the fact the sleeves are not elasticated at the end meaning the fits can be a little hit and miss depending on your arm length. There are four nice colors to choose from.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 2
+ Stylish, versatile design
+ Stretchy material allows for free swinging
- May come up short in the arms for some
Our final top in this section is the Mixed Media Heritage from Original Penguin, which proves warm garments don't need to be big and bulky. Despite being very lightweight, thin and stretchy the material does a great job of offering thermal qualities while not restricting your swing in any way. I also liked the collar which gave a touch more protection from the wind as well.
I should note the arms came up a little short, which is something you may also experience if you’re a tall golfer with long levers. That said, this mid layer is ideal for golfers looking to take away the chills from mild outings. The pattern on the shoulders and arms certainly adds some visual appeal and it comes in two colors as well.
Vests/Gilets
Sizes: S-2XL
Colors: 2
+ Warmth and flexible comfort
+ Understated, classic design
- More colors needed!
The Fuse Hybrid gilet from Peter Millar is the ideal garment to add a layer of warmth without feeling too hot. Made from a mixture of polyester and spandex, it stretches nicely, gives complete freedom of movement, feels soft and comfortable, and finally adds a touch of insulation to keep the core warm. This fabric is also water-resistant too.
Not to mention it also looks great and partners extremely well with hoodies and other mid-layers or jackets. I would love to see more colors because whilst the navy and cyan finishes look understated but premium, more colors would be great. I also really like the smaller details such as the subtle logos, lightweight feel and hand warmer pockets. I cannot recommend this vest enough.
Size: S-2XL
Colors: 2
+ Stylish understated design
+ Lightweight but offers a lot of warmth
- Will come up little long in the body for anyone under 6ft
Warm and lightweight, the Performer Gilet from G/FORE does a great job of keeping out the cold and keeping your core warm. It is made of high quality fabrics (which help justify the high price point) meaning it’s very soft to the touch both outside and also inside.
Much like the top further up in this guide, the design of this garment is understated which certainly enhances its versatility. The small rubberized logo on the chest and G/FORE on the nape of the neck look classy and on tone. The pockets offer a place to keep your hands warm and store things like tees and ball markers.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 2
+ Excellent thermal properties
+ Double zip for a flexible fit
- Arguably gets you too hot on mild days
This Lightweight Insulated model from Original Penguin is another worthy addition to this guide. Its ability to keep heat in is one of the best we’ve experienced and with its zipped front pockets, it’s practical too, providing a place to rest your hands comfortably and keep them warm while waiting to hit your putt. The gradient striped design looks great plus the padded design is very flattering, helped by the double zip if you need a little more room at the bottom. On milder days you might want something thinner but when the temperatures drop, this is a compelling option given how well it looks and performs.
Hoodies
Sizes: S-2XL
Colors: 5
+ Versatile and premium feel
+ Looks fantastic everywhere
- Warmer models out there
I have tested the Pine Performance hoodie a few times now as Peter Millar continues to develop the design and I am pleased to report the latest version is an outstanding garment. Thanks to the understated design, it really works on and off the golf course whilst I really liked the fitted hood rather than adjustable designs you get these days. Its slight elasticity meant it stayed in place and the fabric of the entire hoodie felt soft, comfortable, and breathable as well.
Admittedly there are warmer models in this guide but this model acts more as a mid layer, and pairs up well with other vests or jackets well for warmth. Don’t get me wrong, on some days it is warm enough, but on fresher mornings, it is the perfect partner to other garments. My final point is it does come with a premium price tag, but ultimately I think it is worth it.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 2
+ Stretchy material aids movement
+ Can be easily worn off the course
- Drawstrings can be distracting over the ball
Original Penguin is a brand many choose to wear on and off the course and with hoodies like this, it’s not hard to see why. But for serious players, this option doesn’t skimp on performance or practical features. The fabric itself has a substantial feel to it and yet it doesn't feel overbearing, nor does it feel restrictive during the golf swing.
The Kangaroo-style pocket provides a comfortable place for your hands or on-the-go storage while the hood can be adjusted to help keep it in place when the wind picks up. The drawstring can move around a bit when it’s gusty, but that was our only minor negative point on what has been a very positive experience.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 4
+ Extremely comfortable and soft material
+ Very versatile and could be worn away from the course
- Some may not love the tighter fit
Another high-quality garment from G/FORE that makes this list is the Brushed Back Tech Hoodie. Extremely soft and comfortable this hoodie is made from premium fabric and features a modern/athletic fit. While this may not be to everyone's taste it does make this golf hoodie very versatile giving it a smarter look that would look great paired with some shorts or jeans away from the course. Two side zippers open to form one larger pouch pocket, although there’s feeling this would work better as two separate pockets. The four neutral colors on offer stray slightly away from the bold colorways we often see from G/FORE but some of the fine details on this hoodie still add just a dash of color.
