Best Golf Quarter Zips 2024
Check out some of our favorite quarter zip golf tops that you can buy right now!
Best Golf Quarter Zips
The golf quarter zip should be a staple clothing item in any golfer's wardrobe. Delivering warmth, comfort and style, quarter zips can be worn all-year-round for any kind of temperatures. From those sub-zero days on the course, for that chilly twilight round in the spring; having a good quarter zip can help you both look good and feel good on the golf course. Akin to some of the best golf tops or best golf sweaters most quarter zips are also versatile enough that they can be worn off the golf course in social settings, adding either a sporty or a smart look to any outfit.
Particularly in colder conditions though, these mid layers can deliver a very handy extra layer of warmth that'll keep you feeling comfortable on the course. Additionally they also work well on those days when it is too hot for a thicker sweater, and too cold to just wear a polo.
Here at Golf Monthly, we've been lucky enough to test out a few of the best quarter zips on the market and in this guide we'll be bringing you a list of some of the top models you can buy right now. If you're in the market for some new warm golf gear though, you should also be sure to take a look at our guides on the best golf beanies and best golf base layers.
Best Golf Quarter Zips
Why you can trust Golf Monthly
Sizes: S-2XL
Colors: 1 (Blue)
+ Classic quarter zip with eye-catching print
+ Very versatile
- Skulls print design not for all
The Perth quarter zip has been a stable best seller in the Peter Millar range for many years and is one of, if not the best, performance quarter zips on the market. The reason we really like this variation is the custom skull print that has been hand-designed in the brand’s Pilot Mill studio.
The cool design which is noticeable but not too prominent gives it an stylish edge and makes this a genuine off course garment. Perth quarter zips offer warmth but they are also moisture-wicking to help you stay cool when the temperature tick up a few notches. You also get benefits of this being easy-care benefits so all you need to do is wash and hang up to dry.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 4 (Oatmeal, Caviar, Peacoat, Lapis Blue)
+ Eye-catching look
+ Nice and warm
- Loose-fitting wrist cuffs
When you turn up at a Golf Monthly test day and several colleagues comment on what you’re wearing, you know the brand has either got it spectacularly wrong or spot on. We’re pleased to say it was very much the latter here, certainly with regard to the stylish ‘oatmeal’ option. The textured fabric is different and looks good especially with the navy accents. 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-2XL
Colors: 2 (Heather/grey, Heather/seaglass)
+ Simple, smart styling
+ Doesn’t add too much bulk
- Not as warm as some midlayers
The FJ ThermoSeries Brushed Back is a smart-looking midlayer that will work with a range of different outfits. I tested the heather/grey version (which I would describe as light blue) and thought it provided a simple yet fashionable look that would work well both on and off course. In terms of the warmth on offer, this is ideal.
It can be used on its own during the autumn and then will easily fit underneath an outer layer as the temperatures dip without adding too much extra bulk. It has a fairly athletic fit that also helps to provide warmth without restricting your range of motion.
Sizes: XS-2XL
Colors: 4 (collegiate navy, black, white, wonder blue)
+ Classic looking style
+ The ideal mid-layer
- Touch tight making sizing important
Adidas regularly gets the quarter zip right and this latest version continues that theme. It is a very versatile top that has sustainable construction at its core and a well thought out design that lends itself to a lot of usage.
I think it works well as a thin layer on those warmer days and teams up perfectly with another larger garment on those colder days as well. It is worth saying it does offer a pretty tight fit and whilst there is a bit of stretch, I would probably recommend going up one size if you want a touch more room. 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-3XL
Colors: 5 (Black, Grey, Blue, Red, Dark Grey)
+ Extremely comfortable
+ Versatility to wear anywhere
- Runs slightly long on length
As you can imagine from the name, the Cloud quarter zip 2.0 is one of the softest and most comfortable quarter zips on the market. It features an extremely soft fleece fabric that remains extremely breathable. The Cloud 2.0 has a modern fit, one that is not too tight, yet not baggy and acts as a stylish option for a cool day on the course.
The Cloud quarter zip 2.0 optimizes what the Travis Mathew golf range is about, clothing that is performance enhancing, yet stylish enough to be worn anywhere. This quarter zip is fairly light for how much warmth it provides and we are fans in particular of the enclosed zip and simple logo detailing. A mainstay in The Masters champion Jon Rahm's tournament attire.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 2 (Navy, Grey)
+ Classic premium styling with a twist
+ Performance fabric offers warmth
- More color options
G/Fore is perhaps best known for its eye-catching designs with attitude and while this midlayer has a lot of style it’s at the more understated end of the brand’s collection and will appeal to a wider range of golfers.
