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The Best Golf Rain Gear in 2026

Behind Independent Golf Reviews: How we test & review
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Our Top Tested Picks
– Best Golf Rain Jacket
– Best Affordable Golf Rain Jacket
– Best Golf Rain Pants
– Best Affordable Golf Rain Pants
– Best Waterproof Golf Shoes
– Best Rain Golf Gloves
– Best Golf Umbrella
– Best Rain Golf Towel
– Best Waterproof Push Cart
– Best Short Sleeve Golf Rain Jacket
How We Tested The Golf Rain Gear
How to Choose The Best Rain Gear
FAQs
You can encounter rain on almost every golf course. If you’re playing in the PNW, or maybe in Ireland or Scotland it’s just about inevitable. You may want to cancel your tee time and head indoors when it rains, but that’s not an option if you’re playing in a tournament or even just an after-work league. That makes good quality rain gear an essential part of every golfer’s wardrobe.
At Independent Golf Reviews we spend a lot of time playing golf. Yes, we’re outdoors when the weather is ideal, but we’re also playing when it’s wet. That’s given us many opportunities to test rain gear from a host of manufacturers, and it’s what qualifies us to offer advice on what works and what to look for.
The right rain gear largely overcomes the problem of wet weather golf being a miserable experience. When you’re dressed and equipped appropriately, you stop worrying about hands slipping, or being unable to swing properly or maintain your tempo. Instead, you can continue to focus on your strokes and putts.
In this article we look at what makes for the best rain gear. We consider jackets, pants, shoes, and gloves, plus your cart and umbrella. We explain how we went about testing, and share how our findings can help you select the right kit for your needs and game. And we also attempt to answer the most commonly asked questions about golf rain gear.
Our Top Tested Picks










In More Depth: Our TOp Picks

Best Golf Rain Jacket
Galvin Green Mens GORE-TEX Golf Rain Jacket
Pros & Cons
- GORE TEX Paclite keeps you completely dry
- Lightweight fabric won’t weigh you down
- Multiple adjustment points customize the fit
- Stretches naturally for unrestricted swinging
- Hot weather breathability prevents overheating
- Premium quality comes at higher cost
Expert’s Thoughts
I’ve tested countless rain jackets over the years, and the Galvin Green Mens GORE-TEX Golf Rain Jacket finally solved the breathability problem that plagues most waterproof gear. Playing in central Florida humidity while wearing this jacket, I expected to be drenched in sweat within a few holes. Instead, I stayed remarkably comfortable as moisture escaped through those 9 billion microscopic pores per square inch. The science is real, and the on-course results speak for themselves.
What impressed me most was how the lighter weight Paclite fabric delivered complete waterproof protection without the bulk. I could swing freely without feeling restricted, and the jacket took up minimal space in my bag. I also really loved the adjustment features. Elastic and velcro cuffs, chest straps, and dual drawstrings in the hem let me dial in a perfect fit in seconds, eliminating that billowing fabric that catches wind and disrupts your tempo.
The Angelo kept me dry during continuous rain, but the moisture wicking performance in humid conditions was most remarkable. Many waterproof jackets trap body heat and create condensation inside, leaving you wet anyway. This jacket prevented that entirely. I also loved having actual pockets with rain flaps rather than just holes that access whatever’s underneath. Small detail, huge convenience.
If you’re heading anywhere rain is likely on your golf trip, this jacket transforms miserable conditions into comfortable days on the links.
Who It’s For
This jacket suits serious golfers who refuse to let weather dictate their tee times and are willing to invest in premium protection. If you’re planning a destination golf trip to rainy climates like Scotland or the Pacific Northwest, the Galvin Green Angelo provides the performance that justifies its price.
I feel it’s great for players who compete in member guest tournaments where honor demands finishing regardless of conditions, or anyone who simply plays enough golf in variable weather to appreciate the difference between staying dry and staying comfortable. The investment makes sense when you calculate cost per round over years of reliable use.

