Best Lightweight Golf Jackets 2024
Check out some of our favorite lightweight golf jackets, that'll keep you well protected from the elements without the bulk.
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Best Lightweight Golf Jackets
There's nothing worse than getting caught in the rain on the golf course. Trying to play golf when you're soaked through is a nightmare, and speaking from experience, it pays to be prepared. From our perspective, having a lightweight waterproof jacket is an essential item that every player should have in their wardrobe. While the best golf rain jackets deliver excellent warmth and protection, they can sometimes be a bit heavy, clunky and unnecessary if you're just playing through a light shower.
For that reason, it's good to have a go-between that you can store in your golf bag and pull out whenever the rain comes down. That's where a lightweight golf jacket comes in handy, with these options keeping you both warm and dry on the course without any bulk or weight that can hinder the golf swing. In fact, many of our favorite options included in this guide are both great for the golf course, but can also be used out and about in your daily life. They all blend style and performance to help you look smart and stay dry in whatever you're up to. So, if you're looking for a new lightweight golf jacket, check out some of the excellent options we have tested below. If you're after something a little more robust though, then we've got plenty of other fantastic jackets on our guides to the best golf waterproofs and the best golf rain gear.
Best Lightweight Golf Jackets
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Sizes: S-XXXL
Colors: 6
+ Thin and stretchy fabric
+ Keeps water and wind out
+ Practical features aid comfort
- Doesn’t offer warmth on cold outings
Updated with some fresh colors and stylish details, this lightweight Armstrong jacket from Galvin Green 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 - such as the Velcro cuffs, zipped pockets and the elasticated drawstring at the waist.
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 great in the rain, and just about anywhere.
Sizes: XS-2XL
Colors: 2 (black, collegiate navy)
+ Addition of the hood
+ Extremely lightweight
- Doesn’t feel as thick as non-hooded model
This Hooded rain jacket from adidas looks absolutely fantastic, and is versatile enough to be worn literally anywhere. The new design feels a lot lighter and the materials aren’t as thick as the previous Rain.Rdy Jacket, so on those colder days it does need to be paired with more layers. However this is no issue given it didn’t take up a lot of room in my bag, and added next to no weight.
The waterproof protection hasn’t been compromised either as I was caught in several downpours in testing and it performed brilliantly. It also felt comfortable and I liked the adjustability of the hood and elasticated cuffs. It would be great if more colors were available though.
Sizes: XS-4XL
Colours: 2 (Black/Black/White or Midnight Navy/Midnight Navy/White)
+ Surprisingly warm
+ Totally noninvasive
- No hood
Next up is the Tour Essential Jacket from Nike a firm favorite of ours in testing. It is surprisingly warm given how lightweight and thin the fabric construction appears to be. For example we were only wearing this on top of a Nike Floral Polo, and a particularly windy day felt like a mild summer evening. This fabric moved well during testing as well, at no point did it feel restrictive to the body thanks to the slightly stretchy material.
The incredibly large pockets will split opinion, as will the double pulley zip. The lack of hood does hold it back compared to some of its rivals in this guide, but overall it is still a high-quality jacket which is excellent value for money.
Sizes: XS-2XL
Colors: 5 (Grape, Vapor, Shade, Rover, Black)
+ Looks great and versatile
+ Premium quality
- Not fully waterproof
A jacket designed perhaps for running and training, the Pace Breaker is also one for golf. It may not be fully waterproof but it deals with light rain well thanks to the water-repellent fabric. The jacket felt lovely too with the elasticity of the fabric, and the four-way stretch, helping me move unhindered. This jacket also works well with other layers too.
But the two ways this top elevates itself are in the little design details, and the versatility. Details like the mesh ventilation aided breathability and the cuffs are close fitting but stretchy too. The zippered pockets and hidden phone pocket are cool features as well. It is also one of the most versatile tops I have tested. It looks great everywhere and the five colors all offer something a little different.
Sizes: XS-3XL
Colors: 5 (Blue, Navy, Olive, Natural, Black)
+ Total performance
+ Looks great everywhere
- Not 100% waterproof
Another top-notch lightweight golf jacket is Uniqlo’s Blocktech Parka. It features a 2.5 layer fabric with a water-repellent agent that helps keep rain at bay but it should be acknowledged that this jacket is not 100% waterproof which is a slight negative. However from thorough testing it does deal with the elements very well indeed thanks to this repellent fabric, along with windproof performance and breathability.
