Table Contents
- Winter Golf Attire
- Choosing the Right Base layer Fabric
- Long Sleeve vs Short Sleeve Base Layers
- Mock Neck vs Crew Neck Styles
- Best Fabrics for Base Layers
- Top Brands for Baselayers
- Mid Layers
- 1/4 Zip Pullovers
- Full Zip Jackets
- Vests/Gilets
- Insulated Winter Golf Jackets
- Waterproof Golf Jackets
- Winter Golf Shoes
- Waterproof Golf Shoes
- Winter Golf Boots
- Spikeless Winter Golf Shoes
- Winter Hats
- Hand Protection
- Winter Golf Gloves
- Golf Mitts
- Socks
- Neck Warmers/Snoods
- Comparison of Popular Winter Fabrics for Golf Attire
Winter Golf Attire
As an avid golfer and golf fashion expert with over 10 years of experience in the industry, I am frequently asked about the best winter golf attire to wear when temperatures start dropping. Playing golf in cold weather conditions requires proper layering and the right fabrics to keep warm and comfortable while maintaining full mobility.
In this comprehensive guide on winter golf attire, I will cover everything you need to know about dressing for colder temps on the course including:
Article Outline:
- Introduction to Winter Golf Attire
- Why Proper Winter Golf Clothing is Essential
- Base Layers
- Choosing the Right Baselayer Fabric
- Long Sleeve vs Short Sleeve Base Layers
- Mock Neck vs Crew Neck Styles
- Best Fabrics for Base Layers
- Merino Wool
- Polyester
- Thermal Fleece
- Top Brands for Baselayers
- Mid Layers
- 1/4 Zip Pullovers
- Full Zip Jackets
- Vest/Gilets
- Outer Layers
- Insulated Winter Golf Jackets
- Waterproof Golf Jackets
- Windproof Golf Jackets
- Footwear
- Winter Golf Shoes
- Waterproof Golf Shoes
- Winter Golf Boots
- Spikeless Winter Golf Shoes
- Accessories
- Winter Hats
- Hand Protection
- Winter Golf Gloves
- Golf Mitts
- Socks
- Neck Warmers/Snoods
- Additional Tips for Dressing in Cold Weather Golf
- Table Comparing Winter Golf Attire Fabrics
Why Proper Winter Golf Clothing is Essential
Playing golf comfortably in cold temperatures requires wearing breathable, lightweight, and flexible layers that trap body heat close to the skin. The right winter golf attire allows your full range of motion while keeping your core and extremities warm. If your body gets too cold during your swing it can greatly impact distance, accuracy and overall enjoyment of the game.
Choosing windproof and water resistant materials is also important for blocking out icy gusts and repelling light rain or snow. Performance winter golf apparel utilizes advanced fabrics engineered specifically for retaining warmth without restricting mobility.
Depending on how cold it gets in your area, you may need to invest in multiple layers as well as winter-specific gear like insulated boots, gloves and headwear. Taking the time to find winter gear optimized for golfers will enhance your game regardless of the conditions.
Base Layers
Base layers sit directly against your skin and should use fabrics designed to wick moisture away while trapping heat close to your body. When shopping for winter golf base layers focus on finding lightweight, breathable and flexible shirts and pants offering maximum warmth and comfort.
Choosing the Right Baselayer Fabric
Merino Wool - Made from natural wool fibers, merino wool regulates body temperature effectively while resisting odors. The soft material avoids itchiness while providing top notch heat retention capabilities.
Polyester - Synthetic moisture wicking fabrics like polyester draw sweat away from the skin. Many brands add spandex for enhanced stretch and mobility.
Thermal Fleece - Fleece base layers have an inner fleece lining to retain body heat in extra cold temperatures. The soft, plush fabric keeps you extremely warm and comfortable.
Long Sleeve vs Short Sleeve Base Layers
Long sleeve shirts provide extra insulation for frigid conditions. They help keep your core, arms and wrists nice and toasty when swinging.
