If you play a lot of golf, then the chances are you will get caught in the wind and rain every now and again, which makes it extremely important to have garments at your disposal that will protect you from the elements. Thankfully, today's waterproof jackets and pants are incredibly effective at keeping us dry and comfortable on the golf course, whilst allowing us to look good as well. This is because the best golf rain gear is lightweight, comfortable, warm, can be stowed away easily, and most importantly they give protection from the rain, wind and just about any other adverse weather condition when out on the golf course.
In our experience, you tend to get what you pay for when it comes to golf waterproofs. But we have also found that there are some top rain jackets and pants which come at lower price points and therefore represent appealing value for money, without significantly compromising on performance. This is where this guide comes in as we have tested and collated the best cheap golf rain gear on the market so those players who want to save a buck or two, can still perform to a high level when the weather takes a turn for the worst.
We’ve picked out a selection of the best offerings that are well worth checking out and we also recommend checking out our guides on the best golf windbreakers, and best golf base layers to truly complete your outfit for outings where the weather forecast is less than favorable.
Best Cheap Golf Rain Gear
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Jackets
Sizes: S-3XL
Colors: 4
+ Looks great on and off the course
+ Premium feel materials
- Looser fit might not be to everyone’s preference
First up we have the Drive Jacket from Under Armour which is an ideal option for any golfer who is looking for a versatile rain jacket that can be worn both on and off the course, but still wants a lightweight feel and comfort.
The wind and waterproof construction worked perfectly in the most severe conditions, as the fully taped seams and 2.5-layer bonded fabric repelled away any water from the body. Crucially, I found there to be plenty of freedom of movement throughout the swing and, thanks to additions like the zip-hand pockets and adjustable fit, the comfort almost felt like a second skin when tackling the course.
Read our full Under Armour Drive Rain Jacket Review
Sizes: XS-2XL
Colors: 2
+ Addition of the hood
+ Extremely lightweight and versatile
- Doesn’t feel as thick as non-hooded model
I enjoyed testing the standard Rain.Rdy Jacket and I thought the only thing missing was a hood, which explains the release of this hooded version. The new design feels a lot lighter and the materials aren’t as thick, so on those colder days we needed to pair it with more layers, but this was also a benefit because it didn’t take up a lot of room in the bag and added next to no weight.
The waterproof protection hasn’t been compromised either, as we were caught in several downpours in testing and it performed brilliantly. It also felt comfortable and we liked the adjustability of the hood and elasticated cuffs, and ultimately it is a jacket that can be used anywhere.
Read our full adidas Rain.Rdy Hooded Jacket Review
Sizes: S-2XL
Colors: 2
+ Water protection up there with the top models
+ Versatile design
- Not the best with only polo underneath
The DRYLBL Rain Jacket is a continuation of the performance we saw in the Ultradry jacket which also tested very well for me. Thanks to the 2.5 layer fabric, seam sealed design, and waterproof zips, the protection from this jacket was up there with some of the top models I have tested. Movement was also uninhibited and it felt lovely and light too, despite still offering a degree of warmth and breathability.
I liked the adjustability too such as the Velcro cuffs, and another huge plus was the aesthetic because, whilst some may say it was a touch bland, we think it added to its versatility. This jacket can be used anywhere.
Read our full Puma DRYLBL Waterproof Golf Rain Jacket Review
Sizes: S-2XL
Colors: 4
+ Comfortable and lightweight
+ Waterproofing was good in testing
- White band round pockets a trifle garish for some tastes
If you want an excellent value option in the rain jacket sector then this Inesis model could be one to consider. In testing out on the golf course, and in a power shower, the jacket proved to offer excellent waterproof protection.
The length of the jacket is such that it continues down over the top of any waterproof trousers thereby preventing any problems with any riding up on the jacket when stretching. We also liked the fact it didn't impede the golf swing and the four color options are solid. For such a modest price tag, this is a very solid option indeed if you need a garment for bad conditions on the golf course.
Sizes: S-2XL
Colors: 7
+ Lightweight feel
+ Adjustability everywhere
- Small pockets
This is a very good rain jacket thanks to its overall protection and design features. First it is ultra-lightweight and stretchy which made it very easy to swing in, and it folded down to next to nothing so storage was easy. Whilst this does mean more layers are needed in colder weather, the lightweight fabric didn’t compromise on waterproofing.
Water beaded off excellently thanks to the seam-sealed construction and we loved all the other adjustable features too including the inner storm flap, chin guard and cord-adjusting high neck, and the Velcro adjusters at the cuffs and waist. The only negatives were the pockets which were a touch small, and the design could probably be described as a bit bland. However that does also make it versatile so that’s a subjective point.