There’s still touches of flair though - notably the brand’s signature 'Daytona' tricolor stripe details on the zippers and the rubberized Circle Gs logo on the neck.
Even though this is a low key design with some fantastic detailing that shows it's quality, it is an exceptional technical garment. The super stretchy material allows total freedom in your swing and it also offers a lot of warmth thanks to the luxurious ‘mossed’ interior. Also worth highlighting is the perfect arm and body length.
Sizes: Small-XXL
Colors: 7
+ Retains heat very well
+ Four-way stretch
- Fits fairly loose and long
The Storm Midlayer half-zip is perfect to give you the heat and comfort you are looking for, all from a lightweight, breathable material. The soft brushed ColdGear fabric is smooth on your skin, while the use of fluorine-free water repellent treatment on the outside see’s any showers you get caught in, simply fall off the material.
While this midlayer does already come in a looser style fit and does run half a size larger, the four-way stretch allows for superb freedom of movement while swinging. When temperatures drop this midlayer will very much be worn in a layering system and you would benefit from wearing one of the best golf jackets over the top, but for cooler mornings or evenings on the course, the Storm Midlayer half-zip is suitable to be worn alone with a polo shirt.
Sizes: S-XXXL
Colors: Four (Cool grey/Navy, Blue/Navy/White, Forged Iron/Black, White/Cool Grey/Aqua)
+ Impressive warmth
+ Soft and stretchy material aids movement and comfort
+ Stylish, modern design
- Look of the back pads won’t please all
This warm and stretchy pullover will serve you well on those chilly early morning outings. This is thanks to Galvin Green’s impressive Insula fabric, which traps warmth from the body very extremely to keep you warm while also being breathable.
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, and the design of the cuffs means they stay in place and won’t be a distraction. You get a lot for your money here given how stylish and versatile this mid layer is.
Sizes: S - XXL
Colors: 3 (Light Grey, Navy & Light Blue)
+ Keeps heat in very well
+ Design can be worn both on and off the course
- Slightly baggy fit won't appeal to all
Glenmuir are known for their woollen items and the g.Solway 1/4 Zip, is another fine example, with the 95% combed cotton and 5% cashmere construction providing excellent heat control. Overall, this item would be perfect for a winter's day - it keeps heat in incredibly well!
Design-wise, I found it came up slightly baggy, but that didn't affect the swing, with the g.Solway providing plenty of freedom of movement. What's more, the aesthetic and feel screams premium, with the YKK zip just one of the many stylish touches. It's also worth noting that it has a PFC-free water-repellent finish that kept me dry, but I would personally not wear this in rainy conditions given the material used.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 6 (Black, Gray, Navy, Petrol Blue, Blue, Red)
+ Supremely comfortable
+ Great styling
- Zip pocket difficult to open
This is easily one of Under Armour’s most impressive and stylish products. It offers up supreme comfort with a soft, stretchy fit in all areas that really is a joy to wear both on the course and away from it. Once you try it on, you’ll not want to take it off.
It’s packed with technology too - surprisingly it repels water, which you wouldn’t think when you see it and put it on, considering the fabric material it's made of. We love the styling with the two-tone colorway and the zipped chest pocket is a very handy addition, although it is nigh-on impossible to open with one hand due to the material. It also comes in five different colorways, so golfers who enjoy this can purchase multiple variants that all look great.
Sizes: S-XXXL
Colors: 4 (Black, Stormcloud, Quarry, Blue)
+ Very warm and water resistant
+ Cool styling
- No pockets
The Marshall mid layer from Ping will keep you nice and warm on all but the coldest days and it's also been engineered to be water resistant, too. The fit is perhaps on the snug side so if you like a looser-fitting garment then we’d recommend sizing up. But on the whole it does fit well thanks to it's stretchy material which helps it feel very easy to flex in when hitting shots.
The bottom cuff can be adjusted tighter around your waist, which is a nice touch. We also loved the texture of the polyester print and the added detailing around the wrists, which matches the zip and colors on the collar. Overall, the Marshall comes in four colors with black, gray and two blue options. There are no pockets to speak of unfortunately, one of the only real drawback of this excellent golf quarter zip .