Not only that but it stretches very nicely, aiding ease of movement, and has several adjustable features like drawstrings, and cuff fasteners so it was very easy to get the right fit for me. The pockets are roomy, it comes with a hood and the combination of the design with the color choice makes it a jacket that can be used anywhere. Given the price as well, it is well under $100, the value on offer here is truly outstanding.
Sizes: S-2XL
Colors: 7 (Airforce, Evergreen, Blue, Navy, Gunmetal, Camo, Silver)
+ Lightweight feel and waterproof
+ Adjustability everywhere
- Is the design a bit bland?
Sitting atop the tree in Sunderland’s AW range is the Whisperdry Pro-Lite, a very good rain jacket thanks to its overall protection and design features. First it is ultra-lightweight and stretchy which made it very easy to swing in, and it stored away easily because it folds up well.
Whilst this does mean more layers are needed in colder weather, the lightweight fabric didn’t compromise on waterproofing. Water beaded off excellently thanks to the seam-sealed construction and I loved all the other adjustable features too including the inner storm flap, chin guard and cord-adjusting high neck, and the Velcro adjusters at the cuffs and waist.
The only negatives for me were the pockets were a touch small, and the design could probably be described as a bit bland. However that does also make it versatile so that’s a subjective point.
Sizes: S - XXL
Colors: 2 (Black, Rainfall)
+ 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-2XL
Colors: 3 (Snow, Onyx, Twilight)
+ Lots of stretch allows an unrestricted swing
+ High quality materials keep rain and wind out
- Non-Elasticated cuffs
G/Fore are probably best known for their superb range of premium footwear, gloves and bold polos short that are real statement garments but in recent years they have developed an excellent range of performance outerwear. The Repeller 2.0 jacket is the latest version and it’s a very strong offering in this category as it offers exceptional protection from wind and rain and lots of stretch meaning your swing is totally unrestricted.
The design style is very much at the understated end of what the brand produces with only a G/FORE logo on the back. However as with all G/Fore. Our only criticism is that the sleeves dont not feature any form of closure (elasticated/ tab) so they can flap and potential let in rain
Sizes: S-XXXL
Colors: 4 (Black, Navy, Cool Grey/White, Navy/Cool Grey
+ 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: 3 (Blue Poppy, Grey, Balsam)
+ Lightweight but offers good protection from the elements
+ Exceptionally comfortable
- Not fully waterproof
This is an update to the Hyperlight Merge jacket that we gave an Editor's Choice award to in 2022 and a refreshed design, new colors and a zippered chest pocket make a great product even better. The Merge Elite is made from a premium performance fabric and delivers a lightweight feel but superb warmth. It is both wind and water-resistant and delivers ample protection against most showers.
As with the previous version, the Elite’s sleeve length was perfect - not too long, that it would bunch up on your arm over a shot but not too short either that it would restrict your swing. It is suitable for on and off course wear and is one of the most versatile garments we’ve tested.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 1 (Caviar)
+ Lightweight and flexible
+ Smart and stylish
- It’s only available in one color
The Penguin Earl Full Zip jacket is another strong apparel offering from Penguin, which is justifiably making waves in the golf market. The Earl jacket is constructed from a moisture-wicking fabric and more than holds its own in the weight and flexibility departments as well. It’s quiet as you swing and you won’t be obstructed in any way as you complete your backswing.
It’s fully waterproof, too, with the OPG moisture-management system keeping you dry during the round. What’s more, the fit is good and you don’t overheat, which can be a problem with other such garments. There’s a little bit of excess material at the bottom, but that’s really no issue. It’s a shame there’s only one colour option available, but the styling is neutral and it should pair well with the majority of outfits.
Sizes: S - 3XL
Colors: 8
+ Various adjustability makes for excellent comfort
+ Great range of movement and color options
- Price puts it towards the more expensive end
To begin with, the Power Torque Full Zip features in several colorways and sizes so there should be a look for everyone. Although perhaps not the most eye-catching design, we really liked the simple looks as, when it comes to a full-zip jacket, it's the performance which is the key aspect, something which this garment delivers in spades.