Polos
Sizes: XS-5XL
Colors: 10
+ Vast number of color options
+ Comfortable, lightweight fabric
- Fit was on the snug side
If you need a new polo shirt for golf then Lululemon’s Evolution option is well worth considering. The brand has used a technical fabric here that’s been designed to inhibit ‘the growth of odor-causing bacteria’. Basically, that means you should stay fresh throughout a day of golf. There are lots of colors to choose from which is great to see and we enjoyed the comfort on offer because it felt very soft as well.
In terms of the styling, there’s not much to it - the classic, simple look fits within the Lululemon range and means you can wear this with a range of different trousers or shorts. The large size we tested was on the snug side but that created a smart look that perfectly contrasts the comfortable feel.
Sizes: S-2XL
Colors: 2
+ Sophisticated finish
+ Premium construction
- Tailored fit not for all
Featuring a classically soft feel synonymous with their polos, Peter Millar have nailed absolutely every element of this Performance Mesh shirt. Clearly the brand has thought about every element, big and small here to create a polo that feels comfortable, breathable, premium and sophisticated.
The design then features subtle stylish elements such as the vintage-inspired collar, the mother-of-pearl buttons and a tailored fit. Admittedly that last element won’t suit all, but I loved it and I loved the performance from this polo. It looks great, feels soft and comfortable, stretched easily, and has wicking and odour-resistant properties. A complete golf polo shirt that looks great everywhere.
Sizes: S-2XL
Colors: 5
+ Athletic fit with 4-way stretch
+ 3 button design with spread
- Tailored fit not for all
There’s no doubt G/FORE are one of the industry leaders when it comes to golf apparel. The ability to add a modern twist to traditional apparel is something the brand excel at. Take this Melange polo as an example of this because it is one of our favorites this year and one of the best golf polo shirts on the market.
The spread color gives this polo a smart look and isn’t at all intrusive when it comes to throwing a sweater or quarter-zip on over the top. The rib gusset detailing under the arms provides some breathability and also assists with motion so you can swing with ultimate freedom. The silicone logo on the back adds a classy touch to an otherwise really well-rounded polo shirt.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 1
+ Lightweight, soft material
+ Enhanced stretch for comfort
- Head-turning print won’t suit all tastes
For those of you who want to stand out a bit this Original Penguin polo could be the model for you. Featuring Original Penguin’s mascot Pete, the shirt comes in a crisp blue finish whilst the shirt is noticeably soft and lightweight which really enhances the comfort you experience.
The moisture wicking properties also enhance this feature - at no point did we notice the effect of sweat building up while playing in this shirt on the course. The fit around the torso is spot on although the arms were ever so slightly baggy, which detracts a little from the look. The stretch on offer from this shirt is noticeably generous, which really boosts the playing experience.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 1
+ Stylish
+ Adaptable for different environments
+ Warm
- Heavy material not easy to play in
Another J Lindeberg garment worth adding into this list is the Tour Tech Print polo, which offers a unique style sure to grab people's attention. Adventurous in its design that offers a warped take on the JL logo, aesthetically it offers something unique whilst staying within the limits of an expected golf polo.
The heavy knit design makes it great for off the course, but is limiting in terms of playing golf. Weight wise the fabric does make it slightly heavier than other polos in this section, and it has a tight fit so some golfers may feel limited swinging the club somewhat, however other golfers will enjoy the fit and feel here.
Sizes: S-XXXL
Colors: 10
+ Simple, versatile appearance
+ Super thin, lightweight material
- Very fitted if you have skipped any gym sessions!
The Smart Golf Polo from Crew Clothing is a really solid and great value option for a wide range of golfers. Made with a polyester-elastane blend, during testing I thought it was one of the most flexible and lightweight polos I have tested of late. The weight coupled with the very smooth finish means that you barely know you are wearing it.
Something to note is that this is a very fitted polo so if you are self-conscious then it may be worth considering going up a size to allow some wiggle room. With ten color options and a very reasonable price, this is a good item to consider block buying as a base piece for numerous outfits.
Pants
Sizes: 28-46
Colors: 10
+ Premium model that performed well
+ Colors look great
- Pockets could have been bigger
A while ago I tested the Bonobos Performance Link pants and testament to the performance, they are still well worth buying. Available in ten subtle colors that will suit a wide range of outfits, these pants remain one of our absolute favorites, but why?
Well, the fabric feels lovely on the skin, it is very soft and comfortable, but also enables you to move well throughout your golf swing. This fabric also provides UV resistance, making these a great pant to wear if you're playing in hot conditions but also has moisture-wicking and quick drying properties if you do get caught in an unexpected shower.
Sizes: 28-46
Colors: 12
+ Incredibly comfortable
+ Lightweight, stretchy material
- Relaxed fit not for everyone
We have noticed a lot of people talking about the ABC Pants from Lululemon and after testing them out ourselves, we can see why. There are 12 colors to choose from but the first thing we noticed was how lightweight and stretchy the fabric is. If you are looking for a classic pair of cotton chinos, these probably aren’t for you but there’s no doubt they look very smart.
