50 Words or Less

The G/FORE Operative Collection is built for movement.  Light weight.  Loads of pockets.  Simple color palette makes it easy to mix and match.  Proves athletic wear doesn’t need to be boring.

Introduction

Most Plugged In Golf readers know G/FORE for their spikeless shoes that blend strong performance with elevated style.  The company is now bringing that same dual focus to athletic wear with the G/FORE Operative Collection.  If you’re ready to turn heads in the gym rather than blending in, read on.

Style

The G/FORE Operative Collection utilizes a limited color palette to put the focus on textural details and let the statement pieces shine.  Everything in this collection is black, white, or a blue that is somewhere between royal and electric.  If you like a collection that’s easy to mix and match, this is for you.

On the men’s side, the Monogram G’s Ops B-Ball Short is one of the real standout pieces.  Almost everything else is solid.  There are several shoes in the collection which will add a lot of pop to any outfit.  I also need to shout out the monotone “No1 Cares What You Shot” hat, an instant favorite.  I’ve always loved that line, and I especially like that the black-on-black makes people look more closely to read this critical message.

For the ladies, the story is pretty similar, but there are more interesting textures.  The Micro-Pleat Ops High Waisted Skort doesn’t need any contrasting color to be an eye-catcher.  Whether for pickleball, golf, or casual wear, the shoes in the Ops Collection are akin to the G/FORE G/18 golf shoes [review HERE] with their bold styling.

Fit

The men’s apparel in the G/FORE Operative Collection has a comfortable fit and sizing.  Above, I’m wearing the Tech Melange Raglan Quarter Zip Pullover and Stretch Warp Knit Ops Cargo Jogger, both in size large.  Both pieces offer ample room to move, but neither is overly baggy.  The fit is ideal for action, which is what this collection is built for.  All of these pieces have become regulars in my wardrobe because they look sharp, and they can be worn to the course, the gym, or anywhere else.

One special note: these are some of the shortest joggers I’ve worn.  Once I get moving, I will be showing some ankle.  If you’re not ready to fully embrace that look, these won’t be for you.

Lauren had similar notes for the women’s G/FORE Operative Collection, stating that the sizing was appropriate for workout gear.  Some of the pieces required some effort to get into, but that provided the desirable secure fit and “snatched” look.  I don’t know what that means (she’s cooler than me), but it seemed very positive.  She also noted that all of the apparel had a high quality feel, which should be a given in this price range, but often is not.

Performance

Starting with the women’s side of the G/FORE Operative Collection, Lauren was very pleased with the inclusion of pockets on almost every piece.  She also made special note of the quality shorts on the Micro-Pleat Ops High Waisted Skort, reporting that they provided more substantial coverage, allowing her to move freely.

The key trait that runs through the entire collection is light weight.  Pieces like the aforementioned skort felt barely there.  This gives the collection more versatility, allowing you to be comfortable in any piece even when you’re working hard.  Lauren also noted the Silky Tech Nylon Ruched Full Zip Layer was so light it could be worn for sun protection even at higher temps.

Those key performance elements carry over to the men’s side, too.  The Tech Melange Raglan Quarter Zip Pullover is the lightest I’ve ever encountered, which is great for those that want to start quarter zip season a bit early.  That light weight also allows these pieces to move well, making them an easy choice for looking a bit classier in the gym.

G/FORE has loaded up the men’s pieces with pockets, too.  There’s a zippered pocket and a standard pocket on the Monogram G’s Ops B-Ball Short, which is fantastic.  The Stretch Warp Knit Ops Cargo Jogger lives up to the “cargo” name with five zippered pockets.  While that may be overkill, it’s nice to be able to secure your stuff and focus on your activity.

Finally, the one piece that deviates from the light weight of the G/FORE Operative Collection is the basketball shorts, and I couldn’t be happier for it.  I’ve been on a quest to find basketball shorts that have the thick, heavy, quality feel of shorts from the 90s and 2000s and have been coming up empty.  There’s a time and place for the paper-thin shorts that are the norm today, but these fill a void in the heart of this elder millennial hooper .

Conclusion

Whether your athletic endeavors happen on the golf course, in the gym, or on the hardwood, the G/FORE Operative Collection will keep you moving well and looking sharp.  These high quality pieces are fashionable without being trendy, functional without being bland.

Shop the G/FORE Operative Collection HERE

The post G/FORE Operative Collection Apparel Review appeared first on Plugged In Golf.

50 Words or Less

Swiftwick socks offer golfers a variety of options to optimize their comfort and performance on the course.  From slightly thicker Merino wool to the airy Performance model, there’s a perfect sock for every weather condition and player preference.

Introduction

While many golfers fret about their shoes – the style, the spikes, and more – not enough think about their socks.  Socks are a major driver of how comfortable your feet will be during and after the round, and they’re worth putting some thought into.  Swiftwick is a company that has put extraordinary amounts of thought into socks, offering all types of athletes an array of options.  I tested five different Swiftwick socks for this review.

