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
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 1
+ Incredibly lightweight
+ Water-repellent
- Camo design not for all
If you need a garment to help deal with inclement weather then I think I’ve found the ideal pullover for you. The aesthetic of the G/FORE Camo Tech Hooded top will divide opinion, but the Twilight color grew on me and despite the camo finish, it isn’t a loud garment. I think there is a degree of subtlety here that works well off the course too, on walks for example.
Thanks to a water-repellent finish, the pullover works for those pesky showers we occasionally get caught in, and yet the extremely lightweight and breathable construction allows it to perform on warmer days as well. Additionally, it pairs very well indeed with polos and mid-layers for colder rounds too. Finally it stretches nicely and folds down to nothing so it can go in pretty much any pocket in your bag. A go-to top when you need it.
Sizes: S-2XL
Colors: 2
+ Looks great
+ Good stretch and warmth
- The grid design not for all
A lightweight jacket is still a must during those spring and summer rounds because in the morning or when the sun sets it can get cold very quickly indeed. A jacket to help deal with that is the Insulated Grid garment from Sun Day Red. Featuring a lightweight feel, it still delivers good warmth thanks to the Primaloft fill insulation and overall it feels like an extremely well-made garment.
From an aesthetic point of view, I think the jacket looks great but I do think the grid design may put some off. However this Polartec Powergrid fleece at the back and sleeves gave excellent stretch and mobility. The jacket really moved nicely and I think it paired well with other mid-layers and tops underneath. There are only two colors to choose from but black and navy go with everything so I am confident in the jackets versatility.
Sizes: XS-4XL
Colors: 1
+ Clean design
+ Water repellent protection
- Lacks the technical features offered by other brands
This sleek jacket is an excellent outer layer for changing conditions. It’s lightweight, very stretchy and can easily be packed into a bag if the temperature starts to rise. The all black design goes well with almost anything, and the classic collar provides a touch of sophistication to any outfit. Thanks to the water repellent shell, this jacket also provides a solid level of protection from the elements which is ideal if you play golf in a temperamental climate.
Two side pockets also offer good storage and the soft fabric feels great against your skin if you’ve only opted for a polo shirt underneath. The lack of color options and technical features do mark this jacket down slightly, but it’s still a very solid option for those style conscious golfers who like to tee it up year round.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 11
+ Incredibly lightweight
+ Easy to fold down small for storage
- No pockets
The Galvin Green Larry windbreaker is remarkably lightweight, with Galvin Green saying that it weighs less than a sleeve of golf balls. We believe that. It’s fully windproof and water repellent to make for a fantastic extra layer on those chilly mornings and evenings or when you get caught in a shower on the course.
The Larry is also extremely stretchy and comes with an elastic drawstring at the hem and cuffed wrists for a very comfortable wear that is easy to play golf in. It comes in just three colorways - Black, Moonlight Blue and Navy.
We were disappointed not to find any pockets, but apart from that it is an excellent windbreaker that has to be one of the very best on the market. It fit exactly as we hoped so would recommend going for your usual size.
Sizes: XS-2XL
Colors: 2
+ Extremely comfortable
+ Elasticated cuffs and adjustability
- Would love more colors
I have been a fan of Lululemon apparel for a while now and this continues with garments like this. This is one of the most comfortable pullover quarter-zips I’ve ever tested thanks to the stretchy fabric construction of recycled nylon, lycra and elastane. At times I forgot I was even wearing it, which is testament to its lightweight comfort whilst the brand has clearly thought about other details as well, such as the elasticated cuffs and adjustability in the hem. This fabric is also windproof, water and abrasion resistant and UV protective too.
It was roomy in the chest and waist but not too much that I felt hampered during the swing. Speaking of which, the fabric does make a slight rustling when swinging, and I wish more colors were available, but these are such minor points and don’t take away from what is an excellent top.
Sizes: S-XL
Colors: 2
+ Simple but stylish
+ Versatile for off-course wear
- Hood can flap around in strong gusts
This Full Zp Windbreaker from Adidas is an appealing all-round golf outerwear pick. Its lightweight woven construction blocks wind while allowing stretch for an unrestricted swing, making it blend performance and comfort very well.