Best Affordable Golf Rain Jacket
adidas Men’s Rain.rdy Golf Jacket
Pros & Cons
- Extremely lightweight for easy bag storage
- Hood provides extra protection when needed
- Fantastic look works on and off course
- Effective rain and wind protection performs
- Accessible price point for casual golfers
- Thinner material offers less warmth than competitors
Expert’s Thoughts
When adidas released their hooded Rain.rdy jacket, I was curious whether the hood addition would interfere with my swing. The answer pleasantly surprised me. While I wouldn’t use the hood during full swings, it proved invaluable for putting and short game shots when rain intensified. The ability to protect my head without carrying a separate hat or umbrella simplified my gear significantly.
The lightweight feel impressed me immediately. Some rain jackets feel like wearing body armor, but this one barely registers. I could fold it into a tiny package that fit easily in my bag’s side pocket, adding almost no weight to my round. This portability meant I actually kept it with me rather than leaving it in the car and regretting that decision when clouds rolled in.
Protection from wind and rain exceeded my expectations given the thin material. Water beaded off beautifully during testing, and I stayed dry through several downpours. The trade off came on colder days where I definitely needed another layer underneath. But pairing well with layers underneath actually enhanced versatility, letting me use this jacket across a wider temperature range.
The two color design with subtle gold accents and three stripes gives this jacket enough style that I genuinely wore it off the course. Getting versatile use from golf specific gear always feels like winning.
Who It’s For
I’d recommend this jacket for golfers seeking reliable weather protection without investing $400+ in premium brands. It’s perfect for players who primarily face warmer weather rain where bulky insulation isn’t necessary, or anyone building their first serious rain gear collection on a budget.
If you walk frequently and count every ounce in your bag, the lightweight design delivers maximum protection with minimal burden. The hood makes this ideal for golfers who hate wearing hats during rain or want simplified gear.

Best Golf Rain Pants
Galway Bay Chino Rain Pant
Pros & Cons
- Looks like regular pants not rain gear
- Waterproof rating doubled to 30,000 protection
- Three layer fabric blocks wind completely
- Fits normally without bulky pullover design
- Works perfectly on and off course
- Premium performance demands premium investment
Expert’s Thoughts
I’ve always hated traditional rain pants. That baggy, crinkly, obviously waterproof look announces to everyone that you’re just trying to survive the round rather than play well. Galway Bay’s Chino Rain Pants changed my entire perspective on rain gear by making waterproof pants that actually look and feel like regular golf pants.
I tested these during extended rainy rounds, and the three layer fabric construction kept me completely dry while allowing enough breathability that I never felt overheated or clammy. The wind blocking capability proved equally valuable on blustery days even without rain.
The fit deserves special recognition. Where typical rain pants require pulling over your shoes and bunch awkwardly around ankles, these fit like actual pants. I could wear them as my only pants rather than a cumbersome layer over shorts. The deep pockets actually hold golf essentials rather than just providing access to pockets underneath. This standalone capability meant I grabbed these pants for cool morning rounds even when rain wasn’t forecasted.
I consistently loved how the improved design eliminated the stomach bagginess that affected putting strokes in previous models. I found the fit streamlined enough that my stroke felt completely natural.
Who It’s For
These pants are for golfers who want rain protection that doesn’t compromise their game or appearance. If you’ve struggled with bulky rain pants that restrict your swing or make you look ridiculous, the Chino Rain Pants provide the fit and function of regular golf pants with complete waterproof protection.
They’re perfect for destination trips where you’ll encounter rain but want gear that works for resort dining afterward. The investment makes sense for players in consistently wet climates who need rain pants they can wear comfortably for entire rounds. If you value looking sharp on course while staying dry, the premium price delivers premium results.

Best Affordable Golf Rain Pants
Under Armour Men’s Drive Pants
Pros & Cons
- Lightweight and comfortable all day wearing
- Water resistant for light showers protection
- Wide choice of colors and sizes
- Unrestricted swing motion throughout round
- Exceptional value at this price point
- Not fully waterproof for heavy rain
Expert’s Thoughts
The Under Armour Drive Pants solve a problem most golfers face: needing pants that handle unpredictable weather without committing to full rain gear. These aren’t marketed as rain pants, but the Storm technology makes them impressively water resistant, perfect for those rounds where rain might happen but isn’t guaranteed.
