HLINC Waterproof Links Golf Jacket Review: The (Almost) Faultless Specialist Which Delivers On Its Promises

Although a couple of my Golf Monthly colleagues have tested HLINC (pronounced 'Link') products in the past when trying to decipher which is the best rain jacket - including the Waterproof Longsleeve Quarter Zip, which was very well received - I had never personally enjoyed the pleasure until now.

However, having spent several weeks thoroughly testing HLINC's Full Zip Waterproof Links Golf Jacket before writing this review, I can wholeheartedly tell you it was worth the wait.

As luck would have it, the period in which I tested the Links Golf Jacket coincided with a turn for the worst in terms of the weather. Milder temperatures sunk to figures you might find on Scotland's coast, even during the summer, and the wind picked up to unrelenting speeds for a few days.

One of the very first days I slipped on the Links Golf Jacket, which was engineered specifically for use in some of the harshest conditions you might play golf in, the wind was blowing at up and around 40mph and the added rain showers made it a pretty gnarly experience.

Admittedly, I was somewhat dubious over claims that the eVent fabric was 100% waterproof and windproof. But the difference in feeling between wearing the jacket and not in those conditions was truly night and day.

The newly-created buffer between my body and the elements was genuinely impressive, as far as the wind went, and my clothes underneath were completely dry - proving HLINC's claim that the jacket carries a 20,000/20,000 waterproof and breathability rating.

Having worn the Links Golf Jacket in some of the worst weather you might experience playing golf on the coast, I knew anything else would be a breeze. And that was certainly the case when heading out onto the course in far calmer conditions over the subsequent days and weeks.

The absence of any rain and a drastic reduction in wind speed on the days I'd picked allowed me to concentrate on other areas of the jacket, such as the practicality and suitability in more mild conditions.

As a start, the Links Golf Jacket's breathability was excellent in the crisp morning air and will comfortably protect you until wearing an additional layer is no longer necessary. At that point, you're free to rely on your other layers such as sweaters, hoodies and quarter zips.

From a practical point of view, the clever addition of a back pocket instead of a front was something I never really knew I needed until I had it. Perhaps you just make do with a golf ball and some tees in your pocket while leaning over a putt, but that's not a concern with the Links Golf Jacket as all of that paraphernalia can rest on your lower back instead.

If there was one thing that I would improve about HLINC's full-zip offering, though, it would be a second back pocket. Most clothes have pockets on the front and - as such - that is naturally where your subconscious mind goes when reaching for a tee or ball marker.

Once you've realized that your belongings are on your back, it takes another moment to consider which side the pocket sits. If another pocket is added, that would solve that tiny issue and allow for a little more storage space upon your person.

But, really, I'm picking holes in what is otherwise a fantastic golf jacket. Other plus points included the enhanced back hem which seemed to prevent any bunching when crouching or bending down and the well-sized zip-up chest pocket.

Another aspect of the Links Golf Jacket that I found particularly impressive was how lightweight yet sturdy it feels. You can easily fold it and store inside a golf bag without taking up too much room, but when you have it on it offers excellent protection.

As well as protecting you from the elements sufficiently, the jacket offers a complete freedom of movement while swinging the club. I haven't always found this to be the case with other options, so this was a big tick in favor of HLINC's full-zip jacket.

In terms of aesthetics, I felt the Golf Links Jacket looked incredibly smart and sleek, allowing me to wear it both on and off the course. The mains HLINC logo sits subtly on the back of the neck and is part of a modest design pattern with another smaller logo by your hip. The only slight downside in this area is that the jacket comes exclusively in black for now, although a navy colorway is due to arrive in 2026.

Its price point is far from among the more affordable options, but it is certainly a long way from the most premium-priced golf jackets on the market. As a firm believer in the phrase 'you get what you pay for', I would say investing in a jacket like this one will be an extremely worthwhile decision.

There can't be too many better options out there in terms of the best golf waterproofs, if any at all. Regardless, I would find it hard to believe this specialist option isn't at least firmly in the conversation, if only because it delivers on every promise it makes.