Short sleeve shirtswork well as the bottom base layer during high activity to wick away sweat. Pair them with a long sleeve mid layer for versatile insulation.
Mock Neck vs Crew Neck Styles
Mock neck base layers offer added neck insulation and protection from the elements. Great for very cold climates.
Crew neck base layers feature a classic neckline without feeling too restricting. Provides excellent comfort and coverage.
Mens Collection
Best Fabrics for Base Layers
Merino Wool - Soft merino wool regulates body temperature by absorbing sweat. Resists odors naturally. Provides lightweight insulation that retains warmth even when damp.
Polyester - Moisture wicking polyester draws sweat away from the skin. Maintains comfort and dries quickly to prevent chills. Added spandex/elastane creates stretch.
Thermal Fleece - Plush thermal fleece blankets the skin with a soft, insulating lining. Superior at trapping heat while allowing ventilation and easy movement.
Top Brands for Baselayers
Nike - Offering a wide selection of moisture wicking Dri-FIT long sleeve and short sleeve tops and bottoms for both men and women. Known for comfort, quality and style.
Under Armour - Industry leader in creating innovative winter golf baselayers featuring advanced moisture wicking technologies. Great for high performance insulation.
Adidas - Adidas baselayers utilize sweat-wicking Climalite fabric technology for superior moisture management in their long and short sleeve options.
Mizuno - Mizuno's Breath Thermo baselayer collection offers odor resistant fabric in mock neck and 1/4 zip pullover tops. Known for golf-specific mobility.
FootJoy - Trusted golf brand offering an impressive selection of winter golf baselayers for men and women using FJ ThermoLite heat retaining fabric.
Mid Layers
Adding a stylish mid layer over your baselayer increases insulation while streamlining your silhouette. Mid layers typically use lightweight thermal fabrics designed specifically with golfers in mind by allowing complete freedom of movement. Popular options include 1/4 zip mock neck pullovers, full zip jackets, and sleeveless vests/gilets. Choose mid layers featuring moisture wicking performance fabrics to keep your core and arms dry by drawing sweat away from the body.
1/4 Zip Pullovers
1/4 zip mock neck pullovers have become ubiquitous in the golf world thanks to their stylish look and unmatched comfort. This mid layer style is ideal when temperatures hover around 40-60° F during shoulder season golf. The partial front zip offers adjustable ventilation while the mock neck supplies added warmth. Stretch fabrics allow unrestricted movement. Many feature thumbholes at cuffs for keeping hands warmer.
Full Zip Jackets
Full zip mid layer jackets provide a perfect balance of insulation, breathability and style. They regulate temperature well as outer layers during fall golf days and mid layers under insulated pieces in brutal winter. Chest pockets secure valuables while front zip vents release excess heat. Most are made of quick drying polyester or moisture wicking merino wool.
Vest/Gilets
Sleeveless vests, known as giletsin some parts of the world, deliver adaptable core insulation without restricting arm mobility - making them ideal for golf. Quilted and fleece vests offer abundant warmth. Down vests provide exceptional featherlight heat thanks to insulating down feather fill. Popular options feature chest pockets and full zip fronts for venting.
Outer Layers
Your outermost golf layer shields you from the elements like wind, rain and snow. Outer layers help block icy gusts from penetrating to the inner layers keeping you toasty on extra frigid days. Many winter golf jackets use DWR (durable water repellent) coatings or membranes for water resistance. Other critical features include adjustable cuffs, stretch fabric panels, and zippered hand warmer pockets.
I'll compare the differences between various styles of winter golf outerwear:
Insulated Winter Golf Jackets
Insulated outer layers utilize thick synthetic or down fill to generate exceptional warmth. They make perfect top golf layers when the mercury bottoms out. Most insulated winter golf jackets placements insulation in strategic zones instead of filling the entire piece for better mobility.
Many styles boast adjustable cinched hems and hoods plus wind flap chin guards for containing warmth. Water resistant fabric shells prevent snow and icy drizzle from soaking in. Insulated pieces allow golfing down to subzero temperatures with proper layering.
