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Jun 09, 2023

Best Golf Tops 2023

Looking for the best golf tops? Here we have taken a look at the options on the

Looking for the best golf tops? Here we have taken a look at the options on the market and come up with a list of our favorites.

Best Golf Tops

We all know how invaluable a good golf top can be out on the golf course, especially if you play in a climate of ever-changing weather conditions. We need a good layer with us when out on the golf course, to keep us warm, comfortable, and as a good protector against the wind and rain. For the fashion conscious amongst us, it has to look good too.

Fashion aside, a good golf top needs to be light and breathable because playing golf is hard enough without having to worry about a cumbersome piece of clothing that restricts the swing. Of course the word 'top' implies anything to be worn on the top half of the body, however we have taken it to mean garments to be worn over polo shirts and under specifically designed waterproofs. So bearing that in mind, below we have taken a look at some of our favorite golf tops.

Alternatively if you are looking for something else in the golf apparel sector, take a look at some of our other buyers guides too - such as the best golf rain jackets, best golf polos or the best golf pants.

Why you can trust Golf Monthly Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.

Sizes: XS - XXLColors: 2 (Navy; Black)

+ Ample warmth and wind protection+ Subtle yet stylish design+ Plenty of flex in the fabric- Comes up quite large/baggy

Substantial enough to offer excellent protection from the elements while also feeling quite lightweight, it strikes the balance golfers are looking for, this new mid layer from Castore is a fantastic option for any golfer looking for a lightweight and smart top that will attract plenty of looks on the golf course.

We loved the subtle Castore branding again gives this top a really premium look. It is up there with some of the best Castore clothing on the market and offers up a slightly looser fit that many golfers will enjoy that fits nicely over a few thinner layers and looks great under one of the best golf rain jackets.

Sizes: S-3XLColors: 3 (Grey, Blue, Navy)

+ Very soft and comfortable top+ Graphic print looks cool- Waist adjusters

The Elevation midlayer from Ping is a favorite of ours, it made our Editor's Choice list, for several reasons. To start the brushed fleece was extremely comfortable in testing and it stretched nicely throughout the swing as well. The cuffs felt comfortable on the wrists or forearms, whilst the collar felt soft and in no way irritable around the neck. The design itself, which is inspired by the Ping Split golf ball, looks cool and has a nice texture to it, although we aren't sure if this top has much versatility because of the print. We also weren't big fans of the waist cuff adjusters which were a little fiddly.

Sizes: S-XXLColors: 1 (Navy)

+ Thin, lightweight feel+ Understated styling+ Versatile design- Offers limited warmth/protection

A great top for colder mornings on the golf course, the G/Fore Luxe Quarter Zip Mid Layer is a thin, lightweight offering that is ideal for spring months on the golf course. While most G/Fore products offer a vibrant and stand-out design, this option is a little more understated but has a traditional feel thanks to the fine tech jersey fabric that has been brought right up to date with the stretch fabrics on the market now, helping to ensure your range of motion isn't compromised. It only comes in the one color option, navy, but it will pair smartly with the G/FORE Two Tone Rib Collar Tech Jersey polo shirt and even has moisture wicking properties to keep you dry!

Sizes: XS-2XLColors: 3 (Green, Black, Hemp)

+ Very soft and warm+ Environmental construction- The print will divide opinion

The camo-esque print on this sweater will divide opinion and our tester was definitely not sure about it. But it actually grew on him over time, whilst there are so many other little elements to this sweater which make it an excellent product. Made with 100% recycled polyester polar fleece, it has the environment at the heart of its design, and this material feels so soft and warm, without any of the bulk or heaviness that can come from fleece tops. In fact the lightness of this top has to be felt to be believed. It also has good elastic cuffs, a water repellent coating, sizes ranging from XS-2XL, and is available in three different colors.

Sizes: S-2XLColors: 2 (Navy, Grey)

+ Smart look that's incredibly versatile+ Lightweight and stretchy fabric- Some may prefer a more athletic fit

If you are looking for a lightweight midlayer, FootJoy has a new HYPR garment that's available in two simple color options, navy and grey. The fit is fairly traditional and as you’d expect, the lightweight fabric is noticeably stretchy. In fact the first thing you’ll notice about this quarter-zip is how lightweight it is. Whilst you might not want to wear it as an outer layer on a cold day, it can easily fit beneath a heavier sweater or waterproof without adding too much bulk and restricting your swing. Overall for me, this is an ideal garment to leave in the golf bag during the summer months, whilst the simple styling adds versatility.

