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5 Benefits Of Layering In Golf
Layering is key to comfortable golf, especially in changeable weather.
Instead of a single bulky coat, layering thin, technical garments offers better temperature control and freedom of movement for your swing.
But—it requires a thoughtful balance. Get it wrong, and you'll overheat lugging extra weight as you trek from hole to hole. Or, even worse, you'll land up so cold you won't be able to focus on your swing.
When done correctly, though, you'll unlock a range of benefits, from enhanced performance to a more refined on-course style. Let's take a closer look.
1. Temperature controlIt's no secret that mornings on the golf course can be chilly, even in peak UK summertime. However, as the day progresses, temperatures often rise. With a thoughtful layering system, you can adapt effortlessly to these fluctuations, ensuring comfort from the first tee to the 18th (or 19th!) hole. Simply add or remove items as needed to stay comfortable and focused on your game. Start with a breathable base layer to wick away moisture, add a mid-layer for insulation, and finish with a lightweight, wind-resistant outer layer to keep the chill at bay. 2. Weather protectionTemperature drops, blustery breezes, and rainfall seldom discourage golf enthusiasts from making their way to the course. But, with the right layers, you're guaranteed to play comfortably, whatever the conditions. A lightweight waterproof jacket tucked into your golf bag can be a lifesaver when the heavens open. And a windproof layer will keep you warm and focused when the wind picks up. 3. Moisture managementStaying dry, both from the inside and the outside, is crucial for comfort and optimal performance on the golf course. A good base layer, made from smart moisture-wicking fabric, pulls sweat away from your skin, preventing chafing and keeping you dry and fresh throughout your round. Additionally, a waterproof outer layer will stop rain seeping into your clothing, ensuring you stay dry from the outside in. 4. Better golfing performanceComfort and warmth are key to performing your best on the course. When your muscles are properly warmed up, they remain more flexible, helping reduce the risk of injury and improving your swing. Layering helps you regulate your temperature, preventing you from getting too hot or too cold. By maintaining the perfect balance between warmth, breathability, and mobility, you'll be able to stay comfortable from your first drive to the final putt. 5. Style and versatilityGolf has long been synonymous with style, blending tradition with modern fashion. Layering not only keeps you comfortable but also allows you to express your personality on the course. By combining thoughtfully designed pieces, you can create a polished, cohesive look that transitions effortlessly from the fairway to the clubhouse. Opt for versatile layers that complement each other in both colour and texture. Neutral tones, classic patterns, or subtle pops of colour can be mixed and matched to reflect your personality while maintaining a timeless golfing aesthetic. |
How To Layer Your Outfit In Golf
If you're new to layering, you may not be sure where to start. That's where we come in!
Let's take a look at what thoughtful layering looks like in practice.
Base layer
The base layer is probably the most important component of any golf outfit since it's worn closest to the skin. Get it right, and you can look forward to maximum comfort; get it wrong, you could be chilled to the bone.
Specialised base layers made from active smart fibre are an excellent choice. These advanced fabrics enhance breathability, keeping you dry and preventing that cold, damp feeling as temperatures change. Four-way stretch fabric is also ideal to ensure a snug, warm fit without restricting your movement.
Lastly, look out for base layers made to protect against harmful UV radiation from the sun (+40 UV protection is optimal).
Our recommendations:
Mid-layer
Next comes the mid-layer. Depending on the weather, a good mid-layer could be a quarter-zip pullover, a pique polo shirt, or a performance sweater. The main features you want to look for when choosing your base layer are:
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Breathability: As with your base layer, thermoregulating fabric is ideal here so that you don't overheat once you add an outer layer.
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Lightweight: Considering you'll already be wearing a base layer, you want to ensure this layer adds to your warmth and comfort—not restrict your movement and bring down your performance.
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Protection: Fabrics treated with a water-repellent (environmentally friendly PFC-Free) finish will ensure you're protected from rain, gusts, soils, and stains. This is particularly beneficial when it's too hot for an outer layer but not quite warm enough to remain in your base layer.
Our recommendations:
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g.WICK Mens Quarter Zip Lightweight Performance Midlayer (best for a summer's day)
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g.CAMERON Mens Hooded Performance Midlayer (best for an autumn day)
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g.SAMUEL Water Repellent Merino Heavyweight Golf Sweater or s.HAMSIN Raglan Sleeve Water Repellent Lined Merino Golf Sweater (best for winter golf games)
Outer layer
This is your last layer of defence against the elements, so you want to invest wisely. Your outer layer needs to be durable enough to withstand wind and rain, yet lightweight enough not to restrict your swing.
