When FootJoy first introduced the HydroKnit waterproof pullover back in 2019 they claimed that it was an all-new category of golf clothing. We were impressed too, as it had the lightweight feel and comfort of a half-zip jumper, combined with the waterproof protection of a rain jacket.
Fast forward to 2021 and the HydroKnit is back again with a number of improvements, as part of their new HydroSeries range of three different jackets so that FootJoy have you covered no matter what the weather throws at you on the golf course.
The Tech
A half-zip waterproof jacket with the feel and size of a midlayer, the new version of the HydroKnit features a 4-way stretch fabric and is 30% lighter than its predecessor to make it even more wearable.
There are also now two hand pockets, which come as a result of feedback from golfers who wanted something to keep their hands warm and dry when wearing the HydroKnit as their outermost layer.
The new DWR finish is a polymer coating which provides complete water-resistant protection if the weather takes a turn for the worse whilst you are playing or practicing.
The HydroKnit is available in three different colourways: Black/Grey/Lime, Navy/Denim, Charcoal/Bright Red/White.
FootJoy HydroKnit Jacket Review
I’m calling it a jacket in this review, but the folks at FootJoy prefer to refer to it as a waterproof pullover as they want to stress its versatility, and also promote the fact that they have two other options in the HydroSeries range if a proper jacket is what you’re after.
The jacket has improved in looks from the 2019 model in my opinion, with the two tone design of both the Navy and Black options giving it a fresher feel which looks more like a midlayer/pullover than a traditional jacket.
There are no big logos, fancy zip designs or extra frills, it’s just simple and clean as you’d expect from FootJoy and this should give it a wide appeal among golfers.
The jacket was so lightweight whilst out on the golf course, which makes it very easy to swing in but also gives it plenty of versatility too. In warmer weather during the summer months it means you’ll get the extra protection from any rain without overheating, and in the winter it can be layered perfectly with a warm jumper without getting too bulky.
I would also suggest that it could be used as a layering piece underneath a warmer jacket in the winter too, as it’s so thin.
The addition of pockets was much-needed and improves this jacket massively in my opinion, especially as most golfers will wear this as their last layer.
My favourite aspect of the jacket was the new waterproof self-fabric cuffs, which were fantastic. The softer fabric feels really comfortable and they keep your sleeves nicely out of the way whilst you are swinging – something that can be really annoying.
Is it waterproof? Yes. I’ve played a couple of rounds in drizzly rain with this jacket and it has been more than up to the task. If it had been really heavy rain I may have considered wearing something a little more heavy-duty, but for the majority of rounds I’m sure it’ll do the job.
The only slight issue I have is that this jacket is not particularly warm so I’d recommend that you probably invest in a more substantial waterproof jacket in the winter months which provides more insulation, and I’m sure FootJoy would agree.
There may be some golfers who’d be unwilling to spend £150 on something that isn’t going to be their ‘main’ jacket, but for me it has become a bit of a go-to over the last couple of months before it gets really cold.
FootJoy HydroKnit Jacket Verdict
When George reviewed the first HydroKnit Jacket in 2019 he gave it five stars, and in my opinion FootJoy have managed to make it even better this time around.
It’s everything you’d want from a jacket like this. Lightweight, breathable, versatile and waterproof, and the new features like the pockets and fabric cuffs are huge improvements to the usability.
I’d also say it could be used off the course as well as on it too, so don’t be surprised if you spot the odd golfer wearing these jackets at the driving range, on the daily commute to work or even around the shops.
At £150 it’s actually £30 cheaper than the original HydroKnit Jacket, which in my opinion is fantastic value for money. As five star reviews go, this was a very straightforward one.
Would I Use It?
Yes, and I am already doing so. Over the last couple of months I’ve found myself reaching for this jacket almost every time I play, and the fact that it is so easy to fold up in your bag means that it’ll probably stay with me permanently for the foreseeable future.
Pros
- So easy to swing uninhibited
- Cuffs are a great feature
- Pockets are a game-changer
- Waterproof protection
- Very lightweight and easily foldable
Cons
- Not particularly warm
- £150 is expensive for what FootJoy are calling a waterproof midlayer
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