Winter golf is a hidden gem in the golfing world, often seen as a challenge but truth be told, it can be an absolute joy. Many golfers hang up their clubs at the first sign of a frosty morning, but those who brave the elements find a unique pleasure in navigating a slightly frosty green or a thin sheet of snow on the fairway. Playing during the winter season can add an exciting dimension to your game, and can help hone your skills for when the weather eventually warms up.
The benefits of playing golf in the cold weather
Practising in the cold means you’re improving your swing technique in conditions that are more difficult than the norm. This can make a huge difference when the seasons change and you find yourself back on the spring greens, as your swing will have become far more reliable and resilient. Indeed, many golfing enthusiasts claim their overall game improves significantly after a winter season on the links.
However, braving the chill requires the right gear. While regular clothing may protect you from the elements, they often lack the flexibility required for the full range of golf swings. Enter cold weather golf skins, your winter golfing saviour. Expertly designed to offer insulation without restricting movement, they are essential for any golfer looking to take on the winter weather.
Before we start, if you are looking for waterproof golf trousers, check out our top picks that have been independently reviewed by us!
Budget Skins
Stubart Base Layer for Golf – £15.00 SPORTS DIRECT
Bottom line, you won’t get a better respect golf brand at a cheaper price, plus, this is as stylish a base layer as they come. The Stuburt Base Layer instantly catches the eye as a piece that combines both functionality and understated elegance. At its core, a base layer’s primary role is to offer comfort and protection against the elements, and Stuburt seems to have ticked these boxes with finesse. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, this product promises a snug fit, making it an ideal companion for those chilly mornings on the green.
Beyond just its functional merits, the aesthetics of this base layer don’t disappoint either. Stuburt has always been a brand synonymous with quality, and this piece exemplifies that reputation. The design is sleek and modern, offering golfers the opportunity to make a subtle style statement while ensuring they remain comfortable throughout their game. It’s evident that the brand understands the balance between looking good and feeling even better.
But perhaps what truly sets the Stuburt Base Layer apart is its versatility. Not confined to just the golf course, its lightweight and breathable fabric makes it suitable for a variety of outdoor activities, from brisk morning jogs to leisurely weekend hikes. All in all, for those seeking a reliable and stylish base layer that doesn’t compromise on quality, Stuburt has certainly delivered a worthy contender.
Under Armour ColdGear Golf Base Layer – £49.99 Under Armour
The Under Armour ColdGear Golf Base Layer is perfect for those looking to stay warm without breaking the bank. Its dual-layer fabric provides a warm interior and a smooth exterior, which is fantastic for heat retention. Despite its layered design, this base layer doesn’t hinder your swing, maintaining flexibility in the arms and torso.
A key positive for this product is its sweat-wicking properties, which keep you dry even during a challenging round. It’s a no-fuss, affordable option that will undoubtedly make a great addition to your winter golfing wardrobe.
I started with these because are one the main pairs that I wear when I play golf in cold weather (which is pretty much all year round here in the UK).
Under Armour ColdGear Base Layer Leggings – £49.99 Under Armour
The Men’s ColdGear Leggings by Under Armour is an excellent cold-weather option, offering comfort, flexibility, and durability. These are, again, my own first choice when it comes to playing golf in the cold and near freezing temperatures.
Their standout feature is the thermal insulation, ensuring you stay warm on those frosty mornings. They come in a range of colours which is handy but the best selling point is that they keep you toasty!
Callaway Golf Thermal Grip 2.0 Gloves – £16.99 Amazon
The Callaway Golf Thermal Grip 2.0 Gloves are designed to keep your hands warm while maintaining grip, a crucial part of cold-weather golfing. Made from Opti Therm™ thermal fleece, these gloves offer excellent heat retention.
Their key feature is the premium Japanese synthetic leather palm, ensuring an optimal grip in wet conditions. They are a worthwhile investment for winter golfing, offering exceptional value at a budget price.
Castore: Men’s Golf Long Sleeve Mock Neck base layer – £40.00 Castore
From the first glance, it’s abundantly clear that Castore’s Long-Sleeve Mock Neck Base Layer isn’t just any ordinary athletic wear; it’s the epitome of style meeting functionality. The brand, known for its uber-cool and refined designs, does not disappoint with this piece, marrying sleek aesthetics with a modern touch, making it a must-have addition to any golfer’s cold-weather wardrobe.