I wore these during spring mornings when temperatures hovered in the low 50s, and they provided just enough extra warmth without overheating when the sun emerged. The stretch woven fabric is genuinely mobile. I never felt restricted during my swing, and the material held up remarkably well when I ventured into bushes and heather searching for errant shots. This durability matters because pants that tear easily become expensive quickly.
The modern flat front design with stretch waistband creates a contemporary look that works beyond the golf course. I found myself wearing these for casual outings because they’re simply comfortable, versatile pants. The five pockets provide ample storage, and the spacious design means I’m not digging through tight openings to retrieve tees or ball markers.
Storm technology repels water without sacrificing breathability, and the windproof construction proved valuable on blustery days. During light rain, water beaded and fell away effectively. Heavy downpours would eventually penetrate, but for most weather conditions golfers actually face, these pants deliver sufficient protection while maintaining the comfort and appearance of regular golf pants.
Who It’s For
I’d recommend Drive Pants for golfers wanting versatile pants that handle variable weather without the commitment or expense of dedicated rain pants. They’re perfect for players in climates with occasional showers rather than persistent downpours, or anyone seeking pants that transition seamlessly from course to casual settings.
If you walk frequently, the lightweight design won’t burden you, and the durability ensures they’ll last through multiple seasons. The wide range of colors and sizes accommodates different body types and style preferences.

Best Waterproof Golf Shoes
TRUE Linkswear OG 3 High Shoes
Pros & Cons
- Supreme waterproofing guaranteed for two years
- High ankle support for stability comfort
- Lightweight despite larger boot design
- Excellent traction in most course conditions
- Zero heel drop for natural motion
- Spikeless sole limits grip in mud
Expert’s Thoughts
TRUE Linkswear’s tagline for the OG 3 High is “made for misery,” and after testing these waterproof golf boots through multiple rainy rounds, I understand exactly what they mean. These shoes are purpose built for golfers who play regardless of conditions, and the high top silhouette isn’t fashion, it’s function.
The waterproofing proved genuinely exceptional. I deliberately stepped into standing water to test the limits, and my feet stayed completely dry. The combination of TRUEdura upper and waterproof bootie creates a barrier that rain simply cannot penetrate. Playing through persistent rain, I never once felt moisture seeping in, which transformed my focus from foot comfort to actual golf.
The high ankle design initially felt novel, but I quickly appreciated the added support and stability. Walking uneven terrain or slogging through muddy conditions, that extra support around my ankle provided confidence and prevented fatigue. Despite the larger silhouette, these shoes are surprisingly lightweight, actually lighter than the standard OG 3 and comparable to TRUE’s OG Cush model. This weight management means comfort doesn’t require sacrifice.
My only critique centers on the spikeless sole. For a shoe built specifically for bad conditions, I wished TRUE had used replaceable spikes like their Lux Player model. The current sole provides good traction in most situations, but in true mud, I needed to swing more conservatively to maintain balance.
Who It’s For
These shoes are for golfers who refuse to let weather cancel tee times and need footwear that matches their commitment. If you’re planning trips to rainy destinations like Bandon Dunes, Scotland, or the Pacific Northwest, the OG 3 High provides the waterproof protection that lets you focus on golf rather than soggy feet.
They’re perfect for players who regularly face wet course conditions or anyone who’s experienced the misery of water seeping into shoes mid round. The utilitarian design won’t win fashion awards, but function trumps fashion when conditions deteriorate. If you value stability and support during long walking rounds in challenging terrain, the high ankle design provides benefits beyond just waterproofing.