Swiftwick Golf Socks

There are five different models of Swiftwick socks in the Golf category: Pursuit, Flite XT, Aspire, Performance, and Maxus.  All feature Swiftwick’s “Core Technology” – Fiber First Moisture Wicking and Contoured Compression Fit.  Per the company, that means they use high performance fibers that breathe and inherently move moisture and that their socks are designed to fit your foot without bunching or leaving void spaces.

Beyond these two shared traits, every sock is designed for a little something different.  I’ll list Swiftwick’s descriptions here, then break down my own findings in the Comfort and Performance sections.

• Aspire: Light cushioning, firm compression
• Flite XT: Stability, Anklelock Technology, GripDry Fiber
• Performance: Durable design, lasting comfort
• Maxus: Maximum comfort
• Pursuit: Merino wool for all-season temperature control

Style

The number of style options depends on the model that you choose.  The Swiftwick Performance sock comes in black and white only.  Swiftwick’s Pursuit is available in black and heather (above, top left).

Moving into the Aspire, Flite XT, and Maxus, the sock has more design detail on it, and there are many more color choices.  Flite XT is offered in black, white, grey, Purple Boost, Citron Spark (neon yellow), Orange Flare, and Blue Laser (above, top right).  The Maxus comes in black, white, grey, Mist, Pink Jade, Magenta, Emerald, and Midnight Blue (above, bottom right).  Finally, the Aspire is available in the widest selection – an astounding fourteen colorways including Cobalt Blue (above, top middle), Purple Fuschia, and Boysenberry.

Note that most of the fun color options are only available in the Zero (no show) height.  As an Elder Millenial, this is the way.

Comfort

Out of the gate, Swiftwick socks get a jump on offering superior comfort by giving golfers more choices.  Their socks comes in four sizes, aligned with men’s shoe size 3 to 15.  They also offer three different lengths: Zero (no show), One (ankle), and Two (Quarter Crew).  Zero Tab is a no show length with a small extra tab on the heel.

A common trait across the line is the superior shape and fit.  Cheap socks are just tubes of fabric that can bunch up or leave gaps.  This can lead to discomfort and blisters.  Swiftwick socks have substantial shaping that gently hugs your foot.

Across the five models, you can find any feel from light and airy to cushioned and more substantial.  The Performance model is the lightest, feeling almost like going barefoot.  Aspire is very similar – light and highly breathable.  The Swiftwick Flite XT is the middle of the bell curve for me.  It’s not as light as the Performance but it’s not as heavy or padded as the Maxus or Pursuit.  The Maxus is the most padded underfoot, and the Merino wool Pursuit has the thickest feel, though it’s much thinner than other wool socks I’ve worn.

Before moving on, I want to be clear that there are more commonalities between these socks than differences.  I think the differences are meaningful, especially over a four hour walk, but even in head-to-head testing most of the changes are not night and day.

Performance

I wore all five models of Swiftwick socks for range sessions, golf, the gym, and summer walks in my neighborhood.  My overarching takeaway is that there is a much bigger difference between Swiftwick socks and “regular” socks than there is between any of the five Swiftwick models.  The Core Technologies of moisture wicking and Contoured Compression Fit are noticeable in every sock.  Even in extreme heat, my feet stayed cool, dry, and supported.

While I would happily wear any of these models, for the current summer heat, the Performance has been my favorite for its airy feel.  It has the least cushioning, but, as someone who likes barefoot shoes, that’s not a problem for me.  The Aspire is a very similar sock with just a little more compression, and I’ve been wearing this a lot, also.  If you want more cushioning, the Maxus is hard to beat.  The footbed is thicker and it has nice structure without being overly thick.

For the other three seasons, I’ll be wearing the Pursuit more regularly.  As a longtime wearer of Merino wool socks, I stand by Swiftwick’s claim that these are “all weather” socks.  If I could only have one pair of Swiftwick socks, it would probably be the Pursuit because they’re going to be great in the cold while still breathing.  And, again, they’re thinner than other Merino wool socks I’ve worn, which helps with the moisture wicking and breathability.

Finally, the Flite XT is an amazing sock that, for me, feels like a little more than I need for golf.  There’s extra grip built into the heel and toe to keep the sock perfectly positioned, which is cool, but I’m not moving that explosively on the golf course.  This may become my go-to hooping sock, though.  Getting the sizing right is extra important on these or else the grippy heel pad won’t be in the right spot.

If you want more help picking the correct model, Swiftwick offers a Sock Finder Quick HERE.  It’s just three questions, and some may find it preferable to reading the bullet points on each model and picking for themself.

Conclusion

If you’re currently wearing quality golf shoes with cheap socks, let this be your signal that it’s time to change.  Swiftwick socks have a precision fit and high quality materials that will keep your feet comfortable regardless of the conditions.  Whether you want maximum cushioning or a lighter than air feel, there’s a Swiftwick model for you.

