Best Golf Waterproofs 2026 - Our top rain jacket and rain pants from testing
We take a closer look at the best golf waterproofs currently on the market.
Somewhere along the line, pulling on a set of waterproofs didn’t become such a pain. Years ago it was like wrapping yourself in a bin bag. However, the best golf waterproofs these days don’t just keep you extremely dry, but they are designed to help you swing unhindered. We wouldn’t quite say it’s ever a joy to reach for the waterproofs, but today’s technology-packed suits are not just more effective than ever at keeping us dry and comfortable while also looking the part on the fairways. Nowadays the research that goes into making garments built to withstand the harshest of conditions is truly mind-boggling. It pays off too because golf waterproofs these days are lighter, keep you drier, remain breathable, and look great.
We’ve picked out a selection of the best golf rain gear that are well worth checking out and we also recommend checking out our posts on the best golf tops, best golf windbreaker, and best golf base layers to truly complete your outfit and leave you best prepared for the wind and rain.
Best Golf Waterproofs 2026
Waterproof Jackets
Sizes: S-2XL
Colors: 1
+ Total protection
+ Quiet fabric limits distractions
- Top end of price spectrum
I have tested a wide range of rain jackets over my time at Golf Monthly and one of the absolute best is the Sun Day Red 3L Rain Jacket, a model I recently got my hands on. Made from three layers of Polartec Powershield fabric, this jacket offers complete and total protection from adverse weather conditions, and yet is still lightweight and breathable too.
Having tested in some tough conditions on and off the course, and even poured water on it to see what would happen, the jacket kept me dry and blocked wind out very well indeed. I also noted just how quiet this jacket was, which was a real design element Tiger Woods focused on. It barely makes a sound during the swing and it stretches seamlessly for unrestricted movement too. Finally I think it looks great, works comfortably with layers underneath, and it folds down well.
Read our full Sun Day Red 3L Rain Jacket Review
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 1
+ Premium quality in every aspect
+ Superb look and feel
- Only one color
In testing I could immediately see that the new Rain Walker jacket is a step up yet again. It’s construction is windproof, waterproof and exceptionally breathable, with the give in the material adding to the comfort and ease of movement. There are three layers including a hydrophilic membrane which allows moisture to escape. The external surface is water repellent, and the latest improvements in seam technology mean that the stitching is robust and reliable.
I found both comfort and maneuverability while playing to be first-class, and it even comes with a waterproof bucket hat. I love the way that the overall look is so smart and understated, somehow classic and yet still modern at the same time. I have owned many waterproof jackets over the years, and this is quite simply the best one yet.
Read our full Peter Millar Rain Walker Jacket Review
Sizes: S-3XL
Colors: 6
+ Premium look and feel
+ Brilliant waterproof properties
- Could be a little warmer
If you are looking for a great looking waterproof jacket, that's comfortable to wear and keeps you well-protected against the elements then the new Arlo from Galvin Green is definitely a model to consider. I’ve worn this in pretty awful conditions and have never once regretted it. It’s all the ‘proofs’, covering you for wind, rain and worse, but it also feels effortless to wear.
The material used for the Arlo waterproof jacket feels super premium, robust and dependable - and it more than delivers on functionality. There is no restriction to the swing, like you often experience with cheaper alternatives on the market, which is no small part down to how adjustable the fit is on the Arlo jacket.
If I had to be pedantic and pick one small thing to improve, which I really am forcing myself to do, the garment could do a little more to keep you warm.
Read our full Galvin Green Arlo Waterproof Jacket Review
Sizes: XS-3XL
Colors: 3
+ Impressive waterproof qualities
+ A versatile option for on and off the course
- Lack of hood slightly reduces practicality
As far as looks and waterproof qualities go, it's very difficult to fault the Under Armour Drive Pro Rain Jacket. Because of the strong yet subtle aesthetics, it's definitely a jacket you can wear proudly both on and off the course.
Its waterproofing is exemplary, as you would expect from a brand like Under Armour. The jacket features UA's Storm technology which helps repel water nicely, but doesn't compromise breathability. I found it certainly kept my body dry but you might require more layers underneath than simply a t-shirt and jumper, although you could say this about most golf rain jackets given the fabrics used in these designs.
It is lightweight and folds down nicely to store in your golf bag, and I found it comfortable thanks to the regular fit and four-way stretch which prevented it from feeling too restrictive. I do wish it came with a hood though.
