Golf courses need a great deal of maintenance, from intensive and specialised turf management to path and facilities upkeep. For grounds maintenance crews, this means working outdoors in all weathers.
Waterproofs are absolutely essential in this line of work, but what’s the best golf course maintenance rain gear?
Read on for tips on what to look for when kitting out your crew, including practical features that can make their day a little easier.
What’s the best rain gear for groundskeepers and golf course crews?
The best waterproof gear for groundskeepers is lightweight to midweight waterproof jackets and trousers. It should allow for as much freedom of movement as possible, as this is often physical and active work.
Breathable options are preferable compared to heavy commercial-grade workwear, which can be too difficult to move freely in out on the course.
Above all, whatever gear you choose should have as high a waterproof rating as possible. Whatever else happens out in the grounds, your team needs to stay dry. Additional features such as welded or reinforced seams can also help with this, as well as extending the lifespan of the garment (as seams can often be a vulnerable point on outdoor clothing).
Read more: Our favourite waterproof workwear for landscapers
Why early-morning and all-day exposure changes what you need
Working patterns also affect the waterproof gear you need. You need workwear that can handle anything, whether it’s early morning dew or a sudden drop in temperature.
Ultimately, your team will be outdoors for long shifts, working hours at a time in often changeable conditions – so they need to be ready for anything.
Lightweight vs. midweight – which is right for grounds work?
Choosing the right waterproof gear for groundskeepers often comes down to finding the right balance between waterproofing and breathability.
Lightweight kit is breathable and easy to move in, so your crew won’t overheat while carrying out active and physical jobs throughout the day.
But it isn’t as good as midweight clothing when it comes to withstanding long exposure to wind and rain. You might find that lightweight clothing needs to be replaced more regularly, when it starts letting in water.
Here’s a quick comparison of the two, and the main factors to consider:
| Weight | Best for | Trade-off |
|---|---|---|
| Lightweight | Mobile, active daily tasks | Less durable in heavy rain |
| Midweight | Longer exposure, harsher conditions | Slightly less breathable |
Practical features that matter: pockets, mobility, breathability
Weatherproofing is important, but it’s just as crucial that workwear is fit for purpose and packed with practical features that make work easier for your crew.
For example, look for gear with:
- Heavy-duty YKK zippers, oversized so they can be used even with thick gloves on
- Plenty of pockets, angled so they’re easy to access
- Raglan sleeves, which provide a wider range of movement for the arms
- Breathable design, to wick away sweat, keep you cool and prevent condensation build-up
Shop quality golf course maintenance rain gear with Stormline
Buy quality, and you only need to buy once. Stormline specialises in exceptional quality waterproof workwear, and we’re a popular choice among professional landscapers, groundskeepers and maintenance crews. Our Stormtex-Air 220G jacket is a firm favourite for grounds work.
Shop our lightweight waterproofs and horticulture range, or get in touch if you need advice or want to discuss a bulk purchase.
FAQs
What’s the difference between lightweight and midweight rain gear?
Lightweight rain gear offers some waterproofing and weather protection, while also being more breathable and easier to move in. However, midweight gear is better at withstanding repeated exposure to poor weather conditions, while there may be some trade-off in mobility and breathability.
Is waterproof or water-resistant gear better for groundskeeping?
Waterproof is always the best choice for outdoor work, so look for gear with as high a waterproof rating as possible. Water resistant or ‘shower-proof’ gear is likely to let water in, which means an uncomfortable day outdoors.
What should groundskeepers look for in rain gear pockets and mobility?
Look for angled pockets that give easier access, and features such as raglan sleeves which allow for a greater range of arm movements.