In showery conditions, the jacket kept us dry and, what we particularly liked, is the adjustibility available via the cuffs and the breathability in the full zip design. When producing various swings on the course, there was no restriction of movement, which meant we could commit to all shots and, because of the material it's constructed from, you can easily clean it and keep it like new once you come off the golf course.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 2 (Regatta Blue, Black)
+ Water Resistant
+ Lightweight and fits well
- Can be a little tight
The Parker Showerproof Jacket is a really nice looking jacket, I really liked the camo style and the color is really clean. This jacket is very lightweight and will protect you well in a heavy shower and on the windier days. For such a lightweight jacket, I was really impressed by the protection on offer.
One thing I would note is although when on the fit is very comfortable, getting the jacket on overhead with the less stretchy fabric can be a little tight. It feels like it could stretch or rip while trying to get it on, I would usually say to size up, but the actually fit a feel on was fine. This jacket paired well with the shirt and mid layer I had on and still felt comfortable and nonrestrictive on the swing.
Sizes: S-3XL
Colors: 2 (Black/Mandarin & Navy/Grey)
+ Packs down very small
+ Versatile
- Lack of protection from the rain
The Lanark Stretch is an extremely thin windbreaker that is made of recycled polyester. It is a snug fit which, combined with the elasticated cuffs and waist, means it keeps drafts out and doesn’t flap when the wind gets stronger. The thin material means it is very lightweight and folds down very small in your golf bag. Because it is so thin, it is perhaps only suited to the warmer months when you need an extra layer but don’t want anything too bulky.
The nature of the material meant It didn’t hinder my swing at all and slipped on and off without a fuss. It only offers one pocket which is located on the chest and this is pretty small so isn’t suited to much more than a few tees. Also, if you’re looking for protection from the rain there may be more suitable options out there.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 2 (Black, Navy)
+ Incredibly warm and soft
+ Excellent wind protection
- Not fully waterproof, but can withstand a light shower
If you're after a warm, premium golf windbreaker it's hard to look past this offering from Puma. The Cloudspun fabric gives added weight and warmth to the jacket, while the Primaloft Quilting retains the heat and provides some good protection from the wind. The quilting also looks fantastic and gives a very trendy look on the course.
These two technologies work fantastically together and it kept us at very comfortable temperature throughout our testing. We really liked the drawstring at the waist which helped us loosen and tighten the jacket and really enjoyed the pockets on offer here too!
Read our full Puma Cloudspun WRMLBL Jacket review
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 1 (Navy)
+ Clean, versatile design
+ Thin, lightweight material
- Not overly warm
The best lightweight golf jackets need to offer protection while being playable and the Castore Golf Zip Through jacket does an excellent job of this. The premium feel of the moisture-wicking fabric is excellent to the touch and once the main zip is fastened, the lightweight and minimalistic feel becomes more obvious.
The fabric is thin, meaning your swing won't feel restricted but it also means it will not provide the warmth many of the best golf jackets deliver. That being said, layers can easily be added underneath. The tailored fit means excess material doesn't intrude and the smart, clean styling means it can be worn easily away from the course. It lacks the customization options some of the best waterproof jackets offer, like Velcro cuffs or an elasticated hem, but this didn't seem to detract from the playing experience.
Sizes: S-2XL
Colors: 2 (Charcoal, Navy)
+ Keeps you very warm in cold conditions
+ Excellent mobility and super stylish
- Drawstring at the rear can be distracting
For those wanting to play through the winter months, the ThermoSeries hybrid jacket looks to be a compelling mid-layer option. Cold weather is a real killer for your morale on the course and the warmth on offer here is simply outstanding. It promotes mobility in the swing too via a stretchy pair of sleeves which delivers a stylish woven tire finish to them. It also comes with an adjustable collar, which can be loosened or tightened via the elasticated cord at the back.
For such a warm garment, its most noticeable plus point is how lightweight it is and it's very thin too despite the woven quilted sections on its front.
Sizes: S-3XL
Colors: 2 (Storm, Blue)
+ Great comfort and cuffed wrists
+ 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. The only downsides we’d pick out would be the styling - a one-color all over look would have been preferred and unfortunately it only comes in two different colorways.
