Living in the Pacific Northwest, we truly experience four distinct seasons.
We get hot, we get cold, and we get everything in between.
And one of the most versatile pieces you can have in your arsenal? A golf vest.
Whether you’re layering it with a jacket to stay extra warm or just need something to take the bite off those early morning shoulder season rounds, every golfer should have a high-quality vest in their locker.
Full disclosure? Up until the last couple of years, I’ve never been much of a vest guy. I just went straight to the jacket or sweatshirt.
But the more often I wear a vest, the more I enjoy the comfort, versatility, and style they provide.
When I first created this list, I limited it to five picks I’d used that I thought were worth recommending. Since then, I’ve expanded my scope and have grown the list to a full-blown Top 10.
Each pick is here for a reason. All of them are what I think of as stylish and premium quality. After that, some specialize in water resistance, others warmth, and still others size and packability.
So, whatever you’re looking for, there’s a high-quality golf vest on this list that’s right for you.
Best Performance Vest: G/FORE Maverick Hybrid Stretch Vest
It took me a while to come around on G/FORE, but once I did, I’ve been consistently impressed. Their shoes, polos, and pants have been staples in my rotation, and their layering pieces are no exception.
The Maverick Hybrid Stretch Vest strikes a really nice balance between style and performance. It features insulation that provide warmth where you need it most, combined with stretch fabric that keeps you moving freely throughout your swing.
Add in G/FORE’s sharp design details, and you’ve got a vest that looks great off the course and doesn’t restrict your swing at all when you’re playing.
If you want a G/FORE piece that’s stylish and functional, I like this one a lot.
Note: You can use the G/FORE coupon code “G4BREAKING8010” to save 10% off your first G/FORE purchase.
If you need a vest that won't restrict your swing on the course but that you can also wear off the course to a casual social function, I think this is a very solid option. Gives you the best of both worlds. Use code G4BREAKING8010 to save 10%!
Best Cold-Weather Golf Vest: Zero Restriction Future
When it comes to true cold-weather performance, Zero Restriction is tough to beat. Their Future downshell vest is loaded with premium down insulation, which makes it one of the warmest vests on this list.
What surprised me with testing, was that despite that down fill, it was still super easy to move and golf in. It’s not nearly as bulky as you might expect, as the stretch panels allow you to swing freely.
Add in a water-repellent shell, and you’ve got a vest that’s built for those chilly early morning rounds.
Yes, it’s expensive. But if you play regularly in conditions that call for a piece like this, it’s worth every penny.
It's definitely pricey, but if you play often in conditions where a cold-weather vest is just the right layer, this thing is going to last and keep you warm for a long time. Use code BREAKING to save 20% and make this excellent vest much more affordable.
Best Fleece Vest: Holderness and Bourne Ashby
I’ve been a huge fan of Holderness and Bourne for the better part of a decade.
From humble beginnings just making polos, they’ve now fully branched out and produce a wide variety of golf apparel.
Their new Ashby vest is a high-end fleece vest for a new era. It’s heavier and less performance-oriented than some of the other vests on this list. But that makes it a great option for dressier settings or if you just prefer a more classic look.
I really liked the discontinued Perry vest from this line, and the new Ashby is just an evolved, updated version of that fleece design.
This is a vest I'd pull if I wanted to dress things up a bit. Definitely still functional. But also with a bit of class.
Best Hybrid Vest: Holderness and Bourne Swenson
Back-to-back H&B because, yeah, their stuff is that good.
If the Ashby is all about classic fleece comfort, the Swenson vest shows off Holderness and Bourne’s more technical side. It combines lightweight Thermore insulation panels with stretch fabric, giving you warmth and flexibility.
The result is a sharp, modern hybrid vest that wears well in whatever occasion.
I’m partial to the two-tone Ivy and Navy version, but every colorway keeps that same refined H&B aesthetic. Add in a two-way zipper, hidden side pockets, and the brand’s signature tailored fit, and you’ve got a winner.
This might be the golf vest that best straddles the line between on-course performance and off-course usability. Built performance, designed for classy looks, this one's got all the Holderness and Bourne hallmarks.
Best Sustainable Vest: Radmor Anderson High-Performance Hybrid
Radmor Golf has been making noise for their sustainably produced golf products, and I’m here for it.
Based out of Seattle, I’ve been really pleased with the quality of materials used on all of their golf products I’ve tested.
With their Hybrid Performance vest, they use recycled bottle insulation to provide warmth and wind resistance while also keeping the environment in mind.
I’ve found their sizing to run a little small, so size up with this one if you pick one up.