Popular choices for golfers include windproof jackets, which block out gusts without restricting movement, and padded gilets that provide warmth while keeping your arms free for an unrestricted swing.
It's best to look for fabrics that incorporate advanced water-repellent or waterproof technologies to keep you dry during those unexpected showers.
Ventilation is equally important to allow excess heat and moisture to escape, ensuring your layering system works efficiently to regulate your body temperature. Adjustable features such as zippers or vents can also enhance breathability and ensure your outer layer is able to adapt to changing conditions.
Our recommendations:
Waterproof layer
It's no secret that UK weather can change in an instant—especially in Scotland, where it rains more days than it doesn't. To stay warm and dry on rainy days, finish off your golfing outfit with a reliable waterproof or water-repellent jacket.
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Water-repellent jacket: These jackets are treated with a coating that causes water to bead up and roll off the fabric. While they provide good protection against wind and light rain, they're not designed to withstand heavy downpours.
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Waterproof jacket: Made with a durable finish, this type of jacket prevents water from passing through the fabric, making it an excellent choice for superior protection in torrential rain. For the environmentally conscious, look for a waterproof jacket treated with a plant-based PFC-Free finish.
During those particularly wet days, investing in a high-quality pair of waterproof trousers is a game-changer.
Our jacket recommendations:
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g.KYLE Mens Lightweight Stretch Water Repellent Golf Jacket or g.TILLIE Ladies Lightweight Stretch Water Repellent Golf Jacket (best for light rain)
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s.WHISPERDRY Waterproof Golf Jackets or s.VALBERG Mens Zip Front Stretch Back Panelled Waterproof Jacket (best for heavy rain)
Our trouser recommendations:
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g.JADE Ladies Technical Water Repellent Performance Golf Trousers or g.ASHURST Mens Technical Water Repellent Performance Golf Trousers (best for light rain)
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s.MONTANA TRS Ladies Lightweight Waterproof Golf Trousers or s.QUEBEC TRS Mens Lightweight Waterproof Golf Trousers (best for heavy rain)
Accessories
No matter how well you've layered, if your hands and feet are cold, you're not going to play your best game of golf. This is why the right accessories—like beanies, socks, and mittens—are essential, especially when the weather is on the colder side.
Our recommendations:
Consider The Weather Conditions
Different weather conditions call for different types of layering. While the three-layer system works well for most conditions, you can still tweak and adjust it as necessary.
Let's take a look at a few typical conditions and how you should layer accordingly.
Cold and rainy
This is when you'll need the most protection. Start with a body-hugging, moisture-wicking base layer, then add a cosy thermal layer before donning a waterproof jacket and waterproof trousers.
A waterproof bucket hat will also help keep the rain off your face—and don't forget to wear mittens and winter socks for that extra warmth.
Cold and windy
The first step is a full-body compression base layer, followed by a thermally insulated base layer. Next, wear a windproof outer layer and trousers to protect against chilly breezes.
Depending on the expected temperatures, you could also wear woollen socks and gloves.
Warm and rainy
If the weather is warm but rainy, start with a skintight, lightweight base layer paired with a breathable golf shirt as your mid-layer. To protect yourself from the rain, top your outfit off with a light, waterproof jacket.
Warm weather
On the odd day that the weather is rather warm, you could wear a lightweight base layer underneath a polo shirt. An outer layer may not be necessary, but you could pack a jacket in your golf bag in case the temperature drops later in the day.
If the sun's out, you may also want to wear golf shorts instead of golf trousers.
Expert tip: Remember to always check the weather forecast before getting ready to play a round of golf. If you're ever unsure, pack an additional layer in your golf bag—rather be overprepared than underprepared.
FAQsDo layers of clothing reduce your swing speed?Wearing one or two extra layers of clothing shouldn't affect your golf swing in any way. However, wearing bulky clothing could restrict your movement and affect your spin control. That's why it's always best to invest in high-quality golf apparel designed for freedom of movement and to keep your body warm. How many layers should I wear for golf?In colder climates, it's recommended that you wear at least three layers to keep you warm and comfortable. The clothing items you should wear depend on the weather conditions, but in most cases, a base layer, polo shirt, and warm jacket should work. Can you play golf in a puffer jacket?While a puffer jacket may keep you warm while playing golf, it may also restrict your range of movement if it's too bulky. During the colder months, opt for jackets made from stretchy material so your swing isn't inhibited. |
