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 2025 - Best Golf Jumpers
Sizes: S-2XL
Colors: 5
+ Premium look and versatility
+ Pairs well with layers
- Thicker sweaters on the marketSnippet:
We can all agree that Tiger Woods’ sweater game is unmatched and it is because of models like this 3D Merino Wool Crew from Sun Day Red. Designed to be a lighter model than the cashmere version, the brand uses a lighter merino wool for a lightweight feel, comfort and breathability, all of which I can agree with in my testing.
This garment really feels lovely and whilst there may be warmer models on the market and also in this guide, it does pair well with layers over the top so you can get ample warmth that way. It also works nicely as a thin layer during warmer rounds as well. Finally I should mention the 3D Knit construction because it minimizes the need for seams, aiding stretch and flexibility, whilst also limiting material waste as well. There are five cool colors to choose from.
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-XXL
Colors: 4
+ Very warm
+ High stretch fabric
- Extra warmth adds bulk
If you want to continue playing golf long into the winter, you will need to invest in some proper cold weather gear. This half-zip from Peter Millar fits that bill perfectly. First and foremost, it offers an impressive amount of warmth. It combines a soft fleece exterior with a plush fleece interior to provide a cosy, comfortable feel. There are also some water resistant shoulder panels that offer even more protection from the elements.
You should also notice how lightweight and stretchy the material is while you play. Whilst the fleece does make this jumper a little more bulky than some others, it wasn’t enough to prevent me from making a normal golf swing. It’s also warm enough that you shouldn’t need to add too many extra layers to feel comfortable in the cold.
Sizes: S-XL
Colors: 2
+ Comfortable fit
+ Kept the wind and light rain out
- Bold styling could limit appeal
This is a really comfortable, performance-focused mid layer that we’ve often gone back to when dressing for off-season rounds. The styling is pretty bold, which arguably limits appeal away from the golf course (contrary to what the name suggests) but if you don’t mind standing out from the crowd, it’s a great option.
The crew neck adds to the visual appeal while the banded cuffs and hem provide a comfortable fit. It did a very good job at keeping the wind at light showers at bay - to the point that water droplets wiped off leaving no trace behind.
Sizes: S-2XL
Colors: 6
+ Smart and versatile
+ Premium touches throughout
- Extra care needed with wool fabric
You may not have heard of Johnnie-O compared to other brands in this guide, but with sweaters like this Raynor Merino top, it is a brand well worth your consideration. It is made from a premium merino wool which delivers a smart and versatile look on and off the course, whilst also being comfortable on the skin. This wool fabric does require a bit more care to ensure longevity but the overall quality of the garment makes it worth it.
The premium detailing here is excellent, including the suede details, the rib cuffs and collar, and the subtle logo on the back looks good as well. The sweater also stretches nicely and hugs the body without being restrictive. Finally there are plenty of sophisticated colors to choose from and plenty of sizes as well.
Sizes: S- 3XL
Colors: 8
+ Lovely soft feel
+ Leather zip adds quality touch
- Not made specifically for golf
Whilst not a pullover designed solely for out and out golf performance, Mizzen+Main's KPI Quarter Zip should be in the conversation for the most versatile piece in this guide. I tested the Cornflower Heather colorway and absolutely adored it - it nailed the classy look without being too brash, instead delivering a slick look that was complimented by immense levels of comfort.
Eight colorways are available for you to choose from on a product that can easily be worn to work in the morning, to the golf course in the afternoon and to a fancy restaurant in the evening time with ease.
The fit is a roomy one which is enjoyable during the swing, but with no fitted sleeves it did leave the jumper a little loose around the wrist area. Fear not though, it's nothing a little roll up of the sleeves can't fix.
Sizes: S-3XL
Colors: 5
+ Premium quality feel both inside and out
+ Incredible temperature control in the coldest conditions
- Ever so slightly on the heavier side
When I tested various Oscar Jacobson clothing recently, this was my favorite item of the lot, as the looks, fit, premium feel and quality was just superb. In all honesty, I found it difficult to find a negative, such was the performance from the Rumsey Sweater.
