Get out on the course whatever the weather with this handy step by step guide to buying waterproofs by Abacus.
Abacus has been designing and developing golf clothing for over three decades. In that time, they've become recognised for their functional rain and wind garments, pioneering new materials and stylish looks that allow golfers to look great and stay focused on their game no matter what the weather throws at them.
Over the years, Abacus has collected a huge amount of knowledge and expertise which they've brought together into The Abacus School of Rain – a handy step-by-step guide to help golfers buy the perfect waterproofs.
Chris Mattsson, Design Manager at Abacus Sportswear said “There is a lot of talk about waterproofness in rain garments. Although rainwear must of course be able to keep the rain out, there is a lot more that the golfer needs to consider when buying a waterproof if they are to enjoy their game whilst playing in bad weather.
“The most important thing is that rain wear doesn't adversely impact the golf swing resulting in a lack of, or restricted movement. A lot of stretch in a lightweight material is vital.”
“Feeling comfortable and maintaining the optimum body temperature inside a rain garment is also incredibly important. Key to this is using a fabric with high-wicking properties that quickly moves the moisture generated by the body away from the skin's surface to the outside of the garment, keeping the golfer dry from the inside and on the outside."
Tips on buying the best waterproofs
- Focus on playability: Make sure you can move freely by choosing lightweight garments with a high amount of stretch.
- Think about inside as well as out: Choose garments with high breathability and excellent wicking properties to prevent getting wet from the inside.
- Make sure garments are highly waterproof: Fabrics with a water pillar of over 10,000 WP are best and will be able to withstand long periods of rain.
- Comfort is key: Avoid garments that feel uncomfortable or fit badly, use heavy fabrics, rustle when you move or do not have a high level of stretch.
- Find a good fit: Garments that offer good options to adjust the fit, for example, draw cords in the waist and velcro in the arms, legs and neck can feel like they have been made just for you.
