Best Golf Tops 2024
Looking for the best golf tops? Here we have taken a look at the options on the market and come up with a list of our favorites.
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Best Golf Tops
We all know how invaluable a good golf top can be out on the golf course, especially if you play in a climate of ever-changing weather conditions. We need a good layer with us when out on the golf course, to keep us warm, comfortable, and as a good protector against the wind and rain. For the fashion conscious amongst us, it has to look good too.
Fashion aside, a good golf top needs to be light and breathable because playing golf is hard enough without having to worry about a cumbersome piece of clothing that restricts the swing. Of course the word 'top' implies anything to be worn on the top half of the body, however we have taken it to mean garments to be worn over polo shirts and under specifically designed waterproofs. So bearing that in mind, below we have taken a look at some of our favorite golf tops.
Alternatively if you are looking for something else in the golf apparel sector, take a look at some of our other buyers guides too - such as the best golf rain jackets, best golf polos or the best golf pants.
Best Golf Tops
Why you can trust Golf Monthly
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 3
+ Snug, flattering fit
+ Stylish print design
- Not the warmest mid layer
Worn by several Nike Tour staff players, this top has been designed for milder days and has become our go-to for all but the coldest rounds. It does an excellent job of taking the edge of those chilly early mornings yet we didn't overheat when the temperature rose as the day went on.
Clearly a lot of thought has gone into the fit of this garment - it felt snug, which meant it looked the part - but the flexibility of the fabric ensured we could swing completely unrestricted. It may divide opinion, but we really liked the print design on the front which differentiated it from other tops, and there are three colors to choose from.
Sizes: XS- XXL
Colors: 3 (Salmon, Ivory, Preloved Ink)
+ Versatile on and off course
+ Made from 100% recycled materials
- Lack of color options
This versatile, comfortable mid layer has a huge amount of versatility on and off the golf course. A textured double-knit fabric has a soft feel while also letting your body move, bend and twist with ease. It’s also very effective and keeps you warm on chilly mornings and evenings.
The quarter zip fitting comes with a stand up collar, which we loved the look of and the cuffs and hem around the sleeves and the bottom of the garment keep everything out of the way when you’re playing. This midlayer is made from 100% recycled fabrics, meaning you’re impacting less on waste and relying less on the finite course that goes into making apparel.
Sizes: S-2XL
Colors: 3 (Grey Cliff, Navy, Storm)
+ Sits perfectly over a polo
+ Extremely light
- Provides little in the way of warmth
Next up we have the Tech mid-layer from FootJoy – a lightweight mid layer that can be put on and stored away in the bag with the minimum of fuss. It’s the perfect item of clothing to wear when the sun moves behind the clouds, or for those early morning tee times. It is extremely lightweight which many will enjoy, however this does mean it will need to be paired with more layers on colder days.
However, it’s ideal when you’re just starting to feel a bit of a chill. The fact that it’s so light and stretchy means you can also forget that you have it on – it doesn’t restrict your swing in the slightest. The design may not set the world alight, but it is simple, good performance.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 4 (Light Heather Grey, Snow, Twilight, Onyx)
+ Stylish understated design
+ Very Soft stretchy fabric
- Non-Elasticated cuffs means fit is hit and miss
This super soft G/FORE quarter zip is very much at the understated end of what the brand produces with no bold prints and just a subtle but eye-catching logo visible on the zipper when it is pulled up.
The material is very stretchy so will not restrict your swing in any way and despite being super lightweight it offers good levels of warmth meaning it can be worn year round as part of a layered outfit - it works especially well with the Performer Nylon Gilet. 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 and plenty of sizes.
Sizes: S-XXXL
Colors: 3 (Navy/Coronet Blue, Ceramic/Navy, White/Pearl Grey)
+ Supremely comfortable
+ Held up well in breezy conditions, warmth-wise
- Aesthetically, it will not be for everyone
Ping’s Keon fleece is a real leader when it comes to comfort, balancing warmth and flexibility out on the course. From the high collar down to the waist, it hugs arms and chest nicely without being too intrusive. I found the bottom rode up quite regularly and needed to be pulled down, though - a very minor design element that could be improved.
From an aesthetic standpoint, the retro block design may polarize opinion - although, personally, I am a huge fan. The hemmed cuffs and waist tied the top together and maintained the sleek design, too. Made from 98% recycled material and also containing water-resistant properties in case you are caught in a summer shower, there is plenty to like in relation to this Ping Keon fleece.
Sizes: XS-4XL
Colors: 2
+ Surprisingly warm
+ Totally noninvasive
- No hood
The first top to mention is the Tour Essential Jacket from Nike. The first thing we noticed was how surprisingly warm it was despite the thin and lightweight material construction. For example in testing it dealt with the wind nicely. Another huge plus point was the lack of restriction during the swing, thanks to the slightly stretchy material.