What stands out about this base layer, particularly for those braving the chilly tees of winter golf, is its optimal blend of materials that promise both warmth and flexibility. There’s nothing worse than feeling constricted in layers whilst trying to perfect that swing, and Castore has clearly taken this into consideration. The fabric ensures warmth is retained, without adding unnecessary bulk, making it an ideal choice for those frosty morning rounds.
Castore’s Long-Sleeve Mock Neck Base Layer is more than just a fashionable statement – it’s a testament to the brand’s commitment to delivering high-quality, stylish athletic wear that doesn’t compromise on performance. For golfers looking to elevate their cold-weather game and do it in style, this base layer is, without a doubt, a hole-in-one.
I should add at this point that I love Castore! Their none golf hoody is my favourite hoody and I also love the Snood that they make. it is perfect for golf on cold winter mornings.
Mid-range Skins and Cold Weather Golf Gear
Adidas Cold.RDY Hoody – £70 Adidas
The adidas Cold.RDY Golf Hoody blends style with function. It uses adidas’s Cold.RDY technology for maximum warmth, and the stretch fabric ensures your swing isn’t restricted.
Its key feature is the balance between heat retention and breathability, ensuring you stay warm without overheating. This, combined with its sleek design, makes it a top choice in the mid-range bracket.
Adidas Sport Performance Cold RDY Baselayer- £45.00 Adidas
The Adidas Sport Performance Cold RDY BaseLayer is another that I have in my own golf wardrobe. I will be really honest, it has to be very cold for me to wear this top as it is so hot!
It is a bit thicker than the likes of the Under Armour ColdGear clothing but it works even better than their tops in terms of keeping you warm on those freezing golf mornings. The colours are fairly limited but then, no one will see it other than in the changing room afterwards.
If you are playing golf on a super cold and frost day, then this is the base layer top for you!
Titleist Players Mitts – £29.99 America Golf
The Titleist Players Mitts are premium, all-weather gloves that offer exceptional feel and comfort. They are made from high-quality cabretta leather which provides excellent grip and durability.
Their key feature is the seam-sealed design, ensuring your hands stay dry even in the harshest winter conditions. A classic design with modern weatherproofing makes these gloves a great mid-range choice.
High-end Skins and Cold Weather Golf Clothes
Abacus Grove Hybrid Jacket – Sunset – £119.00 ClickGolf
**SALE: At the time of writing, Winter 2023, this jacket has £50.00 off! SALE**
Finally, a bit of colour! The Abacus Grove Hybrid Jacket in Sunset is a fantastically warming addition to any cold weather golf wardrobe. When my friend turned up to play wearing this jacket I was struck by the colour, the stylish cut and how warm it was (yes, i tried it on!).
The first thing that catches the eye is the striking Sunset colour – a rich, red that stands out amidst the lush greens of any course, particularly on those foggy mornings when visibility is key. It’s a statement colour that complements the natural surroundings while ensuring you’re seen by your fellow golfers.
But it’s not just about looks; the jacket boasts the warmth needed for those brisk early rounds. The hybrid design features strategically placed insulation that provides warmth where it’s needed most without sacrificing breathability. You can swing freely, unencumbered by bulkiness, thanks to the intelligent placement of stretchy, flexible panels. In short, the Abacus Grove Hybrid won’t negatively affect your golf swing unlike similar thick golf coats.
Abacus, known for its commitment to golf-specific attire, ensures that every detail caters to the golfer’s needs. From the high collar protecting against gusts of wind to the zippered pockets perfect for storing your scorecard and tees, every element is thoughtfully designed. The jacket’s water-repellent finish means that a light drizzle won’t send you racing for the clubhouse, either.
Helly Hansen Men’s Lifa Merino Midweight Baselayer – £70.99 Amazon
The Helly Hanson Men’s Lifa Merino Midweight Baselayer is the pick of the bunch. I have seen this jumper in action at my local golf club and it is very special.
Obviously, Merino means it is of high quality and will perform well in the coldest of elements. The Helly Hansen branding also means that it is designed to perform no matter what the weather. It is a bit pricey for something you may well only wear for a couple of months per year, but then, it is still cheaper than most golf clubs out there and is a far more reliable investment as well.
PING Men’s Bradley Stretch Winter Golf Trousers – £64.99 American Golf
The PING Bradley Stretch Winter Golf Trousers are top-tier when it comes to winter golfing trousers. Made from water-resistant fabric and featuring PING’s SensorWarm technology, these trousers are engineered for optimal warmth and comfort.
Their key feature is the thermal insulation that works with your body heat to keep you at a comfortable temperature. A top-quality choice for serious winter golfers. Ps, for those rainy days, we were really impressed with how fast these trousers dried.