For the price, it delivers enough warmth and modest water resistance for nearly all conditions — though it’s not built for heavy rain. The jacket offers a flattering, flexible fit and plenty of off-course appeal - we’ve worn it just as much away from the fairways as on them, heightening the clear value on offer here. The hood is a nice inclusion, enhancing both the style and the level of protection on offer and I like the Navy model I got in testing, although there is also a purple finish as well for those that want to stand out a bit more.
Sizes: S-2XL
Colors: 5
+ Classic, premium feel
+ Looks fantastic and versatile
- Only water-resistant
We have tested the last few Merge Elite Hybrid Jackets from Peter Millar and because we loved them so much, I myself was looking forward to testing the standard Merge Hybrid model this year. As I expected, it performed outstandingly. Featuring a refreshed design with several new colors, the jacket is made from a premium blend of polyester and spandex to provide a lightweight and comfortable fit.
Warmth is provided thanks to the quilted, insulated front and back panels, whilst the fabric is also wind and water resistant. Obviously for heavier rain I would recommend a completely waterproof rain jacket but for light showers it delivered sufficiently. Finally I loved the look of the jacket, the premium construction, and the sleeve length as always was ideal.
Sizes: S-3XL
Colors: 2
+ Extremely versatile in terms of both when and where to wear
+ Lightweight and flexible
- Only water resistant
If you’re looking at the weather forecast and you aren’t exactly sure what the conditions will be during your fall/winter round of golf, the Northwood Jacket will become your go to. It’s a pleasant extra layer to wear during colder days and thanks to the water resistant material on the front, will save you if an unexpected shower rolls in.
If said rain is sustained over a longer period of time, you might have to reach for a proper waterproof jacket, but the Northwood Jacket at least protects you for light or short showers. It’s lightweight, stretchy and is clearly made with the golfer in mind. Plenty of pocket space in the three front pockets is also a welcome feature.
Sizes: S-3XL
Colors: 3
+ Great freedom of movement
+ Superb protection from range of weather
- Shiny material is slightly noisy
An anorak has a multitude of uses and, with Puma's Ripguard Anorak Golf Jacket, there's an awful lot to like. From the overall design, fit and performance, it excels in all departments, with the Ripguard providing plenty of storage space from two well designed pockets on the front, as well as a hood that remains up even in windy conditions.
The one issue with these types of garments is restriction in the swing but, with the Ripguard, there's a 4-way stretch that allows for greater freedom of movement. What's more, the mesh lining means it is breathable and provides great temperature control. The only slight downside is the shiny exterior, but the moisture-wicking nature of it means you can keep dry in the wettest conditions.
Sizes: S-2XL
Colors: 3
+ Compact and foldableComfortable to wear
+ Easy to layer
- When unzipped the sleeves may not be slim enough for some
Two in one might not be everyone's cup of tea when it comes to clothing products but after using this lightweight jacket out on the course and for general leisure activities, I am convinced that this is a good bet. Say goodbye to restrictive clothing with this jacket, its great to chuck on over a polo shirt and head out on the course with your mates.
And if you get hot in the middle of the day when the morning cold has disappeared, this jacket has your back with its incredible design, simply remove the long sleeves and you’ve got a great short sleeve alternative. It’s nylon design is waterproof, breathable and lightweight. It folds down nicely into your golf bag and the black design allows it to be worn with pretty much anything.
Sizes: S-2XL
Colors: 2
+ Good pocket space
+ Lightweight but strong against the elements
- Only two color choices
The Hybrid Jacket is excellent for those days in which you’re not exactly sure what the weather has in store for you out on the course. This jacket is lightweight and a good option to throw on during colder days, especially if there is rain in the forecast, whilst a soft brushed interior will keep you warm and fight against cold fall or winter breezes.
Two zipped pockets on the front might be a little fiddly for some, but I found them an excellent addition that provided plenty of storage space. This jacket is also stylish enough to wear on and off the course - I wore it on the course one afternoon and then to the bar that evening, but some consumers may be disappointed by only two color choices.
Sizes: S-3XL
Colors: 4
+ Warmth in the right places
+ Moves with you
- Lack of lower back quilting for very cold conditions
The most important part of your body to keep warm on a cold day is your torso, and that’s the bit that the ProQuip Helm Quilt Jacket is designed to keep toasty on cold and dry days. The Helm’s quilted panels are filled with polyester ‘down’ and cover the front of your body and shoulder blades. The lack of a fully quilted back might seem odd, but in practice that lack of bulk at the rear does make for good freedom of movement.