Sizes: S-XXXLColors: 9 (Red; Grey; Green; Navy; Red; Light Blue; Blue; Pink)

+ Brilliant at keeping you warm+ Super stretchy+ Very stylish- Fit comes up a little tight

Keeping warm on the course during very cold outings doesn't always mean you have to wear seven layers, as the Daxton Insula mid layer demonstrates. This half-zip top is the perfect outer layer on cold, dry days due to its ability to keep you warm while also being able to swing on full power thanks to the super stretchy fabric, although the fit does come up on the small side so you may need to go up a size. It's one of the most comfortable mid layers we’ve ever worn and really looks the part too, coming in five colors to suit all tastes. Galvin Green produce some of the best designer golf clothes on the market and this is a fantastic looking option.

Sizes: S-XXLColors: 6 (Blue, Navy, Water, Midnight, Grey)

+ Four-way stretch+ Water repellent- Can run a touch loose

The Under Armour Storm Midlayer Half is one of the most versatile of its kind. The brushed fabric provides great warmth on those colder days, meaning you don't have to worry about feeling restricted in too many layers. The zip allows for easy removal if you get too warm and the four-way stretch allows for the golfer to move athletically when on the course.

This midlayer won't look out of place off the course and doubled up well as a gym sweater for myself. There are multiple color options, allowing you to choose either a bold or classic colorway. Storm technology repels water while also remaining extremely breathable even in warmer weather.

Sizes: S-XXLColors: 2 (Black, Navy)

+ Incredibly warm and soft+ Excellent wind protection- Not fully waterproof, but can withstand a light shower

If you're after a warm, premium golf windbreaker it's hard to look past this offering from Puma. The Cloudspun fabric gives added weight and warmth to the jacket, while the Primaloft Quilting retains the heat and provides some good protection from the wind.

These two technologies work fantastically together and it kept us at very comfortable temperature throughout our testing. We also really liked the drawstring at the waist which can be adjusted very easily, and we always like a jacket to come with good pockets.

Read our full Puma Cloudspun WRMLBL Jacket review

Sizes: S-3XLColors: 5 (Black, Grey, Blue, Red, Dark Grey)

+ Extremely comfortable+ Versatility to wear anywhere- Runs slightly long on length

As you can imagine from the name, the Cloud quarter zip 2.0 is one of the softest and most comfortable quarter zips on the market. It features an extremely soft fleece fabric that remains extremely breathable. The Cloud 2.0 has a modern fit, one that is not too tight, yet not baggy and acts as a stylish option for a cool day on the course.

The Cloud quarter zip 2.0 optimizes what the Travis Mathew golf range is about, clothing that is performance enhancing, yet stylish enough to be worn anywhere. This quarter zip is fairly light for how much warmth it provides and we are fans in particular of the enclosed zip and simple logo detailing. A mainstay in The Masters champion Jon Rahm's tournament attire.

Sizes: S-XXLColors: 2 (Navy, Grey)

+ Classic premium styling with a twist+ Performance fabric offers warmth and is easy care- More color options would be welcome

G/Fore are perhaps best known for eye-catching designs with attitude and while this midlayer has a lot of style it's at the more understated end of the brand's collection and will appeal to a wider range of golfers.

There's still touches of flair though - notably the brand's signature 'Daytona' tri-color stripe details on the zippers and the rubberized Circle Gs logo on the neck.

Even though this is a low key design it's an exceptional technical garment. The super stretchy material allows total freedom in your swing and it also offers a lot of warmth thanks to the luxurious ‘mossed’ interior. Also worth highlighting is the perfect arm and body length.

Sizes: S-XXLColors: 6 (Black, Grey, Green, Blue, Yellow, Navy)

+ Stylish + Comfortable fit- The fit may not be for everyone

A J.Lindeberg masterpiece. Put this jacket on and you can feel the quality of this hybrid jacket. With a quilted front designed to retain warmth and the freedom of a mid-layer bonded together this jacket makes it easy for you to move through your swing without hinderance. It fits snug around your arms so there is no excess material gets in the way but also offers plenty of room around the torso for you to layer up. It comes with two zip-up pockets that not only offer a convenient place to store things, but are a great place to keep your hands warm on those chilly summer mornings. A jacket that can be worn on and off the golf course.