Best Rain Golf Gloves
Mizuno RainFit Gloves
Pros & Cons
- Synthetic construction improves traction when wet
- Raised palm channels redirect moisture from grips
- Dual hand design delivers balanced swing feel
- Stays pliable even when thoroughly saturated
- Textured surface enhances friction for control
- Touch sensitivity reduced compared to leather
Expert’s Thoughts
Standard golf gloves fail miserably when rain arrives because leather absorbs water and becomes slippery. Mizuno engineered the RainFit specifically for downpours using synthetic compounds that reverse this problem. The bizarre truth is these gloves grip more securely when soaked than dry. Testing through multiple rainy rounds, I discovered my hold on the club strengthened as precipitation increased rather than deteriorated.
The palm features elevated ridges forming channels that actively push water away from where your hands contact the grip. Without these channels, moisture pools create a hydroplaning effect between hand and club. Soaking these gloves completely then taking aggressive swings, I experienced zero rotation or sliding. The club stayed locked exactly where I placed it.
Mizuno suggests wearing RainFits on both hands rather than the traditional single glove approach. Initially awkward for someone who’d played bare handed on the right side for decades, the bilateral coverage quickly proved its worth. My hands felt unified throughout the motion, eliminating the disconnect between gloved control and naked feel. When drenched, leather gloves become rigid and uncomfortable. These maintained their suppleness no matter how saturated they became.
The textured grip zones covering fingers and palm boost friction levels noticeably. Finesse shots around greens, where precision determines outcomes, felt more controlled even in persistent rain. Confidence returned knowing my wedges wouldn’t slip during delicate swings.
Who It’s For
These gloves serve golfers who schedule tee times regardless of forecasts and require dependable traction when skies open. If you live where rain visits frequently or you’ve watched standard gloves transform into useless wet rags mid round, RainFits solve that problem definitively.
They’re essential for competitive players facing tournaments that continue through storms, or anyone stubborn enough to finish eighteen holes while others retreat. When conventional leather becomes treacherous and slick, these specialized gloves maintain the secure connection between your hands and clubs that separates controllable shots from dangerous mishits.

Best Golf Umbrella
Titleist Tour Double Canopy Golf Umbrella
Pros & Cons
- Massive 68 inches of coverage protects fully
- Premium anti inversion system withstands wind
- Sturdy aluminum frame with steel shaft
- UV protection shields from harmful sun
- Proprietary handle offers comfortable secure grip
- Higher price than basic umbrella options
Expert’s Thoughts
The Titleist Tour Double Canopy Umbrella represents tour level protection in a package designed for real golfers facing real weather. That 68-inch canopy provides coverage so expansive that two people can comfortably stand beneath it, making this invaluable when playing with partners or caddies who also need shelter.
The double canopy design with premium anti inversion system proved its worth during windy conditions. Where cheaper umbrellas flip inside out and become useless, the Titleist held firm. The vented design allows wind to pass through rather than catching like a sail, and the durable aluminum frame with steel shaft provides structural integrity that withstands forceful gusts. I tested this during legitimate storms, and it never faltered.
What separates this from cheaper options is Titleist’s attention to detail. The proprietary handle uses soft touch foam that provides reliable grip even when wet. No slipping, no readjusting, just confident hold. The push up deployment mechanism beats trigger mechanisms that inevitably break after repeated use. This umbrella feels substantial and well engineered rather than flimsy and temporary.
The UV protection feature adds value beyond rain protection. During sunny rounds, this umbrella shielded me from harmful rays while providing cooling shade. The versatility means I use this umbrella year round rather than just during rain, which helps justify the investment.
Who It’s For
This umbrella suits golfers who want reliable protection that lasts for years rather than cheap options requiring frequent replacement. If you play regularly in variable weather, walk frequently and need shade or rain protection, or simply want tour quality equipment in your bag, the Titleist justifies its price through durability and performance.
It’s perfect for serious players who won’t compromise on quality, anyone planning destination trips to rainy climates, or golfers who’ve experienced the frustration of inferior umbrellas failing during critical moments. The coverage is generous enough to protect you and your equipment completely, and the anti-inversion technology provides confidence when wind threatens to destroy lesser umbrellas.