Admittedly the large pockets will divide opinion, and many will think the lack of hood is a dealbreaker, but for us the top is still a high-quality jacket which is also excellent value for money. That being said more colors are needed!
Sizes: XS-2XL
Colors: 4
+ Classic looking style
+ The ideal mid-layer
- Touch tight making sizing important
We have been big fans of adidas golf apparel for a while now and this continues with this quarter-zip. Built with sustainability at its core, this top looks fantastic just about anywhere with the four simplistic colors aiding that aesthetic.
In testing it became apparent it works not just on those warmer days, but also on those slightly colder days because it can easily paired with larger garments or rain jackets. It does fit slightly tight despite the stretch, but overall it looks great, feels good on the skin and has enough sizes and colors to keep a lot of people happy.
Sizes: S-2XL
Colors: 2
+ Understated but stylish design
+ Moisture wicking
- No pockets
Made with added stretch fabric for maximum mobility, this hooded quarter zip mid layer from G/FORE is an ideal garment to wear under a jacket or gilet in the winter, while also providing an excellent option over a polo for those cooler evenings or autumn days when you need something light to keep out the chill. We were impressed with the comfort factor and the stretch qualities, while the moisture wicking properties make this an ideal item to have in your golf bag regardless of the time of year. The lack of pockets is a slight drawback but not an issue when paired with the excellent G/FORE Repeller Gilet.
Sizes: XS - XXL
Colors: 2
+ Plenty of stretch
+ Minimalist design is very smart
- Limited colors
Lyle & Scott combine a merino wool blend with a synthetic material here to create a very smart and stylish top that looks great in two different colors. Out on the course the design element we liked the most was the stretch specifically around the shoulders and back, which allowed for plenty of freedom of movement.
The sleeves were slightly baggy which some may like, whilst 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.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 4
+ Eye-catching look
+ Nice and warm
- Loose-fitting wrist cuffs
Callaway has really got the aesthetic right on this Quarter Zip Fleece top. The textured fabric is different and looks good especially with the navy accents on the oatmeal color we tested, although there are three other colors to choose from.
A big plus is that it's comfortably warm without being too warm – so plenty of days when you could wear it. The loose-fitting cuffs might not suit those with shorter arms, and we did pick up a couple of pulled threads on visits to the woods and bushes, but that may have been more down to carelessness on our part.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 6
+ Four-way stretch
+ Water repellent
- Can run a touch loose
The Under Armour Storm Midlayer Half is one of the most versatile of its kind. The brushed fabric provides great warmth on those colder days, meaning you don’t have to worry about feeling restricted in too many layers. The zip allows for easy removal if you get too warm and the four-way stretch allows for the golfer to move athletically when on the course.
This midlayer won’t look out of place off the course and doubled up well as a gym sweater for myself. There are multiple color options, allowing you to choose either a bold or classic colorway. Storm technology repels water while also remaining extremely breathable even in warmer weather.
Sizes: S-XXXL
Colors: 4
+ Impressive warmth
+ Soft and stretchy material aids movement and comfort
+ Stylish, modern design
- Look of the back pads won’t please all
Galvin Green is a premium brand for golf apparel and the Durante is no exception. Ideal for those colder morning tee times, the Insula fabric traps warmth from the body in an ideal way, without hindering breathability either.
Pads on the back and shoulders help with this while also providing some extra protection for those that like to carry their bag. The fit is pretty snug, but the movement in the material means you can swing unrestricted. We also think you get a lot for your money here given how stylish and versatile this mid layer is.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 2
+ Incredibly warm and soft
+ Excellent wind protection
- Not fully waterproof, but can withstand a light shower
If you're after a warm, premium golf windbreaker it's hard to look past this offering from Puma. The Cloudspun fabric gives added weight and warmth to the jacket, while the Primaloft Quilting retains the heat and provides some good protection from the wind.
These two technologies work fantastically together and it kept us at very comfortable temperature throughout our testing. We also really liked the drawstring at the waist which can be adjusted very easily, and we always like a jacket to come with good pockets.
Read our full Puma Cloudspun WRMLBL Jacket review
Sizes: S-3XL
Colors: 5
+ Extremely comfortable
+ Versatility to wear anywhere
- Runs slightly long on length
Worn by Jon Rahm, the TravisMathew clothing line performs very well indeed. One of our favorite pieces it this Cloud top, which has a modern fit and acts as a stylish option for a cool day on the course. It is one of the softest and most comfortable quarter zips anywhere thanks to the extremely soft fleece fabric that remains extremely breathable.
Despite the outstanding warmth it provides, this top is not heavy at all, in fact it is fairly light which is a huge plus. Additionally we are fans in particular of the enclosed zip, simple logo detailing and the colors it comes in.
