Best Golf Windbreaker 2024
When the weather turns and wind is howling, these windbreakers will help keep out the cold.
Best Golf Windbreaker
Comfort on the golf course is key to playing your best. When you are out in the elements for four hours, it’s crucial that you maintain a consistent body temperature, feel protected from the weather yet are able to swing freely, no matter what the conditions throw at you. That makes having the best golf waterproofs for you vitally important.
When the wind gusts hard, as it often does on the course, you need something to protect you from the squalls. Of course the best golf rain jackets can deliver here but you don’t necessarily need, or want, to don full waterproofs in windy conditions, rather to find a garment designed specifically to counter the breezes. As such here we look at some of the best golf windbreakers that are on the market. These will protect you from the breeze but still help you maintain a consistent core temperature and swing with freedom. How is this achieved? Well most brands use fabrics and materials, as well as clever bits of technology, to keep the wind and cold out. Additionally the best models seem to offer different looks and designs as well so every fashion sense is catered for. Let's get to the list and if you want more garments to deal with the cold, check out our guides on the best golf sweaters and best golf hoodies as well.
Best Golf Windbreaker - Best Golf Wind Jackets
Why you can trust Golf Monthly
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 2
+ Super-flexible, lightweight jacket that still provides plenty of protection
+ Flattering shape and style
- No internal pocket
In recent years, the need for golf to have its very own clothing styles and patterns has diminished. There is now greater demand for apparel that can be used in a wider setting, and Peter Millar has been a key player in this.
The Winter Wind Gust Jacket is a perfect example, one that can be worn and enjoyed anywhere. Its comfort comes from a thin, gridded, fleecy interior which weaves its magic without adding to the bulk, and the material has a 4-way stretch and is water-resistant.
I can easily wear this over a polo shirt or a mid-layer, or potentially even under a waterproof jacket. I have been a golfer for 40 years, and it is a real pleasure to find clothing that I can enjoy playing in, but which doesn’t label me as a golfer.
Sizes: S-XXXL
Colors: 6
+ Thin and stretchy fabric
+ Keeps water and wind out
- Doesn’t offer warmth on cold outings
Updated with some fresh colors and stylish details, this lightweight Gore-Tex waterproof jacket continues to impress.
Not only does it keep water and wind at bay with consummate ease, but it also has those important design details that ensure you can swing in total comfort - notably the Velcro cuffs, three zipped pockets and the elasticated drawstring at the waist, which creates a tailored fit.
The thin Paclite stretch material ensures you’re able to swing unimpeded and also allows you to fold it away compactly for easy storage. Perhaps most importantly, it’s up there as one of the best-looking golf rain jackets around, so you’ll look and feel like a million dollars strolling the fairways, even when the heavens open.
Sizes: XS-4XL
Colors: 2
+ Surprisingly warm
+ Totally noninvasive
- No hood
The first thing to note with the Nike Tour Essential Men's Golf Jacket is how surprisingly warm it was despite being made up of such a thin and lightweight water-repellent fabric. We were only wearing this on top of a Nike Floral Polo, and a particularly windy day felt like a mild summer evening. The second huge positive to note was that it looked tailored but at no point did it restrict any kind of movement in the upper body, thanks to the slightly stretchy material.
The incredibly large pockets (big enough to fit a pint glass with room to spare) will split opinion, as will the double pulley zip. The lack of hood does hold it back compared to some of its rivals, but overall it is still a high-quality jacket which is excellent value for money.
Sizes: S-XXXL
Colors: 4
+ Excellent protection
+ Ideal for light showers on colder days
+ Versatile, stylish design
- Quite loose fitting
The Leonard is the perfect golf top for those that play in some of the worst weather but don’t enjoy the feel of a waterproof jacket. The warmth comes from the padded middle section while the Interface-1 fabric on the arms provides the freedom of movement as well as the protection from the elements. In fact, water beads off the arms extremely quickly barely leaving any trace behind, although the same isn’t quite true of the center section.
The mesh pockets are comfortable and convenient and also have zips to keep items secure. The fit comes up larger than other garments in Galvin Green’s range, which works if you want to combine it with other layers underneath, but might mean it looks baggy unless you go down a size.
Sizes: S-2XL
Colors: 2
+ Front shell provides good protection
+ 4-Way Stretch back and sleeves
+ 2-Way front zipper
- Limited color choice
The Performer by G/Fore is a lightweight & versatile jacket that can be worn all year round. It combines an insulated soft nylon front shell with a mossed interior tech interlock for warmth, while the 4-way stretched back and sleeves ensure great comfort and mobility.