Featuring a mix of different materials, the woolen exterior combines perfectly with stretchy lining, creating a sweater that doesn't restrict your movement in the swing. It has ribbed cuffs and hem, which only heightens the comfort aspect as they remain in place throughout the swing, while the thick construction is excellent in the coldest climates. Not only does it perform on the course, but the color options and smart fit means it's a viable option off it.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: Two
+ Extremely warm
+ Classic styling
- On the expensive side
G/FORE’s Merino Wool Windbreaker Pullover is a high quality piece that commands a high price tag. It is premium merino wool throughout and has an innovative layer inside but only in the front and back sections, which G FORE describes as making it like a gilet.
The body section essentially has two layers of wind defense while keeping the arms free with just the merino wool layer. It comes with a high quality quarter zip and two thinner zips that feed into the main pocket that is great for keeping your hands warm. The subtle styling means this windbreaker can work in all walks of life during cold conditions so you can get plenty of wear out of it. It has plenty of flexibility to it so is very easy to play golf in, too.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 3
+ Stylish, versatile design
+ Excellent warming qualities
- Comes out on the big side
With the Dante Insula, Galvin Green has truly reimagined the golf crew neck sweater with a focus on performance and off-course versatility. Part of the new Progression capsule within the Concept collection, it boasts an open hem, self sleeve cuffs and dropped shoulders for an eye-catching look and practical experience.
It keeps you notably warm while the soft, stretchy fabric ensures you can swing completely unrestricted. Coming in three colors, this jumper has a broad appeal and is sure to be a hit with golfers this off season and beyond.
Sizes: S-2XL
Colors: 2
+ Best quality quarter-zip I’ve ever worn
+ Beautifully soft and versatile to be worn any wear
- Could do with a few more color options
After trying The Marsay on for the first time, I then continued to wear it for the next three days - hopefully that gives you an indication of how soft and comfortable it is. The word that comes to mind when I think of this pullover is ‘classy’ - the super soft Zegna Baruffa Wool is complimented by a textured knit to give a top-quality look, one that is subtle but looks uber-premium.
Like the best options in this guide, The Marsay can be worn to any event, be that a tee time, a fancy dinner or even a smart casual event like a baptism or engagement party. It comes with a premium price tag, but backs that price tag up with a feel that I’ve never experienced from a pullover before - I highly recommend it if you're looking for a top-end sweater for the colder months!
Sizes: S-2XL
Colors: 5
+ Incredibly soft
+ Good stretch
- Not the best against cold winds
There isn’t much I don’t like about this quarter zip. Courtesy of the 72% Viscose/Rayon material, it’s one of the comfortable and softest pullovers I’ve ever worn. It delivers a stretchy feel that is perfect for golf and is lightweight to act as an extra layer all year round whilst also folding up neatly and small enough to fit in your bag if the temperature rises and you need to shed a layer.
I wore the JL Navy colorway and loved it, partly because I love navy, partly because I think the darker colors here look fantastic, but there are four total colorways for you to choose from. It does fit slightly smaller than most pullovers I’ve worn on the golf course, so I would advise going one size up.
Sizes: XS-XL
Colors: 4
+ Fairly unique piece
+ Very smart
- Quite warm/bulky
This full zip 100% Merino wool sweater is a lot different to most other golf garments. For starters, it’s not exactly lightweight, and there are certainly more breathable layers on the market. However, there’s no denying its premium quality and luxurious feel. According to the brand, this unisex garment is inspired by those sweaters found in Scotland and Scandinavia.
It’s fully lined and you might find yourself getting a little toasty on sunny autumn/winter days. It’s not that it’s uncomfortable to play golf in - you absolutely can - just that you’d want the conditions to be fairly cold. It’s actually perfect for wearing in the clubhouse and for when you want to be on the smarter side of smart/casual; in fact, you’re sure to wear this fashion piece a lot off the course.
Sizes: S-2XL
Colors: 2
+ Modern looks means it can be worn on and off the course
+ Plenty of freedom of movement
- Traditionalists may not like the relaxed aesthetic
Golf fashion is ever changing and, with the G-Style Crew 2.0, I found it to be a very relaxed and modern garment that can not just be worn on the course, but off it, as the round neck design and versatile look was perfect for those wanting to move away from the more traditional aesthetic.
To me, it wouldn't look out of place in sports like tennis or soccer, and you can even pair it with pants, shorts and jeans, such is the well thought out design. Obviously, some won't like this look, but if you're wanting a comfortable top that has plenty of freedom of movement, then the G-Style is a great option. I will add that it's perhaps not as suited to winter, but perfect for spring and autumn conditions.
