The most important word to remember when buying rain gear for golf is "waterproof." Many companies and manufacturers put out water-resistant or wind-resistant apparel, but waterproof is what makes it worth staying out to finish a great round when the weather turns sour. Gore-Tex is the most famous brand and still the gold standard in breathable waterproof material, but there are more companies than ever making their own versions of this resilient, durable and comfortable fabric. Look around at your local pro shop, but these are three of the best.
Zero Restriction
ZR started specifically as a golf rain wear company in 1991 and has remained true to that mission. Offering some of the highest-quality Gore-Tex gear on the market, ZR makes rain gear for men and women and offers exceptionally lightweight designs that offer ease of movement and warmth in full- and half-sleeve jackets and pants. ZR also has a whole range of outerwear for golf in cooler or inclement conditions. Rain jackets go for between $150 and $250 and pants are priced at about $150. You can find a retailer through the ZR website (http://www.zerorestriction.com).
FootJoy
Best known for its high-quality and very popular golf shoes and gloves, FootJoy also offers a full line of golf-specific outerwear for men and women. All versions utilize FootJoy's StayDry system it claims is 100 percent wind and waterproof. In menswear, the Tour series ranges from $160 for rain pants to a $240 full-zipper jacket. The more budget conscious Performance Light series ranges from $115 pants to a $170 jacket, with rain shorts for $95. The women's Performance Light line has the same-priced pants and jacket, but includes a vest for $78. FootJoy products are available at most pro shops or on the FootJoy website (http://www.footjoy.com).
Sun Mountain
The Sun Mountain company first gained notoriety in the golf world by making high-quality, inventive stand bags for walking golfers. Since then, the company has launched an impressive line of golf outerwear for men and women, including jackets, pullovers and pants in the unique, waterproof and breathable RainShield fabric. Prices on men's gear run from $220 for a jacket to $160 for the pullover and $180 and $150 for the women's jacket and pants, respectively. All gear is available at pro shops, retailers and on the Sun Mountain website (http://www.sunmountain.com).
About The Author
Lyle Smith is an award-winning copywriter with a a widely varied background based in New Jersey. He has completed work for individuals, small businesses and fortune 1000 corporate clients all over the country. Questions fuel really great writing. WHO, WHAT and most importantly, WHY generate the answers that keep readers coming back.