Buy Swiftwick Socks HERE

The post Swiftwick Socks Review appeared first on Plugged In Golf.

50 Words or Less

With silky soft fabric and a fit that evokes confidence, the johnnie-O women’s golf collection puts the “Oh!” in clothes.

Introduction

One of the few surviving and thriving shopping malls is an 11-minute drive from my house.  Nonetheless, I do at least 90% of my apparel shopping online.  Why deal with parking and crowds when I can sit and click my way to a new outfit?  That said, shopping online brings uncertainty.  How will these pants actually fit?  How will the fabric feel?

I’m here to tell you, in no uncertain terms, that johnnie-O clothes fit flexibly and the fabric kisses the skin.  Each piece is super soft and breathable without sacrificing form, thanks to the modal spandex fabric.  Pieces not only fit true-to-size but have forgiveness, so you can shop and wear with confidence.

Looks

Athletic apparel has become a staple for any time of day.  Why?  Because it has the potential to be both comfortable and attractive.  Before the days of athleisure, we embraced discomfort to get the desired look.  Or we accepted frumpiness in favor of comfort.

Gone are the days of sacrifice.  johnnie-O pieces fit like a dream.  The shirts are flowy but not baggy.  The tennis dress is flexible yet structured and form-fitting.  I love the cutout feature in the back.  It’s another way to keep cool, and I still felt like I was dressing my elder millennial age.  The colors in johnnie-O’s new collection are vibrant and reminiscent of the classic Team USA uniforms.  Crisp, clean lines with bold yet simple contrast.  johnnie-O’s aesthetic is stylish, classy, and ready for competition.  But don’t take my word for it – go browse the many options and find your perfect fit.

Comfort

At its best, trying on clothes is a luxury.  The feel of the fabric is the first thing you notice.  When trying on johnnie-O apparel, the first sensation is cool, soft fabric.  It’s like climbing into silky bed sheets on a hot summer day.  A luxury indeed.

Beyond the initial feeling, comfort is about wearability. What does it feel like after a few minutes or a few hours in the sun?  To test this, I took a trip to the park to play a round of tennis against my much more fit husband.  After shaking the dust off my racket, learning to ignore the myriad pickleball lines, and remembering to always hit to his backhand, I was able to muster a comeback.  We ended at 2-2 to keep things comfortably friendly.  Despite working up a sweat in the Illinois heat (yes, it’s a thing sometimes), my johnnie-O dress looked just as good by the end of the match.  I was dripping sweat but not sweating through the white dress.

Performance

While johnnie-O performs beautifully in the comfort and looks categories, we couldn’t talk about golf clothes without talking about performance.  johnnie-O uses fabric that is highly flexible and moves with you.  It’s perfect for a hot summer day, and that means that while everything feels durable.  The breathability means a bit of visibility with white pieces as well. Garment appropriately.

If you’ve read my previous posts, you may remember that I am a stickler when it comes to pockets in women’s clothing.  You won’t find them in johnnie-O’s Performance Sport Mini Dress, but the Performance Skirt has three good-sized pockets, two of which are cleverly hidden in the undershorts.

Conclusion

johnnie-O is a brand for many sports and activities.  Their new Performance Collection keeps you looking, feeling, and performing your best.  If you see me on the course this summer, I’ll most likely be wearing the Maisie Polo and Gabby Performance Skirt, with my phone, golf balls, and keys all tucked away in the pockets, of course.  

Visit johnnie-O HERE

The post johnnie-O Women’s Golf Apparel Review appeared first on Plugged In Golf.

Introduction

As the temperatures start to hit their annual highs, every golfer is on the lookout for a golf shirt that will keep them cool.  In this apparel shoot out, we’re comparing two shirts that can handle the heat as well as the movements of the golf swing.

The Contenders

For this comparison, we’re taking a look at the PXG  Comfort Fit Fineline Polo and the Peter Millar Dellroy Performance Mesh Polo.  These are summertime polos from one of the most established names in golf apparel and one of the best newer brands.

Fit & Sizes

Starting with the PXG Comfort Fit Fineline Polo, the fit strikes a great balance.  You don’t need to be gym rat to wear it comfortably, but there’s enough taper in the body to give it a cleaner look.  The sleeves are tailored, not tight, and they hit a couple inches about the elbow.

The PXG Comfort Fit Fineline Polo is offered in Small, Medium, Large, XL, and XXL.

The Peter Millar Dellroy Performance Mesh Polo uses their “Classic Fit” which borders on blouse-y.  There is no taper to speak of, leaving a lot of extra material around the torso.  This shirt is clearly meant to be tucked in -untucked it touches the top of my thighs.  Similarly, the sleeves are quite large.

Peter Millar sells the Dellroy Performance Mesh Polo in sizes Small, Medium, Large, XL, XXL, and 3XL.

Fabric

Peter Millar describes their performance mesh as offering a “traditional feel alongside technical know-how.”  It’s made of 94% polyester and 6% spandex, but it does feel closer to cotton than most other tech fabrics.  They describe the shirt as lightweight, but I would call it mid-weight.