Waterproof Golf Jackets
Waterproof golf jacketsemploy advanced fabric technologies for keeping you bone dry in rainy or snowy conditions. Leading waterproofing fabrics include Gore-Tex and eVent which use multi-layer construction to promote waterproof breathability. These membranes block liquid water while releasing water vapor (sweat) for superior comfort.
Waterproof jackets specially engineered for golf integrate stretch fabric panels to avoid restricting your swing. They feature adjustable waists, cuffs, and hems for a customized fit along with full coverage hoods. Waterproof ratings are measured in millimeters to indicate how much vertical water pressure a jacket can withstand before leaking - 10,000mm+ is fully waterproof.
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Windproof Golf Jackets
Windproof golf jackets are specially designed to block powerful gusts which can penetrate layers and steal your warmth. Windproof outer layers use a tightly woven shell enhanced by a DWR (durable water repellent) finish to deflect wind and light moisture. This allows playing in blustery conditions without compromising comfort.
Many windproof golf jackets include partial fleece linings or soft shell fabric constructions offering light insulation. Styles range from no-frills pullovers to weatherproof zip-up jackets. Breathable windproof layers maintain airflow to prevent overheating while keeping cold gusts at bay.
Footwear
Frozen fairways demand winter golf shoes built for traction and insulation. Your footwear serves as the foundation to any effective winter golf outfit. Choosing shoes or boots offering proper traction and stability prevents slips. Insulation and waterproof membranes keep feet warm and dry. Spikeless options provide versatility from the course to the clubhouse.
Popular cold weather golf shoes and boots feature:
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Waterproof Membranes - Waterproof GORE-TEX boots prevent soggy feet.
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Insulation - Fleece lining and insulative insoles give winter warmth.
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Durable Spikes - Non-metal soft spikes dig into slippery terrain.
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Stability - Opt for stable, athletic boots over casual styles.
I'll cover the characteristics of various winter golf footwear options:
Winter Golf Shoes
Winter golf shoes combine waterproof leather/synthetic uppers with insulating linings to keep feet warm and dry. Outsoles utilize multi-directional traction lugs, soft spikes, or spikeless patterns to prevent slipping on frosty grass.
Many winter golf shoes have removable insoles accommodating custom orthotics. Full grain/synthetic leather tops hold up well to wet winter conditions while fleece lining provides lightweight warmth.
Waterproof Golf Shoes
Waterproof golf shoes employ waterproof GORE-TEX membranes backed by durable warranty protection against leaks. These specialized shoes release excess internal moisture vapor while preventing external water from seeping in - keeping your feet warm and dry.
Many waterproof models boast "winterized" insulation making them suitable for cold rounds. Traction outsoles with soft spikes or rugged lugs are common. Casual to athletic waterproof golf shoe styles exist for versatility.
Winter Golf Boots
Insulated winter golf boots deliver rugged waterproof protection perfect when playing in rain, sleet or snow. Winter golf boots feature injected insulation throughout the upper and collar lined with plush fleece or faux fur. Waterproof membrane boots shed heavy moisture.
Lugged rubber outsoles with soft/hard spikes supply essential traction. Some winter golf boots incorporate lace-up closures while Chelsea and zip-up styles allow quick on/off. High tops support ankles on uneven terrain.
Spikeless Winter Golf Shoes
Spikeless winter golf shoes boast textured/lugged rubber outsoles supplying sufficient grip to prevent slipping on frosty turf without damaging putting greens. Casual to athletic spikeless styles feature waterproof leather uppers and insole insulation for winter warmth.
Permanent traction pads provide stability for walking 18 holes in cold conditions. Spikeless soles allow seamless transition from golfing to grabbing 19th hole drinks without changing shoes.
Accessories
Bundling up for golf requires accessories specially designed for retaining heat in key spots like your head, hands and neck. I'll outline must-have cold weather golf gear for keeping extremities nice and toasty when swinging clubs in freezing temperatures:
Winter Hats
Insulated winter hats trap body heat escaping through your head while protecting ears from frostbite. Essential when golfing in sub 40°F temperatures. Variety exists from basic beanies to high-tech cold gear caps.