Read our full Sunderland Whisperdry Pro-Lite Jacket Review
Sizes: S-3XL
Colors: 2
+ Allows you to swing freely
+ Clever inner hem stops it riding up
- Two-way main zipper a little fiddly
The first thing you’ll notice about the Stormguard III is that it is a good-looking jacket with strong colors and lots of little details that catch the eye. I could swing uninhibited thanks to the Swing Tech technology and it performed well in terms of waterproofing as well as I was caught in downpours several times in testing.
The lightly elasticated black inner sleeve cuffs are another real plus point. They fit snugly enough for you to not have to overly worry about how tight or loose you set the external Velcro cuff adjusters, and I really liked the rubbery inner hem at the waist which stopped the jacket riding up.
Read our full Callaway Stormguard III Waterproof Rain Jacket Review
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 2 (Black, Navy)
+ Lightweight, simple design
+ Adjustable cuffs and back straps
- No hood
Beginning with the looks and the jacket provides a very simple aesthetic that many will be keen on. Available in two base colorways, the zip helps it stand out and, in terms of ease of use, the two side pockets and adjustability of straps give it a comfortable fit.
I must admit when I first put the jacket on it seemed huge but thanks to that adjustability, I could sharpen up the fit nicely to make sure it was comfortable. Admittedly, it doesn't have a hood, so water can get into the top half but, in terms of protection, the jacket itself does a good job of keeping you dry in the severest conditions.
Read our full Mizuno 20K Waterproof Jacket Review
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 2
+ Great waterproof function
+ Offers great maneuverability
- Could do with more functionality
In testing I really liked the Greylands jacket from Oscar Jacobson. It felt lightweight, breathable and protected from the rain nicely whilst offering no obstructions in terms of movement. However, it's worth noting that, in achieving this, it has come at the expense of warmth, as this jacket has very little in the way of thermal lining and, therefore, acts as a waterproof piece only, so layering with a mid layer or hoodie is required.
It does have taped seams, and cuffing functionality at both wrist and waist allows no room for excess water to get in, and I liked the blue and black finish I tested above.
Read our full Oscar Jacobson Greylands Lightweight Waterproof Jacket Review
Sizes: S-3XL
Colors: 1 (Black)
+ Two-year waterproof guarantee
+ Good pocket space and lightweight feel
- Fairly loose fit and non-adjustable wrist cuffs
The Stuburt Leaden Lightweight Waterproof Jacket is a good-looking garment that is extremely lightweight and can fold to very little when placing in your golf bag.
In terms of comfort, it has an elasticated waist adjuster that keeps it tight around the body, but the slight downside is that the wrists are only partly elasticated with no adjustment available. Therefore, those who prefer a tighter fit may opt for something different. Overall, though, the Leaden is a great option that won't break the bank, with the positives outweighing the negatives in term of performance.
Read our full Stuburt Leaden Lightweight Waterproof Jacket Review
Pants
Sizes: S-2XL
Colors: 1
+ Extremely lightweight
+ Easy to adjust via elastic waist straps
- No fleece lining in the pockets for warmth
I really like the simplicity behind these Under Armour Golf rain pants. These are pants that will predominantly be worn in the winter and will see their fair share of mud splatter, so having rain pants in brighter colors or with more pattern really is somewhat unnecessary.
These rain pants feature the same rain repellent technology as the Cloudstrike Stretch jacket and performed excellently in keeping me dry. These rain pants are made from 2.5 layer-bonded fabric, which is extremely breathable and lightweight, ideal for taking on and off and storing in your golf bag when they’re not in need.
Sizes: S-3XL
Colors: 1
+ Comfortable
+ Good protection
- Tricky to get off
The DRYLBL Rain Pants are 100% waterproof giving you a dry round on a wet and rainy day. The fit of the pants is very comfy and fits over other pants easily, with a elasticated waist band making them easy to fit with a popper button.
Any zips are fully sealed to stop any leaking and they include pockets for accessibility. When I tested these trousers I found them comfortable to wear and swing in, however getting in and out of them was difficult with the sticky interior catching on the shoes even with the zips fully up. Other than that they did exactly what you would expect from a waterproof trouser.
Sizes: 3 standard, petite, tall (S-2XL)
Colors: 1
+ Stretch was superb
+ 100% recycled materials
- Pockets do feel a touch small
As you would expect from the name, these pants are prepared for all weather conditions because of the Rain.Rdy technology which helps block out water and wind, ideal for those colder, harsher conditions out on the course.
In my testing they certainly delivered this, and other elements I liked were the ankle zips which made adjustability very easy, the lightweight feel of the pants both on the body and in the bag, and also the degree of stretch in the fabric was a huge plus point. I felt like I could get into any stance easily without restrictions. They are also made with 100% recycled materials which should always be applauded, but the only negative here is the size of the pockets, they do feel a touch small.
