Ping AquaDrive Jacket Review

The Ping SensorDry AquaDrive waterproof jacket ticks every box: it’s very breathable, stretchy, ultra lightweight, and windproof. With such a super thin and lightweight material - and no kind of additional lining on the inside - the fact that it provides such impressive protection in the rain is actually quite remarkable.

Some golf waterproofs (not the premium kind), can quickly feel like they are being overpowered in the rain, and they start to lose their shape and cling to your body. You get what you pay for - and in the Ping AquaDrive jacket you’re getting a very high-quality waterproof jacket.

I’ve played half a dozen rounds wearing the jacket, with conditions varying from light to moderate rain. Out on the links at Formby Golf Club as well as the exposed fairways up in the hills of the fabulous new Paragraph Golf & Spa Tabori in Georgia, this full zip jacket kept me perfectly dry and comfortable. Because it’s so light, you can add several layers underneath for additional warmth without feeling like your swing is restricted. (Speaking of layers, why not check out our guides on the best golf mid-layers or best golf vests).

In my opinion, minimalist designs are best when it comes to waterproofs. The AquaDrive jacket has two zipped pockets on the side (no unnecessary chest pouch), easy-to-adjust elasticated cuffs, and an adjustable shock cord hem. It's a little awkward to operate, and not very robust, but you soon get the hang of it. Meanwhile, a two-way weather resistant front zip makes it easier to pull the jacket on and off quickly with the minimum of fuss.

Paired with Ping AquaDrive pants, you’re going to look like a pro when it rains. Talking of pros, this is the stylish design that is worn by the brand’s tour professionals. If you tuned into the very wet and windy Alfred Dunhill Links Championship recently, you’ll no doubt have seen a few of these suits.

It’s nice to see one bright color in the range. The winter months are often gray and dull, so the Brilliant Blue/Oxford Blue (pictured) gets my vote. The contrast branding and Ping logos - one on the right shoulder, one on the rear collar, and one SensorDry stamp down by the left pocket - have also been carefully considered. Ping doesn’t really do ‘in your face’. The branding is subtle, although the logos do give the garment that stamp of quality, which golfers will appreciate.

One detail that often gets overlooked is a hanging loop, which this jacket has. It’s a bit of a bugbear of mine. When I come home from golf wet and need to hang something up to dry in the garage, I want to see that loop! Thank you, Ping.

For more info on the best golf rain jackets, or best golf rain pants to keep the weather at bay, have a read of our specific guides we've created from testing.