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Looking to stay dry this winter? Jonathan Taylor has put the new Ping SensorDry 2.5 Graphene waterproof jacket to the test
Ping has a reputation for innovation and this new waterproof jacket is a further technological advance, incorporating the rather wonderful Graphene into the product to enhance performance.
This is an extremely comfortable waterproof jacket that delivers on every level and is suitable for year-round use.
PROS
Lightweight and waterproof
Breathable and windproof
Stretchy and quiet
CONS
No drawcord closure at the neck
Ping SensorDry 2.5 Graphene waterproof jacket review: First Impressions
Wow! This jacket looked and felt sensational straight out of the box. It is incredibly lightweight, soft and stretchy.
I tested the version in bright blue with black detailing. Ping call this colour North Sea/Black and I’m not sure that description does justice to the impressive appearance. This is one of two colours available – the other being plain black. It is constructed from polyester and has been engineered with Graphene to improve performance.
Graphene is a single layer of carbon atoms arranged in a hexagonal lattice and it is the lightest, strongest and toughest material ever discovered. It was isolated in 2004 by researchers at Manchester University. Ping has incorporated a striking graphene print to the inside of the jacket to help absorb and retain warmth.
The jacket has impressive statistics on paper – it is waterproof to 20,000mm (waterproof in heavy rain) and breathable to 20,000g/sq. metre (very breathable).
So why is it called Ping SensorDry 2.5? Waterproof jackets will typically have a three-layer construction (or 3L) with the middle waterproof membrane bonded to the outer face fabric and to an internal woven layer.
In the 2.5 construction, the internal woven layer is replaced by a screen-printed ‘half’ layer to protect the membrane. And it is this, dear reader, that contributes to the lightweight nature of this wonderful jacket. Ok, that’s enough technical blurb. How did it perform on the course?
Ping SensorDry 2.5 Graphene waterproof jacket review: On The Course
I am about 173cm tall and weigh about 74kg with an average (ie non-athletic) shape. Following the excellent sizing guide on the Ping website, I opted for a large (chest 40-42) jacket and this fitted really nicely.
Testing was carried out over several days, both on and off course in wet conditions but with variable temperatures. I found that I could wear this jacket with anything from just a single layer underneath to three layers on colder days and the fit was just fine in all situations. I think this is due to the stretchiness of the fabric and also the double adjustable hem drawcords.
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As well as being waterproof, the jacket also felt pretty warm and cosy, especially considering the lightweight construction. The jacket comes with a full centre zip and two decent sized zipped front pockets. All zips are fully waterproof.
The sleeves feature adjustable cuffs courtesy of velcro tabs. There was absolutely no sense of restriction when swinging and the material was also quiet with none of the irritating rustle that can occur with some waterproof gear.
The collar height was just about perfect – high enough to give protection against the elements but not high enough to interfere with a swing. There is a brushed tricot lining and a chin guard at the top of the centre zip for added comfort. I would have preferred a drawcord closure at the neck as well as at the hem, but that’s a minor point.
As you might expect with a lightweight jacket, it will fold up really small and fit into a side pocket with ease, not that I felt any need to take it off once I’d put it on.
Ping SensorDry 2.5 Graphene Waterproof Jacket review: The 19th hole
I have worn this jacket on a number of occasions, including in some very heavy rain. It remained waterproof apart from some water ingress at the back of the neck (note to self – get a wide brimmed waterproof hat). It also felt to be insulating, windproof and breathable such that after each occasion, I felt completely comfortable with no perspiration build up. And I was really impressed at how quickly the jacket dried after use.
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This is certainly a garment that could be used off-course with no issues. There are just three subtle logos on the shoulder, back collar and back hem. But I think I’ll be saving this for golf use by and large.
I think this is a jacket that can comfortably be used year-round, just layering up or down as the temperature dictates. And because this is the only waterproof jacket you’ll ever need to keep you warm and dry, I think that the price is justified. Ping are certainly confident enough in this product such that it comes with a five-year warranty.
Fit: True to Size/Small/Large Comfort: 9/10 Value for Money: 9/10 Sizes: S-XXXL Colours: North Sea/Black or Black.
Ping SensorDry 2.5 Graphene Waterproof Jacket review: The Details
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