Choosing a rain suit is as important as choosing a driver. The cost alone makes it a grueling decision. Some of the questions you should be asking yourself are; How often do I really play in the rain? Is golfing my only use for this? What is my budget?
When you start shopping for the rain suit, you will notice difference in prices and fabrics. The lower-priced rain suits are often classified as water-resistant. These are usually a coated microfiber blend of material. They will bead water off the material until it becomes a driving rain. The pants stay pretty dry except for the bottom 5 to 6 inches that get soaked from walking. If you are riding a cart, the pants will get wet in the seat after sitting a few times. They are great for the price and provide adequate protection from moderate rain.
If you are looking for 100 percent protection from rain and wind, then look for labels saying waterproof or Gore-Tex fabric. They cost a bit more, but usually come with waterproof guarantees. Be sure to try on both the jacket and pants. Brands vary greatly in size runs. Also, make a couple of swings while wearing them. The jacket should provide enough range of motion to not disrupt your swing.
Sun Mountain Provisional Rainsuit
The full suit packs into a 7-inch by 11-inch pouch. The microfiber-coated material and taped seams keep you dry. The jacket features zippered pockets and elastic cuffs. The pants have lower leg zippers to easily slide over your golf shoes and elastic drawstring on the waist. It comes with one-year waterproof guarantee. If you are like me and have no intention on playing in the rain, this could be the suit for you. It is so small, you can keep it in your bag in case an unexpected storm pops up. The manufacturer's suggested retail price, or MSRP, is $110. Online retailers are offering the rainsuit for $60-$100. Check out www.shopzilla.com.
Zero Restriction Tour-Lite
Gore-Tex fabrics and fully seam-sealed technology keeps golfers 100 percent waterproof and windproof. The jacket features a patented motion-tuned technology and expansion back pleats to provide comfort and full freedom to swing. The jacket also easily converts to short sleeves or a vest for all weather situations. The special attraction of the pants are the front pockets with zippered pass-through for access to your pants. The waistband is adjustable and has belt loops. The MSRP for the Tour-Lite jacket is $250. The MSRP for a pair of Tour-Lite pants $140. This is a new product and has not been discounted yet.
FootJoy DryJoy Tour
DryJoy Tour jacket and pants come with two-year waterproof warranty. FootJoy's Cinch System allows you to adjust the fullness of the jacket by pulling the cinch chords. A protected chest pocket can keep your scorecard, wallet and glove dry. DryJoy Tour Pants have a 5-inch Velcro pant bottom for quick length and fit alteration. The non-slip gripper waist keep your pants from sagging. Both are fully seam sealed and windproof. DryJoy Tour Gear also provides warmth in the cold weather. The MSRP for the DryJoy Tour jacket is $240. The MSRP for a pair of DryJoy Tour pants is $180. The jacket can be found between $199-$240. The pants can be found as low as $149. Golfsmith has very good prices.
FootJoy Performance Light
FootJoy's Performance light jacket and pants also come with a two-year waterproof warranty. Performance Light offers the same protection from the elements as the DryJoy Tour, but in a lighter weight material. A better choice for warm climates. The MSRP for a Performance Light jacket is $170. The MSRP for a pair of Performance Light pants is $115. The jacket should range in price between $140-$160. The pants should range between $90-$115. Check out www.golfsmith.com.
About The Author
Michael Joseph is a golf industry professional in New Jersey. He has worked as a golf professional, instructor, and clubmaker. Joseph's education includes a degree in golf operations management and a certification in club-fitting from The Golf Academy of America (formally the San Diego Golf Academy). Joseph shares his golf experience and knowledge with others by writing articles for Demand Media Studios and Golflink.com.