Likewise, by opting for stretchy sleeves, rather than quilted arms, you don’t become a golfing Michelin man. The sleeves and non quilted panels are a thermal soft-shell jersey fabric that offers warmth, especially when worn over a midlayer, and heat retention is aided by a reasonably snug fit. While marketed as windproof rather than water repellent, the Helm copes with light drizzle, there’s a pull cord at the waist to cinch in for extra snugness and the Helm has two outer zipped pockets, plus an internal pocket to keep your scorecard/phone dry.
Sizes: S-2XL
Colors: 3
+ Versatile for on/off course
+ Adaptable and comfortable
- Drawcords can be a little distracting
Earlier this year we enjoyed testing the Zukor Jacket from Johnnie-O but in my opinion the bar has been raised further by the Marshall Jacket. A full-zip hooded model, as the name suggests it is as light as a feather, and yet it performed well in breezy conditions making it a good windbreaker as well. I must admit I am not a fan of the drawcords which can move around and be a little distracting, but this is a minor point because I think the jacket looks great on and off the course, provides a good amount of stretch thanks to the fabric construction, and works well with other layers. The 2-way zipper was a nice touch as well, giving comfort when sitting down in particular. There are three colors to choose from with the Seal model pictured here being the pick of the bunch in my opinion.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 1
+ Comfortable fit
+ Looks great
- Only one color option
The Original Penguin 1/4 Zip Color Block Jacket is one of the best looking pieces of golf apparel in my wardrobe. I love it so much that I wear it far more for non-golf activities than I do on the course. It’s a smart blend of performance and style. Designed with a touch of stretch for easy movement, it keeps you comfortable and shielded when the wind picks up, while the bold color block design adds a modern edge and goes just as well with a pair of jeans as it does with golf trousers.
The lightweight construction ensures freedom and flexibility through every swing. Perfect for unpredictable days on the course or winter sessions on the range, this versatile jacket delivers practical protection without sacrificing its clean, contemporary look.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 3
+ Comfortable
+ Good rain protection
- More suited to summer
The Raven Showerproof is advertised only as being water repellent rather than waterproof, albeit the zips are said to be waterproof. However we found it gave excellent protection against the rain and the zips indeed proved to be waterproof.
The jacket is made of lightweight fabric and is easy to swing a club in. There is an elasticated, adjustable hem cord to tighten the fit around the waist. This is handy as the waist is generously sized. The two pockets at the front on either side are waterproof and the zips easy to manipulate.
The jacket is short-sleeved so better suited for wearing over polo shirts than midlayers, so perhaps more for summer use, when people’s arms are bare, than in winter when a long-sleeved midlayer is likely to be worn.
Sizes: XS-3XL
Colors: 2
+ Very comfortable and stretchy
+ Great fit
- Not waterproof
The Adda Windbreaker Lightweight jacket is a very comfortable and versatile jacket from Reflo that is a joy to play golf in thanks to its stretchy make-up. It fits exactly as we hoped and offers up a good amount of warmth and wind protection, although it isn't fully waterproof. It has two good sized zip pockets which feel good quality and robust along with the main full zip.
The cuffs also have a good amount of stretch and a unique tapered design that is a nice touch. Overall this is a good value for money jacket that feels well thought out and high quality. It is sure to get a lot of wear on the course in a variety of different conditions as well as away from it, too. It’s also made from recycled polyester so credit goes to Reflo for its sustainability, with the brand also pledging to plant a tree for every one of these jackets bought.
Sizes: S-XXXL
Colors: 3
+ Soft, lightweight material
+ Folds down very small for storage
- Won’t protect you from heavier rain
The Ashworth Quarter Zip Wind Shirt is ideal for those changeable days when you’re constantly taking layers on and off. The short-sleeve design makes it easy to slip on and off and also means your swing is less impeded than a full-sleeve option. The soft, stretchable outer fabric offers freedom of movement and is also very quiet compared to some. It is water repellent so copes easily with light showers, but will not be up to scratch once the heavy rain moves in. It includes side tabs and a drawstring at the waist so you can adjust the fit to just how you want it. All in all, this is a versatile garment which is a great extra layer to have in your armoury when you’re up against unpredictable weather.
Sizes: S-2XL
Colors: 2
+ Great mix of materials
+ Well thought out design
- Arms ride up slightly
Slipping the Fusion Padded Jacket on, I felt an immense amount of comfort, as well as a large amount of style, as the mix of materials provides a garment that can be worn both on and off the golf course.
