Golf is an outdoor activity and as a result a good sweater is an absolute must have. We all need something to slip over our golf polo to keep us warm when needed and whether it’s a 1/4 or 1/2 zip, lambswool or merino, short sleeved or long, it’s an essential piece of clothing that you’re guaranteed to get regular use from for a few years.
So what makes a good golf garment, especially for those winter rounds? Well many garments these days are constructed with modern and technologically advanced fabrics to make sure they are stretchy, warm, water repellent, durable and also look great. Most brands design golf sweaters or mid-layers that fit into all of these areas so to narrow down your choice, below we have highlighted some of the best golf sweaters currently on the market. If you need more golf gear garments then be sure to have a read of our guides on the best golf tops and best golf windbreaker.
Best Golf Sweaters - Best Golf Jumpers
Sizes: S-XXXL
Colors: 4
+ Soft, warm and comfortable for those colder days
+ Looks incredible both on and off course
- A wider range of colors would make this item more versatile
After receiving a sample of this Crew Jumper from Under Armour, I immediately knew it was the top for me. It fits amazingly well, it looks great both on and off the course, and the super-soft stretchable material provides warmth and comfort. Additionally this fabric helps wick sweat away nicely when the heat ramps up and the pressure kicks in, and I did notice in testing how fast the fabric dried.
The stretchy material means you don’t have to compromise on mobility in your golf swing, allowing you to play your best golf and look great doing it. This is a must-have item for any style-conscious golfer.
Sizes: S-2XL
Colors: 4
+ Soft, warm and comfortable
+ Versatile design for on and off course use
- Would prefer a quarter zip
This may have a half-zip design but the fleece construction makes this Peter Millar top a worthy inclusion in this best golf sweaters guide. Fleeces have taken a bit of a step back compared to performance fabrics of late but this model feels brilliantly soft and warm, whilst I felt it was lightweight and stretchy as well. I also really liked the two zippered pockets too.
But for me the main benefit to this top is its versatility. I have literally used it everywhere both out on the golf course and off it too because it works in a variety of social 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-XXL
Colors: 5
+ Performance fit
+ Can match with countless other outfits and off course
- Somewhat plain styling
This versatile crewneck jumper is one of our favorites both on and off the golf course. It’s constructed from what the brand called a resilient yet soft fabric, and we’d definitely agree. It’s solid enough that we can tell it will look fresh for a long time, but is also premium and soft enough to be comfortable. The cuffed wrist means this jumper also stays well out of the way as you swing the club.
Although the styling is somewhat plain compared to others we’ve tested, we think this is to its benefit as it can become a staple to your wardrobe that matches with multiple other golf trousers and shoes too. In the grand scheme of golf apparel, this is extremely well priced too considering the quality and versatility of this piece.
Sizes: S-XXXL
Colors: 1
+ Extremely comfortable and flexible
+ Versatile on and off the course
- Some may find it a little heavy
This Crew Clothing Sport Tech sweatshirt is made from a mixture of polyester and elastane which provided great movement in my testing. Additionally there was a reassuring thickness that definitely keeps the cold at bay. I 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: 4
+ Sporty looks
+ Provides decent warmth
+ Stretchy qualities
- Not waterproof/water repellent
Next up we have the Hex Fleece from Callaway. As already mentioned, fleece material isn't used as much as performance fabrics these days because they can be thick and bulky but this model isn't. This sweater manages to keep you warm without being excessively thick, and the material is really stretchy. An adjustable toggle hem also makes it possible for you to find your perfect fit.
It gets its name from the hex textured outer (lots of mini hexagons). Together with the embroidered Tour logo on the right sleeve, it gives this garment a very smart and sporty look. This is the ideal top to wear in colder conditions, over a polo and/or base layer. It won’t protect you from the rain, but it’s sure to get a lot of use regardless.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 4
+ Good variety in color options
+ A versatile and warming mid-layer
+ Flexible fabric
- Not the most premium materials
The Sherwood Fleece is a worthy addition to this guide thanks to the well-constructed design that can be used as a final layer in spring/early autumn and on summer evenings and as a second of three or four in autumn or winter. Indeed this flexibility, and the flexibility of the fabric, really elevates the design.
It serves the dual role of keeping you warm but also wicking moisture away, thanks to Drycool technology, which transports perspiration from your body to the outer layer of the garment so it can evaporate. There are also four color options to choose from, all of which look good.
Sizes: S-2XL
Colors: 3
+ Premium look and fit
+ Warm fleece lining
- Not overly versatile
The FootJoy Space Dye Thermal Chill-Out is one of the most stylish and well fitting pieces of apparel I have tested this year. The mid-layer fit is not overly athletic, but still slim around the arms with a little more room around the shoulders and back.
The heathered grey colorway adds a modern touch to an otherwise traditional looking half-zip. The fleece lining is exceptionally comfortable and warm. Even on the coldest days on the course, you won’t need much more than this midlayer on top of your polo shirt. There are definitely more versatile mid layers on the market but this premium and classic looking sweater will be hard to beat for the golfing purist.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 2
+ Very on-trend retro design
+ Beautifully made piece
+ The fit is excellent
- Like much of the Malbon range, it won’t be to all tastes
I absolutely love the Malbon Golf range and the Yukon fleece is the latest piece that will be taking its place as a staple in my wardrobe. Made from 100% cotton, this sweater oozes retro fashion with the unusually combined crewneck and collar and the Malbon branding looks great on the chest, sleeve, and back.
