Tl;dr: When playing golf in the rain, you must think about your hands, the grips on the club, your feet, and your face. If you get those areas covered, you can play a good round.

Playing golf in the rain isn't ideal. However, it's absolutely feasible with some of the best rain gear. As a former professional, I've played many rounds in the rain: this wasn’t an option if the tournament committee said we were playing. Investing in rain gear is a bit overwhelming as there is some technology you have to be aware of. In addition, fit and sizing is crucial. I'll show you what to look for in the best golf rain gear and some of the ways I've used rain gear to play better in the rain.

Some of my best rounds of golf were on rainy days. You focus on things like staying dry and comfortable as opposed to swing plane and weight transfer. Take it one shot at a time, wear the correct gear, and go low!

What To Consider When Buying The Best Rain Gear

There are a few things I always find confusing when purchasing rain gear. It's hard to know which is best when looking at golf rain suits with all the zippers, pockets, and features. In addition, the waterproof vs. water resistant concept is something you should know before purchasing.

• Your hands need to be dry to keep good traction on the grips.
• Grips must be dry before you swing so the clubface doesn't turn at impact.
• Your feet must be dry, or you will be left incredibly uncomfortable and potentially have blisters.
• Finally, you won't want water dripping down your face as you try to make a putt; chances are your alignment will be off enough that you will miss the putt.

Waterproof vs. Water Resistant: Which Do You Need?

Waterproof golf rain gear is designed to provide complete protection against water, ensuring no moisture penetrates the fabric. This type of gear is ideal for heavy and prolonged rain conditions. Waterproof is the way to go if you are a serious player staying out there regardless of the weather conditions.

In contrast, water-resistant gear offers a lower level of protection, repelling water to some degree. However, water-resistant gear may allow moisture through during more intense or extended exposure to rain. Water resistance will be priced lower, and it's a good idea for new players or occasional golfers.

What Are The Essential Items To Have In Your Golf Bag?

In addition to having your regular gear (golf balls, clubs, etc.) ready for a round of golf, here are a few of the other things to keep in your golf bag:

• Waterproof jacket
• Golf towel
• Waterproof rain gloves
• Hat
• Golf Umbrella
• An extra pair of dry socks
• Golf rain pants

Which Brands Are Known for Great Golf Rain Gear?

Some of the best golf rain jackets aren't made specifically by golf companies. Brands like Galvin Green, Sun Mountain, Nike, and FootJoy all have impressive waterproof golf jacket options. In addition, these companies make sure the seams are professionally seam sealed so water does not leak in while you play.

Do I Need A Waterproof Golf Bag?

A waterproof golf bag is a piece of golf rain gear that is less frequently talked about. Waterproof bags help ensure that rainwater doesn't penetrate the bag. Having played golf my entire life, I can tell you that a waterproof bag is not 100% necessary. Your gear may get a little wet, but everything gets wet during a rainy round.

If you don't have a waterproof golf bag, have some towels and an excellent golf umbrella. In addition, when the round is over, place your bag in a dry place (with the clubs removed) so it can dry out.

Leaving the clubs in the bag when they are wet (and the bag is wet) could result in some rusting.

Different Types of Golf Rain Gear

To make sure you are ready for any situation that may come up on the course, these are the different types of golf rain gear you should have on hand.

Rain Pants

Rain pants slip on over your golf pants. They help you stay dry but also keep mud, grass and sand from collecting on your golf pants. Many golfers like lightweight rain pants so it’s not so heavy to walk with them on.

Gloves

Rain gloves actually work better the wetter they get. You’ll want a pair of rain gloves so that you can wear one on each hand. When the weather dries up, you can go back to your regular glove.

Jackets

Golf rain jackets are specifically designed to allow for complete range of motion while hitting golf shots. You won’t have to worry about feeling restricted or stuck, but your arms and shirt will stay dry.

Hats

The most important benefit of rain hats is to keep water off of your face. The brim of the hat helps to push water away while you are set up to hit the ball.

Waterproof Golf Shoes

Finally, waterproof golf shoes are a must anytime you play in the rain. Keeping your feet dry will ensure you are comfortable and keep you blister free.

