Galvin Green Alister Jacket Review

Joel Tadman puts the Alister jacket through its paces in all weathers over multiple rounds to assess the performance on offer

Galvin Green Alister Jacket Review
(Image credit: Howard Boylan)
Golf Monthly Verdict

A feature-packed Gore-Tex waterproof jacket that will change your mindset when playing in the rain. Unprecedented customisation options ensure a snug, comfortable fit while the level of protection on offer is exceptional.

Reasons to buy
  • +

    Plenty of ways to achieve a tailored fit

  • +

    Keeps the rain at bay

  • +

    Extremely comfortable and playable

Reasons to avoid
  • -

    All this technology comes at a significant cost

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Galvin Green Alister Jacket Review

We’ve all heard of adjustable drivers and the performance benefits this technology provides but how about adjustable rain jackets? This might not be such a well-known phrase in golf but when you think about it, it makes perfect sense. Just like every golf swing is different, so is every body shape, which means adjustability is required in order to get the perfect fit. This is important to not only maximise comfort, but also swing speed when playing in less-than-favourable weather conditions.

VIDEO: Discover why the Galvin Green Alister jacket was chosen for Editor's Choice 2023

A brand that has embraced this concept in 2023 is Galvin Green, creator of some of the best golf waterproofs. Its flagship garment is the Alister jacket which has been designed to equip golfers with the protection and playability they need to tackle to course in the heaviest of downpours through technology and customisation. 

Galvin Green Alister Jacket collar

(Image credit: Howard Boylan)

Circling back to adjustability, this Gore-Tex stretch jacket has adjustable chest tabs that alters the jacket’s volume when swinging, shaped sleeves with adjustable Velcro cuffs, a drawstring at the hem for a more tailored fit and even one on the collar to reduce the chance of water entering down your neck. It’s these small but significant touches that will ensure the rain won’t be a distraction, merely a minor inconvenience. 

Galvin Green Alister Jacket chest Velcro tabs

(Image credit: Howard Boylan)

The full-zip Alister has plenty of other features worth shouting about. Notably the C-Knit backer fabric with a smooth ‘slide and glide’ interior, which makes it quick and easy to put on when the heavens open. It also boasts Superstretch inserts across the back and elbows for unrivalled freedom of movement in the swing. Those who carry their bag will really appreciate the addition of reinforced Techsteel material at the shoulders, which enhances the durability in this area where the bag straps often rub and wear without compromising movement during the swing.

Galvin Green Alister Jacket testing

(Image credit: Howard Boylan)

For such a feature-packed jacket, you’ll be surprised at how lightweight and minimalistic the Alister feels. The protection is excellent, market leading you could say, but it manages to remain playable. The attention to detail is exceptional, with little extra touches like the carbon printed zippers, two zipped front pockets and the print pattern on the sleeves which gives the jacket a slick, sophisticated look. 

As if all this wasn’t appealing enough, the Alister jacket is made from bluesign approved fabrics, which are made in a way that minimises any social and environmental impact without affecting the performance the wearer will experience. At £539 it's a sizeable investment, but this jacket will perform for you season after season and undoubtedly add a touch of class to your winter wardrobe.

Deputy Editor

Joel has worked in the golf industry for over 14 years covering both instruction and more recently equipment. He now oversees all equipment and video content at Golf Monthly, managing a team of talented and passionate writers and presenters in delivering the most thorough and accurate reviews, buying advice, comparisons and deals to help the reader or viewer find exactly what they are looking for.

One of his career highlights came when covering the 2012 Masters he got to play the sacred Augusta National course on the Monday after the tournament concluded, shooting a respectable 86 with just one par and four birdies. To date, his best ever round of golf is a 5-under 67 back in 2011. He currently plays his golf at Burghley Park Golf Club in Stamford, Lincs, with a handicap index of 2.8.

Joel's current What's In The Bag?

Driver: Titleist TSR3, 9°, Fujikura Ventus Black 6 S shaft.

Fairway wood: Titleist TSR3, 15°

Hybrid: Titleist TSi2, 18°

Irons: Titleist T150, 4-PW

Wedges: Titleist Vokey SM10, 50°, 54° and 58°

Putter: LAB Golf DF3

Ball: 2023 Titleist Pro V1x