Do you need a new golf top? Well here we have taken a look at the current market and come up with a list of our favourites.
Best Golf Tops
We all know how invaluable a good golf top can be out on the golf course because the sun isn’t out constantly, especially if you go and play in somewhere like Scotland.
We need a good layer with us when out on the golf course, to keep us warm, comfortable, and a good protector against the wind and rain. Also, in modern golf it has to look good too, as well as being light and breathable because playing golf is hard enough without having to worry about a cumbersome piece of clothing that restricts the swing.
Of course the word ‘top’ implies anything to be worn on the top half of the body, however we have taken it to mean garments to be worn over polo shirts and under specifically designed waterproofs.
So bearing that in mind, below we have taken a look at some of our favourite jackets, pullovers and mid-layers that act as the best golf tops to be worn on the golf course.
Alternatively if you are looking for something else in the golf apparel sector, take a look at some of our other buyers guides too – such as the best waterproof golf jackets, best golf polos or the best golf trousers.
Best Golf Tops
FootJoy Hybrid Jacket
Sizes: S-2XL
Colours: 3
+ Retains heat nicely
+ High quality performance
– Waterproof needed if playing in hard rain
Building on from the popular Quilted Jacket, FootJoy has introduced the Hybrid Jacket which seeks to be the perfect top to wear on the golf course. It’s quilted woven panel gives protection from the cold by retaining heat against the body and the water resistant finish repels light rain away nicely.
The design also enables you to swing freely and two more nice features are the convenient pockets and high-collar for added wind and cold weather protection.
We only wish there were more diverse colours to choose from.
Under Armour Storm Evolution Daytona 1/2 Zip
Sizes: S-2XL
Colours: 5
+ Storm tech repels water well
+ Stylish, eye-catching design
– No front pockets
Under Armour’s Storm Evolution Daytona is an insulated golf top with Storm technology which repels water without sacrificing breathability. This top is wind resistant and shields you from the elements – designed to adapt to the temperature keeping you warm when its cold and cool when the temperature increases. Constructed with a natural stretch that allows you to move freely providing the optimum comfort when you swing, we also think it looks great in several different colours.
Also if you want more garments that deal with wind and rain well, have a read of our best golf wind jackets guide too.
adidas Go-To Crewneck Sweatshirt
Sizes: S-2XL
Colours: 4
+ Warmth
+ Sustainable construction
– Traditionalists may not love the styling
Hit the clubhouse or the course in this thick, textured cotton-blend sweater that is soft and versatile enough to wear anytime and still offer quick-drying performance on the course.
It features adidas’ Doubleknit fabric to be soft and quick-drying, and it’s also made with a Soft knit that is designed to have a slight stretch.
We also think what truly separates this sweatshirt is the focus on sustainability. This, along with the Go-To collection from adidas, is made from recycled content, which is part of the brand’s goal of using 100 percent recycled polyester in all of its products by 2024.
adidas Go-To Crewneck Sweater Review
Galvin Green Dominic
Sizes: S-2XL
Colours: 3
+ Soft, stretchy, stylish, breathable, comfortable
+ Very effective at taking away the chill on cold days
– Comes up quite small in terms of sizing.
A good golf top has to keep the cold at bay, and the Dominic from Galvin Green is one of the best on this list at doing so.
It is also very soft and stretchy which we found to be important because during testing it can come up a little small in terms of sizing. That being said the give in the fabric meant we got a tailored, snug fit which wasn’t actually hindering movement at all.
As far as looks go we absolutely loved it. Testing in the white/sharkskin colourway (there are two others available), we enjoyed the subtle striped pattern down the arms and colour blocking down the sides. Two front pockets provide much-needed refuge for your hands on cold days.
Galvin Green also make some of the best golf waterproofs anywhere so if you want to go that one step further be sure to have a read of our guide on protective golf apparel.
Ping Norse S2 Zoned Jacket
Sizes: S-3XL
Colours: 2
+ Warmth to the body
+ Modern design
– Colour choice is limited
The Norse S2 Zoned jacket has been specifically designed to deliver core warmth and wind protection. It does so by utilising PrimaLoft Gold insulation with Cross Core for lightweight warmth without bulk.
The fit is also excellent. Snug but not restrictive and we like how the arms aren’t too long to be distracting, although the elasticated cuffs ensure there’s no swing interference.
The fact the material is so thin means you can easily combine it with other layers if you want to, but with a polo shirt underneath you will find this jacket provides the protection you need on most days during winter.
Finally we should also mention that whilst it is not waterproof, during our testing we were caught in a couple of showers and it did keep rain at bay so it should be able to withstand any passing or light rain.
Ping Norse S2 Zoned Jacket Review
Puma Cloudspun Stlth 1/4 Zip Pullover
Sizes: S-2XL
Colours: 10+
+ Good versatility on and off the course
+ Low profile collar
– Limited protection from severe weather
A top that can be used on and off the golf course – it also featured in our best golf jumpers guide – Puma has delivered extra soft feel and good performance here thanks to the Cloudspun fabric which has moisture wicking capabilities along with four-way stretch.