PXG’s Comfort Fit Fineline Polo uses an unapologetically technical material – 85% polyamide, 15% elastane.  It’s extremely light weight with a cool, smooth feel.

Performance

Since their inception, no one has made better hot weather golf apparel than PXG, and that continues with the Comfort Fit Fineline Polo.  The heavily perforated back and ultralight material make it so breathable that you barely feel it.  It also provide UPF50+ UV protection and dries quickly.

During the swing, the Fineline Polo moves beautifully.  There’s ample stretch to accommodate almost any movement, but, if you do find its limits, the material is so light it doesn’t feel restrictive.

On the course, the Peter Millar Dellroy Performance Mesh Polo stays out of the way with its loose fit and four-way stretch fabric.  The level of stretch is impressive, but it feels a little belt-and-suspenders given how much room this shirt provides.

The performance mesh is antimicrobial and breathes well.  Peter Millar promotes this as their go-to for warm weather – and I wouldn’t disagree – but it won’t keep you as cool as the PXG Fineline Polo.  The Dellroy is best from “nice” to “warm,” but I’d stick with PXG when it’s truly “hot.”

Cost & Colors

The Peter Millar Dellroy Performance Mesh Polo retails for $105.  There are four colors available: navy (shown here), pink, lavender, and cottage blue.

PXG sells the Comfort Fit Fineline Polo for $115 in white, black, and navy (shown here).

Conclusion

Both the PXG Fineline and Peter Millar Dellroy polos are solid options when the temperatures rise.  PXG offers a more technical look and feel and better cooling.  Peter Millar will be the choice for those that grudgingly leave cotton shirts behind or those that prefer an oversized fit.

The post Best Golf Shirt: PXG vs. Peter Millar appeared first on Plugged In Golf.

50 Words or Less

Galvin Green’s golf rain suit is top-of-the-line in every respect.  Durable, high-performance materials, quality fit, and a price tag to match.

Introduction

Rain gear is an interesting category in the golf apparel space because it’s one of the few items that you would rather not have to use, given the choice [check out their daily gear HERE].  However, if you are a bona fide golf sicko, you need to have a reliable set in your wardrobe.  Galvin Green is a Swedish golf apparel brand that is synonymous with style and quality.  In this review, I examine their rain gear comprised of the Alister jacket and Alpha pant.

Style

While the priority for rain gear is undoubtedly in its performance, it’s nice to have decent style as well.  The Galvin Green Alister jacket and Alpha pant manage to accomplish that.  The pant doesn’t have a lot going on in terms of detail.  It’s mainly just a pair of black rain pants, though you’ll notice small carbon fiber-like details around the zippers.  The jacket has more going on, specifically in a modern/futuristic but clean looking style.

The jacket features a combination of navy and black with varying pattern details on the shoulders and arms (the jacket is also available in a black/gray colorway).  Overall, both pieces offer a versatile style that should go well with virtually any kind of clothing golfers are wearing on the course these days.

Fit

Being a European company, I would advise you to expect these pieces to have more of a European-style fit.  To me, that just means being cut a bit slimmer while still being true to size.  I found both pieces to fit very well, allowing ease of movement both walking and in the golf swing.

Both the Alister rain jacket and the Alpha rain pant are available in sizes S-3XL.  There’s a fit calculator tool on the company’s website to help you determine the right fit.  It’s important to make sure you’re getting the right fit in each, if you are in the market for both jacket and pants.  With rain gear there’s a delicate balance because you need each piece to fit comfortably over the clothes you’re already wearing without being too loose or too restrictive.

Performance

Here is where the rubber meets the road.  Imagine you’ve just rolled out of bed in your hotel and today is a day you’ve been looking forward to for years.  A bucket list round.  You look at your phone to check the weather and see the forecast calls for rain.  100%, it’s going to dump all day.  You’re not going to cancel the round, so you better have something to keep you dry.

Thankfully, Galvin Green’s rain gear delivers.  It does a great job of keeping water out, but it is also surprisingly breathable.  This is one of the greatest challenges facing designers and manufacturers.  It’s easy to just coat ourselves in waterproof plastic, but the problem is we end up cooking.  These pieces ensure you’ll stay as cool as possible during a summer shower.

Both the Alister jacket and Alpha pant feature GORE-TEX stretch fabric with C-KNIT backer.  According to the company, this is a premium ultra-lightweight Japanese-made fabric with a super-smooth hand feel that can easily ‘slide & glide’ over garments underneath.  Ease of movement is a key theme here, both in terms of wearing over existing clothing and also with stretching and flexing to accommodate the natural movements of the golf swing.

A small detail I appreciated about the pants is that they have fleece-lined pockets.  This is very nice when it’s cold out.  A thoughtful feature on the jacket are the adjustable tabs around the chest, which helps tailor the fit to the individual golfer’s body.

