Popular Swedish outerwear maker Galvin Green recently raised a few eyebrows when it debuted a $695 golf jacket. The full-zip Argon features breathable, moisture-wicking Gore-Tex fabric that provides 100 percent protection from the elements — rain, cold and wind. Its C-KNIT backer is an inner lining designed to “slide and glide” over any inner clothing layers you’re wearing, to reduce movement restrictions during your swing. The jacket also sports a high, rubberized collar; zippered cuffs that are shaped to allow water run-off; and Velcro fasteners under the arms so that you can tailor the fit to be more or less snug. The jacket is impressively lightweight, as well.
I’ve worn the Argon several times now. It’s kept me surprisingly warm on cool mornings and evenings, considering how thin it is. And it’s very comfortable. I did notice that it’s not whisper-quiet, like other high-end golf jackets I’ve worn. It isn’t too noisy or distracting during a swing, but I hear the material rubbing. The Argon has a really nice, modern look — much like many of Galvin Green’s garments. Even my wife commented that it doesn’t look “too golfy” — believe me, that’s a compliment. Being we’re in Southern California, we don’t worry about rain very often. But this will be my go-to cover-up when I do find myself in a downpour.
Veteran golf writer Scott Kramer has covered the golf equipment market full-time since 1990. His career has spanned senior editor positions at both Golf Pro Magazine and GOLF Magazine. He now works on a freelance basis for many consumer and trade publications, including the SCGA’s FORE magazine.