Not only is it a good top for when the cold weather moves in but it also works a nice layer in the sun as it is UV-resistant as well.
There are plenty of stylish colour choices to go for, but we tested and enjoyed the grey and navy model. The modern low collar is a nice touch from Puma too and we think this midlayer looks as good off the course as it does on it.
Puma Cloudspun Stlth 1/4 Zip Pullover Review
Peter Millar Crown Sport Perth Performance 1/4 Zip
Sizes: S-2XL
Colours: 10
+ Soft feel
+ Stylish design and great colour choice
– Perhaps won’t deal with really tough weather as well as other tops
One of Peter Millar’s most popular garments, the Perth Quarter-Zip is constructed from a polyester and spandex blend that has the power of moisture-wicking technology, along with four-way stretch.
It is available in a number of classic colours but you can also push the boat out with camo and stripe designs if you so wish as well.
Original Penguin Mixed Media Layering Top
Sizes: S-2XL
Colours: 3
+ Excellent versatility
+ Good price for performance
– Only two colours to choose from
Dependable clothing is a must in adverse weather conditions. One such garment that won’t let you down is this Mixed Media Layering Top from Original Penguin.
It is 100% polyester and gives great warmth and comfort whilst also offering a stylish and understated aesthetic. As such it works just as well off the golf course as on it.
Kjus Retention Jacket
Sizes: S-2XL
Colours: 10
+ Packed with technology
+ All bases are covered
– Price
Kjus is a rising name in the world of high-quality golf apparel and with this Retention Jacket it isn’t hard to see why. Kjus say this state-of-the-art jacket is the next generation of golf apparel thanks to its extremely synthetic insulation and a variety of key technologies on display.
For example it is made from a lightweight, compact nylon and polyester fabric which has then got the DWR treatment which makes it water repellent. It also traps air and wicks moisture away from the body, along with a super-stretchy feel.
There are plenty of colours to choose form too so as Kjus say, ‘you need to try it to believe it’.
Ocean Tee Wobbegong Sweater
Sizes: S-2XL
Colours: 1
+ Fantastic look and feel
+ Sustainable offering
– 1 colour choice
Ocean Tee is all about sustainability, after all its factory in Europe is the first in the world to have met Textiles Procurement Standards as set by Greenpeace. After making bamboo tees the brand quickly moved into the apparel market with products like this Wobbegong sweater. We think it looks and feels great thanks to the warm and luxurious knitted fabric, which has an innovative and important construction.
The Wobbegong Sweater is created from a premium blend of OCS certified organic cotton and recycled garments. The recycled element comes from a ground-breaking, machine-based technique know as “The Loop” that breaks down unwanted items into new fabric. The result is a yarn that is entirely unique.
Mizuno Windlite Jacket
Sizes: S-2XL
Colours: 3
+ Lightweight and yet good protection
+ Waist pockets
– Quite thin
The new Windlite jacket from Mizuno is an extremely useful jacket should the weather turn a bit cold when you are on the course. It may be very lightweight and thin, but it still has good wind protection and water-repellent properties to keep Mother Nature at bay. it also benefits from four-way stretch and two very handy front pockets too.
We think its simple aesthetic means you can use it anywhere and because it is so thin it can be stored anywhere easily.
Under Armour Storm Mid-Layer (1/2 Zip – Full Zip)
Sizes: S-3XL
Colours: 3 (Full Zip), 5 (1/2 Zip)
+ Tour proven performance
+ Warmth
– Fit is quite large
An ultra-warm mid-layer by Under Armour, this top has a brushed interior and a smooth, fast, drying exterior thanks to Storm technology, which repels water without sacrificing breathability.
It’s quite lightweight but it does provide an impressive amount of warmth, thanks to the ColdGear Technology, which has hollow fibres that trap heat but with less weight than solid fibres.
We also liked the overall design of this top in both the 1/2 and full zip models so have a think about which design you want to go in terms of length of zip.
Under Armour Storm Midlayer Full Zip Review
G/FORE Luxe Staple Midlayer
Sizes: S-2XL
Colours: 3
+ Soft fabric
+ Versatile
– Quite thin design
This signature midlayer offers elevated style for both on & off-course with what can probably be called G/FORE’s most understated garment ever.
This midlayer is made from an extremely soft mix of polyester, cotton and spandex to give you a comfortable feel and a touch of stretch when needed. It is available in three different colours.
Inesis Cold Weather Fleece Sweatshirt
Sizes: S-3XL
Colours: 3
+ Fleece fabric feels nice and warm
+ Stretchy and not restricting
– Lacks any wow factor
As far as good value on a golf top goes this Inesis option is right up there. For less than £30 you can get a top that keeps you warm thanks to the fleece fibres which trap air.
This fleece also makes it comfortable and windproof too whilst there are also water-repellent panels on the shoulders. Did we mention it is also stretchy and doesn’t hamper movement too?