Rain gear is going to cost significantly more than normal golf clothing because of the materials and technology involved in producing it.  In this case, you’re looking at the very top-of-the-line offerings in the market.  The Alister jacket retails for $719 while the Alpha pant will set you back $619.

Conclusion

While these pieces are pricey, they absolutely deliver.  Only you can determine what represents good value for your money.  If your budget allows, these Galvin Green rain gear pieces would be at home in your golf wardrobe for years to come, ready and waiting to help salvage your rainy rounds when called upon.

Visit Galvin Green HERE

The post Galvin Green Golf Rain Gear Review appeared first on Plugged In Golf.

Introduction

Golf clothes are expensive, and, as more retail moves online, finding a place to try on a wide range of golf apparel is ever more challenging.  With all this in mind, we’re kicking off a new series that attempts to help you find the best golf apparel.  The first two installments will be head-to-head comparisons of some of the best pants and shirts in the game, but let us know in the comments section what you’d like to see next.

The Contenders

The two golf pants that we’re comparing for this first installment are the PXG Essential Golf Pants (black) and the Lululemon ABC Classic 5 Pocket Pant Warpstreme (blue).

Most people think of PXG as a golf club company, but they’ve been making superb golf apparel for several years, and their Essentials line is exactly what the name implies: the staples you build your wardrobe around [check out previous PXG apparel reviews HERE].  Lululemon has been around for a long time, but 2024 is their first big push into golf.

Fit & Sizes

The PXG Essential Golf Pants are offered in even waist sizes from 32″ to 40″.  I tested them at 34″ and found the waist to be true to size.  There is not an option for different lengths; I would judge the stock length to be a touch over 32″.

Lululemon’s ABC Classic 5 Pocket Pant Warpstreme are offered in every waist size from 26″ to 40″ and even sizes from 42″ to 48″.  Lengths of 28″, 30″, 32″, 34″, and 37″ are available, but not every waist size or length is offered in every color.

Both pants have a very comfortable fit that’s meant for movement.  There’s ample room in the crotch and thighs so that you can sit, stand, bend, and move without any uncomfortable pinching.  The biggest difference I noted is the taper in the lower leg.  The ABC Pants taper slightly more than the PXG Essentials.  Neither is jogger-tight around the calves, but the PXG has a looser, more airy fit.

Fabric

The PXG Essential Golf Pants are made from 100% Polyester.  The Lululemon ABC Pants 53% Elastomultiester and 47% Recycled Polyester.

PXG’s Essential Golf Pants feel lighter when I’m wearing them, despite being 0.5 ounces heavier than the ABC Pants.  That extra total weight could be a result of the longer length or heavier hardware.  Regardless, the PXG pants would be my choice for warmer temperatures.  The ABC Pants are medium-light in feel and would be fine in the summer but best in spring and fall.

Both pants are wrinkle resistant, but the added weight of the ABC Pants helps them to lay flatter.  I would also give the ABC Pants the nod for being slightly softer.

Performance

The most important criteria for golf pants is the way that they move.  Golfers need to be able to sit and stand, twist and bend without their pants bunching, pinching, or restricting their movement.

PXG’s Essential Golf Pants and Lululemon’s ABC Pants offer ample stretch for golf movements and beyond.  In both, I could go into a full squat, a deep lunge, or even a Camilo-style Spiderman pose (that reference is kind of dated now) without a hint of trouble.  When I stood up, neither required any rearranging.  Both of these pants get an A for movement.

Both pants feature the same pocket layout.  There are two pockets on the rear, with the right pocket featuring a zippered inner pocket.  They also have two pockets on the front with a coin pocket on the right side.  Since we’re getting into the details here, the rear pockets on the PXG Essential Golf Pants are larger – about 1/2″ wider and 1/4″ deeper.

Cost & Colors

The PXG Essential Golf Pants retail for $135 and come in black and grey.  Shop PXG HERE.

Lululemon’s ABC Classic 5 Pocket Pant Warpstreme cost $128 and are available in eleven shades of black, blue, grey, and brown.  Shop Lululemon HERE.

Both pants keep the branding very minimal.  The ABC Pants have a small tag on the back left hip with their logo.  The PXG logo appears on the button of the Essential Golf Pant and in a rubberized logo on the back right hip.

Conclusion

When it comes to performing well on the golf course, both the PXG Essential Golf Pants and the Lululemon ABC Pants are among the best that you can buy.  Lululemon has a decided edge in terms of options – both colors and sizes – but PXG gets the nod if you’re playing in warmer temperatures.

The post Best Golf Pants: PXG vs. Lululemon appeared first on Plugged In Golf.

50 Words or Less

The johnnie-O Spring 2024 apparel collection offers an impressive variety of styles and fabrics.  West Coast vibe, geared towards the fitness minded.