Read our full Under Armour Drive Pro Rain Jacket Review
Sizes: S-3XL
Colors: 4
+ Four outside zip-pockets plus two inside pockets
+ Very comfortable and well-designed collar
- Wrists on the tight side
FootJoy's new Arcus jacket delivers full waterproof protection in a sleek package that features lots of pockets, a good amount of stretch and a comfortable fit. The fabric used in the construction stretches nicely whilst there is enough adjustability to dial in the fit, although I admit the wrist cuffs are rather tight. When fully zipped up, the collar section is extremely comfortable on the neck with no sharp edges.
The jacket impressively comes with four outer pockets, two for your hands, and two on the chest, with the latter in particular being noticeably large and easily fit a scorecard or phone. I also like the two netted pockets on the inside for when the weather takes a turn.
Overall it is a complete jacket with protection, durability and performance built into its design, and I also like the more understated, and versatile design too, which has been an issue with FootJoy gear in the past.
Read our full FootJoy Arcus Waterproof Jacket Review
Sizes: S-XXXL
Colors: 4
+ Great stretch properties
+ Can be worn on and off the course
- Styling fairly basic
The Z2000 might be the best golf jacket that I have ever put on, and here’s why. It delivers excellent waterproofing, wind resistance, and mobility, it looks fantastic with its sharp and elegant design and it's really comfortable to wear all day long.
If you expect to play, walk, or even commute in persistent rain and demand gear that works without fuss, this jacket is built to perform.
Water beaded and ran off the shell reliably; at no point did moisture seep through seams or zippers keeping my clothing underneath warm and dry. Against wind, the shell fabric felt solid too.
Admittedly this jacket is more on the premium price end of the spectrum, but you will be getting a top-notch product that will not let you down out on the golf course or elsewhere when you have it on, and it will last you many, many years too.
Waterproof Pants/Trousers
Sizes: 30-30 to 42-34
Colors: 2
+ Covered zip pockets
+ Good insulation and water-resistance
- Might not be suitable for those with shorter legs
The Under Armour Drive Pro All Weather pants have so many great features, it’s tough to know where to start. Firstly, and most importantly, the water-resistant qualities give you confidence that those early-morning rounds with dewy grass or light showers you encounter won’t be a problem. Then there are the covered zip pockets, which is a smart addition, as well as the stretchy waistband which maintains the pants’ comfort levels while ensuring your shirt stays tucked in.
They’re very light too and therefore pack down efficiently, plus they look great. The only downside is they don’t come in a shorter leg than 30 currently and the size I tested were still too long for me. As someone who wears that size normally and is hardly short at 5ft8in, that feels like an issue to me. But otherwise, they’re a fantastic option - especially among the more affordable options out there.
Sizes: S-2XL
Colors: 1
+ The perfect pair of rain pants
+ Adjustable and comfortable
- Top end of price spectrum
I am not exaggerating when I say these are the most perfect pair of rain pants I have tested. Now they come at a premium price, and the white SDR logo on the back pocket isn’t for me, but otherwise these do everything a rain pant should do at the highest level. To start the three-layers of Polartec Powershield give outstanding protection from the elements.
Cold, wind, rain, sleet, just about any adverse weather is held at bay by these seam-sealed pants. I found them super easy to slide over golf pants and easy to take off too, whilst they conveniently fold down nicely to fit in golf bags. I found them to be breathable, comfortable, flexible and an underrated element in rain gear, very quiet indeed throughout the swing and when walking. Finally there are plenty of pockets and lots of adjustability too making them easy to dial in fit-wise.
Sizes: S-2XL
Colors: 1
+ Top-quality look and feel
+ Perfect adaptability on the leg fit
- The overall weight is a touch heavy
Much like the jacket, the Rain Walker pants come with a premium price but when you consider the performance, you get what you pay for. We think these are stylish and extremely comfortable and everything about the construction, appearance and features gives me the confidence that I am being protected from the elements.
I particularly enjoyed the leg fastenings which allow you to adjust the fit to be exactly how you want them over your regular golf pants. I found the comfort, protection and maneuverability while playing to be first-class, and I would be equally happy wearing them while out walking in the middle of winter. I should note that they are perhaps ever so slightly heavier than others on this list, but this is only a minor point.
Sizes: XXS-XXL
Colors: 2
+ Comfortable and practical
+ Keeps water at bay
- No way to access pockets underneath
Having tested the high-quality Rain.Rdy pants from adidas we had high hopes for the latest Climaproof design, and we can honestly say they deliver. These are a practical, well-thought out pair of waterproof pants we’ve really enjoyed during testing. They slide on incredibly easily, even over our golf shoes with help from the ankle zips, and fasten easily too with the popper at the top.
