Best Golf Vests 2024
Our look at the best golf vests or bodywarmers you can buy this year
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Best Golf Vests
For some golfers, a padded mid layer can feel bulky and cumbersome to swing in, so a vest provides a very good alternative. Whether you call them vests, gilets, body warmers or gaiters, they are one of the best golf tops you can go for because they free the arms, and provide the appropriate amount of warmth on milder days when a normal golf jumper might be too much.
There are a range of styles on offer, with some being thick and padded for extra warmth, while others are lighter and thinner to just take the edge off that winter chill. Think about what you would need the most and let that influence the type of golf vest you buy. Additionally there are lots of different designs out there as well with most brands looking to offer something that differentiates them from the competition.
We're confident you'll find what you're looking for in our showcase of the best golf vests below. Additionally, be sure to have a look at some of our other guides too if you want garments to keep you sheltered and warm - such as the best golf sweaters or best golf waterproofs.
Best Golf Vests - Best Golf Gilets
Why you can trust Golf Monthly
Size: S-2XL
Colors: 1
+ Provides superb warmth
+ Internal zipped pocket
- Only one color option
Staying warm on the course during the winter months without having to throw multiple layers on can be tricky, but the Storm Session golf vest allows you to do just that. This cleverly designed vest retains heat exceptionally well thanks to strategically placed synthetic insulation, without the bulk you would expect from a puffer-style vest. While it is water repellent, it is not waterproof and so you would need to look at some of the best rain jackets if you brave playing regardless of the weather.
Two outer pockets are complemented by an internal chest pocket, which is ideal for easy access to your phone or scorecard. There really isn’t much negative to say about the Storm Session golf vest, other than that it is only available in one color and it would be great to see more!
Size: S-3XL
Colors: 3
+ Lightweight
+ Versatile design
- High collar design can distract during the swing
For golfers that want to swing completely unrestricted, the Lathan vest is an impressive option. Its thin material means you won’t overheat, but you get wind and water repellent protection should you get caught in a passing shower. The white zip and subtle Galvin Green logo on the chest really add to the style while the zipped, mesh-lined pocket and elasticated waist mean it’s also practical and comfortable.
The collar is arguably a little on the tall side at the front but the material is soft enough to limit distractions when standing over a crucial putt. In truth, this has become our go-to garment to sit on top of a polo shirt because of the protection and playability it provides. Is it the perfect golf gilet? It’s as close as we’ve experienced to date.
Sizes: S-3XL
Colors: 4
+ Versatility
+ Added warmth
- Lacking a bit of style
Vests/gilets are a versatile option and come into their own in changeable weather conditions. You’re not going to get any protection from the rain with this piece, but it’s number one objective is to keep your core warm – and in that regard it does the job very well. If you don’t like having to wear sleeves when the temperature drops a little, this half-zip is easy to pull on quickly and store away in the bag without taking up valuable space. The color combinations work well, although you might say the style itself is very safe. Sometimes safe is good, however, and for what it lacks in style, it more than makes up for with its versatility. It’s extremely comfortable to wear and goes nicely with most other FootJoy pieces.
Size: S-XL
Colors: 2
+ Provides plenty of warmth
+ Comfortable to wear over other clothes
- Only the front is water resistant
The Frost Quilted Gilet is a great option for those that get cold but want freedom with their arms. It features Primaloft filling in the front, and then in the back it is a CLOUDSPUN panel. These panels allow you to retain your body heat close to the body keeping it at the optimum temperature without overheating. With a full zip and comfortable fit, it allows for unrestricted movement. It is water resistant allowing you to survive light downpours should you get caught out. It has zip pockets should you need to keep valuables in them and the pockets are pretty warm should it be a colder round of golf. We found it to be warm even on a colder day but never overheated, it was comfortable to wear with only a polo and also with a midlayer.
Size: XS-2XL
Colors: 3
+ Outstanding warmth
+ Easy to swing in
- Perhaps a little bulky
If you want a vest to offer warmth and comfort you will find it hard to get a better option than this Frostguard model from adidas. With recycled materials used throughout the entire vest, the star of the show is the fleece lining though because it is soft and feels lovely.
There is enough stretch in the fabric to make it very easy to swing in, and I love the fact there is a durable water repellent coating for added weather protection from light rain. It is a reasonably bulky vest but you get more protection as a result so in the winter months that is vital. Finally the versatile style transitions easily to your post-round activities and we think this gilet looks as good off the course as it does on it.
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
This G/Fore Performer Gilet is an excellent garment. Warm and lightweight it does a great job of keeping out the cold and keeping your core warm. The Gilet 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.
This gilet is very much at the understated end of what G/Fore produces with no bold prints and just a small rubberized logo on the chest and G/FORE on the nape of the neck. Both are tone on tone which is very classy. The pockets offer a place to keep your hands warm and store things like tees and ball markers.