Material matters - wool supplies natural warmth; fleece coats ears in plush comfort; thermal insulation and windproof fabrics retain trapped warmth. Ear flaps, face masks and neck gaiters offer bonus coverage. Stretch fits accommodate helmets. Hat features like subtle logos and stripes and popular in winter golf attire.
Hand Protection
Guarding hands against numbness and stiffness helps maintain golfing finesse and power in cold weather.
Winter Golf Gloves
Insulated winter golf gloves feature fleece or other insulating fabric linings allowing playing in frigid winds without losing feel. Water-resistant gloves incorporate windproof membranes to block icy gusts.
Many gloves boast touch screen compatible finger tips letting you use devices without removing. Velcro closures ensure a snug fit. Top winter models feel like second skins thanks to flexibility enhancing designs perfect for low temp rounds.
Golf Mitts
For brutal conditions, golf mitts offer maximum insulation. Mitts conserve body heat better than gloves. Most provide individual finger slots inside while exterior functions like a common mitt. Highly water resistant exteriors include reinforcement patches for longevity and adjustable wrist closures. Plush multilayer lining keeps hands extremely toasty. Mitts mean business when battling bitter cold winds.
Socks
Wicking thermal golf socks proactively draw moisture away from feet while delivering a layer of insulation. This prevents hot spots leading blisters while reducing odor buildup. Winter golf socks often contain moisture controlling copper fibers and reinforce high friction zones. Many sport built-in arch support. Snug merino wool and synthetic blends maintain elite cushioning, warmth and breathability round after round in adverse weather.
Neck Warmers/Snoods
Neck warmers (snoods) provide adaptable insulation for heads, ears and necks during winter golf. Fleece, wool, and poly-spandex blends retain ample warmth without bulk - easily layering under hats and jackets. One stretchy size fits all. Snoods cover vulnerable neck areas susceptible to chills. Designed for pulling up or down for instant protection from biting winds.
Additional Tips for Dressing in Cold Weather Golf
- Start rounds wearing minimal layers to avoid overheating then add additional insulation as needed.
- Pack extra baselayers, hand warmers and thick socks in your golf bag to layer up if temperatures drop.
- Look for zippered ankle gussets when wearing taller boots to easily slip them on over pants.
- Waterproof ratings help gauge the wet weather protection of shoes/jackets - 10,000mm+ is fully waterproof.
- Try electric heated gloves offering wire heating elements to keep hands and fingers unusually warm.
- Foot powder helps feet avoid blistering by wicking away moisture and reducing friction inside winter golf shoes.
- Rechargeable hand warmers last for hours, activating via USB. They eliminate disposable waste.
- Merino wool naturally resists odors and microbial buildup so lasts longer between washes.
Comparison of Popular Winter Fabrics for Golf Attire
| Fabric | Key Characteristics | Insulation Ability | Warmth When Wet | Breathability | Comfort & Stretch | Ease of Movement | Odor Resistance | Fast Drying | Durability |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Merino Wool | Soft, lightweight, moisture-wicking, breathable, antimicrobial | Excellent | Superior | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent | Good | Good |
| Fleece | Lightweight, plush, insulating, moisture-wicking | Superior | Good | Very Good | Excellent | Excellent | Very Good | Fair | Very Good |
| Softshell | Lightly insulated, weather resistant exterior, stretchy, breathable | Good | Good | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent | Very Good | Excellent | Very Good |
| Insulated Synthetic Fill | Lightweight warmth from hollow fibers/down alternative fill | Superior | Good | Good | Good | Good | Good | Fair | Good |
| Down Feathers | Extremely warm, compressible, moisture resistant | Superior | Poor | Fair | Good | Good | Fair | Poor | Good |
| GORE-TEX | Waterproof yet breathable membrane | None | Superior | Very Good | Fair | Fair | Very Good | N/A | Excellent |
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