Augusta National Golf Club members began wearing the jackets in 1937. The idea was to have them be easily identifiable so they could answer questions from patrons.
Brooks Uniform Co. in New York made the original jackets, which featured heavy wool material. Those soon gave way to a lightweight version that could be custom-ordered from the club’s pro shop.
The green jacket is reserved for Augusta National members and golfers who win the Masters. Jackets are kept on club grounds, and taking them off the premises is forbidden.
The exception is for the winner, who can take it home and return it to the club the following year.