The additional clip is simple to adjust and allows for a more tailored fit at the waist while the zips at the bottom allow for extra room if needed. We enjoyed the soft inside of the pockets and the thin material ensures they don’t add excessive weight to your outfit should you need to employ them during a heavy shower.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 2
+ Three-year waterproof guarantee
+ Great comfort and quiet
- On the expensive side
The FootJoy Arcus trousers feature the brand’s all-new TriLock System, which fuses three unique performance fabrics to deliver complete protection, playing comfort and full range of motion. We would say the Arcus trousers deliver on this promise. They feel like they have been incredibly well thought out and are easily among the ultimate golf waterproof pants.
The zippered leg sections work very well and the hand pockets also feature strong zips that will keep the rain out, as well as inside zips to access pants underneath. The two back pockets feature velcro openings and are good sizes, too. There’s a button and a hook opening and a stretchy waist section for a comfortable fit. They also come with a three-year waterproof guarantee so we believe they are well worth the money if you play a lot of golf no matter the weather.
Sizes: 30-40
Colors: 3
+ Excellent protection
+ Incredibly playable
- Pockets on the small side
If you play a lot in the rain and are seeking the ultimate in waterproof protection without sacrificing comfort or playability, the Alan waterproof pants are a standout option.
The Pertex Shield stretch technology ensures they keep both the rain and wind at bay while also being highly breathable. The stretch in the material ensures a high level of freedom of movement, which is something we really noticed in testing out on the course. Designed to be worn over regular golf trousers, they slid on easily thanks to the smooth inner lining and fitted well too thanks to the elasticated waist with a drawstring, adjustable leg width, and fleece-lined front pockets. We also appreciated the abrasion-resistant fabric at key areas too.
How we test golf waterproofs
At Golf Monthly we pride ourselves on our honest, insightful and comprehensive content, and our testing procedure reflects that for all golf products, not just waterproofs. We will usually attend product launches and meet with the manufacturer’s R&D experts to understand the new technology.
At this point we would be given samples and put them to the test out on the golf course in different conditions. This is particularly important for waterproof clothing because this means we can properly gauge the protection on offer. Admittedly that means playing golf in a lot of rain but this is what we do to give you key insight!
Given how unpredictable the weather can be, if it isn't raining we would also do other things to test protection, like pouring water onto the jacket or trousers to check how seam-sealed the product is. This testing often takes place over a number of rounds, and we often put products to the test off the golf course as well to see how versatile they are.
The final point we wanted to mention is no manufacturer can buy a good review because our testing team seeks to be as honest, and transparent as possible.
How to choose the best golf waterproofs
What are some of the factors you need to consider when trying to get the best waterproof products for you? We have taken a look below.
Jacket/Pants
First things first are you after a jacket, pants (trousers), or both? Knowing this will therefore inform your buying decision. Sometimes you can even buy an entire rain suit as well which ticks off both boxes.
Waterproofing
Once you know the answer to the above question, the next step is waterproof protection. Pretty much all of the models above provide excellent protection from the rain because this is what they have been designed to do.
Specifically, the two main things to be aware of here are whether the jacket construction is seam-sealed because this is usually a good indication of how waterproof a piece of clothing is. And second, it is always worth checking if there is a waterproof warranty on the garment too.
Protection
Good waterproofs also help keep you warm when needed too, so when looking at product specifications check if the product is made from warm materials and has features like fleece lined pockets to keep your hands warm. On that note some models are lighter than others, whilst some offer a bit more weight so have a think about what you would value there as well, and take a look at our best lightweight golf jackets guide as well.
Freedom of movement
As vital as the protection is, it isn't good when a piece of clothing limits the golf swing. Therefore most good models move with the body throughout the swing and have stretchy sections around the hips and arm areas so you can commit to a proper golf swing. To check for this and how well you can move in a model, we would recommend trying it on first and making some practice swings in it to gauge movement and comfort.
Color
Gone are the days when golf waterproofs look drab and boring. No you can now get different cutting-edge designs in different colors. It is just a case of picking one you like the look of.
Budget
Finally be aware of your budget so you can find a jacket 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 waterproof?
There are lots of excellent models of golf waterproofs on the market at the moment. These can be from big brands like FootJoy and adidas, as well as smaller brands like Kjus, Sun Day Red and Peter Millar. One of my personal favorites at the moment is the Rain Walker Jacket from Peter Millar, which is at the top end of the price spectrum. But there are excellent value models as well like the Climaproof+ line from adidas.
We hope you enjoyed this guide on the best golf waterproofs, and for more gear for bad weather check out our guides on the best golf umbrellas, best golf rain jackets, and best golf rain pants.
