FootJoy has a whole bunch of new midlayers out for 2023. Here we review the relaxed-looking and coolly named FootJoy Space Dye Chill-Out Midlayer.
FootJoy Space Dye Chill-Out Midlayer review: NCG Summary
NCG SUMMARY
This is a useful and flexible element of your Spring/Summer wardrobe. The Space Dye Chill-Out is suitable for all but the coldest of conditions and layers really well.
PROS
- Fits very well.
- Flexible performance.
- Good range of colours.
CONS
- Casual look not for all.
First Impressions
A crucial component of an outdoor layering system is the insulating layer. For the golfer, this will usually be a sleeved mid-layer, and they come in a variety of materials, styles and thicknesses, all designed to provide not only insulation but also freedom of movement.
Here we test out one of the new offerings from FootJoy, which forms part of their Spring/Summer 2023 collection – the quarter zip Space Dye Chill-Out.
What struck me immediately about this particular garment was how incredibly soft and light it felt. This model is available in five colours, so you’re sure to find something that suits your golfing wardrobe. I tested the navy version, which looked pretty understated.
In fact, all the colours, with the possible exception of the maroon, look somewhat muted. I think this may be due to the ‘space dye’ pattern. What is space dye? Well, it’s a process where different colours are printed along the length of the yarn to produce a multicolour effect. I’m not quite sure about a multicolour effect, but I do rather like the cool and casual look that’s produced.
Judge for yourself on the accompanying images. The construction is simple and straightforward, with a half-zip construction and a brushed-back finish to help retain warmth in cooler conditions. The stretch jersey knit fabric is made from 88% Polyester and 12% Spandex.
The fabric does feel to be at the thinner end of a mid-layer spectrum. A couple of contrasting FootJoy motifs adorn the left collar and upper back. All in all, this is a pretty neat looking midlayer.
On The Course
I’m about 173 cm tall and weigh 74 kg with an average (i.e. non-athletic) shape. FootJoy describes the fit as athletic. That’s normally a sign that I need to go up a size. But no, the medium size fitted just perfectly, with the length of the sleeves and body being just right. I have tested this as a second layer, over a base layer or a polo shirt, without any sense of restriction. In fact, the fabric is so stretchy and light that it barely feels like you’re wearing a midlayer.
I have generally tested this over a polo shirt and, if the weather is cooler, beneath a gilet/vest. I felt that the fit was insulating, but there was no restriction to my swing. As with all FootJoy mid layers, this comes with moisture-wicking, anti-microbial finish technology. Breathability seemed to be fine, with no moisture build-up in the different weather conditions experienced during testing.
What I particularly liked about this model was the ease of layering. Putting a waterproof jacket on top of a thicker midlayer can cause a sense of range of motion restriction in the golf swing. This was absolutely not the case here. And should you wish to stow it away in your golf bag, it folds up very compactly.
Furthermore, I invariably carry my golf bag, and I have experienced ‘pilling’ at the back of the garment with other similar weight midlayers. There were no such issues with this model.
The 19th hole
I really enjoyed wearing this garment. It is a comfortable and flexible part of a layering system. I really liked the casual look, but that’s a personal choice.
The unobtrusive branding with just a small FJ logo on the back, allied to the look, means that this is certainly something that could be worn out and about, and it’s already seen plenty of non-golfing action.
It’s already been through the wash a few times and doesn’t need ironing, which is good. I fully expect this to get a lot of use over the coming months as it’s such a flexible layer.
Fit: True to Size/Small/Large
Comfort: 9.5/10
Value for Money: 8/10
Sizes: UK S-XXL
Colour options: Navy, Grey, Black, Olive, Maroon.
FootJoy Space Dye Chill-Out Midlayer Review: The Details
Available: Now
RRP: £79.99
More info: FootJoy website
Buy now: Here
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