Sizes: S-4XL
Colors: 3
+ Stylish design
+ Excellent fit and lightweight
- Color options won't suit all
The Nike Therma-FIT Victory Gilet is a comfortable and warming mid-layer that we felt could be worn just with a t-shirt or with a jumper underneath. It is made of a stretchy, lightweight material that expands with your body’s movements and we were impressed with how much mobility it offered. Unlike many of the best golf jackets, we enjoyed playing with our arms free in this vest, as it enabled us to twist and reach far back in our back swing.
On the shoulders, Nike has cleverly added a nylon layer of material which will help keep your shoulders dry if it starts to rain on the course. The gilet is also very versatile and would work well also as a general sports gilet too.
Size: S-2XL
Colors: 3
+ Great fit over a polo shirt or jumper
+ Two front pockets are handy during round
- Could maybe have been more bold with design
This vest is a great addition to your spring/summer golf wardrobe, as it gives you the flexibility to add that extra layer when needed while still having the breathability and freedom you want. The classic design looks great with a polo shirt, and even compliments a bolder design underneath – if that is your thing.
Two pockets at the front are great for comfort and for holding your essentials, like golf gloves, tees or ball markers. The garment is made of high quality materials, and folds easily away in your golf bag making it a no-brainer selection for those early evening summer rounds.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 4
+ Offers a lot of warmth
+ Two way zip allows more freedom in the swing
- Limited choice of colors
This versatile gilet is a genuine on and off course garment. It’s made with loose fill channel tube insulation that delivers what Peter Millar claims - warmth without weight. The gilet is water-resistant and windproof and features two decent sized side-zip pockets and a two-way zip front closure - a feature as undoing a little of the bottom zip can help give you a little more freedom in the swing.
One thing to highlight is that the fit is snug. For example if you are a medium in Classic Fit Peter Millar you may need to go up to a size large to make it comfortable and allow you to wear a polo and a mid layer underneath.
Size: S-3XL
Colors: 3
+ Comfortable
+ Scores well on a warmth-for-weight basis
- Flap over hip pocket zip can get caught in zip
The Starling Padded Gilet keeps your torso warm yet allows you to swing a club freely. It provides a good amount of warmth considering the gilet’s thinness and is comfortable to wear and swing a club in whether worn only a shirt or over a mid layer as well. Unlike a previous versions by Stuburt, this has armhole sizes which will not ever impede ease of movement yet are also small enough for warmth. There are two waterproof zipped hip pockets of a depth easily able to accommodate a course planner or scorecard. However the flap which covers the zip can easily get caught in the zip.
Size: S-5XL
Colors: 1
+ Warm and stretchy material
+ Suitable for off course wear
- Branding on chest spoils classy look
The Ardfin Softshell provides warmth and freedom of movement and so is perfectly suited to spring and summer days when the weather is changeable. The stretchable three-layer fabric is both breathable and water repellent, thus proving a reliable and versatile bit of kit when the weather is not playing ball. The fit is snug and it offers two front pockets with zippers, which are good for storing tees and scorecards and can also offer the hands a bit of warmth if the wind is up. The style is understated, although the branding on the chest might not be to everyone’s taste. Overall, this vest offers a good option if you’re looking for a bit of extra warmth on a cool day but still want the freedom to swing a club unimpeded by an extra layer.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 3
+ Flattering fit
+ Snug without being restricting
- Limited range of colors
Our first reaction on putting on this gilet was just how comfortable and snug it feels. And while the obvious side-effect of this would tend to be some restriction in movement, especially during the swing, this is certainly not the case here. It takes full advantage of Mizuno’s Breath Thermo technology, also used in their running apparel, to keep you warm but not sweaty. According to Mizuno, this turns your perspiration into body warming heat, ideal for golf in the winter or a cool wind. The downy interior traps air for additional warmth, and the whole thing is remarkably light making it no bother to store in your bag when it’s not required. A winner both on functionality and looks.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 3
+ Extremely comfortable and warm
+ Versatile
- Some may prefer a more fitted look
The Wanderlust Vest is the perfect extra layer on top of your golf polo for those mornings on the course before the day really heats up. While extremely lightweight, this vest provides complete comfort and does an excellent job in keeping you warm. The fit is a little ‘boxy’ and some golfers may prefer a slightly more athletic look as seen on the TravisMathew polo’s but the looser fit does come in handy when layering underneath this vest during the colder months. Because of this slightly looser fit, it’s worth ordering this vest in a size down for a true fit. The four-way stretch means you have complete flexibility when swinging and the simple and clean look of this vest means it can easily be worn away from the course and can be paired with literally anything.
Sizes: S-XXXL
Colors: 3
+ Can be worn on and off course
+ Spacious pockets
- Styling may be a little too understated for some
Being used for the school run, watching football and going to the pub, it's the highly attractive padded design, monster side pockets for your hands and necessities that make this is a great option.
What's more, it has an excellent outer layer that can be placed over anything from a simple polo to several layers including a hoodie. The subtle use of the logo and Oscar Jacobson wording makes this look a superb contemporary garment, but it is also practical as it is warm, while also being water repellent. This is an attractive and very handy gilet, one that we will continue to use for the next year.