Fashionistas out there will love the look on offer here, and this is a piece that will look as cool on and off the course. The fit is perfect for me, with a little room around the waist and arms without being baggy in any way and the waistband sits at the perfect height. Sure the look of it will divide opinion, but if you like the look of it, I can definitely vouch for the performance as well.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 1
+ Eye-catching design
+ Really high-quality construction
- A little short in the body
As soon as you pull this crewneck on you are stuck by the quality of the fabric and how well the garment has been constructed. Although there isn’t much stretch to it, the fit is generous enough to provide good freedom of movement throughout the swing, and the eye-catching floral pattern will certainly draw some attention, at least in my experience. The drawstring at the waist provides some genuine adjustability and allows you to customize the fit to your liking.
The Macade branding is present, but subtle which I really enjoyed, and makes it a versatile piece that can be worn just as easily off-course as on. The super smooth polyester/spandex combination made for a very quiet, non-intrusive swing experience, and the bold pattern can be paired with a number of colors to build multiple looks.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 5
+ Soft, comfortable fabric
+ Useful kangaroo pocket
- Boxier fit
This was the first time we’d tested B. Draddy apparel and we were suitably impressed with the quality of materials and design of this relatively new brand. The fabric is a mixture of French Terry knit and Peruvian Prima Cotton, providing the kind of stretch and softness you’d expect from a premium garment. The kangaroo pocket on the front has been sewn into the garment rather than on top of it - which is somewhat unique as it’s rare to see kangaroo pockets on crewneck styles like this.
The fit isn’t as ‘performance’ as other mid-layers on the market but that likely adds to this stylish crewneck’s versatility on and off the golf course. The Russ is available in five colors, some understated and others brighter and bolder so you have a good variety to choose from.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 2
+ Looks fantastic
+ Lightweight and comfortable
- Styling won’t suit everyone
I’ve recently tried Penguin apparel for the first time and I have to say I’ve been really impressed with the styling, quality and functionality. The Martini Print Polo is my favorite ever golf polo shirt and the Heritage Color Block Sweater now sits right at the top of my jumper list, too. First and foremost, it’s so stylish and elegant. The main black section gives way to a blue band in the upper chest and I think it looks great.
The sweater fits perfectly – it hugs the torso and chest without feeling too tight, and there’s no material flapping around the belt. The fabric is soft and supple and works beautifully in conjunction with your golf swing. I’d highly recommend the Heritage Color Block Sweater.
Sizes: XS - XXL
Colors: 2
+ Plenty of stretch across back and shoulders
+ Minimalist design is very smart
- Limited colors
The Overlay 1/4 Zip combines Lyle & Scott's Merino wool blend for the body and synthetic material panelling for the chest and shoulders to create a really smart and stylish piece. In testing, the main stand-out was the stretch, specifically around the shoulders and back, which allowed for plenty of freedom of movement.
For me, personally, I felt the sleeves were slightly baggy but, when pushed up the forearm, they did seem to keep in place throughout. What's more, the 1/4 Zip design meant that the temperature and breathability was exceptional, with the overall look suggesting it could be worn both on and off the course.
How we test golf jumpers
We test golf sweaters in the same manner as we do all other pieces of golf apparel and equipment - comprehensively. In relation to sweaters, we put them to the test out on the golf course to see if the design works as it should when having to play in different conditions and play different shots. This is a good way of seeing if a model interferes with the swing at any point too. We would then try and use the sweater off the course as well to see if they are versatile enough to be worn anywhere.
It is worth saying that the entire Golf Monthly team are regular golfers and we utilize the entire team for apparel testing because of the sheer breadth of brands on the market currently. Each of the team is able to efficiently test garments thoroughly and then articulate the performance with clear insight and honesty.
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.
What to consider when buying a sweater
What are some of the things to consider when buying a golf sweater? Let's take a look.
Type
What we mean here is what type of golf sweater are you after? Do you want a thick sweater to help you deal with the colder outings on the golf course, or want a thin mid-layer with stretchy properties? Knowing what you want the garment to do is important so have a think about this to help narrow your search.
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 sweaters is freedom of movement and whether they can restrict or negatively impact the swing. Ultimately this comes down to making sure you get the right size because you don't want something that is too baggy which could catch your hands during the swing, and you don't want something too tight either because that will restrict the 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
This is another important thing to consider. Do you want to use the sweater just on the golf course, or be able to use it anywhere? Many of the models above can do both which is a good way of getting more for your money.
Budget
Finally be aware of your budget so you can find a top that fits into it nicely. Importantly there are models above which come with premium, and value price points so there is something for everyone.
FAQs
What is a golf jumper?
A golf jumper is a garment of clothing that is usually worn over the top of a golf polo shirt, and it is designed to offer warmth out on the golf course. Around the world these garments are called slightly different things, for example in the United States a golf jumper would probably be called a golf sweater.
We hope you enjoyed this guide to the best golf sweaters. For more buying advice, check out the Golf Monthly website for more advice on things like the best golf hoodies, best golf vests and best golf base layers.
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