FootJoy StaSof Winter Gloves – £85.00 Amazon
The FootJoy StaSof Winter Gloves offer premium winter performance, featuring advanced materials to provide warmth, a secure grip, and durability. These gloves stand out for their advanced thermal insulation, keeping your hands warm in even the coldest conditions.
The key positive for these gloves is their use of Taction2™ advanced performance leather, ensuring excellent grip and feel. The StaSof Winter Gloves are a worthwhile luxury for any winter golfer. They may cost a lot but they last a long time and will keep you warm without compromising your club grip!
PING SensorDry 2.5 Graphine Jacket – £224.00 American Golf
The PING SensorDry 2.5 Graphine Jacket offers superior warmth with its innovative SeonsorDry technology. This jacket manages to strike the perfect balance between being lightweight yet insulating, ensuring you don’t feel weighed down on the course.
Its standout feature is its breathability, preventing you from overheating while still maintaining an ideal body temperature. It’s a high-end choice that offers exceptional functionality and style.
The Best Winter Golf Jackets and Golf for Playing in the Cold
We had to finish this winter golf clothes special by talking about our favourite picks of the winter golf jacket scene! Similar to lots of golf brand styles, you have to look hard to get past the boring black range. That being said, black is stylish! These cold weather winter golf coats and jackets will really help you keep warm though.
Another point to mention is we have picked these because of their flexibility. We wanted to find winter golf jackets that would not restrict or affect your golf swing but that still do the job.
Stuburt Men’s Evolution – Tech padded Winter Golf Jacket – £49.99 American Golf – ON OFFER!
This is the winter golf coat that I have! Hence the slight bias in my recommendation BUT, I did try lots of cold weather golf jackets before buying it, so I have very much done the hard work for you. I love it!
The Stuburt Jacket is your ideal companion for braving those chilly winter greens. With its unique combination of stretch and thermal properties, you’ll find it to be a perfect blend of comfort and functionality. The jacket’s robust padding offers substantial warmth, ensuring you stay cosy and focused even on the coldest days. Fashioned from a high-quality mix of 96% polyester and 4% elastane, this jacket provides an exceptional balance of durability and flexibility.
One of the standout features of the Stuburt Jacket is its heavy-duty, yet remarkably lightweight construction. This means you won’t feel weighed down or restricted as you swing, making it an excellent choice for golfers who value both warmth and mobility. The heat-sealed seams contribute to its sleek, modern aesthetic, while the reflective laser cut print on the left chest adds a touch of sophistication, enhancing your style on the course. The branded binding further elevates its overall appeal, making it not just a practical piece but also a fashionable one.
Choosing this jacket for your winter golf sessions is a smart move for several reasons. Firstly, its thermal comfort is second to none, keeping you warm and comfortable in even the most challenging winter conditions. Secondly, the stretchable fabric ensures that your movement remains unhindered, crucial for maintaining your swing and performance on the course.
Lastly, the Stuburt Jacket’s stylish design means you’ll look as good as you feel, bringing a sense of confidence that can positively impact your game. In short, it’s the perfect fusion of style, comfort, and performance for any golfer looking to excel and enjoy their game during the winter season.
Note, this is currently on offer at American Golf. This is quite annoying as I paid full price!
Under Armour Cold Gear Reactor Hybrid Golf Jacket – £69.99 American Golf
The last one from Stuburt I own and this one from Under Armour, I used to own. An unfortunate grapple with a barb wire fence (“it was never out of bounds anyway”) caused it to needing to be replaced!
The ColdGear Reactor Hybrid Jacket from Under Armour is a true game-changer for golfers seeking to elevate their performance in cold conditions. This modern hybrid jacket is expertly crafted to keep you warm and comfortable, allowing you to focus on your game without any distractions. The unique quilting pattern isn’t just for show; it intelligently stores heat, ensuring you stay snug during your round. Combined with the innovative ColdGear® Reactor insulation, this jacket smartly balances warmth and breathability, adapting to your activity level for optimal comfort.
But the benefits of this jacket don’t stop there. The durable ripstop woven fabric used in its construction guarantees long-lasting wear, while the fleece sides, lower sleeves, and shaped back offer additional breathability and zero distractions during your swing. This design consideration is crucial for golfers who need a full range of motion to hit their best shots.
The full-zip opening and tapered neck design provide extra coverage and protection from the cold, making it a practical choice for those brisk mornings on the course. Plus, with ColdGear® Infrared and Storm Technology, you’re assured of staying warm and dry, whatever the weather may bring.