Check out johnnie-O’s women’s apparel HERE

Introduction

While at the PGA Show in January, Matt and I had the pleasure of receiving an in-depth preview of many of the new products on the johnnie-O horizon.  We were amazed at the diversity and impressed with the details.   The variety of fabrics also captured our attention.  As it’s been a few years since we brought you a johnnie-O review, we thought it was a good time to revisit the brand.

Style

Whether you’re looking at their golf specific apparel, casual wear, or even something a bit more elevated, these pieces exude the laid back, west coast vibe johnnie-O is known for.  What I appreciate about the latest collection is the brighter colors, fun prints, and modern styles.  That’s not to say that you can’t find the 100% cottons or solids and simple stripes you may prefer, but that the choices are even more abundant.

A feature I’ve always liked about johnnie-O performance wear is that it looks stylish off the course.  The tropical drink print Briley is a great example.  Constructed entirely of synthetic fibers, it doesn’t appear shiny like so many performance polos.  And I’m a huge fan of the self-collar that adds to the top-shelf look.  The floral print Pederson polo adds a contrasting yoke and hidden buttons under the collar – exemplary details.

With hoodies being all the rage right now, I wasn’t surprised to see johnnie-O offer several.  And what could be more apropos than the ¼ zip hoodie named Nicklaus I tested.  Also trendy, the 5-pocket Osprey pants are on point.  Johnnie-O also offers plenty of stylish accessories like the multi-colored cotton stretch belt.

Fit

Going along with the west coast theme, the fit is best described as for the fit.  I’m not talking Muscle Beach ripped, but the clothes are cut for those that at least pretend to work out occasionally and try to eat healthily.  I’m 5’ 10” and around 165 lbs., and johnnie-O is a wonderful brand for me.  In my typical medium size, the polos have an overall pleasing look – no excess fabric in the body or arms.  The shoulder seams land right at my actual arm and shoulder intersections, while the sleeves cover my biceps.

I was happy to find that johnnie-O offers shorts and pants in my odd, 33”, size, and the fit at the waist was perfect.  Length wise, I had some issues.  The 8” length of the Jupiter shorts wasn’t truly an issue as much as a mental hurdle.  Most all my shorts across brands are 9” length, and that missing 1” made me feel darn right naked.  That said, I’m confident that there’s some comparatively shorter golfers out there that would find the length a blessing.

My issue with the Osprey pants is that they are only offered in one length – 34”.  For me that’s just too long to be wearable without alteration.  I did like the tapered legs and the polished look the pants offered.

Performance

Staying with the bottoms, both the shorts and pants had nice stretch.  They feature a performance driven 53% cotton/40% nylon/7% spandex blend that offers plenty of comfort and seasonal versatility.  As both are featured in the johnnie-O Golf Shop, I have to ding the buttons on both rear pockets.  Whether for yardage books or gloves, golfers need a button free slide in and out pocket.  And don’t be tricked by the close up photos on the johnnie-O website, the ones of the model wearing the shots are the accurate ones.

Speaking of stretch, both polos had plenty for my golf swing.  I haven’t reached truly hot weather yet, but the fabrics felt comfortable and breathable.  Johnnie-O designers know how to find the sweet spots of fabric blends.  While the Briley is a modern, all performance blend, the Pederson is cotton based at 63% cotton and 27% lyocell with a 10% spandex kicker.

Conclusion

I love the Emergency 9 hat shown above which captured the moment when the PIG crew had just enough time to squeeze in 9 before dinner after arriving at Fripp Island on a recent golf trip [check out the review HERE].  Johnnie-O truly has you covered from head to toe – and yes, they have shoes.  I’m thrilled with my new printed polos, which help me stand out in a sea of solids, and the hoodie has been great for cool mornings.  If you haven’t explored johnnie-O apparel, the Spring 2024 collection is a great place to start.  And if you have some older johnnie-O in the closet like me, it might be time for some fresh additions.

Visit johnnie-O HERE

The post 2024 Spring johnnie-O Apparel Review appeared first on Plugged In Golf.

50 Words or Less

The Linksoul Loreto Collection adds stylish off-course pieces to the brand’s comfortable and performance inspired golf apparel lineup.  Innovative fabrics, exceptional attention to details.

Introduction

The Linksoul Loreto Collection was inspired by the coastal town of Loreto in Baja Mexico.  The colors and materials of the collection reminded me of a blanket I brought back from Mexico years ago, which turned out to be a wonderful backdrop for the photos you see here.  And while you may think of Linksoul as a golf apparel brand, the Loreto Collection is about extending the day’s journey beyond the golf course.

Style

Laid back, yet upscale.  Each piece of the Linksoul Loreto Collection seems perfect for relaxing on a beachfront barstool or beside a backyard fire pit.  Coming off the golf course wearing the Monterey microstripe polo, you’ll find the Anchorage Seawool Shacket – yes Shacket –  a stylish midweight layer you can slip on when the temperatures start to drop.  The clever name is a mashup of being heavier than a typical shirt, yet lighter and less bulky than a jacket.  On the style front, the Shacket features a rounded cut at the hips for a polished look.