The jacket also features a 2-way front zipper and two interior pockets. This is a premium jacket at a premium price but we were very impressed with how it performed on the golf course. The shell provided warmth while the stretch material in the back and sleeves really allows for great freedom when swinging the club.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 2
+ Lightweight material
+ Stylish and funky design
- Too tight for some
This windbreaker is super lightweight and fit for purpose. As soon as you pull it on you can feel the quality of the material used. Despite its lightweight and thin appearance the windbreaker is able to keep you nice and toasty without you having to wear much more than a t-shirt underneath. My suggestion would be to go one or two sizes bigger than you normally would if you plan on wearing layers underneath.
It has two front pockets which surprised me at how soft they were to put your hands in, great for keeping the extremities warm. The funky penguin pattern on the exterior may divide opinion but the design of this windbreaker doesn’t restrict golfers during their swing.
Sizes: S-2XL
Colors: 3
+ Lightweight and comfortable
+ Good protection from the elements
- 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. Suitable for on and off course wear this is one of the most versatile garments we’ve tested.
Sizes: S-XXXL
Colors: 2
+ Great comfort
+ Water and wind resistance
- Only comes in two colors
The Ping Norse S4 Zoned jacket is extremely warm, very comfortable to wear and flexible, plus it has been designed to be water resistant. It’s a full zip design with two excellent zipped hand pockets that are fleece-lined.
There’s plenty of stretch to it so it’s very easy to play golf in. We’re big fans of this jacket and love the arms in particular, which are extremely thin but surprisingly warm.
The Norse S4 Zoned jacket is remarkably warm for what is a lightweight, thin garment - it’s seriously impressive. Some golfers may find themselves getting an awful lot of wear out of it, off the golf course too.
Sizes: S-XLL
Colors: 3
+ Smart and modern look and feel
+ Excellent protection from the cold
- Not so good in the wet
Golf fashion has happily moved away from being instantly recognizable as just golf, and this excellent and very comfortable jacket is a prime example. It is 100% polyester, and therefore weighs little, but nonetheless protects you from the elements and keeps you warm. It uses Mizuno’s Breath Thermo technology which is designed to absorb moisture from the body - your sweat - and use it to generate heat.
The downy padding in both the body and the sleeves creates more warmth, but is just the right thickness to make you feel protected from the cold without limiting your movement, especially your swing, or feeling too chunky.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 2
+ Warm without being too bulky
+ Two front pockets
- Not as transferrable off the course
By far the most striking feature here was the sheer level of warmth on offer. The Insulated fabric is a little heavier than you will find elsewhere but does a great job of keeping out the cold.
The fit was roomy enough to wear multiple layers underneath but for the most part, we suspect that might not be necessary. It might not be quite as versatile as one of the best golf waterproofs or best golf tops but if you regularly play on cold days, this could become a valuable part of your golfing wardrobe. We also really like the look of this jacket but it is questionable whether it can be used off the golf course.
Read our full FootJoy Hybrid Insulated Jacket review
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 1
+ Warm in cold conditions, especially in the wind
+ Comfortable to wear, even over other layers
+ Not restrictive
- Not much waterproofing
First things first, the Nordic jacket is a great performer in windier and colder weather, with the windCELL technology working its magic to protect us against the most extreme conditions.
What particularly impressed us in testing was how the Nordic jacket fitted over other layers we had on, with pull toggles at the waist and Velcro adjustment on the sleeves providing a snug fit that didn't restrict movement in our swing.
Read our full Puma Nordic DWR Golf Jacket review
Sizes: S-XXXL
Colors: 3
+ Comfortable and well fitting
+ Supremely warm
- Comes up a little large so getting the right sizing can be tricky
During our testing, this jacket from adidas provided a comfortable fit thanks to the combination of the nylon and elastane dobby. It really moved well on a variety of shots and didn’t make a lot of noise which is something that can be a real annoyance with some jackets.
The star feature for us was the warmth on offer. The core section of the jacket is filled with duck down and feathers, both of which really help keep your body heat in. Having also tested the jacket on a very windy day, it offers great protection against the elements.
