Best Golf Vests 2025

Sizes: S-3XL
Colors: 2

+ Lightweight but keeps you warm
+ Great stretch
- Could do with stronger zips on pockets

The Storm Hybrid is a very impressive gilet. Often, gilets can be a difficult piece of clothing to get right for the consumer in terms of both sizing and feel - there are many variations in both and it becomes tricky to find one that fits the way you would like. This wasn’t an issue with this Under Armour offering, a piece that worked seamlessly in both warmer and colder weather thanks to the fact the fabric naturally reacts to the temperature keeping you warm when it's cool, but letting out extra heat as the day gets going.

Water repellent and stretchy, this gilet is a jack of all trades in terms of versatility and the fleece lining helps keep you the right temperature without any bulky feeling. The durable stretch also means the lower zip section doesn't bunch up as you stand over the ball.

Sizes: XS-2XL
Colors: 3

+ Water-repellent finish offers protection
+ Lightweight design
- Takes up room when folded down

This vest is the ideal layering piece for those cooler mornings or evenings on the golf course. Its soft, stretchy fabric provides a comfortable, unrestrictive feel, perfect for maintaining mobility even when wearing layers underneath. The water-repellent finish is a welcome feature, adept at shedding light showers and keeping you focused on your game without having to reach for a further jacket.

It's a thoughtfully designed piece for core warmth without the bulk of a full jacket, allowing complete freedom for your arms. The full-zip and stand-up collar offer versatile protection if you get caught in inclement conditions. While it's an excellent layering garment for cool days, it won't offer the same overall warmth as a sleeved jacket in colder temperatures but if you want to maintain as much mobility for your swing as possible, this vest is ideal.

Sizes: S-2XL
Colors: 3

+ Warmth and flexible comfort
+ Understated, classic design
- Some may want a more snug fit

As a regular golfer, I have found that a vest or gilet is often the ideal garment to add a layer of warmth, without feeling too hot, and the Fuse Hybrid from Peter Millar is a perfect example of this. 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. Admittedly it would be great to see more colors available, there are currently just two, but the navy and cyan finishes look excellent and understated. I also really like the smaller details such as the subtle logos, lightweight feel and hand warmer pockets. I cannot recommend this vest enough.

Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 2

+ Light thermal insulation
+ Clean and versatile design
- Requires specific care

The King Vest offers a lightweight design with effective thermal insulation, specifically designed to keep your core warm and you looking sharp on chilly days. The smooth nylon-elastane blend exterior is not just about a modern aesthetic; it provides excellent four-way stretch, ensuring your movements are never restricted even if you layer up underneath.

The tailored fit is engineered to present a sleek silhouette without any unnecessary bulk, and its sophisticated, clean styling allows it to transition seamlessly from the golf course to a variety of smart-casual environments. The small logo detailing on the rear of the neck is a classy touch, while the functionality of the vest is enhanced by hidden side utility zipper pockets and a practical tonal two-way zipper. If you’re after a vest that offers complete versatility and style, then the King Vest is an option worth considering.

Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 4

+ Very stylish finish
+ Premium feel
- At expensive end of price spectrum

The vest (or gilet) is now a staple of every brand’s golf collection thanks to the versatility it offers keeping your core warm while allowing freedom in the swing and G/FORE’s new Maverick Hybrid Stretch is one of the top models on the market right now. Featuring a very stylish aesthetic, I think it looks outstanding, especially in the Nimbus color I tested.

The soft feel of the garment can best be described as premium as well, which I was expecting given the premium price of this vest. Every element feels well made and designed properly, ranging from the high-quality zip, lightweight warmth, and comfortable stretch, to the smaller details like the zip pockets. It is also worth mentioning it is wind and water repellent too. Overall it is a top-notch garment well worth considering.

Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 4

+ Plenty of pocket space
+ Good number of color options
- Comes up tight

To begin with, the Hielands Vest packs plenty of pocket space, including a pocket on the chest that can store your phone and other necessities. Importantly, there are two pouch pockets that sit perfectly for when the weather turns and you're wanting to keep your hands warm in cold conditions.

Like other Puma garments, the design is very minimalist, which is something that many will like as it will go with pretty much anything in your closet. The dark options are perfect for winter, especially when mud etc is being thrown up. Finally, we must add that, despite there being some stretch present, the Vest comes up tight, especially around the shoulders so, if you are broader, then we would recommend going up a size. It was however still comfortable to wear with only a polo and also with a midlayer.

