Is this the perfect waterproof jacket? I’d say nearly. It’s lighter than some other jackets on the market, yet the confidence of the 3-year guarantee is testament to how well this design performs in challenging conditions.
As with other jackets, like Sunderland’s Aurora Whisper and Ping's Milli, Footjoy have added a hood to what was a phenomenal Hydroknit design and I think it’s really enhanced the performance of this item to compete with the best women's golf rain gear.
Some might think a hood would get in the way of visibility during a round of golf but this hood is very cleverly designed. It’s got a fairly wide opening that stays on your head when it’s up, yet you can see out of it peripherally. The toggles either side allow for a customised fit and this is a helpful addition.
The zips are taped, to keep the elements at bay, and I felt completely warm and dry. As with all FootJoy waterproofs there is a pocket inside the jacket on the chest for a scorecard or mobile phone.
First and foremost, this jacket is designed to keep you protected. It is unbeatable when it comes to heavy downpours. Water simply beads away and it dries out fast, so never fills heavy with the weight of water.
Again, you can customise your protection with the adjustable bungee on the bottom. This gives you the ability to alter the fit from tailored jacket to bomber jacket. Pull the lower cord and you can tuck the bottom underneath. It’s therefore a jacket that will suit many body types.
The offering of colours had me scratching my head a little. FootJoy usually offers a few pops of colour in their waterproof jacket armoury. The white, navy and black options feel a bit safe.
I’ve always been a little confused when it comes to having a white waterproof jacket, but the only downside was when I pulled out and put back in my tee peg/ball marker, as it does tend to make the jacket dirty around the pockets. Now this is negligible, as the way this top performs will far outweigh the lack of rainbow colours.
FootJoy jackets do wash really well on a cold wash and it does come up as new each time without forgiving any of the waterproof quality.