Read our full Adidas Frostguard Full Zip Padded Jacket review
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 3
+ Windproof material
+ Excellent mobility
- Neon pink stripes
The Storm Windstrike ½ zip is close to the ultimate lightweight jacket if you’re expecting showers or a breeze while on the course. The ½ zip makes this jacket easy to layer on top of a jumper and take on and off. Under Armour Storm technology helps repel water while also remaining extremely breathable for those days where it’s humid yet rain is forecast. I was particularly impressed with the Storm Windstrike ½ zip, due to the four-way stretch and new back design, which allowed for excellent range of motion. Under Armour has opted for more of a loose cut finish with this item, which again makes it ideal to put on over a golf jumper, yet it fits tight enough to not impede your swing.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 3
+ Understated style
+ Warm and comfortable
- Not waterproof
Travis Matthew produces street-inspired golf wear that will look as good out and about as out on the fairways. This puffer jacket is the perfect example. It’s durable and lightweight with 4-way stretch to maximize freedom of movement and allow you to swing easily. It’s a full-zip jacket that’s easy to put on and take off and the quilted finish delivers excellent thermal properties.
It’s machine washable which is a major boost and it’s wrinkle resistant. The micro rip-stop fabric means it’s built to last. This is a very versatile jacket that will keep you warm and comfy in a variety of tougher conditions.
Sizes: S-2XL
Colors: 2
+ Lightweight
+ Luxurious feel and camo styling
- Water resistant, not waterproof
G/FORE are known for making products that really stand out and this Camo Performer jacket is a case in point. That being said we do think it does have some restraint given the camo design is not an all over print.
The super soft, luxurious material is lightweight, but provides good warmth in chilly conditions and is brilliant at keeping out the wind. The jacket is water resistant and features ‘AquaGuard’ waterproof zippers, but it’s not designed to keep out the heavy stuff. If that's your number one priority, we recommend taking a look at the best waterproof golf jackets.
Read our full G/FORE Camo Performer Jacket Review
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.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 6
+ Stylish
+ Comfortable fit
- The fit may not be for everyone
A J.Lindeberg masterpiece. Put this jacket on and you can feel the quality of this hybrid jacket. With a quilted front designed to retain warmth and the freedom of a mid-layer bonded together this jacket makes it easy for you to move through your swing without hinderance. It fits snug around your arms so there is no excess material gets in the way but also offers plenty of room around the torso for you to layer up. It comes with two zip-up pockets that not only offer a convenient place to store things, but are a great place to keep your hands warm on those chilly summer mornings. A jacket that can be worn on and off the golf course.
Sizes: S-XL
Colors: 2
+ Lightweight
+ Zip pockets
- Arms on short side
Farah’s Parker jacket is a quarter-zip windbreaker that is a solid, lightweight layer to wear on those windy or chilly days on the golf course. It’s not waterproof, which is a shame but it will certainly keep you dry during short spells of light rain. The minimal styling is nice and we like the subtle Farah ‘F’ logos throughout.
We love that it comes with two zip pockets and overall it’s a very comfortable garment to wear. There’s a good amount of stretch to it around the neck and on the wrist cuffs, although they are fairly tight. It’s very nice to play golf in due to the stretch properties and overall is a good value windbreaker.
Sizes: S-XXXL
Colors: 2
+ Very lightweight
+ Wind and water resistant
- Would need an additional mid-layer for very cold temperatures
This is an ideal lightweight jacket to have stored in your golf bag, would fold out easily and barely impact the weight you had on your back around the course. There is excellent tech with elasticated cuffs and hem and a very pleasant fleece inside collar.
It would be fair to say that at this price point there may be more that some would be looking for in a jacket, but this is a clear top performer for what it promises - which is wind and water resistance in a lightweight jacket. It comes in two colors, black and navy, which are very similar and more variety would be good.
Sizes: S-2XL
Colors: 4
+ Good range of movement
+ Warmer than most
- Fabric can make a noise during the swing
The jacket is incredibly stylish and wouldn't look out of place off the golf course. All six of the color options are tasteful and it remains practical with three pocket offerings. It has made from high quality heat insulated materials which are best designed for the colder days; it even made me look forward to winter golf!
Easy to swing without the feeling of wearing too many layers. Will offer protection from rain showers but is not fully waterproof. Ideal for a cold drizzly day but not quite the full storm which we can often encounter on the course.
How we test golf apparel
We test golf apparel in the same way we test all golf equipment, by using products properly. The best way to test windbreakers is by doing so out on the golf course to gauge how they deal with the wind, and how warm they keep the wearer. This testing often takes place over a few rounds so we can then see how the jacket has performed over time, in different conditions and how it performs when we have to play varying shots.
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 windbreaker
Protection
This is the most important factor to consider really because a good wind jacket has to protect the wearer from the wind and the 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.
Waterproofing
Do you want the jacket to offer waterproof protection as well? Many of the models in this guide offer some kind of water repellent protection but if you want something for greater downpours, then we would recommend taking a look at the models in our best golf rain pants guide, or maybe try investing in one of the best golf umbrellas as well!
