The Complete Guide to Golf Rainwear: Waterproof Ratings, Breathability, and What to Wear in the Wet

Let’s be real: golf in the rain isn’t for the faint of heart. When the weather forecast shows 100% chance of showers and most people cancel their tee time, that’s when the dedicated few show up—with a towel in one hand and a perfectly waterproofed jacket in the other.

If you’ve ever felt your performance (and mood) sink along with your soaked socks and fogged-up lenses, this guide is for you. Golfing in wet weather doesn’t have to feel like survival mode—it can actually be a competitive advantage ifyou’re wearing the right gear. As someone who’s been caught in enough unexpected downpours to know better, trust me: there’s a world of difference between “rain-resistant” and truly stormproof rainwear. And when you’re walking 18 holes through sideways rain, that difference matters. A lot.

So whether you’re a weekend warrior or a fair-weather fan trying to step up your game, here’s your complete guide to golf rainwear—explained in plain language, packed with honest tips, and styled with influencer-worthy picks. We’re talking waterproof ratings, breathability, layering strategies, my personal top brand picks, and the underrated essentials that can make or break a rainy-day round.

Why Golf in the Rain at All?

Let’s get this out of the way: no one loves playing in the rain. But do you know what separates good golfers from great ones? They show up anyway.

Rain levels the playing field. The fairways are softer, the ball rolls less, and your mental game gets tested like never before. It’s not just about staying dry—it’s about staying focused, adapting to the elements, and executing your shots under pressure.

Some of my best rounds came in the worst weather. I remember playing a twilight nine at St. Andrews while a cold Scottish drizzle rolled in off the North Sea. My hands were numb, my jacket was flapping in the wind, and yet—I stayed dry, calm, and under par. That round changed how I thought about gear forever.

Moral of the story? If you’re geared up correctly, rain becomes part of the challenge—not the excuse.

Understanding Waterproof Ratings (And Why They Matter)

Let’s talk tech—because not all “waterproof” jackets are created equal. You’ll often see waterproof ratings listed in millimeters (e.g., 10,000mm), but what does that actually mean?

Here’s the breakdown:

• 0–5,000mm: Light rain protection. Okay for mist or drizzle, not a thunderstorm.
• 5,000–10,000mm: Good for moderate rain, but may soak through under pressure or extended wear.
• 10,000–20,000mm: Solid protection for long days in the rain. Ideal for golf.
• 20,000mm+: Maximum waterproofing. Great for heavy downpours, mountain hikes, or the Open Championship.

In essence, the mm rating refers to how much water pressure a fabric can withstand before it leaks. A 20,000mm rating means the fabric can resist a 20,000mm column of water pressing down before letting anything through. The higher the number, the more weatherproof the garment.

But here’s the kicker: waterproof ratings are only one piece of the puzzle. Look for these features too:

• Sealed seams: Unsealed stitching is where leaks love to sneak in.
• Storm flaps: These protect your zippers, which are major weak points.
• Adjustable cuffs and hems: Keeps rain from creeping in when you swing.
• Waterproof zippers: YKK AquaGuard or similar are the gold standard.

Influencer tip: I once got caught in a 3-hour rain delay in a budget “waterproof” jacket that didn’t even have sealed seams. I ended up drenched and cold halfway through the round—lesson learned the hard way.

Breathability: The Secret to Staying Comfortable, Not Just Dry

If waterproofing keeps the rain out, breathability lets sweat escape. And trust me, this matters a lot when you’re walking 18 holes in a shell jacket.

Breathability is usually measured in grams per square meter per 24 hours (g/m²/24h). In simple terms, it tells you how much water vapor (aka sweat) can pass through the fabric in a day.

Here’s a general guide:

• 5,000g/m² = Basic. You might feel clammy.
• 10,000g/m² = Good for moderate activity (like golf).
• 20,000g/m²+ = Elite. Maximum comfort during high movement.

