FootJoy have updated its top-of-the-range waterproof outerwear and released the FootJoy HydroTour jacket. So how does it perform?
FootJoy HydroTour Jacket Review: NCG Summary
NCG SUMMARY
FootJoy’s new HydroTour jacket is an excellent option for golfers when preparing themselves for battle in inclement weather.
There’s no doubt that it’s fully waterproof, but the YKK Aquaguard waterproof zips, velcro wrist cuffs and new DrySeal collar mean whatever you wear underneath will remain completely dry.
PROS
- Extremely comfortable material
- Really flexible and doesn’t impede the swing at all
- Wrist cuffs feel durable
CONS
- The waterproof zip is quite stiff
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First Impressions
Straight out of the bag, this is a really nice waterproof jacket. It feels unbelievably light and stretchy, which are not qualities I’ve experienced in many of the waterproof jackets I’ve had in my golf career. FootJoy have used a 3-panel construction on the HydroTour jacket, which reduces bulk and weight.
FootJoy sent me the sapphire/black/orange colour option, which is great as it can be worn with black trousers without getting funny looks from other golfers, and the orange trim makes you really stand out.
On Course Testing
I don’t think it is possible to have given this waterproof jacket a more thorough testing. I’ve had it for approximately three months, I used it for three days of constant monsoon in Portugal, worn it to teach, and have worn it every weekend, in all weather conditions, in my weekly game with the lads.
I found the HydroTour jacket really easy to swing in, as the 4-way stretch fabric doesn’t get caught on your body whilst you’re hitting shots. This jacket is the best of the HydroSeries range, and unlike a lot of waterproof tops, the breathability means that even if the top is soaking wet, it doesn’t cling to you.
I am 178cm, 70kg and quite an unusual shape with broad shoulders and a narrow waist. I opted for a sized medium which fits my shoulders, back and chest really well but hangs off me a bit around the waist.
Many jackets feature some elastic around the bottom of the jacket that could be fastened for a more snug fit, but this is a fit issue I see with many brands and clothes, so it might just be a me problem.
The FootJoy HydroTour jacket has a couple of really nice features that help keep you really dry. First is the DrySeal collar, which is a two-layer collar system; the inner fits snugly around your neck, and the outer is for catching and then channelling water away from the neck, avoiding that awful feeling of cold water running down your back.
The other notable features are the YKK Aquaguard waterproof zippers, which although a bit stiff, do an excellent job of keeping the water out, and the velcro wrist cuffs, which fasten really securely. I like to keep my sleeves well away from my hands when wet, so I was really pleased with the cuffs.
This jacket has been through some emotional times in rough weather, and it really has come out as the ultimate stormproof jacket. It even folds and rolls up neatly into your golf bag and comes out basically uncreased.
The 19th hole
The HydroTour jacket has become my first choice jacket whenever the Met Office app suggests there might be some moisture in the air. Still, it is also worth noting that I would wear this jacket if it was cold, windy and dry as it is exceptionally warm and windproof.
I love it so much that it doesn’t just live in my golf bag, but comes into my house and is frequently worn on dog walks or other trips out when it might be wet or windy. The colourway I have is quite ‘golfy’, but if you had it in the black or navy options, it would be perfectly acceptable to wear more socially.
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Fit: True to Size
Comfort: 9/10
Value for Money: 8/10
Sizes: S-2XL
Colours: Black/Lime, Navy/Red, Blue/Orange, Red
Waterproof Warranty: 3 years
Waterproof rating: 20,000mm of water column pressure
FootJoy HydroTour Jacket Review: The Details
Available: Now
RRP: £234.99
More info: FootJoy website
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Jack Backhouse