Like other Mizuno golf clothing, it is only available in two colorways, which isn't a bad thing in this instance, as the block colors only heighten the smart look further. Providing stretch on the arms, the material does ride up a bit, but the elastic means it is easy to adjust to your preference. This means that the freedom of movement available also adds to the comfort aspect, which is excellent on a well thought out design that can be worn all year round.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 2
+ Lightweight and unrestricted
+ Easy off-course wearability
- Hybrid-material design might not appeal to everyone
The Glenmuir Dalton golf jacket combines a lightweight quilted torso panel with soft-combed cotton sleeves to create a different offering to many other options in this area. I found the body area to be slightly thinner than I’d expected, although it did offer reasonable warmth in cooler conditions.
That said, a midlayer is likely needed when the weather turns chilly and windy, with the conditions felt through the arms in particular. The hybrid material design will split opinion, however, it absolutely offers the freedom of movement you would expect out on the course. The ribbed cuffs and hem ensured the Dalton fit efficiently and its modest design means you can easily wear it away from the golf course as well.
Sizes: S-2XL
Colors: 6
+ Packs up into no size to easily fit in any golf bag
+ Copes with light, unexpected showers
- Easily creases
There two main takeaways I had after testing the Ash Light Packable Jacket were that this is a brilliant idea, and why haven’t I had a jacket that has done this before? What I am talking about is the ability to pack away this jacket into next to no size at all into a packable bag in one of the front pockets attached with cord. The stand bag I use day-to-day doesn’t have much storage space and given I play golf in Ireland, I have to encounter bad weather more than I like. The ability to pack this jacket into my bag with little room taken up is an excellent feature in my eyes. Because it folds up to small, it does mean this jacket creases easily, but it’s a small trade off. As for performance, it’s wonderfully lightweight and protected me well on both a windy day and the following day in which intermittent showers plagued our round.
Sizes: XS-XXL
Colors: 1
+ Cool print stands out on the golf course
+ Provides plenty of warmth
- Quite heavy material
If you are looking for a top to provide exceptional warmth throughout the winter months, this Lyle and Scott garment certainly does that. The cool print on the chest and shoulders will certainly provide you the platform to look great while also playing your best, and the large Lyle and Scott logo on the back shoulder area is something you don’t often see on other brands. The looser fit gives you plenty of room for a polo and even a midlayer if desired, helping you to tailor your outfit to the weather on the day. The material can feel quite heavy, especially when you first put it on, but you can’t complain about the protection it provides. You will need to get used to the feel of it while swinging the club, but once you do you’ll have the perfect companion to shelter you from the elements.
Sizes: XS-XXL
Colors: 2
+ Great crossover piece
+ Very fashionable
- If you prefer a tailored fit
The Malbon Elliott Jacket offers the wearer a true crossover piece that could be worn equally well on the golf course while giving a distinct lifestyle feel. It may not provide the waterproof protection some golfers demand, but it offers a fantastic wind barrier and easily accommodates layers underneath. The relaxed, boxy fit means the style doesn't intrude, and the smart silhouette ensures it can be paired well with many different pants. It lacks the elasticated technical cuffs of dedicated golf windbreakers, but this doesn't detract from its purpose as a functional, fashionable outer layer. For comfort and convenience, there’s a full zip closure and ample buttoned chest pockets that provide secure storage. This jacket is perfect for the fashion-conscious golfer who values street style and durability, making a statement both on and off the course.
Sizes: S-2XL
Colors: 3
+ Good value for money
+ Lightweight stretchy fabric
- Half sleeves sit at an awkward length
As with the whole Sun Mountain Monsoon range (there’s a full zip waterproof jacket and waterproof trousers), this pullover offer outstanding value considering its quality and performance in wet conditions. It’s got 15k waterproof rating - good enough to withstanding prolongs periods of heavy rain - and is fully seam sealed to avoid leaking. It’s windproof and the fabric is so stretchy you can barely feel its on over a midlayer or polo.
Maybe this is because I’m bias against half sleeve wind jackets (why not give me the full arm?), but I found the length of the sleeve, which just went below my elbow, a little awkward and frustrating. If you like a half sleeve, then you’ll be more than happy, but if anything this garment confirmed to me I prefer a full length sleeve!
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 rain gear or best golf rain pants guides.
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 hoodies, 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.