Sizes: S-2XLColors: 3 (Graphite, Navy, Lunar grey)

+ Soft and wearable anywhere+ Tasteful and premium styling- Cut lines won't be to everyone's taste

If you’re looking for a stylish, premium and refined second layer, it's hard to look past the Oscar Jacobson Lockhart Mid Layer. It's an elegant garment and one that wouldn't look out of place off the golf course, which is a real indicator of quality and versatility. Made from almost 50 per cent cotton, it feels the part as well.

The quarter zip is waterproof, too, and the fabric is both moisture wicking and breathable. As such, it can be worn all year round, but is most at home on a crisp autumn or spring day or a balmy summer afternoon. The cut line on the chest looks a little peculiar, but it's a minor criticism.

Sizes: S-XXLColors: 4 (Dark Navy, Black Heather, Mazarine Blue, Dark Lichen)

+ Good Thermal protection+ Multiple color options- No side pockets

This sweater is packed with technology. It's extremely lightweight, yet a thermal layer helps keep you warm in testing conditions.

It features Opti-Dri which is designed to wick away moisture to keep you dry and it also showcases Callaway's Swing Tech which provides reduced restriction and extra stretch to allow you to swing freely.

It's a stylish sweater with eye-catching heather stripe. The soft, thermal layer makes it very comfortable if you wear with just a polo, but room to move means it will also work well as a mid-layer with a base layer or lightweight sweater underneath.

Sizes: S-3XLColors: 4 (Black, Navy, Grey, Light Blue)

+ Lightweight but warm+ Stretchy material- Hem could be tighter

It comes on the roomy side so, if you are one of those people who tend to fall between sizes, go for the smaller option, especially as the brushed back fabric stretches. This combination makes it unencumbering thus making it easy to swing a club while wearing this lightweight but warm fleece.

It is long in the body, so some waterproof tops will not cover its hem – but the Stuburt Evolution-Tech Waterproof Jacket does, so these items combine well on cold, wet days. The hem itself could be tighter to the body – it is an optical illusion, but the fleece looks like it is ever so slightly flared. The zip moves silkily up and down and can be used one handed.

Sizes: S-2XLColors: 2 (Charcoal, Navy)

+ Keeps you very warm+ Excellent mobility and super stylish- Drawstring at the rear

For golfers aiming to play through the winter months, the ThermoSeries hybrid jacket is a compelling mid-layer option. First, the warmth on offer is outstanding and it promotes mobility in the swing too via the stretchy sleeves which have a stylish woven tire finish to them. The other nice touch you’ll notice is the adjustable collar, which can loosen or tighten via the elasticated cord positioned at the back

For such a warm garment, it's weight (or lack of it) is a noticeable plus point. It's also pretty thin despite the woven quilted sections on the front, which means you can combine it easily with other layers underneath. Finally we enjoyed the styling as well.

Sizes: XS-XXLColors: 3 (Navy, Retro Blue, Black)

+ Neutral styling+ Great freedom of movement- Thin material

Firstly, the Midlayer features in a range of colors to match many outfits out on the golf course, whilst the stripe design lends itself for off the course use. The most notable factor though is how lightweight and stretchy it is, with the dynamic stretch giving you so much freedom of movement throughout your golf swing. It is let down slightly though by its thin material, which is also pretty much see-through. Although, this may not be an issue as you wouldn't choose to wear it on a windy, wet winter's day, it can be slightly limiting as to when you can wear it, but it looks great as a golf mid layer.

Sizes: S-2XLColors: 3 (Blue Poppy, Grey, Balsam)

+ Lightweight but offers good protection from the elements+ Exceptionally comfortable- Not fully waterproof

This is an update to the Hyperlight Merge jacket that we gave an Editor's Choice award to and a refreshed design, new colors and a zippered chest pocket make a great product even better. The jacket is made from a premium performance fabric and it offers superb comfort and lightweight warmth. It's wind and water-resistant and although you might need to pull on a fully waterproof jacket when the heavens really open.

As with the previous version, the Elite's sleeve length was perfect - no annoying bunching up of material when standing over a shot.