Sizes: S-XXXL
Colors: 3
+ Impressive all-rounder
+ Off course appeal
+ No side pockets
The Arden is one of those autumn/winter layers that will get a lot of use; in fact, it’s more of a year-round piece, perfect for really cold conditions at the height of winter, as well as chilly spring days. There’s nothing too flashy about the design, although the small zip pocket on the upper right arm does give this garment a point of difference. It’s really more for show, with the brand’s logo also appearing. Crafted from soft, brushed jersey fleece it’s extremely comfortable to wear, and it scores top marks for smartness. You wouldn’t want/need to add another layer over the top - unless of course it’s raining - because it does generate a serious amount of heat. Some golfers might prefer to have side pockets for various accessories; others will enjoy the fuss-free design.
Sizes: S-3XL
Colors: 4
+ Ease of movement
+ Lightweight warmth
- Sleeves on the shortish side
The Stuburt Crane Crew Neck Pullover is excellent for wearing on the course. Made of 60% polyester, 36% cotton and 4% elastane, its elasticity allows for easy easy of movement throughout the swing and does not ride up when playing a shot. The soft fabric is comfortable against bare arms and is breathable thus providing suitable warmth without the golfer sweating up.
There are raised seams on each shoulder. The Stuburt logo on the left sleeve when combined with another one at the back of the neck does rather mark this item out as an item of sporting wear.
So this jumper maybe not suitable to wear in all settings. Not for the clubhouse dining room perhaps, for example, especially as the sleeves come up a tad short for those long in the arm.
Sizes: S-XXXL
Colors: 4
+ Good all-rounder
+ Smart range of colors
- Not fully waterproof
This half zip fleece jacket ticks a lot of boxes. Firstly, it provides just the right amount of warmth you need for a typical autumn/winter day. Some layers overdo it and can leave you feeling a bit uncomfortable. The Astbury fleece gets it just right, and it has the added bonus of being water resistant, more than capable of dealing with a bit of light rain.
The material, meanwhile, is super stretchy and allows you to play without feeling restricted in any way at all. Despite Ping clothing not being quite so well renowned for its popularity in terms of off course wear, at least compared to some newer brands, this is a garment that you’ll definitely find yourself wearing away from the fairways, especially in the colder months. The subtle Ping logos are also a nice touch.
Sizes: S-2XL
Colors: 12
+ Excellent value
+ Versatile
- There are more ‘technical’ sweaters availableSnippet:
The ProQuip Mistral Zip Neck Cotton sweater is an under-stated and simple bit of gear. While that probably sounds like damning with faint praise, there’s a lot to be said for a mid-layer that works on the golf course, but doesn’t look out of place as an everyday wardrobe staple. This is clear value and the price is at the value end of the spectrum in the first place.
As I said, it’s pretty simple - a quarter zip style, made from 55% polyester/45% cotton sweatshirt type material. The zip has some nice details - color contrast piping and a leather pull. The inside of the collar also has contrast colouring, the material is soft to the touch, offers decent warmth – especially under a jacket – and the fit is relaxed but doesn’t interfere with your game. It isn’t an especially technical garment, so doesn’t wick as well as other tops on the market.
Sizes: S- XXL
Colors: 3
+ Traditional style
+ Thin yet warm
- Some may want a more modern look
For those seeking a more traditional, throwback look, the Marshall Crewneck is a standout choice. Knit from 100% extra fine merino wool, it provides warmth without the weight or bulk.
In testing we enjoyed how the ribbed cuffs stayed in place to stop unwanted movement or distraction during the swing while the subtle V-neck stitch at the collar enhances the visual appeal. Perfect for those spring or autumn rounds, this classic fit jumper will undoubtedly add a touch of class to your wardrobe.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 3
+ Classic Callaway look.
+ For golfers who like to layer their clothing
- If you want a thicker product for colder weather
This is a very clearly Callaway product, with classic coloring and styling. This is a product built for layering, with it not being a bulky product at all, in actual fact it is very thin. The mixture of polyester and elastane means it is a product that is very flexible and easy to swing in.
The quarter zip means it is simple to take off and on if you are dealing with changeable weather. If you like a thin pullover as part of your layering and Callaway design, then you can’t go wrong with this product.
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.