Sizes: S-XXXL
Colors: 2

+ Incredibly lightweight
+ Good wind protector
- Not a necessary garment for everyone

The mid-layer market has expended significantly in recent years and a whole host of options are now available, including hoodies, quarter zips, jumpers and gilets. The Penguin Heritage Lightweight Packable isn’t what you’d normally associate with golf gilets, which tend to have more bulk. Rarely has a garment been given a more appropriate name, however, as this gilet is incredibly, and we mean incredibly, lightweight and therefore extremely packable. It folds up so small it doesn’t even need to go in the largest pocket on your golf bag.

There are two color options available – white and black – and you will be totally uninhibited as you swing. The gilet will also keep your torso dry as it comes with water-repelling properties. It’s fair to question how much it will actually add if you own other mid-layers, but it’s a clever piece of engineering.

Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 3

+ Very warm
+ Extremely comfortable
- The collar comes up quite high

Zip up the Oscar Jacobson Lyttelton Padded Gilet and you'll instantly notice the lightweight yet insulating feel, thanks to its Thermolite padding that traps warmth without adding bulk. The water-repellent finish provides welcome protection against light showers, keeping you comfortable even if the weather turns, and its tailored, body-hugging fit ensures zero swing restriction, and the sleek, contemporary design looks equally smart whether you're on the first tee or heading to the pub.

While its lack of sleeves obviously prohibits full arm warmth, it layers effortlessly over a sweater or polo, and the convenient zipped hand pockets offer secure storage for your scorecard and tees. This gilet is ideal for the golfer who wants core warmth and weather protection without sacrificing style or freedom of movement. It's a versatile layering piece perfect for those crisp mornings or breezy afternoons on the course, ensuring you stay comfortable and focused on your game.

Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 4

+ Comfort and excellent freedom of movement
+ Clean and versatile design
- Zip can be a little stiff

The Big Sur Performance Vest offers a soft Primaloft lining, providing plenty of warmth without the traditional weight or bulk of a quilted vest or jacket. The knit shell feels cozy and soft to the touch making it the perfect layer to wear over a polo shirt on those cooler summer mornings. It may not provide the all-over warmth of a full jacket, as it is a vest but the faux fur lining will certainly keep your core warm.

This piece excels as a layering option that allows for an unrestricted range of motion for when you’re on the course but the tailored fit ensures a smart, clean styling look that makes it equally as ideal for casual office wear or weekend outings. For convenience, it features a smooth double zip closure and practical side pockets with secure magnetic closures although the zips are a little sticky on the first couple of uses. This vest is perfect for the active individual seeking a stylish, lightweight, and warm core layer that doesn’t compromise on movement or versatility.

Sizes: S- 3XL
Colors: 2

+ Incredibly lightweight
+ Water repellant
- Only two color options available

This lightweight gilet from FootJoy is both water repellant and offers UPF 30 sun protection. As such, it is a handy extra layer for spring to autumn golf and can be stored in your golf bag without adding any additional weight. If you get caught in a shower or need an extra layer as the temperature drops, this will do the job nicely.

The fit is traditional which means that it is comfortably roomy enough to wear on top of a mid-layer if needed. Pockets at the front add a little extra bulk but would be useful for putting your hands in on a cold morning. We thought the styling was superb - modern but simple enough to allow this to work with a range of different colour trousers or shorts.

Sizes: S-3XL
Colors: 4

+ Simple and effective design
+ Perfect for an extra summer layer
- Not the warmest gilet we’ve tested

The High Gauge Golf Vest from Callaway is designed to keep you warm and cosy while allowing your arms to swing the club with freedom. It’s 100% nylon which means it’s perfectly suited to those summer days when the temperatures are changeable and just a polo won’t do the job. It features Callaway's proprietary Opti-Dri technology to keep you feeling cool and comfortable out on the course, and it also has an adjustable toggle hem for a secure fit.

The design features an embroidered Callaway Tour logo on the left collar and a chevron design on the back to stand out slightly from the crowd. All in all, this is a simple garment which does an excellent job, adding a quick and easy extra layer of warmth when you need it.

Sizes: S-XXXL
Colors: 6

+ Perfect additional layer on those colder mornings
+ Looks great with a mid-layer or polo shirt
- Could be slightly more fitted

The Ping Ashbourne gilet is the ideal companion when a polo shirt or midlayer just won’t cut it. I actually paired this garment with a polo, a midlayer and a hoodie in various combinations over the course of a number of rounds, and each time I was impressed with the comfort and mobility it provided. The water and wind resistant properties keep you warm and dry throughout the round, helping you to feel confident heading out when the conditions might be a little turbulent.

The two front zip pockets are perfect for storing anything you might need during your round, whether that be your golf glove while putting or a pair of hand warmers for those chilly starts. My only minor gripe would be that I like these types of items a little more fitted than the Ashbourne delivers.