Seawool was also a new word for me, and is in fact a revolutionary new fabric that blends polyester made from recycled plastic bottles and upcycled oyster shells.  I appreciate companies like Linksoul that strive to be earth friendly.  It’s even better when doing so results in a better product.  To me the Seawool feels sturdy like wool but softer.  It’s also naturally odor resistant and thermoregulating.

Creating a cohesive collection is more than colors that work together, it’s also paying attention to details.   If you look closely at the photos you’ll note that the top buttons on all three tops were stitched with turquoise colored thread.  And take a look at the beautiful fabric band that runs up the button line on the Shacket, another detail that adds to the upscale look – well done, Linksoul.

Hoodies are trendy these days, and Linksoul took their Ojai Lux Terry Hoodie to the next level.  100% cotton and sturdier than a typical performance quarter zip, the Ojai Hoodie looks and feels substantial and inviting.  And once again, details abound with ribbed cuffs and side panels and a dual layer hood.

I’ll close out the style section with the lovely Printed Heather Quills Astoria Shirt.  Lightweight and breathable, the DirLoft fabric has a luxurious feel that matches the stylish look.  You won’t see me sporting this shirt on the golf course, but the full button, button down Astoria is my ideal shirt for dinner in the clubhouse.

Fit

Let me start with the Monterey Performance Polo – it’s a near perfect fit for me.  And I only use “near” because I never use absolutes.  At 5’ 10”, 165 lbs. with a fairly athletic build, medium is my go-to size, and the Monterey medium was spot on.  Shoulder seams aligned nicely, sleeve length covered my biceps, and the torso length was perfect for keeping a nice tuck.  Overall the fit was athletic without being form fitting.

The Astoria full button (as Linksoul calls it) was also a fantastic fit.  The only difference from the polo is the length, which is ideal for wearing untucked.  Likely obvious from the description above, the Shacket is cut to be a comfortable second layer.  I liked that it had room in the shoulders for grabbing a pass that’s a bit high, and that the sleeves rolled up neatly.  As for the Ojai Hoodie, it’s roomy without looking like it’s just oversized.

Performance

Spring weather has brought a general warm up in the Carolina Lowcountry, but far from hot enough to evaluate the “Triple Chill effect” of the Monterey’s performance fabric that features brrr technology.  Learning that Triple Chill refers to “mineral cooling, active wicking and rapid drying,” I’m looking forward to feeling comfortable playing this summer.  What I can state is the polo had plenty of stretch – true to the Linksoul golf roots.

Conclusion

This was my first in-depth look at this brand, and I’m thoroughly impressed with the Linksoul Loreto Collection.  It has me dreaming about vacationing at a resort in Mexico – looking sharp and feeling comfortable.   I’ll end with this gem from Linksoul co-founder and CEO John Ashworth: “Our focus is on delivering exceptional comfort and performance, all while staying true to the soul of golf. With an unwavering commitment to sustainability and style, Linksoul’s Loreto Collection is for golfers who seek more than just clothing; they seek an authentic experience.”

Visit Linksoul HERE

The post Linksoul Loreto Collection Apparel Review appeared first on Plugged In Golf.

50 Words or Less

DUER apparel blends the best aspects of technical fabrics with timeless style.  Materials feel wonderful on your skin.  Loads of mobility and comfort.

Introduction

Golf apparel has seen a recent shift away from tech fabrics toward clothing you can wear on course and off.  DUER takes that concept to an even broader audience with “stretch performance denim and lifestyle apparel” that moves beautifully while maintaining a classy appearance.

Looks

DUER emphasizes “seasonless style” and doing more with a few well-made items.  This translates to a focus on basics.  If you’re looking for trendy prints or even stripes, you need to look elsewhere [try HERE].  DUER makes solid tops and pants that you can wear year in, year out.

That focus on staples extends to their color choices, too.  Their Performance Stretch Button Down has the most options, just six, and the closest thing to trendy in that array is an orange-ish khaki.  If you want to idiot-proof your wardrobe, fill it with DUER.  Every piece in their catalog will look good with everything else.

Fit

I tested three different DUER pants: the No Sweat Relaxed Taper, the Live Free Flex, and the NuStretch Relaxed 5-Pocket.  All of these feature DUER’s Relaxed fit, which has a little more room in the thigh and a gentle taper through the lower leg.  For me, the fit is absolutely perfect.  The waist is true to size, but the fit leaves room in the thigh for those that don’t skip leg day.  The taper is modest: just enough to keep the pants looking neat.  Too often, relaxed fit means sloppy, but that’s not the case here.

Moving to the tops, DUER describes The Only Polo as having a “modern slim fit for a tailored look.”  I found this to be a fair description in both the medium and large.  There is a gentle taper through the body which elevates the look and feel by eliminating any excess material.  The large does have noticeably more room but is still well short of baggy for me at 6 feet, 193 pounds.  I found the difference in sleeve length most noticable – the large sits just below mid-bicep, the medium just above.

