When it comes to outerwear in the golf world, things like quarter-zip pullovers, hoodies and vests have all carved out a nice spot for themselves on racks and on players’ backs. But there’s another item right in the middle of those, literally and figuratively, that refuses to go away: the short sleeve rain jacket.
A Short (Sleeve) History
Many credit the late Payne Stewart for introducing a need for the short sleeve rain jacket when he famously cut the sleeves off his rain jacket for the final round of the 1999 U.S. Open, which he won in dramatic fashion over Phil Mickelson. After that win, along with the emergence of Nike in the golf apparel world, short sleeve rain jackets became commonplace among most major brands over the next decade. Of course as fashion has evolved, the short sleeve rain jacket has taken a backseat to other options over the years.
Why They Matter
But the reason short sleeve rain jackets have never left, and why now is the perfect time to bring them allll the way back, is because they offer two important advantages. One is mobility; golfers don’t like to make swings with loose fitting long sleeves. It messes with their minds, which is a dangerous thing for a golfer. Secondly, short sleeve rain jackets are cooler in the summer months. Sure, it’ll rain, but that doesn’t mean it’s gonna be cold too. In fact that gnarly summer humidity feels even worse underneath long sleeves. If you know you know.
Suit Up For Summer
So as we witness – and even participate in – the rise of the short sleeve rain jacket, here are a few of our favorite options for the summer months ahead.
Starting with the Stealth Stowable from Johnnie-O. It’s got everything you need: water resistant, windproof, packable construction, lightweight and built with stretch for comfort and freedom of movement. Not to mention that eye-catching color known as Malibu.
The Power Torque 1/4 Zip from Zero Restriction brings its power torque technology to your rain gear, with what they call “a revolutionary design system meticulously crafted for unparalleled comfort.” What does that mean? Well, along with being waterproof, they try to utilize different fabrics in specific areas based on motion, to allow for max flexibility in your golf swing where it matters most.
J. Lindeberg is also bringing the heat – or should we say cool? – when it comes to short sleeve rain jackets with the Bridge Rain Short, a short-sleeved version of their best-selling rain jacket. It features four-way stretch along with waterproof technology and high breathability. And in true J. Lindeberg fashion, it may be the sharpest looking one we’ve seen this season.
And finally, the Galvin Green AXL S/S Gore-Tex Paclite rain jacket will work great on or off the course. Along with features like Gore-Tex waterproofing, wind protection and stretch fabric, the AXL comes with a full zip placket so it's super easy to put on and take off. And other highlights include a small zip chest for accessories, elastic drawstring hem, adjustable chest width and a raised collar for extra coverage.
Don’t let the rain stop you from enjoying the course this summer. All of these are easy to pack in your bag for when that rain inevitably comes. And based on the law of golf averages, half of your foursome will forget their umbrellas and rain gear. Don’t be that person. See you on the course, rain or shine!