Freedom of movement
With all this protection, occasionally jackets can be large and cumbersome but in modern golf design this is no longer the case. Most really good models stretch and move with the body freely so that your swing isn't hindered despite having a few layers on. Here we would recommend trying on models and making practice swings to see if you like the movement on offer.
Color
If you are wearing it, you have to like what it looks like. No longer are golf windbreakers drab and boring to look at because now there are designs for all fashion senses. It is just a case of picking a design and color you like.
Versatility
Do you want to be able to use the jacket 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 and thankfully there are lots of model above that we feel can be used on and off the course.
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
Are windbreaker jackets worth it?
Given the quality of golf wind jackets we have tested at Golf Monthly, we definitely think windbreakers are worth it. The best models protect from the wind and elements well, helping you stay warm in your core and arms. They also stretch well so you can swing unimpeded and the top models are comfortable as well so not only do they work on the course, but elsewhere too, on walks, hiking, and so on. Lightness, versatility, style and value are also key elements we have noticed in the best models so yes they are worth it.
We hope you enjoyed this guide on the best golf windbreakers. For more buying advice, such as the best golf rain gear or best waterproof golf shoes, see the Golf Monthly website.
<a href="https://www.golfmonthly.com/coupons" data-link-merchant="golfmonthly.com"">GOLF PROMO CODES AND COUPONS
From clubs, balls and tees, to essential sportswear and fitness products, keep it affordable with a little help from our promo and coupon codes.
Get the Golf Monthly Newsletter
Subscribe to the Golf Monthly newsletter to stay up to date with all the latest tour news, equipment news, reviews, head-to-heads and buyer’s guides from our team of experienced experts.
A golfer for most of his life, Sam is a Senior Staff Writer for Golf Monthly.
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.
Sam now spends most of his time testing and looking after golf gear content for the website, whilst he is also responsible for all content related to golf apparel.
He also oversees all Tour player content as well so if you need to know what clubs Tiger or Rory has in play, Sam is the person to ask.
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 handicap of five.
Sam's What's In The Bag:
Driver: Titleist TS3 (9 degrees)
Fairway Wood: Callaway Paradym (15 degrees), Nike Covert Tour 2.0 (19 degrees)
Irons (4-PW): Titleist AP2
Wedges: Titleist Vokey SM7 54˚, 58˚
Putter: Scotty Cameron Phantom X 5.5
Ball: Srixon Z-Star Diamond
Shoes: G/FORE Gallivanter/Nike Air Zoom Infinity NEXT%/Cuater The Ringer
-
I Haven’t Hit A Single Shot Yet In 2024… But I Have A Masterplan To Cut My Handicap
Due to a combination of factors, I haven't been able to play any golf yet in 2024. But I'm confident a strong year lies ahead and I've put a plan in place to make the most of it...
By Nick Bonfield Published
-
Craziest Round In History? DP World Tour Pro Cards Rollercoaster 71 At Indian Open
Sebastian Soderberg endured one of the biggest rollercoaster rounds ever seen on the DP World Tour, with nine birdies and two eights at the Indian Open
By Paul Higham Published
-
10 Essential Winter Golf Items
We take a look through the 10 essential winter golf items every golfer needs for when the conditions are against them
By Joel Tadman Published
-
Best Winter Golf Gear Deals 2024 - We Pick Our Favorite Deals On Winter Golf Gear
If you want to save some money on winter golf equipment then you have come to the right place!
By Matt Cradock Published
-
We've Played In The Worst Golf Conditions In This Five Star Waterproof Jacket, And Right Now It Has More Than 50% Off
We tested the HydroLite from FootJoy back in 2021 and it is still one of the top models for waterproof protection out there.
By Sam Tremlett Published
-
Best Golf Pants 2024
If you are in the market for a new pair of golf pants, take a look at some of our favorites here
By Sam Tremlett Last updated
-
Best Waterproof Golf Bags 2024
A waterproof bag is crucial for protecting your equipment out on the golf course and, in this guide, we've taken a look at the very best.
By Dan Parker Last updated
-
Best Winter Golf Ball 2024 - top models for the cold weather
When the mercury dips you may need to consider mixing it up a little when it comes to the golf ball you choose to play. Here's why...
By Sam Tremlett Last updated
-
Best Golf Training Aids 2024
A look at some of the superb training aids on the market that could help improve your game
By Sam Tremlett Last updated
-
Best Golf Mid Layers 2024
Looking for a mid layer that will keep you warm and protected on the golf course? We take a look at the best on the market
By Matt Cradock Last updated