Performance

After my testing, I am a complete convert to DUER pants.  I’m not certain of the order, but these are the top three pants that I own.  The materials are simply outstanding, and they’re all I wanted to wear.

The first time I pulled them on, I noticed how soft and stretchy the material is.  Out of the box, they feel like your most loved, broken in jeans while still looking like proper, adult pants.  They move easily, allowing plenty of room for the golf swing, a jog, or whatever else the situation calls for.  Among the three models I tested, the biggest difference is the weight.  The NuStretch Relaxed 5-Pocket is the lightest, ideal for warmer temperatures.  Both the Live Free Flex Pant and No Sweat Relaxed Taper Pant are mid-weight and will be perfect for spring and fall golf.

DUER’s polos perform the same feat of looking and feeling like natural materials while performing like technical fabrics.  Both The Only Polo and Performance Polo Air Flow Pique are extremely soft and breathable, but they allow a full range of motion.

Conclusion

DUER apparel looks great and performs well in a variety of settings.  Not only that, it’s clothing you can feel good about wearing.  DUER makes their apparel from 95% plant-based or recycled fibers, aiming to eliminate plastic from their clothes entirely.  If you want timeless style with modern fit and performance, DUER is a brand you must check out.

Visit DUER HERE

The post DUER Apparel Review appeared first on Plugged In Golf.

50 Words or Less

The Sun Mountain Tour Series+ rain jacket scores extremely high for waterproofing and breathability.  37.5 technology makes it comfortable in a wide range of temperatures.  Moves easily.

Introduction

Unlike my golf bag, my golf wardrobe turns over a lot.  One piece that has remained in place for over three years, however, is the Sun Mountain Colter Vest [review HERE].  Powered by 37.5 Technology, it keeps me warm without overheating, making it a go-to piece for a wide range of weather conditions.  When I had the chance to check out the latest piece powered by 37.5, the Sun Mountain Tour Series+ rain jacket, I jumped at the chance.

Looks

The Sun Mountain Tour Series+ rain jacket strikes a nice middle ground between wearable and boring.  It stays out of the monochromatic, zero design look of many rain jackets, but it doesn’t go too far into being trendy.  There’s contrast on the chest and back panels and along the inside of the sleeves.  Sun Mountain branding is kept to a minimum – small logos on the neck and right sleeve.

Each individual golfer can dress to their personal style level with four colorways.  The most staid will opt for the classic black/grey.  Royal blue/grey and grey/white are nice options for those in the middle.  I opted for the trendiest colorway – spruce/navy – which I think will still have good longevity.

Fit

Similar to the look, the fit of the Sun Mountain Tour Series+ rain jacket hits the middle of the bell curve.  The body isn’t overly baggy, but it’s not fitted.  I tested this jacket in size large – my normal outerwear size – and I could comfortably get two layers underneath it.  The jacket extends a couple inches past my belt, allowing for a customized fit at whatever length I choose with the built-in drawstring at the waist.

Just like the body, the sleeves are neither wind flaps nor sausage casings.  You might have some difficulty if you’re wearing a bulky sweater or hoody underneath, but long sleeve t-shirts or quarter zips will have no trouble.

Performance

The Sun Mountain Tour Series+ rain jacket carries a waterproof rating of 20,000+ mm.  That sounds great, but I had to turn to Google to figure out exactly what it means.  I learned that it’s among the highest ratings possible – waterproof and rainproof under high pressure.  In my less scientific testing, this jacket kept me completely dry.  Sun Mountain added smart features to enhance the material like waterproof zippers, a drawstring at the waist, and long Velcro strips at the wrists.  I emphasize the size of these strips because they allow for a truly customized fit.  Whether you have big or small wrists, want a tight or loose fit, or are looking to peek at a GPS watch between shots, you’ll be able to dial the sleeves in perfectly.

While rain resistance is great, there are a lot of jackets that will keep you dry.  What elevates the Sun Mountain Tour Series+ rain jacket is the breathability and temperature control.  This jacket uses 37.5 technology and scores a breathability of 30,000+ (again, about as high as you can score).  Practically speaking, this means that your rain jacket won’t turn into a personal sauna.  You no longer have to choose between being wet or being overheated (or cold).  The 37.5 technology does an amazing job of keeping you warm when you need it without making you uncomfortable in the heat.

Finally, the Tour Series+ moves very well.  One major factor is the construction.  There is not a traditional shoulder seam – the connection is made across the top of the chest.  This, combined with the 4-way stretch of the material, allows you to swing your arms in every direction and turn your body without ever feeling a hint of constriction.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a rain jacket that you can wear in all weather, you’d have a hard time finding something better than the Sun Mountain Tour Series+.  With some of the highest possible scores for waterproofing and breathability, it will keep you dry and comfortable whether you’re dealing with a summer sun shower or a cool fall rain.

Visit Sun Mountain HERE

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