Breathable fabrics reduce that “plastic bag” feeling where your jacket traps in moisture. Premium brands use tech like:

• GORE-TEX: The OG. Incredible balance of waterproofing and breathability.
• eVent: Breathes even better than GORE-TEX in some conditions.
• Dermizax: Popular in Scandinavian gear. Ultra-stretchy and super breathable.

Look for:

• Pit zips or vent panels
• Double zipper fronts (for airflow)
• Mesh linings
• Sweat-wicking inner layers

Hot tip: If you’ve ever felt soaked on the inside even when your jacket is dry on the outside, it’s probably a breathability issue—not a waterproofing fail.

Layering Like a Pro: What to Wear (And Not Wear) Underneath

Most golfers make the mistake of over-layering in the rain. They throw on a cotton hoodie under a raincoat and call it a day. Don’t be that guy.

Here’s the layering system I swear by:

1. Base Layer

Start with a moisture-wicking shirt—polyester, bamboo, or merino wool. Avoid cotton like the plague. Cotton traps moisture and makes you cold.

2. Mid Layer

If it’s chilly, throw on a thin thermal pullover or fleece. Make sure it stretches and doesn’t restrict your swing.

3. Outer Layer

This is your shell: waterproof, windproof, and designed for movement. It should be breathable and have a tailored fit—not too tight, not too baggy.

Pro tip: Always test your swing in front of a mirror when trying on new rainwear. If you can’t rotate freely, it’s a no-go.

My go-to? A merino base layer, midweight fleece vest, and a GORE-TEX shell. Keeps me dry, warm, and mobile—even during cold autumn rounds.

Top-to-Toe: Full Rainwear Checklist for Golfers

Here’s what every serious golfer should have ready for a wet day:

✅ Waterproof Jacket

• Sealed seams
• Adjustable cuffs
• Drop-tail hem for coverage
• Stretch panels for swing mobility
• Some golfers prefer no hood to keep vision clear during shots.

✅ Rain Pants

• Easy to pull on/off over shoes (zippered legs help!)
• Lightweight, not bulky
• Adjustable waist for comfort
• Make sure they don’t drag or flap too much when you walk.

✅ Waterproof Hat or Cap

• A bucket hat gives better coverage than a cap, but both work.
• Some jackets come with removable hoods—handy for windy days.

✅ Rain Gloves

• Essential! Regular gloves get soggy fast.
• Look for FootJoy RainGrip or TaylorMade Rain Control.
• Keep an extra pair in your bag—you’ll thank me later.

✅ Waterproof Shoes

• Don’t just rely on the “waterproof” label—test them in real conditions.
• Change out the spikes regularly.
• Apply waterproofing spray every season.

✅ Socks

• Merino wool blends > cotton
• Some brands even make waterproof golf socks (SealSkinz is one example)

✅ Umbrella

• Golf umbrellas are larger and windproof.
• Look for a double canopy design—it resists turning inside out.

Influencer insight: I always keep a compact towel tucked under my belt in the back. Easy access for drying grips, hands, or even your face mid-round.

Brands That Get It Right: My Favorite Golf Rainwear Picks

This is where the fun begins. I’ve tested dozens of rainwear pieces over the years, and here are my current favorites:

🏆 Best Premium Jacket

• Galvin Green ACTION Jacket (GORE-TEX C-knit)
  • Silky smooth inside, fully waterproof, and made for serious players.
• Runner-Up: FootJoy HydroTour – perfect for tour-level protection.

PGA TOUR Superstore

$295.00

FootJoy HydroTour Rain Jacket, Navy, XXL

CHECK LOWEST PRICE

CARLSGOLFLAND.COM

$349.95

FootJoy HydroTour Men's Golf Rain Jacket - Black - Black, Size: Medium

CHECK LOWEST PRICE

Dickssportinggoods.com

$350.00

FootJoy Men's HydroTour Golf Rain Jacket

CHECK LOWEST PRICE

💸 Best Budget Jacket

• Adidas RAIN.RDY Jacket
  • Stylish, waterproof, and surprisingly breathable.
• Under Armour Storm Rain Jacket
  • Lightweight and great for spring/summer rain.