Sizes: S-3XL
Colors: 2
+ Reversible
+ Wind and water resistant
- No pockets once reversed
The Norse S4 vest is fairly unique in the sense that it is fully reversible, meaning you get a gilet that comes in two separate colors. You either get a black or blue option, or a grey or yellow one. It is a nice feature but unfortunately once reversed there is only one small chest pocket with a cheap-feeling zip and no hand pockets. The main hand pockets also feel quite cheap and want to come out when you take your hands out. The vest is supremely comfortable and it does a great job of keeping you warm and dry as it is wind and water resistant. It feels lovely around the neck when fully zipped up, which really helps to store warm air. It’s also extremely lightweight and can be packed down into the inside pocket to be stored very easily.
Sizes: S-3XL
Colors: 2
+ Clean styling
+ Good value
- Only water repellent, not waterproof
The Hebron full zip gilet is a really classy garment highlighted by the subtly Farah ‘F’. The fit is just as you’d expect so we’d recommend going for your usual size, and a nice elasticated waist ensures a good fit. Overall there’s a nice amount of stretch to it, not too much and certainly enough for a very comfortable wear.
There’s decent warmth to it so it’s a very good extra layer to have on during those chilly mornings or as the sun begins to go down at the end of a summer’s day. You get two pockets for your hands and we really like that they come with zips in, so you can keep your items secure and dry if needed. The gilet is water repellent too, so you’ve got added peace of mind if a rain shower comes in.
Sizes: XS-XXL
Colors: 1
+ Lightweight and comfortable
+ Looks great
- Only one color
The Castore Men’s Golf Fitted Hybrid Gilet is an impressive garment and one that can be used all year round. It’s perfect for those autumn and early winter days where you need some added layers but a full-on jacket isn’t required. Much like the other garments in the Castore range, it’s extremely lightweight and it hugs your torso nicely, too.
The weather-proof woven panel is a nice touch and the four-way stretch fabric means you aren’t impeded as you swing the club. What’s more, the collar sits reasonably low down so it doesn’t rub against the underside of your chin. The lightweight wadding and water-resistant trips complete a garment that should be high up on your gilet wish list, although admittedly the single color option does reduce the appeal slightly.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 3
+ Incredibly warm and effective in the wind
+ Useful pockets with fleece lining
- Bulkier than some
We’ve been admiring Manors from afar over the last 12 months, so we were excited to try out some of its stylish, performance garments for ourselves this year. This insulated gilet is the brand’s take on an essential golf garment and they have executed it with aplomb in our opinion. The 4-way stretching water and wind repellent fabric offers protection from light showers and the insulation and fleece lined pockets ward off any sort of chill you might be playing in. You only need to pair it with a midlayer and polo to feel warm and protected on even the chillies of days. This does make it a bit bulkier than some other gilets, but this is worth it considering how warm it is. Definitely a garment for the fall and winter months, this gilet is a practical, stylish and highly enjoyable golf garment to wear.
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 vests this means putting them to the test out on the golf course to see if the design actually works and if it sets out what it is designed to do. We would also wear the vests 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 vest
So what are some of the factors you need to consider when trying to find the right waterproof golf jacket for you? Let's take a look.
Protection
A good vest will help you in the wind and cold. The best models stop the wind penetrating the fabric and making your core cold, and also have nice features like fleece lined pockets to give you some respite from the poor conditions.
Freedom of movement
However, despite offering protection good models have to be the right weight and allow freedom of movement during the swing and when walking on the course. Ultimately, the best golf vests stretch and move with the body, whilst allowing the arms to swing freely as well. Acknowledging this we would recommend trying some models on first to see how they fit and feel when walking around and when making swings.
Color
If you are wearing it, you have to like what it looks like. Vests don't have to be boring and dull anymore either because now there are designs for all fashion senses. It is just a case of picking a design and color you like.
Budget
Finally be aware of your budget so you can find a vest 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
How should a golf vest fit?
A golf vest shouldn't not be too tight in that it feels constricting, and not too loose that it feels like it may impede the golf swing. The best of way of walking this fine line is to try models on. Length wise it should go down just past the belt buckle of your pants/trousers.
Can you play golf in a vest?
Definitely. Vests are a very functional piece of golf attire because the lack of sleeves allow total freedom of movement in the arms. Additionally they can be excellent at keeping you warm when it gets cold, and your body at the right temperature if you don't want to have to don larger waterproofs or bigger sweaters.
What is the difference between a vest and a gilet?
In golfing attire, a vest and a gilet are basically the same thing, a sleeveless jacket. Different parts of the world use different words here, for example in the United States they use gilet, whilst in the United Kingdom, use of the word vest is more common.
We hope you enjoyed this guide on the best golf vests. For more golf apparel buying advice, why not have a read of our posts on the best golf rain jackets, or best golf hoodies.
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