FootJoy Camo Floral Half Zip Top
Sizes: S-2XL
Colours: 4
+ Very soft fabric construction
+ Modern, athletic fit
– Camo design won’t be for everyone
If you want great performance with a design that stands out, then look no further. This midlayer features a solid colour body with a unique camofloral design on the sleeves, shoulder and collar.
The garment material is super smooth, lightweight and it is made from an easy to care for ProDry polyester fabric with just the right amount of stretch which will allow a tremendous amount of free movement for the wearer.
Glenmuir Garrion Sweater
Sizes: S-2XL
Colours: 3
+ Modern colourways
+ Heat insulation
– High-collar could be softer
Play golf in all weather conditions with this Garrion sweater. It is constructed with a combination of technologies, such as the Teflon finish and Storm Bloc water and wind resisting polyester fabric.
Additionally the front is quilted to insulate heat, and the stretchy fleece panels add to this feeling of warmth too.
Callaway Thermore Mixed Media Pullover
Sizes: S-2XL
Colours: 2
+ Eco-friendly design
+ Performs well in a variety of conditions
– More colour choice would be great
A top that shows Callaway’s commitment to eco-friendly materials and design, this pullover has been designed with Thermore Freedom technology which uses plastic fibres from recycled bottles.
This technology also provides a super lightweight feel without limiting the insulation capabilities either.
TravisMathew Stopover Pullover
Sizes: S-3XL
Colours: 3
+ Works well as a mid-layer
+ Incredibly versatile
– Questionable elemental protection
We are fast becoming fans of TravisMathew because the brand makes some of the best designer golf clothing anywhere.
Take this pullover top for example. It would look right at home on and off the course and is made from a four-way stretch, wrinkle resistant and supremely comfortable fabric that makes it very easy to wear all day.
Nike Golf Dry Vapor 1/2 Zip
Sizes: S-3XL
Colours: 3
+ Good freedom of movement
+ Use for other sports
– Other tops will deal with rain better
The Nike Vapor franchise is purpose built for performance and this newly updated top features a highly technical fabric for pure comfort. The styling now boasts some tonal colour blocked detailing with differing jacquard knit effects, while the new collar shape provides more coverage where you need it most. The knitted quality fabric has a soft jersey handle with a high degree of stretch for freedom of movement, something which is further enhanced by the raglan sleeve design.
Overall we think it is fashionable and sporty – perfect for wearing both on and off the course this season.
Also if you are a huge fan of Nike be sure to check out our specific guides on the best Nike golf shirts and best Nike golf shoes too!
Adidas Cold.Rdy Hoodie
Sizes: XS-2XL
Colours: 3
+ Fantastic warmth on offer
+ Stylish, modern design
– Traditionalists will be put off by hoodie design
We think the best golf tops have their own style and this hoodie is a case in point.
Gone are the days where hoodies aren’t allowed on golf courses so take full advantage of that with this smart, comfortable and soft garment with Cold.Rdy technology which insulates and manages moisture to make sure you are prepared to play. One of the best golf tops on this list that symbolises the current game of golf.
Galvin Green Louie Interface-1 Full Zip Bodywarmer
Sizes: S-2XL
Colours: 2
+ Fabric and padding creates soft, comfortable feel
+ Vest design gives great range of movement
– Premium price will deter some
A premium golf apparel brand, Galvin Green has been making some of the best golf tops for just over three decades now and this Louie is no exception. It features the Interface-1 technology which aims to give optimum protection and ultimate comfort in lots of different weather conditions, whilst also being breathable and made from a stretchy fabric to aid the golf swing, not hamper it.
It is completely windproof and benefits from Galvin’s proprietary soft-shell fabrication which has been specifically designed to block any wind whilst also offering water resistance.
Overall we think it is ideal for golfers who want to remain warm on those chilly spring and autumn days, but don’t want to have to wear full waterproofs, and also keep a good range of mobility.
For more models like this, check out our guide on the best golf vests too.
Stromberg Par Mid-Layer
Sizes: S-2XL
Colours: 2
+ Versatile in many weather conditions
+ Elasticated cuffs and hem
– Doesn’t fit as well as others in this list
Take to the golf course with this mid-layer from Stromberg. Featuring a full-zip design, elasticated cuffs and hem and a soft fabric, it gives a comfortable fit and can be adjusted to suit your needs whilst on the links. It’s versatility is a plus point too because not only does it work well as an extra-layer when it is cold, but also works well on cooler summer days.
ProQuip Mistral Mid-Layer
Sizes: S-2XL
Colours: 5
+ Pleasant fabric and warmth
+ Good value
– Lacks shelf appeal
Stay warm and comfortable with the ProQuip Mistral Zip Neck top. Its thicker and warmer polyester cotton fabric makes it a good option for those colder days on the golf course.
We hope you enjoyed this guide on the best golf tops.
This article Best Golf Tops appeared first on Golf Monthly.