💃 Most Stylish Option

• J.Lindeberg Aello Rain Jacket
  • Modern fit, clean lines—made for the gram.
• Original Penguin Rain Shell
  • Vintage flair with performance features.

🦵 Top Rain Pants

• Abacus Pitch 37.5 Rain Trousers
  • Comfortable and easy to put on mid-round.
• Callaway Tour 3.0 Rain Pants
  • Slightly slimmer fit, great for walking golfers.

🧤 Best Rain Gloves

• FootJoy RainGrip (2-pack)
  • Super grippy even when soaked.
• TaylorMade Rain Control
  • Slightly more padded, great feel.

👟 Waterproof Golf Shoes

• Ecco Biom H4
  • Gore-Tex, stable, and stylish.
• Adidas S2G Mid Winter Boot
  • Ideal for colder conditions.

Influencer moment: I wore my Galvin Green gear during a rainy round at Pebble Beach—and stayed bone dry. Everyone else had soggy towels and frozen hands. I just smiled and hit fairways.

How to Maintain and Re-Waterproof Your Golf Rainwear

Even the best rain gear loses its edge over time. The waterproofing fades, and breathability drops. But with proper care, you can extend the life of your investment.

Washing Tips:

• Use a technical detergent (like Nikwax Tech Wash).
• Avoid fabric softener—it ruins waterproof membranes.
• Wash in cold water on gentle cycle.

Reproofing:

• Use a DWR spray (Durable Water Repellent) every 10–15 washes.
• Check if water beads up or soaks in. If it’s the latter, it’s time to reproof.
• Follow the spray with a tumble dry (low heat) to reactivate the coating.

Storage:

• Hang, don’t fold. Creases weaken waterproof membranes.
• Let gear dry completely before storing—mold is a killer.

Tip: I do a full wash + reproof session at the start of every golf season. Takes 30 minutes, saves hundreds in replacement gear.

Playing Tips for Wet Conditions (Beyond the Gear)

Rain changes the game. So adjust your strategy accordingly.

• Grip lighter: Wet grips + tight hands = hooks and slices.
• Use more club: Wet air is denser. Take an extra half or full club.
• Shorten your backswing: Helps with control and balance on slippery turf.
• Bring 2–3 towels: One for hands, one for grips, one as a backup.
• Keep your glove dry: Tuck it under your belt or inside your jacket.

Mental Game Advice: Don’t rush. Rain is uncomfortable—but rushing leads to mistakes. Embrace the rhythm of the rain. Focus on each shot, not how soaked your socks feel.

Rainwear FAQs: What Golfers Ask Me All the Time

Can I wear my hiking jacket for golf?

Technically yes, but most hiking jackets are bulky and restrict movement. Golf-specific rainwear is tailored for mobility—huge difference when swinging.

Is GORE-TEX worth the price?

Absolutely. The durability, breathability, and waterproofing are unmatched. It’s an investment, not a splurge.

Should I size up to wear layers underneath?

Only if the brand runs small. Ideally, your jacket should fit snug with light layering underneath. Bulky fits = noisy, uncomfortable swings.

What about playing in hot, humid rain?

Go with a lightweight, packable shell with high breathability. Skip the mid-layer. And use sweat-wicking underlayers.

Final Thoughts: Be the Golfer Who Doesn’t Wait for Sunshine

Anyone can play golf on a sunny day. But showing up when the weather turns? That’s where legends are made. It’s not just about staying dry—it’s about staying sharp, prepared, and unfazed when everyone else folds.

Golf rainwear isn’t about braving the elements for bragging rights—it’s about being able to perform regardless of the conditions. It’s a mindset and a strategy. And now you’ve got the tools to do it right.

So next time clouds roll in and the rain starts falling, don’t cancel your tee time. Throw on your waterproof jacket, zip up your rain pants, grab your umbrella—and go make birdies in the drizzle.

See you out there.

🎯 Have a favorite rainwear moment or question? DM me on Instagram @TopGolfEquipmentOfficial or drop a comment below!