Sizes: XS-XXLColors: 3 (Peacoat, Azure, Mist)

+ Snug, tailored fit+ Ergonomic rib collar for comfort- Bold styling

This soft and stretchy mid layer has clearly been designed with the golfer in mind. The fit is snug yet the material has a substantial amount of give in it, so as to not impede your range of movement in any way. It's comfortable thanks to the ergonomic rib collar and the fabric has an element of water resistance to it, meaning you won't have to reach for the waterproofs during a light shower.

The Castore graphic across the chest is bold and won't be to everyone's taste, although we quite like it as a point of difference in the market. This is a highly appealing mid layer at a great price from a new brand seemingly taking the sports world by storm.

Sizes: S-2XLColors: 1 (Black Iris)

+ Versatile to be used anywhere+ Excellent all round performer- Not fully waterproof

To put it simply, I love this wind jacket because it makes transitioning from the course to just about anywhere else seamless. Admittedly it isn't fully waterproof, but having tested it in different conditions, it does deal with light showers and wind very well. The stretchy double layer fabrication provides some solid protection and the adjustment features, and hood section, are easy to adjust. I really like the color blocked look to it although some more colors are needed. As I briefly mentioned, its versatility is probably its biggest plus point whilst it feels extremely well made too. Finally it feels lightweight and can be worn over sweaters or other golf tops easily without restricting your movement.

Sizes: S-XXLColors: 5 (Black, Deep Navy, Dream Blue, Grey, Red)

+ Lightweight, comfortable+ Subtle styling- Material may feel too synthetic

The Mizuno Breeze TStripe ¼ Zip is a lightweight yet warm mid-layer which packs away neatly in the bag when the temperature rises. It is available in five colors and the combination of 82% Polyester and 18% Spandex means it is as flexible as you need it to be when swinging a club. The collar is nice and snug when zipped up to keep the cool wind at bay and the relaxed cuff means it's easy to slip on and off as your round progresses. The design is subtle with a tri-coloured stripe framing the chest and a Runbird logo on the front and back. Overall this is an extremely comfortable mid-layer although the synthetic feel won't be to everyone's taste.

Sizes: XS-XXLColors: 2

+ High-end design and material+ Can be worn on and off course- Will need extra layering for very cold days

What a stunning sweater to have the privilege of testing, a superb design that allowed me to swing freely all day. The material is so soft that it is a pleasure to have on your skin. This design and material does come at a premium price, but you can tell as soon as you put on the product that it is worth every penny.

I particularly like a sweater that has some pockets, it makes like so much easier on the course, and the pockets on the Posticcio are well placed for tees and a marker. The sweater does keep you cool on course, and on the chilly spring day I tested the product I was certainly fresh, it may be a little too cool on a cold day. Overall a stunning product that I will keep on wearing both on and off the course.

Sizes: XS- XXXLColors: 2 (Navy Blue/Grey)

+ Stretches with your body as you swing+ Sporty fit, can be worn with layers on top- Styling may be too simple for some

A thermal mid layer is an important staple for any golfer's wardrobe. If you’re looking for a lightweight one to store in your bag and wear as the temperature changes, Crew Clothing has a classic option to consider.

The Bunker Tech mid layer is made from a technical, polyester and elastane blend that is incredibly lightweight and stretches with your body as you swing. The simple styling makes it hugely versatile - we tested the grey version which would happily go with a range of different colored trousers or shorts.

This might not offer a huge amount of warmth on its own but it is light enough (and well fitted enough) to be worn under an outer layer without becoming too bulky and restricting your golf swing.

Sizes: S - XXLColors: 4 (Dusky Blue, Regatta Blue, Farah Teal, Dark Shadow)

+ Great heat control capabilities+ Mix of materials/patterns make for a really smart look- Does sometimes ride up during swing

The Conley Quarter Zip from Farah Golf features a polyester and cotton mix, which you can see in an almost half and half design on the front of the midlayer. We think it's very smart and, thanks to the ribbed collar, cuffs and hem, it fits snuggly without restriction.

The only slight negative is that, occasionally, if you go all-out on full shots, it does ride up sometimes, but when it has been worn a few times, it performs superbly as it stays put and doesn't move. What's more, it is very breathable; this is thanks to the quarter zip, which also features a sturdy rubber Farah logo grip, making it easy to adjust to the releavant length depending on whether you want to keep warm or cool down.