Sizes: XS-XXXL in short, reg & long
Colors: 2
+ Extremely light
+ Easy to adjust
- Quite baggy
The most noticeable feature of these waterproof pants is how lightweight they are, which also makes them very breathable – plus they’re easy to roll up nice and tightly to pack away in your golf bag if the rain is stop-start. Even though waterproofs need to be loose to bead off water, these are quite baggy, although they do remain nice and quiet, even when it’s windy. It also makes them really easy to pull on over another pair of pants
Despite the ultra thin fabric these fully seamed waterproofs will also keep you dry in heavy downpours. Meanwhile, two side pockets and one back one give you enough room to keep your essentials close by, and your scorecard bone dry.
Sizes: 8 waist sizes (29in to 43in), 2 leg lengths (33in and 34in)
Colors: 2
+ Comfortable
+ Lightweight
+ Elegant
- White band round pockets a bit garish for some tastes
Comfortable, practical, slim and lightweight and with plenty of pockets, these are excellent waterproof pants. They can be co-ordinated with the Inesis Men's Golf Waterproof Rain Jacket to provide a full set of waterproofs. Having worn them only in light rain, they were given a further test in the shower by putting cards in the pockets and firing jets of water at the zipped-up pockets from almost point-blank range. The cards remained bone dry. The pants are slim, which gives a sleek look and leaves less material flapping around to catch the wind. They are also quiet to walk in. There are belt loops and a hidden elasticated band, with a Velcro fastener, to adjust the waist size.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 2
+ Warm
+ Adaptable, classic design
- Slightly tight around upper leg
These traditionally designed waterproof pants provide optimal protection on the golf course. Their adjustable waistband offers the appropriate amount of versatility from a pair of waterproof pants, allowing you take them on and off with relative ease.
Breathable in their fabric and with zippered leg openings, there is a noticeable sense of maneuverability and all of this comes with what is a relatively conventional aesthetic design allowing them to be suitable for all golfing environments.
How we test golf rain gear
When it comes to testing golf rain gear, and all golf apparel, our methodology is quite simple really - we put the clothes on and put them to the test out on the golf course in different conditions. To test versatility, we also see how they perform off the golf course too.
On the links, this means playing golf in wet conditions, as well as windy rounds too so we can gauge how protected we are. That being said Mother Nature can be unpredictable so we have even gone so far as to pour water all over jackets and pants to test how seam-sealed they are as well.
This process usually takes place over a number of rounds and we then use these experiences to write reviews and buying advice content like this guide. Speaking of which we should make very clear, no manufacturer can buy a good review from us, we tell it how we see it.
What to consider when buying golf rain gear
When trying to find the best golf rain gear for you, what should you consider? Let's take a look.
Waterproofing and protection
This is the most important factor in rain gear because the garment you pick has to protect from the rain and wind properly. Importantly, we are confident all of the models above will protect you well but one thing we think you should be aware of are waterproof guarantees. Many of the models above, and the brand's that make them, will offer a guarantee on waterproofing so it makes sense to perhaps go for a model that has several years protection as a guarantee.
Freedom of movement
With all this protection, occasionally waterproof jackets can be large and cumbersome but in modern golf design this is no longer the case. Most really good models stretch and move with the body freely so that your swing isn't hindered despite having a few layers on. Additionally these jackets and pants have to provide comfort as well.
Color/style
This is not that relevant to waterproof pants as they always tend to be the same color but when it comes to jackets, as you can see above there are lots of colors and styles to choose from. Therefore have a think about whether you want to stand out on the golf course or have a more traditional style.
Additionally if you want to wear the jacket off the golf course, be aware of the styles that look good anywhere and perhaps don't go for a model that limits versatility.
Budget
Finally be conscious of how much you want to spend. We have included models above that come with lower price points so there is a model for people who want to save.
For more buying advice on golf garments also take a look at our guides on the best golf vests and best golf tops.
FAQs
What is good golf rain gear?
Good golf rain gear are garments that do several things, chief among which is to keep you dry when the heavens open. This means the fabric has to keep water at bay so be sure to check if brands say a particular model is 100% waterproof, because sometimes there are jackets and pants out there which are just water-resistant. Additionally good golf rain gear needs to stretch nicely so your swing and movement isn't compromised, whilst also offering comfort. Top models should also protect you from the wind, offer a degree of warmth, work well with other layers, and I think it should be look good too, both on and off the golf course.
For more buying advice in golf apparel, check out our guides on the best golf rain pants, best lightweight golf jackets, or best golf sweaters.
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