The major plus point from the technical fabric is how comfortable these pants are. The fit is relaxed without being baggy and that makes these ideal for long days on the golf course. Given the simple aesthetic, you could also easily wear these off course, which makes them an excellent value for money option.
Sizes: 30-40
Colors: 4
+ Comfortable and freedom of movement
+ Lightweight and breathable for year-round use
- 32” inseam won’t suit everyone
Not to be outdone by other brands in this guide, G/FORE's Tech Tour 4-way pants are some of the most fashionable and comfortable pants anywhere right now. The fabric and lightweight feel of them makes them easy to move in, and thanks to the moisture wicking fabric and breathability on offer from these trousers, they are perfect for use throughout the year in any temperature. While these trousers do offer a smart, traditional look, there are some hints of G/FORE’s 'out there' styling such as the scripted logos on the belt loops and two zippers at the rear, one of which is in pink. While there are four color options and multiple waist size options, the ability to only order a 32” inseam on these trousers will not suit everyone.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 3
+ Extremely comfortable
+ Adaptable waistband
- Leg sizing tricky to get right
A modern take on a classic style, J Lindeberg's Harris Wool pant offers a degree of on and off course style. With pleated tailoring and a more traditionally relaxed fit, put on top of an elasticated waist and moisture wicking material, these pants act as a perfect crossover between the old and new school, which ultimately maintaining comfort. It is worth saying that the sizing is slightly large in terms of length so we would recommend perhaps sizing down ever so slightly there, but these are still a great choice for the fashion conscious golfer. There are three colors to choose from.
Sizes: 30-40
Colors: 2
+ Stylish alternative to waterproof pants
+ Keeps winter chills out
- Not fully waterproof
These slim fitting thermal pants from Original Penguin are a compelling alternative for the style-conscious golfer that plays all year round. They look like any normal pair of golf pants but are actually made of a thick and stretchy thermal material that does an incredible job of keeping any chill at bay. On colder outings these allow you to go without an additional pair of pants but it must be said on milder days these do feel quite warm and breathability isn't what we hoped. As we mentioned though these are ideal for cold rounds because the soft inner lining adds warmth and feels comfortable against your skin. While they’re not technically fully waterproof, we wore them during some heavy showers on the course and didn’t get any water coming through.
Sizes: 30-44
Colors: 11
+ Lightweight and comfortable
+ Premium looks and colors
- Price might be only stumbling block
Without doubt my favorite pair of golf pants right now are the eb66 Performance Pants from Peter Millar. As you would expect from the brand, they offer premium performance which does mean they come with a premium price, but given my experience of testing them, they are definitely worth it.
Available in loads of colors, many of which allow you to wear them as much off the golf course, as on it, the eb66 pants are a five star design. The fabric is 100% polyester and feels comfortable against the skin, whilst the two-way stretch delivered when playing shots, moving around and getting into different stances on the course. They feel extremely well-made and the little details like the five pockets and inner stitching, elevating the pants further.
How we test golf apparel
We test golf apparel in the same way we test all golf equipment, by using products properly. In relation to designer clothing this means putting them to the test out on the golf course to see if the products actually work and if they achieve what they are designed to do. We would also wear the products off the golf course as well because versatility to use a garment anywhere is a great way to get value for money. The final point we wanted to mention here is no manufacturer can pay for a good review because our thorough testing team tells it how it is.
How to choose your golf apparel
There are several factors to consider when it comes to buying a golf apparel and here we have listed them.
Type
What we mean here is what type of golf apparel are you after? Clothing is a vague term so have a think about your golfing wardrobe and see where your gaps are. That way you can inform your buying intent more. Obviously it is worth noting the time of year because in the selections above we not only have included lightweight golf jackets and golf hoodies for colder weather, but also polo shirts and shorts for the summer months.
Material
Linking with the above point, knowing what you are after will help you decide what material to go for. The fleece models above will keep the cold at bay whilst ones with more spandex in them will help you move easier and won't restrict the golf swing in any way. Additionally we have found the models with cotton in them are often the best for wearing out and about as well, and they are very easy to wash.
Movement
One of the big things around golf clothing is freedom of movement and whether they can restrict or negatively impact the swing. From jackets to pants the apparel needs to move properly and not hinder your swing. As such, we would recommend trying on models and taking swings in them to see if you still offer the same range of movement.
Looks
This is an important factor to consider. Do you want to stand out or just have a more understated look? We think there is something for everyone above.
Versatility
Do you want to be able to use the clothing anywhere from the golf course to the pub to at home? This is an important factor if you want to get more for your money and this is where the designer brands really shine as well.
Budget
Finally be aware of your budget so you can find apparel that fits into it nicely. Importantly there are models above which come with premium, and value price points so there is something for everyone.
For more golf apparel buying advice, check out our guides on the best golf rain jackets, best golf rain pants, or best golf joggers.
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