Sizes: S-XXXL
Colors: 1 (Blue)
+ Lightweight yet warm material
+ Superb four-way stretch
- Can’t currently be shipped outside the U.S
The Torrance Pullover is one of the most versatile quarter zips we have worn this year. It’s smart-casual style, with only one embossed logo sitting under the collar at the rear, this piece wouldn’t look out of place away from the course. The MadeFlex performance four-way stretch allows you to move athletically on the course and the moisture wicking fabric keeps you cool when things heat up.
The Torrance comes in an athletic fit that we particularly enjoyed and the additional zip pocket on the chest is a nice detail. We love the blue color of this quarter zip but more color options needed, and for this product to be available for those wishing to purchase outside of the U.S. For more excellent golf mid layers, check out our best golf tops guide!
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 4 (Dark Navy, Black Heather, Mazarine Blue, Dark Lichen)
+ Good Thermal protection
+ Multiple color options
- No side pockets
This sweater is packed with technology. It’s extremely lightweight, yet a thermal layer helps keep you warm in testing conditions. It features Opti-Dri which is designed to wick away moisture to keep you dry and it also showcases Callaway’s Swing Tech which provides reduced restriction and extra stretch to allow you to swing freely.
It's a stylish sweater with eye-catching heather stripe. The soft, thermal layer makes it very comfortable if you wear with just a polo, but room to move means it will also work well as a mid-layer with a base layer or lightweight sweater underneath.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 5 (Blue, Teal, Red, Apricot, Dark Shadow)
+ Soft, flexible material
+ Can be worn on and off course
- Warmer mid layers are available
The quarter-zip Farah Tisdale mid layer offers a stylish and contemporary look. It’s available in a wide selection of colours meaning there should be an option to suit most tastes. The 50% polyester, 50% cotton material feels soft and warm, although it’s by no means the warmest mid layer available.
It works well with other layers but may need to be paired with a jacket when the temperature really heads south. The material doesn’t have the shiny finish of many modern mid layers meaning it is a lot more suited to off-course wear than some of the other options out there.
The textured silicone F logo on the front is a classy look while the 'F' zip puller also adds a sophisticated touch. Be sure to check the size as the large fitted me perfectly, despite usually being a medium.
Sizes: S-XXXL
Colors: One (Navy)
+ Extremely comfortable and flexible
+ Versatile on and off the course
- Some may find a little heavy
The Crew Clothing Champion Golf Half Zip sweatshirt is made from 89% polyester and 11% elastane which provides great movement. As well as the movement, there is also a nice structure to this mid layer with a reassuring thickness that definitely keeps the cold at bay.
We particularly liked the slightly weightier waistline which helped to stop the sweatshirt riding up annoyingly on our follow through.
The fit is pretty regular, not too figure hugging but certainly not loose, which makes it a pretty versatile piece which would look just as good with a pair of jeans in the evening as it does on the course.
The construction feels very high quality as you would expect from a company such as Crew. This half zip mid layer would make a nice addition to any wardrobe.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 3 (Grey/Stone, Charcoal/Grey, Navy/Slate)
+ Very lightweight
+ Moves in tune with the golf swing
- Would have to be worn with multiple layers on a cold day
This is a stylish, half-zip mid-layer which works well during the changing seasons. It is easily light enough to store in your golf bag without adding any real extra weight and the half zip design makes it easy to put on/take off during the round.
We really liked the modern dotted styling which looks great in all three available color options. The grey and stone version (pictured here) works particularly well with navy pants creating a smart, modern look for the course.
Sizes: S-3XL
Colors: 3 (Black, French Navy, Slate Grey)
+ Breathable
+ Lightweight
- Not very fashionable for off course
Stuburt continues to work to make its products more fashionable, and this mid-layer is no exception, with a contrast chest and back panel that gives the product an almost camo feel. The reflective Stuburt badge is something that will not appeal to everyone, but it is a standout feature.
This mid-layer is clearly a golf product and not one that you would think would be worn out to the pub. However it is a very solid performer, with thermal and windproof properties, and it easily fits over thin or thick polo shirts, while also being quite comfortable under a rain jacket. The price of the product is also one that will appeal to many.
Sizes: XS-XXL
Colors: 2 (Oceana Blue, Midnight Navy)
+ Comfortable
+ Elegant and versatile
- Not the warmest mid-layer on the market
The mid-layer clothing category is one of the broadest in golf apparel, and the Castore Golf Knitted ¼ Zip is closer to the jumper than the jacket end of the spectrum. As such, it’s not the warmest mid-layer you’ll find, but it provides plenty of insulation while looking great on and off the course. It’s refined and stylish and I’d have no qualms wearing it to the pub or on a walk around town.