Best Rain Golf Towel
Callaway Golf Rainhood Towel
Pros & Cons
- Dual function as towel and rain hood
- Waterproof nylon exterior protects clubs completely
- Absorbent cotton interior cleans grips effectively
- Velcro sides allow convenient club access
- Carabiner attachment keeps it always accessible
- May be too small for larger bags
Expert’s Thoughts
The Callaway Rainhood Towel solves two problems with one piece of gear, which immediately appeals to my preference for simplified, multi functional equipment. As a towel, the soft cotton interior provides excellent cleaning capability for grips, clubfaces, and hands. The absorbent material works effectively even when damp, unlike some microfiber towels that become useless once saturated.
When rain arrives, the transformation happens in seconds. Detach the towel from its carabiner, flip the waterproof nylon exterior outward, and slip it over your bag’s opening. The design fits most standard golf bags, and the velcro sides create openings that allow club access without removing the entire hood. This accessibility matters because fumbling with rain covers while rain pours down frustrates everyone behind you.
The waterproof nylon construction effectively protects clubs and grips from moisture. During extended rainy rounds, I found my grips stayed dry enough for reliable shots, eliminating the dreaded slippage that occurs when grips become soaked. The carabiner attachment means this towel stays clipped to my bag securely, ensuring it’s available when sudden rain arrives rather than buried in a pocket somewhere.
Some users reported the hood being slightly small for bags on electric trolleys or larger cart bags. I found it worked perfectly on my standard carry bag but could see how oversized bags might require more coverage. Still, for most golfers with typical bags, the size provides adequate protection.
Who It’s For
I’d recommend this for golfers wanting simplified rain protection without carrying multiple pieces of equipment. If you hate dedicating bag space to bulky rain hoods that rarely get used, the Callaway Rainhood Towel serves double duty as your primary towel and emergency rain protection.
It’s perfect for players who walk and count every ounce, or anyone who plays courses where weather changes rapidly and requires quick adaptation. The price point makes this rain protection accessible for budget conscious golfers, and the carabiner attachment ensures you’ll actually have it available when needed rather than leaving it behind. If your bag size falls within standard dimensions, this towel provides practical, versatile protection.

Best Waterproof Push Cart
ClicGear with RainTek Cover
Pros & Cons
- Waterproof material keeps bag contents completely dry
- Easy installation takes seconds to secure
- Sealed seams prevent water from seeping through
- Access openings allow club selection without removal
- Compatible with most standard golf carts
- Adds another item to store and transport
Expert’s Thoughts
The ClicGear RainTek Cover transforms push cart golf during rain by protecting your entire bag and equipment from moisture. I’ve played through rainstorms where my clubs, grips, and valuables stayed completely dry despite persistent downpours. This protection eliminated the constant wiping and drying that typically interrupts wet weather rounds.
Installation proved simple as the cover drapes over your cart and bag, then secures with straps and fasteners that hold it firmly in place. Even during windy conditions, the cover stayed put without flapping or slipping. The sealed seams are genuinely waterproof rather than just water resistant, preventing that gradual seepage that defeats cheaper rain covers.
The genius lies in the access openings as rather than removing the entire cover to select clubs, strategically placed openings with closure systems let me grab whatever club I needed while maintaining protection for everything else. This functionality meant I actually kept the cover on throughout rainy rounds rather than giving up and accepting wet equipment.
Compatibility with various cart models makes this versatile rather than cart specific. I tested it on multiple push cart designs and found it adapted well to different configurations. The material proved durable enough to withstand repeated use without tearing or degrading, suggesting this cover will last multiple seasons.
Who It’s For
This cover suits push cart users who play regularly in variable weather and want comprehensive equipment protection. If you’ve experienced the frustration of wet grips compromising your game or valuable items getting soaked in your bag, the RainTek Cover provides the security that lets you focus on golf.
It’s perfect for golfers in consistently rainy climates who need reliable protection for frequent use, or anyone planning golf trips where rain is likely. The investment makes sense when you consider the cost of replacing water damaged equipment, and the convenience of keeping everything dry improves your entire rainy round experience significantly.