Sizes: S-2XL
Colors: 3
+ Soft and wearable anywhere
+ Tasteful and premium styling
- Cut lines won’t be to everyone’s taste
If you’re looking for a stylish, premium and refined second layer, it’s hard to look past the Oscar Jacobson Lockhart Mid Layer. It’s an elegant garment and one that wouldn’t look out of place off the golf course, which is a real indicator of quality and versatility. Made from almost 50 per cent cotton, it feels the part as well.
The quarter zip is waterproof, too, and the fabric is both moisture wicking and breathable. As such, it can be worn all year round, but is most at home on a crisp autumn or spring day or a balmy summer afternoon. The cut line on the chest looks a little peculiar, but it’s a minor criticism.
Sizes: S-2XL
Colors: 3
+ Lightweight but offers good protection from the elements
+ Exceptionally comfortable
- Not fully waterproof
This is an update to the Hyperlight Merge jacket that we gave an Editor's Choice award to and a refreshed design, new colors and a zippered chest pocket make a great product even better. The jacket is made from a premium performance fabric and it offers superb comfort and lightweight warmth. It’s wind and water-resistant and although you might need to pull on a fully waterproof jacket when the heavens really open.
As with the previous version, the Elite’s sleeve length was perfect - no annoying bunching up of material when standing over a shot.
Sizes: S-2XL
Colors: 1
+ Versatile to be used anywhere
+ Excellent all round performer
- Not fully waterproof
To put it simply, I love this wind jacket because it makes transitioning from the course to just about anywhere else seamless. Admittedly it isn’t fully waterproof, but having tested it in different conditions, it does deal with light showers and wind very well. The stretchy double layer fabrication provides some solid protection and the adjustment features, and hood section, are easy to adjust. I really like the color blocked look to it although some more colors are needed. As I briefly mentioned, its versatility is probably its biggest plus point whilst it feels extremely well made too. Finally it feels lightweight and can be worn over sweaters or other golf tops easily without restricting your movement.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 1
+ Modern, contemporary look
+ Thin, lightweight material
- Not overly warm
Macade Golf are producing some really cool crossover fashion pieces and the Slate TX Air Mock Neck sweater is certainly one of them. The sweater is extremely thin and lightweight which is ideal for those autumn days where one layer is not quite enough but a thicker sweater might be too much.
Because of how thin it is, coupled with the extreme stretchiness, it provides great freedom of movement throughout the swing. The retro blocks on the shoulders look super cool and we loved the unusual centered logo on the chest. The fit is certainly athletic, it sits very close to the body, but as it is so stretchy your normal size will probably work just fine.
How we test golf tops
We test golf apparel in the same way we test all golf equipment, by using products properly. In relation to tops this means putting them to the test out on the golf course to see if the design is well thought out, if the garment interferes with the swing in any way, and simply if the top is actually usable. We would also wear the tops 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.
What to consider when buying a golf top
There are several factors to consider when it comes to buying a golf top and here we have listed them.
Type - What we mean here is what type of golf top are you after? It is a vague term that means covering the top half of the body and as such we have listed jackets, hoodies, vests and jumpers in this guide. Each type of top offers something a little bit different in terms of performance, feel and look so before going any further down the buying road, have a think about this.
Additionally we also mean in relation to when you want to wear the top because some models above will be better for the summer, some will be better for the winter so have a think about when you will wear the top and what you want it to do.
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 tops is freedom of movement and whether they can restrict or negatively impact the swing. Many don't like hoodies because the hood flies around during the swing, and others think vests constrict the arms a touch. The hood flying around is a common point made by people. 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 top 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.
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 the best golf clothing?
There is no doubt that there are countless brands out there that make high-quality golf clothing and when it comes to the best this can relate to big brands like adidas, Nike, Puma and Under Armour, as well as smaller ones like TravisMathew and Oscar Jacobson. What should be acknowledged is different clothing does different things so depending on when and where you are using the clothing, the best models will help deal with whatever you are facing. For example if you are faced with bad weather, the best waterproofs will help you on the course.
We hope you enjoyed this guide on the best golf tops and for more golf apparel take a look at our guides on the best sweaters, hoodies and vests for the golf course as well.
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Sam is Golf Monthly's E-commerce Editor which mean's he oversees everything E-com related on the site.
This takes the form of creating and updating Buying Guides, reviews, and finding bargain prices for deals content.
Working with golf gear and equipment over the last six years, Sam has quickly built outstanding knowledge and expertise on golf products ranging from drivers, to balls, to shoes.
He combines this knowledge with a passion for helping golfers get the best gear for them, and as such Sam manages a team of writers that look to deliver the most accurate and informative reviews and buying advice. This is so the reader can find exactly what they are looking for, at a good price.
Additionally Sam oversees Golf Monthly voucher/coupon content which seeks to find you the best offers and promotions from well-known brands like Callaway, TaylorMade and many more.
Unfortunately, Sam is not a member of any club at the moment but regularly gets out on the golf course to keep up the facade of having a single-figure handicap.
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