Journal · 4 min read
What is a golf anorak, and when should you wear one?
Illustrative imageAn anorak is a pullover shell: no full-length zip, a half-zip at the neck, a hood and usually a big front pocket. On the course it is the light outer layer you pull on over a polo when the morning starts cool and take off when it warms up.
Anorak, jacket or quarter-zip?#
A jacket zips all the way down, so it opens fully but has more hardware swinging around. A quarter-zip or half-zip sweater is a knit mid layer. An anorak sits on the outside: a thin woven shell with a half-zip, worn over whatever you have on underneath.
Because it pulls on over the head, an anorak has a clean front with nothing to catch on your arms through the swing.
Size it for a layer underneath#
Wear the polo or light layer you would actually golf in when you try one on. You want room through the shoulders and chest for a full turn, and sleeves that reach the wrist bone with your arms extended at address.
If you are between sizes, the larger one usually works better over a layer.
Why packable matters#
The best outer layer is the one you actually bring. An anorak that folds into its own pocket takes up little room, so it can live in the bag all season.
What to wear with it#
A polo underneath, trousers or joggers in a neutral color and a cap. A navy or black shell goes with everything in a golf wardrobe.