Sizes: S-XXXLColors: 1 (Blue)

+ Lightweight yet warm material+ Superb four-way stretch- Can't currently be shipped outside the U.S

The Torrance Pullover is one of the most versatile quarter zips we have worn this year. It's smart-casual style, with only one embossed logo sitting under the collar at the rear, this piece wouldn't look out of place away from the course. The MadeFlex performance four-way stretch allows you to move athletically on the course and the moisture wicking fabric keeps you cool when things heat up.

The Torrance quarter zip comes in an athletic fit that we particularly enjoyed and the additional zip pocket on the chest is a nice detail. As much as we love the blue color of this quarter zip we would love to see more color options and for this product to be available for those wishing to purchase outside of the U.S.

We test golf apparel in the same way we test all golf equipment, by using products properly. In relation to tops this means putting them to the test out on the golf course to see if the design is well thought out, if the garment interferes with the swing in any way, and simply if the top is actually usable. We would also wear the tops off the golf course as well because versatility to use a garment anywhere is a great way to get value for money. The final point we wanted to mention here is no manufacturer can pay for a good review because our thorough testing team tells it how it is.

There are several factors to consider when it comes to buying a golf top and here we have listed them.

Type - What we mean here is what type of golf top are you after? It is a vague term that means covering the top half of the body and as such we have listed jackets, hoodies, vests and jumpers in this guide. Each type of top offers something a little bit different in terms of performance, feel and look so before going any further down the buying road, have a think about this.

Additionally we also mean in relation to when you want to wear the top because some models above will be better for the summer, some will be better for the winter so have a think about when you will wear the top and what you want it to do.

Material - Linking with the above point, knowing what you are after will help you decide what material to go for. The fleece models above will keep the cold at bay whilst ones with more spandex in them will help you move easier and won't restrict the golf swing in any way. Additionally we have found the models with cotton in them are often the best for wearing out and about as well, and they are very easy to wash.

Movement - One of the big things around golf tops is freedom of movement and whether they can restrict or negatively impact the swing. Many don't like hoodies because the hood flies around during the swing, and others think vests constrict the arms a touch. The hood flying around is a common point made by people. As such, we would recommend trying on models and taking swings in them to see if you still offer the same range of movement.

Looks - This is an important factor to consider. Do you want to stand out or just have a more understated look? We think there is something for everyone above.

Versatility - Do you want to be able to use the top anywhere from the golf course to the pub to at home? This is an important factor if you want to get more for your money.

Budget - Finally be aware of your budget so you can find a top that fits into it nicely. Importantly there are models above which come with premium, and value price points so there is something for everyone.

There is no doubt that there are countless brands out there that make high-quality golf clothing and when it comes to the best this can relate to big brands like adidas, Puma and Under Armour, as well as smaller ones like TravisMathew, Stuburt and Oscar Jacobson. What should be acknowledged is different clothing does different things so depending on when and where you are using the clothing, the best models will help deal with whatever you are facing. For example if you are faced with bad weather, the best waterproofs will help you on the course.

We hope you enjoyed this guide on the best golf tops and for more golf apparel content check out the Golf monthly website.

Also take a look at our guides on the best, jumpers, hoodies and vests for the golf course as well.

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A golfer for most of his life, Sam is a Senior Staff Writer for Golf Monthly.

Working with golf gear and equipment over the last six years, Sam has quickly built outstanding knowledge and expertise on golf products ranging from drivers, to balls, to shoes.

He combines this knowledge with a passion for helping golfers get the best gear for them, and as such Sam manages a team of writers that look to deliver the most accurate and informative reviews and buying advice. This is so the reader can find exactly what they are looking for.

Sam now spends most of his time testing and looking after golf gear content for the website, whilst he is also responsible for all content related to golf apparel.

He also oversees all Tour player content as well so if you need to know what clubs Tiger or Rory has in play, Sam is the person to ask.

Unfortunately, Sam is not a member of any club at the moment but regularly gets out on the golf course to keep up the facade of having a handicap of five.

Sam's What's In The Bag:

Driver: Titleist TS3 (9 degrees)

Fairway Wood: Callaway Paradym (15 degrees), Nike Covert Tour 2.0 (19 degrees)

Irons (4-PW): Titleist AP2

Wedges: Titleist Vokey SM7 54˚, 58˚

Putter: Scotty Cameron Phantom X 5.5

Ball: Srixon Z-Star Diamond

Shoes: G/FORE Gallivanter/Nike Air Zoom Infinity NEXT%/Cuater The Ringer/adidas Tour 360 22

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