Looking for style and sustainability? That's exactly what Radmor is known for. And the Anderson Vest delivers on both.
Best Golf Vest With a Hood: Redvanly Thayer
Another one of my go-to golf style brands of the past few years is Redvanly. They’re pushing the envelope a bit with golf style, and I think it’s refreshing.
I’m also a big fan of their commitment to super high quality. The price reflects it, but you definitely get what you pay for.
I get that this Thayer vest with a hood is not going to be for everyone. Like I said, Redvanly is stretching golf style a bit. That’s not going to fit everyone’s taste.
But for those who are interested, you’re getting a high-performance, lightweight, well-made vest filled with premium goose down. Plus, you get a hood. Those who are going to like this are probably going to love it.
The style won't be for everyone, but there's no denying the premium quality of the product. And for those who like the look and want to rock a hood on-course, this is a great option.
Best Reversible Golf Vest: Peter Millar Ryder Reversible
Now you might think that $325 is a lot for a vest.
And I gotta say… I agree.
So if you’re going to spend that kind of money, why not get a two-for-one? Here’s a high-quality, luxurious, stylish golf vest that you can wear as two separate colors and materials.
One side is water-resistant, wind-proof stretch microfiber; the other side is ponte-knit Merino wool.
This thing is perfect when the weather is in transition. Or maybe even when you want to pull out the same piece of clothing two days in a row. Not a bad option to have with you on a golf trip.
Here's a two-for-one option. One side is a water-resistant, windproof stretch microfiber in one color, and the other side is a ponte-knit Merino wool in a second color.
Most Stylish Performance Vest: Greyson Sequoia Luxe
Greyson has built its reputation on merging fashion and performance, and the Sequoia Luxe Vest might be their best layering piece yet.
It’s windproof and warm, but the design details and tailored cut give it a much more elevated look than your average golf vest.
Another great option if you’re looking for something you can wear for more than just golf.
Another premium-quality vest that's functional and stylish. A great option if you want to one just one vest. Something you can wear on or off the course.
Most Packable Vest: Sun Mountain Colter II
Sun Mountain isn’t as flashy of a brand like G/FORE above, but they’ve been making fantastic golf products for decades. Whether it’s their Mid-Stripe golf bag, Cirque rain gear, or Ridgeline 3 push cart, I’ve been impressed.
This carries over to the latest product I’ve reviewed from them: the Colter II Vest.
It uses 37.5 insulation to help keep you warmer when it’s cold and cooler when it’s warm – and it genuinely works really well.
But the best part about it? It packs down to nothing. So if you’re looking for a layering piece that won’t take up a ton of space in your bag? Look no further.
Sun Mountain has actually developed more vests since the release of the Colter II, but I think it still belongs on this list because it’s just that awesome. In fact, it’s now even better because you can get it for only $70 (original retail was $120). At that price, I think it’s a no-brainer.
This vest does a great job of regulating your temperature, so that you're comfortable regardless of whether it's hot or cold. It's also being discontinued, so there's currently a sale that drops it way off it's retail price of $119.
Best Water-Resistant Golf Vest: Dunning Liberty
For some reason, G/FORE discontinued my previous favorite water-resistant vest – but this is a great alternative.
Dunning has always been about technical performance first, and the Liberty Water Resistant Vest delivers exactly that. Built from advanced woven and knit fabrics, it provides serious water resistance without feeling heavy or restrictive.
Add in the stretch panels and two-way zipper, and this is a vest that’s totally functional on the golf course.
I like this one for those unpredictable days when you’re not sure if the drizzle is going to clear or stick around. It keeps you dry and warm without the bulk of a full rain jacket.
If you’re the type of golfer who won’t let damp conditions keep you off the course, this is the water-resistant layer you’ll want in your bag.
Not every damp playing condition calls for a full-blown rain jacket. Here's the perfect layer when the conditions are wet but not too wet.
What Do YOU Think are the Best Golf Vests Out There?
Do you have a golf vest that you absolutely love that I should be considering for this list?
If so, drop a comment and let me know.
This is a work in progress. I’ve already updated this post to reflect newer, better options and to add some choices that should have been here from the start.
For someone who started as a definite non-vest guy, I’ve come already pretty quickly. I now think it’s one of the smartest layering options any golfer can own.
Recent Updates:
September 26th, 2025: Major Update. Removed G/FORE Repeller as it was discontinued. Changed Holderness & Bourne recommendations. Added products from Dunning, Redvanly, Zero-Restriction, Peter Millar, Greyson, and Radmor. Checked and updated all pricing.