Sizes: XS-5XL
Colors: 2

+ Would wear away from golf
+ Allows freedom of movement
- Relatively loose fit

Known for its comfy and functional garments, this Ardfin Softshell Vest from Abacus is a brilliant option when you need an extra layer on the course. Ideal for either over a mid-layer or just your polo top, the water-repellent and breathable material keeps you dry and comfortable in different weather conditions. And you don't have to worry about it restricting you in your swing, as its design combines comfort and freedom of movement with its stretchable 3-layer softshell fabric.

Equipped with two front pockets with zippers and a practical full zipper, it's perfect for storing tees, balls, or even personal belongings. And if you've forgotten to bring your jacket for when you've finished playing, its navy melange with navy details aesthetic gives it a fashionable look and is something you can wear away from the course.

Sizes: S-3XL
Colors: 3

+ Ease of movement
+ Can be used in all seasons
- Zip can be tricky to engage

The Stuburt Padded Gilet proved extremely comfortable and, with generous armholes, provided perfect freedom of movement throughout the swing whether worn over another mid layer in colder weather, or simply over a polo shirt on milder days. The gilet is silent through the swing. It has two generous side pockets, with the zip hidden behind a flap which also provides some rain protection as the zips are not waterproof.

This gilet is made from a blend of nylon and elastane which is breathable and prevents the golfer sweating up, despite its heat-sealed design. There is a full-length zip down the front and the box and pin on this can be tricky to engage. The eyelet can be flicked up and stays in position to maintain the line of the bottom of the garment.

Sizes: S-XXXL
Colors: 4 

+ Incredibly effective at keeping the core warm
+ Plenty of stretch in the rear fabric
- You’re not keen on such a snug fit

Given how thin the padding on this Scuba vest feels relative to other gilets out there, it does an incredible job of keeping your core warm. It’s quite a snug fit, but with plenty of stretch in the rear fabric it doesn’t feel in any way restrictive and, of course, you could always try the next size up. We wore it on a day that was generally pretty cool but with the sun popping through at times, at which point it rapidly became too warm in the gilet.

So you’ll need to check the forecast to know when this garment will be in its element to avoid having to take it on and off as the sun pops out or ducks behind the clouds. A good-looking gilet that undertakes its primary role of keeping your core warm exceptionally well.

Sizes: S-XXXL
Colors: 4

+ Very warm and useful in all seasons
+ Good freedom of movement
- Shell fabric may be a little bulky for some

The ProQuip Helm windproof gilet does a very similar job to the Helm windproof hooded jacket, which is an excellent garment. Its design features and technologies are largely the same and it’s also available in a full-zip jacket. The quilt panels on the front and back are packed with polyester and the fabric is heat-sealed for thermal protection, both of which combine to provide ample warmth. It’s also incredibly light and quiet, two features which all golfers will enjoy. The fit is snug without being restrictive and there are plenty of color options to choose from. It also comes with a comfortable inner-fleece lining, zipped pockets and rain-protected inner pockets. The Helm Windproof gilet is smart and functional and well worth considering.

Sizes: S-2XL
Colors: 3

+ Outstanding warmth
+ Easy to swing in
- A little bulky

If you need a vest to offer warmth and and comfort then this Future Vest from Zero Restriction is a good option to consider. Made from a combination of nylon, spandex and grey goose down, it halted wind easily and I did feel the warmth stay trapped to my core, which is exactly what I am looking for in a vest. There was enough stretch in the fabric to make it easy to swing in, and it also happens to be water-repellent as well which is a needed element for winter golf. I should note it is a reasonably bulky design which obviously adds to the warmth element, but for those wanting a more slimline garment, there are other options in this guide. Finally the versatile style transitions easily to your post-round activities and we think this gilet looks as good off the course on walks and hikes.

Sizes: XS - XXL
Colors: 2

+ Level of warmth provided by quilt design
+ Smart aesthetic
- Lack of varied colors

In my experience of testing golf clothes, the Castore Golf Pinnacle Gilet is among one of the very best in any item. It simply ticks every box. Practically, the quilt design ensures the ideal level of warmth - even with only a polo or t-shirt underneath - and the deep zip-up pockets are capable of storing almost anything and everything (with the exception of golf clubs) from your bag.

Plus, the ProTek material the Castore Golf Pinnacle Gilet is made from ensures you will remain dry and comfortable, even if it begins to rain - something I discovered while debuting the item. The Castore Golf Pinnacle Gilet looks really smart as well, meaning you can wear it away from the golf course, with the only slight downside being that it only comes in black or midnight navy. Aside from that, it really is a brilliant piece of clothing.