On the course, it provides a great fit and allows you to swing completely unimpeded. When the weather is slightly warmer, mesh knit panels provide breathability in key sweat zones, too. The branding at the back might not be to everyone’s tastes, and the neckline can rub against the underside of your chin, but the pros massively outweigh the cons on the Golf Knitted ¼ Zip.
Sizes: S-XXXL
Colors: 4 (China Blue, Electric, Black, Navy)
+ Trendy design
+ Stretchy material helps with fit
- Some will find close fit uncomfortable
An attractive mid-layer that has plenty of tech to help you feel comfortable out on the course. It is made from 76% recycled plastic and 24% Elastane Blend, which means it is very stretchy. When testing it combined well with a polyester-style polo shirt, a thicker polo or undershirt would be too bulky and would impact how this product would look.
The Jacquard chest panel is a very interesting design choice, as it is an almost net-like structure that would let cold air within but also allow sweat to escape. This will clearly catch the eye of anyone looking for a high-quality mid-layer at this price point.
Sizes: XS-3XL
Colors: 6 (Dark Jet Black, Blue Shore, Cactus Green, Moonstone Blue & Pebble)
+ Neutral styling and plenty of colors
+ Great freedom of movement
- A tad tight out of the packet
First things first, the Technical 1/4 Zip Midlayer from Lyle & Scott is a fantastic option for both on and off course activities. The style is very minimalist and, with plenty of color options available, there is bound to be something for everyone, with the 1/4 zip meaning you can control breathability and comfort easily.
Out the packet, it is slightly tight but, after a few wears, it does loosen up and the range of movement is superb. Put simply, we struggled to find any weaknesses in this midlayer.
Sizes: S-2XL
Colors: 5
+ Stylish, versatile design
+ Good range of colors
- Fits slightly loose around the waist
The Birdie Blue may be the most stylish piece from the brand's apparel line. This midlayer is the ideal item to wear under a thicker sweater or vest during the winter months, but is warm enough to keep you comfortable on a cool summer morning. The detailing is simple with the 2Putt logo on the back of the neck and a chest-zipped pocket which is handy to place your scorecard or phone.
This product offers good stretch and didn’t restrict mobility while swinging and the moisture wicking material will keep you cool and dry when needed. It does have an athletic-style fit to it, but does come up particularly loose and baggy around the waist area, although this didn’t impede on the golf swing. Available in five colors.
How we test
We test golf quarter zips in the same manner as we do all other pieces of golf apparel and equipment - comprehensively. In relation to the apparel, we put products to the test out on the golf course to see if the design works as it should when having to play in different conditions and play different shots. This is a good way of seeing if a model interferes with the swing at any point too. We then try and use the top off the course as well to see if they are versatile enough to be worn in a social setting. 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.
How to choose a golf top
What are some of the things to consider when buying a golf quarter zip? Let's take a look.
Type
Depending on your style preferences, there are a range of different kinds of quarter zips available to you! Perhaps you might want a sporty option that will expand and stretch as you play, or why not get yourself a smarter option, that you may also want to wear in social situations. There are a variety of kinds of mid layers available, each offering different attributes - so pick the right one for you!
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
Ultimately this comes down to making sure you get the right size because you don't want something that is too baggy which could catch your hands during the swing, and you don't want something too tight either because that will restrict the swing. 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
This is another important thing to consider. Do you want to use the quarter zip just on the golf course, or be able to use it anywhere? Many of the models above can do both which is a good way of getting 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.
For more apparel buying advice, why not check out our guides on the best golf hoodies, best golf vests or the best golf windbreaker.
FAQs
Should mid-layers be tight?
That depends on the fit you're looking for. Ideally, a golf mid-layer should offer ample stretch to allow you to comfortably swing the golf club. Most manufacturers build their mid-layers out of a stretchy polyester material that can offer a tight fitting look.
What makes a good golf quarter zip?
Quarter zips need to offer warmth and mobility by not being too constricting on your golf swing. The best mid layers will act as a great layer that you can pack under a lightweight golf jacket for example and add an extra level of warmth for those colder days on the course.
Should I buy a cotton or synthetic quarter zip?
That comes down to your preference as a golfer and there are positives and negatives to each. Cotton is a much warmer material than most and offers a very smart style - yet when it gets wet it can be hard to dry again and will leave you feeling cold on the course. Synthetic materials do the opposite, more often than not they come with moisture wicking technology that will dry quickly, and can be a little more comfortable than cotton.
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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
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