Opting for the CG Reactor Hybrid Jacket for your golf outings is a wise decision for several reasons. Firstly, its intelligent insulation technology ensures that you are not just warm, but also comfortable with its breathability. This means no overheating or excessive sweating, just consistent comfort. Secondly, the design of the jacket, with its focus on movement and breathability, means your golf swing remains unhindered – a critical factor for any serious golfer.
Lastly, its robust construction and stylish design make it a durable and fashionable addition to your golfing wardrobe. In essence, this jacket is a perfect amalgamation of Under Armour’s innovative technology and keen attention to a golfer’s needs, making it an essential item for anyone looking to stay at the top of their game during the colder months.
PING Men’s Norse S5 Full Zip Winter Golf Jacket – £199.99 American Golf
I nearly bought this one but it is definitely a bit spenny!
The PING jacket is a testament to the perfect fusion of style and functionality, tailor-made for golfers who refuse to let the elements dictate their game. Crafted with the cutting-edge PRIMALOFT® ThermoPlune® insulation, this lightweight layer is your shield against the cold, ensuring that you remain warm and focused as you navigate the course. Not only does it offer exceptional warmth, but it also boasts wind and water-resistant properties, making it an all-weather champion for any golfer.
In addition to its thermal capabilities, this jacket doesn’t compromise on breathability. It’s designed to keep you comfortable, preventing overheating and ensuring that your performance remains at its peak throughout your game. The contemporary quilted front design is not just aesthetically pleasing but also functional, with a full-zip opening that allows for quick and easy changing. The inclusion of front zip pockets is a thoughtful touch, providing convenient storage for small essentials.
Choosing the PING Jacket for your golfing adventures is a smart decision for several compelling reasons. First and foremost, its stretch properties, afforded by the blend of 86% polyamide and 14% elastane, ensure a snug fit without restricting your movement – a crucial aspect for maintaining an optimal swing. Furthermore, its lightweight yet robust construction means you get the best of both worlds: durable protection without the burden of a heavy garment.
Lastly, the jacket’s breathability and water-repellent features mean you stay dry and comfortable, irrespective of the weather conditions. In essence, the PING Jacket is more than just an outer layer; it’s a performance enhancer, designed to help you excel in your golfing pursuits, no matter what the weather throws at you.
PING Men’s Arlo Hybrid Winter Golf Jacket – £59.99 American Golf
The PING Arlo jacket, an embodiment of sophistication and functionality, is your ideal companion on the golf course, especially as temperatures begin to drop. Its standout feature is the Sensorwarm technology, which combines an insulated front panel with quilting, ensuring you stay warm where it matters most. But warmth isn’t the only thing this jacket offers; its fleece body at the rear and sleeves are a testament to the comfort it provides, allowing you to focus solely on your game.
The flexibility of this jacket is another key aspect. Thanks to its stretch-enhanced design, it offers unparalleled mobility, allowing you to swing with ease and precision. The stretch binding to the hem and cuffs ensures a secure and snug fit, essential for those windy days on the course.
Moreover, the jacket’s high breathability is a game-changer, ensuring that while you’re protected from the cold, you won’t overheat – a balance that’s crucial for performance in varying weather conditions.
Opting for the PING Arlo jacket is a wise decision for any golfer looking to elevate their game in colder weather. Its wind and water resistance make it a robust layer against the elements, ensuring you stay dry and comfortable. The two front zip pockets add a layer of practicality, providing convenient storage for your essentials.
The full-zip opening is not just a stylish addition but also makes it easy to wear and adjust as needed. In essence, this 100% polyester jacket is a blend of style, comfort, and functionality, making it a must-have for any golfer eager to maintain their performance and style, regardless of the weather.
To round up, local golf coach, Martin Hughes, affirms the importance of wearing suitable skins during winter golf. “Investing in a good set of winter golf skins can significantly extend your playing season,” he says. “Having layers that insulate, wick away moisture, and allow for full movement is vital. This not only keeps you warm but also preserves the integrity of your swing.”
“Many golfers overlook the winter season, but it’s a fantastic time to build resilience in your game. Cold weather skins are essential to making this possible. They enable you to face the challenges of winter golf comfortably and with the right level of flexibility.”
Martin Hughes, Golf Coach
So, there you have it – your ultimate guide to the best winter golf skins on the market. Whether you’re on a budget or looking to invest in high-end products, there’s something here to suit every winter golfer. Remember, the British winter shouldn’t stop you from enjoying the game. Instead, view it as an opportunity to improve your swing and resilience on the green. Now, let’s get out there and embrace the frost!