Best Short Sleeve Golf Rain Jacket
Galway Bay Short Sleeve
Pros & Cons
- Lightweight material allows comfortable summer wear
- Excellent waterproofing keeps torso completely dry
- Stretchy fabric provides unrestricted swing motion
- Short sleeves eliminate overheating in heat
- Versatile enough for multiple temperature ranges
- Limited arm coverage in cold weather
Expert’s Thoughts
The Galway Bay Short Sleeve jacket addresses a problem that plagues summer golf in rainy climates: how do you stay dry without overheating in a full sleeve rain jacket? By cutting the sleeves short and using lighter material, Galway Bay created rain protection that actually works in warm, humid conditions.
Testing this jacket during Florida summer rounds, I appreciated how the short sleeve design allowed air circulation around my arms while the waterproof torso protection kept my core dry. Traditional full sleeve rain jackets trap heat and create that sauna effect even with breathable fabrics. The short sleeve design simply eliminates that problem by exposing forearms to cooling air.
The waterproofing proved just as effective as full rain jackets. The rounded collar design prevented water from running down my neck, and the taller back collar blocked rain from soaking my shirt underneath. The stretchy fabric allowed complete freedom of movement through my swing. I never felt restricted or conscious of wearing rain gear, which helped me maintain my normal tempo and mechanics.
The jacket’s warmth and breathability allowed me to wear it in temperatures ranging from lower 70s down to the crisp, cool 50s. In warmer temps, it performed very well. In cooler weather, I needed a base layer underneath, but that versatility expanded the jacket’s usefulness across seasons. The simple black design worked everywhere, and the minimal white GB logo kept branding understated.
Who It’s For
I’d recommend this jacket for golfers in warm climates who face summer rain frequently and hate overheating in traditional rain jackets. It’s perfect for Florida, Texas, or southern courses where temperatures stay elevated even during rain.
The versatility makes this ideal for players who want one jacket that works spring through fall with appropriate layering. The lightweight, packable design suits walkers who need weather protection without added bulk or weight in their bag.
How We Tested The Golf Rain Gear
You can get a feel for fit and appearance while indoors, but the only way to evaluate rain gear properly is to get out on the course and play wearing it and using it. As with our evaluations of clubs and other items of golf equipment, all our testing is carried out in this hands-on manner.
We’re always careful to remain completely independent of manufacturer inputs and advice, although we do work with the latest generations of products. This means we’re always testing the newest technology, which gives you the most up-to-date advice possible when you’re deciding what to spend your money on.
With most of our golf testing we get out on the course, use the range, and spend time on our simulator to get actual data. With rain gear though, that approach needs some modification. While we could and did stay indoors to assess how clothing fitted and whether it affected our swing, the real test is whether it keeps you dry. The only way to determine this is on the course.
Rain can vary from a summer shower on a Florida course to a spring storm at Pebble Beach. Florida adds heat and humidity to the equation, which means sweat, while coastal golf adds wind, low temperatures, and rain that can come at you almost horizontally.
For our testing, we sought opportunities to play extended rounds in heavy rain. We played in Florida, when the humidity was very high. We played when it was windy. We played in light rain, and we played when it got cold.
We also took opportunities to test rain gear against scrub and bushes when our ball went off the fairway. We dragged our push cart through showers and deluges. Like a toddler testing new boots, we even sought out standing water in which to immerse golf shoes.
So, having done all that extensive testing, what should you consider when shopping for golf rain gear?
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How to Choose the Best Golf Rain Gear
Rain gear varies extensively by type, but there are some common features to all or most items. We’ll go through those first before turning to some item-specific tips. You will notice that we don’t specifically address water protection. That’s because no item makes our list of recommendations unless it has shown itself to do an excellent job of keeping water out.
Fit
Waterproof clothing should not restrict your ability to rotate and swing a club. Neither should it bunch up in ways that reduce your view of the ball or your target. This means looking for items that are a good fit, not loose but not too tight either. Thin materials are usually a better choice, and look for adjustment features.
Weight
You will often be carrying your rain items with you when you head out to the first tee. If you’re walking rather than riding, weight is a major concern in both push carts and carry bags, so look for the lightest versions you can find.
