This season has been a display of what a downpour can do to a round of golf. Each major this season so far has seen rain at least once in the week, with heavy rains interrupting the PGA Championship and U.S. Open tournament rounds in the form of delayed tee times and soggy conditions.
RELATED: Do The Pros Actually Look Better in Rain Gear?
Short-sleeved jackets are light and breezy, keep rain from soaking you through, and keep the wind at bay. They’re usually half- or full-zip, so they’re easy to throw on in a pinch and take back off again once the storm blows through. Or, if it’s a bit chilly in the morning, they’re a great light layer to stave off some of the cold before the sun gets its chance to warm things up. I keep one in my bag pretty much all the time, especially if I’m playing in the mountains or in muggy conditions (like the ones we’re seeing across the northeast these past weeks).
The best thing about them, though, might be the easy style points you get by popping one on. Rain gear always looks good, especially with golf’s foray into the GORPy side of things, and a short sleeve jacket looks even better than a normal rain jacket, if you ask me. I’m surprised we haven’t seen these short-sleeved jackets make their way into streetwear, but if the latest trends are any indication, it’s just a matter of time before we start seeing these on the streets of NYC.
Either way, fashionable or not, the short-sleeved jacket is a utilitarian piece of outerwear that no golfer should hit the links without. We compiled a list of our favorites to get you started.
*Every product is independently selected by editors. Things you buy through our links may earn us a commission.
One of our absolute favorites, this jacket allows for a full range of movement without compromising on waterproofing. Where most rain jackets are hard and restrictive, this one is tailor-made for the physical demands of the golf swing.
$278
BUY NOWThis techy rain shirt has all of the features you’d expect to see on outdoor-focused outerwear from Arc’teryx or Patagonia, and all the style we’ve come to see from J.Lindeberg over the past years.
$215
BUY NOWManors was born on the wet, rainy, windy courses of the UK, so it’s not shocking at all that they make a stellar wind layer. This one isn’t as waterproof as others on the list, but it keeps the wind from cutting through your shirt and looks great while doing it.
$191
BUY NOWLike everything Malbon does, the Wyatt builds upon the classic golf silhouette with style. Contrasting raglan sleeves allow for a free range of movement, hand pockets are there for tees and a ball marker, and the elastic bottom keeps wind from slipping up the shirt.
$168
BUY NOWIf you’ve been around the game for any time at all, you know Footjoy makes some surprisingly stellar outerwear. If you’re new, let us put you on. This stretchy, packable jacket is fully waterproof and still breathes easy on warm days.
$165
BUY NOWSpeaking of GORP: Peak Performance’s 3L Shell is basically an alpine-ready shell in golf form. The relaxed fit is comfortable, oozes style, and boasts all the tech you’d expect from a brand born in the mountains.
$180
BUY NOWJohnnie-O’s subtle coastal styling is perfect for the short-sleeved jacket. Near the sea you’re bound to be battered by wind, rain, and ocean spray, meaning you need a jacket that’s up to the task.
$168
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