Sizes: Small-XXL
Colors: 3 (Blue, Navy, Grey)
+ Can be worn on and off the course
+ Good warmth
- Only three color options
A stylish, warm and protective jacket, the Revo is an excellent windbreaker and waterproof that looks good both on and off the course. Testing this jacket was a dream and we thoroughly enjoyed the mobility it provided us in our golf swing.
As we've come to expect with Under Armour, the brand delivers quality in all the products they produce and that is certainly visible here. If you like this coat then you should also take a look at our guide on the best Under Armour golf shoes.
It has three zipped pockets to keep all of your valuables safe and protected from the elements. The fit is just as you’d hope so we’d recommend going for your usual size. It comes in blue, navy and grey and looks great when twinned with a pair of chinos or smart golf trousers.
Sizes: S-3XL
Colors: 2 (Black, Navy)
+ 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 for when the weather turns sour on the course. It is perhaps one of the most lightweight offerings on this list, meaning you'll barely notice it's in your bag as you walk around the golf course. It does come as a pull-over jacket, which may not be to the tastes of some players, but for us was a fantastic option, delivering both warmth and mobility in the swing.
There is some excellent tech in this too, with it's 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.
How we test
When it comes to testing lightweight jackets, and indeed all apparel, our ethos and methodology revolves around putting the gear on, and using it out on the golf course, in different conditions. Obviously to test waterproofing we game the apparel in wet conditions, and we have also gone to extreme measures before, like pouring water all over the jackets to test how seam-sealed they are.
We think the best way of actually testing golf products is to use them thoroughly on the golf course, over a number of rounds, but we also try them off the golf course too because some models are extremely versatile. We then use these experiences to create reviews and buying advice content. Speaking of which we should make very clear, no manufacturer can buy a good review from us, we tell it how we see it.
How to choose a golf jacket
So what are some of the factors you need to consider when trying to find the right lightweight golf jacket for you? Let's take a look.
1. Waterproofing
Obviously the most important thing is waterproofing. If a jacket doesn't keep the rain at bay, regardless of strength and duration, then it isn't worth having. Thankfully pretty much all of the models above will protect you from the rain in excellent fashion largely because they have been designed specifically for that purpose.
In terms of specifics, when doing your research be aware of the phrase 'water resistant' because this does not mean the jacket is completely waterproof, and also check if jackets have been seam-sealed because this is usually a great barometer of how waterproof a jacket is. We would also recommend checking if some models have a waterproof warranty, as well as having a look at our best golf rainwear guide.
2. Protection
A good waterproof jacket will also help you in the wind and cold too. 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.
3. Color
If you are wearing it, you have to like what it looks like. No longer are golf rain jackets 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.
4. Freedom of movement
With all this protection, occasionally rain 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.
5. Budget
Finally be aware of your budget as the best golf jackets don't come cheap! Importantly, we've listed several models above that come at both premium and value price points so there is something for everyone.
If you're perhaps looking for more golf apparel ideas, then why not check out our guides to the best golf windbreakers, best golf polo shirts, or best golf pants.
FAQs
What makes a good golf jacket?
There are several elements to a good golf jacket, with the first being warmth. A jacket needs to deliver warmth and protection from the elements otherwise you'll get soaked and uncomfortable on the course. Next is flexibility. It needs to provide you with comfort and a full range of movement. And the last is being lightweight - no body want's to be weighed down by heavy golf gear.
Should I always carry a lightweight golf jacket in my bag?
It is advisable to carry a lightweight waterproof golf jacket in your bag as you never know when the weather will turn on the course. While you may be concerned about that weighing your bag down, there are plenty of options in this guide that way next to nothing and are unnoticeable in your bag.
Can you play golf in a padded down jacket?
Yes you can! Some of the options in this guide are padded, yet you may want to be careful when playing in padded down jackets. These can have a tendency to rip as their material can be quite fragile. For that reason I'd personally avoid playing in down jackets, despite the warmth they can deliver.
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Sam is Golf Monthly's E-commerce Editor which mean's he oversees everything E-com related on the site.
This takes the form of creating and updating Buying Guides, reviews, and finding bargain prices for deals content.
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, at a good price.
Additionally Sam oversees Golf Monthly voucher/coupon content which seeks to find you the best offers and promotions from well-known brands like Callaway, TaylorMade and many more.
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 single-figure handicap.
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