Warmth
Even on a warm southern course, rain can bring a chill. Accordingly, for most clothing, look at how warm it will keep you. Yes, this can conflict with weight reduction, so consider what type of weather you’ll be playing in, (or invest in waterproof clothing for both warm and cold conditions.)
Appearance
If you anticipate playing at a club where you’ll be going inside for lunch or dinner, look for clothing with the style and colors you’d like to be seen in. (This will avoid having to take a change of clothes with you.)
Rain jackets
Design is about both looks and function. Considering function first, look for a collar that fits around the neck. This will stop raindrops running down your back when lining up a putt or shot. From an appearance perspective, consider if you like the way the jacket looks. If you don’t, you’re probably not going to feel that good about wearing it, in which case, perhaps look at the alternatives.
Also, consider humidity. Waterproof clothing can let sweat build up inside, leaving you feeling clammy and uncomfortable. This gives modern, breathable materials a definite advantage.
Pants
Consider if you’re looking for pants that will slip on over what you’re wearing when a shower pops up, or if you want pants that will be your only pants.
For the overpant design, look at whether they have true pockets or just access holes to the pants or shorts you have on underneath.
Shoes
In addition to comfort and fit, look at the materials used and how they’re constructed. Then consider how high up the foot they come and how well they’re protected from water ingress.
A point to look for with golf shoes for rainy conditions is the grip they provide. Wet grass can get treacherous, so make sure the shoes you choose will let you hold your stance and swing as you want.
Gloves
We might argue that gloves are the most important item to consider for rainy golf. The problem with the regular leather glove is that when wet it becomes clammy yet doesn’t let you hold the club well, which can lead to a tight grip.
The best gloves are made from a fabric that provides plenty of grip when wet. You might also notice we said gloves and not glove. That’s because rain usually makes you feel cold, so a second glove will keep your other hand warm too. If you like to play in spring and fall when it can get cold out, this is definitely something to consider.
Umbrella
A good umbrella can keep your clubs dry in your push cart, and keep you dry while waiting for the rest of your group to tee off. To be useful and survive on the course though, it must be both large and sturdy.
Look at the open diameter, but also the release mechanism and whether it has any wind-resistant features. If you plan on mounting it in a holder on your push cart, check the handle and mount size to be sure it will fit.
Towel
A towel is always useful when golfing, but even more so in the rain. With a good, absorbent material, it will let you dry grips, shafts and balls as needed, and help you keep your game on track.
Cart cover
Most golf bags will withstand a brief shower, but if you find you’re playing in torrential rain, moisture will make its way in and everything will get wet. A cart cover prevents that by clipping on and over your bag when it’s on the cart.
The factors to look for in a cover are fit – does it go over your bag – and how does it provide access to your clubs? If you have to take it off completely every time you need a club, it won’t be as helpful as one that has pockets or flaps for easier access.
FAQs
How important is rain gear for the average golfer?
Getting soaked out on the course is a miserable experience. In fact, many golfers will cut the round short and head home rather than finish off. A rain jacket and a good pair of gloves will let you finish off properly while staying reasonably comfortable. That can lead to a sociable hour in the clubhouse afterwards, and many more points for your team.
I don’t want to get wet, but I hate that bundled-up feeling. What do you suggest?
You need a rain jacket, and perhaps pants too, that are made from a lightweight fabric. Then check the fit. While skintight may not be good – you’re a golfer and not a swimmer – loose and flowing will get caught up as you lift your arms and turn. In short, it should fit well and move well with you.
I find the worst part of golfing in the rain is feeling cold. Any suggestions?
A pair of gloves is important. Cold, wet hands mean a poor grip, and that means a high score. In addition, a good jacket should block the wind that can make you feel cold. Ditto for pants.
Doesn’t golf rain gear all have a wet weather fisherman look to it?
We understand. If you’re going into the clubhouse for lunch or dinner you don’t want to look like you’ve just come off a boat. Fortunately, a lot of rain gear comes in attractive styles, materials, and a range of colors. You can step in from a soaking wet round and still look presentable!