Features of the Best Golf Rain Gear

The tricky thing about playing golf in the rain is not always just staying dry. In fact, it's more about taking your regular golf swing and still getting the distance, accuracy, and precision you are used to. You want comfort, breathability, flexibility, and more in the best golf rain gear.

Stretch Fabric for Freedom of Movement

Pay very close attention to the shoulders when purchasing golf rain gear. Talk to an expert about the options you have and how the gear fits around the waist and in the shoulder areas. If you can't swing with full speed, you'll create bad habits and have a hard time staying consistent.

Lightweight Feel & Breathability

You can't guarantee the next storm you run into on the course is going to be on a cold day. Having a long sleeve jacket can be incredibly hot in the summer months. Instead, look for a garment that has a lighter feel. You can always add layers to make yourself more comfortable.

You'll be uncomfortable if you start to sweat inside a rain jacket, but it's still pouring on the course.

Curated Golf Experts have a good handle on what clothing and materials are specifically designed for golfers. If you don't know whether Gore-Tex or Lycra is a fit for you, get some free advice.

Tackiness and Traction

You don't want to lose control of a shot because your hands slipped or slid. Ensure you are playing with rain gloves designed to keep your grip tacky and stick to the club. This is another reason to invest in one of the best golf umbrellas to keep your bag as dry as possible.

How To Choose The Best Rain Gear for You

Not every golfer needs Gore-Tex rain suits lined up in their closet. It's excessive. Let's face it: you are not always going to play a round of golf if the weather is poor. Here, I'll describe three golfers and give you some better ideas on how to properly equip these players for a day on the course. Hopefully, one of them is similar to you!

James

James is a brand new golfer. He's still determining if he really even likes playing golf in the sunny weather, let alone the rain. James knows he'll stick with the game, but he's not ready to invest big bucks into rain gear.

Features James should look for:

• Rain jackets that can be worn on and off the course
• A pair of golf rain gloves just to ensure the club doesn't slip
• Something to keep the water from dripping on his face in the rain, a lightweight and breathable hat
• Shoes that are at least water-resistant
• A great golf towel to keep grips dry and clubfaces clean

Examples: Puma X Liberty Bucket Hat, Cobra Stormgrip Golf Rain Glove, Ram Men's Golf Player Waterproof Shoes, Srixon Tour Towel,

Trent

Trent is an avid golfer; he plays several times per week and even participates in golf tournaments with friends when he can. It really doesn't matter if it's pouring or beautiful; Trent won't miss his tee time.

Features Trent should look for:

• Golf rain pants that have the perfect fit and don't restrict movement in any way
• A high-quality golf umbrella that also keeps the wind away
• Golf jackets with removable sleeves and adjustable cuffs
• High-quality golf rain gloves
• Premium waterproof golf shoes

Examples: Cobra Stormgrip Golf Rain Glove, Srixon Tour Towel, Puma Men's Fusion Pro Golf Shoes, Columbia Men's 1/4 Zip Pullover

Kyle

Kyle is your average golfer. On average, he plays golf once a week, but he'll get in as much golf as possible when he has time off from work. Kyle wants a good mix of rain-ready gear that he's always prepared for any situation on the course. However, he knows he will only use it once or twice a year, so the costs need to make sense.

Features Kyle should look for:

• A high-quality complete rain suit with some of the best golf rain pants and jacket (something built to last)
• A large golf towel
• Waterproof golf shoes (to wear on the days it rains)
• A good pair of golf rain gloves
• Golf umbrella that can be used on and off the course

Examples: Ram X Golf Umbrella, Cobra Stormgrip Golf Rain Glove, Srixon Tour Towel, Ram Men's Golf Player Waterproof Shoes

Find the Best Rain Gear For You

Now that you have all the information about the best golf rain gear on the market, it's time to get your game prepared for a rainy day on the course. While we imagine the sunny, warm days, the reality is if you want to play often, you have to be prepared for any type of situation to come your way. Talk to a Curated Expert about the best rain gear for your game. Find something that keeps your hands, feet, clubs, and face dry out on the course.