Andy DevaneyLightweight waterproofs, stretch fabrics and versatile winter layers lead Stuburt’s new autumn/winter collection, with practical details designed to keep golfers swinging when the weather has other ideas.
The quickest way to ruin a promising round, apart from the golf itself, is to spend 18 holes wrestling a waterproof jacket. With the Stuburt AW26 collection, the British golf brand is tackling that particular indignity through lightweight, four-way-stretch outerwear and a wider range of clothing designed to make winter golf a little less of a battle.
Inspired by atmospheric elements, the collection brings together waterproof jackets, insulated layers, performance polos, trousers and cold-weather accessories. There is plenty of attention to contemporary styling, but the more interesting development is the emphasis on freedom of movement throughout the range.
For golfers who refuse to surrender their regular tee time simply because the forecast looks unpleasant, that is a sensible place to start.
Waterproofs that leave room for a golf swing
Zenith, Fracas and Shard
The most significant pieces in the new range are the Zenith Waterproof Jacket, Fracas Short Sleeved Waterproof Jacket and Shard Waterproof Trousers.
Both jackets have a stated waterproof rating of 10,000mm and a breathability rating of 5,000. Their exceptionally lightweight, four-way-stretch construction is intended to allow golfers to move freely without the restriction associated with bulkier rainwear.
Stuburt has also paid attention to the details that tend to become rather important somewhere around the seventh hole of a wet Saturday medal. Taped seams and waterproof zips provide additional weather protection, while adjustable cuffs and tailored hem cords allow golfers to refine the fit.
The Fracas offers a short-sleeved alternative for players who prefer fewer layers around their arms. The Zenith provides full-sleeve coverage when conditions call for it.
Completing the waterproof system, the Shard trousers feature adjustable hems, long side zips, belt loops and several pockets. The extended zips are a particularly practical addition when getting changed in a hurry, especially for anyone who has attempted to pull waterproof trousers over golf shoes in a cramped car park.
Together, the three garments form the technical centrepiece of the Stuburt AW26 collection. The specifications are promising on paper, although actual comfort, waterproof performance and breathability will ultimately need to be established through extended on-course use.
Winter warmth without the wardrobe wrestling match
Golf’s colder months demand layers that keep the warmth in while still allowing the shoulders and torso to rotate. Stuburt has addressed this through two padded garments and a pair of versatile midlayers.
The Dash Padded Gilet provides lightweight insulation around the core, combining thermal protection with windproof, water-repellent fabric and four-way stretch. Ribbed detailing and waterproof zippers complete a design intended for those chilly rounds when a heavy jacket feels excessive.
For additional coverage, the Craze Padded Jacket introduces full sleeves, concealed pockets and a ribbed finish. It shares the same emphasis on insulation, weather resistance and unrestricted movement.
There is an important distinction here. Water-repellent padded clothing serves a different purpose from a fully waterproof shell. The Dash and Craze are designed to provide warmth and resist lighter weather rather than replace the Zenith when the rain becomes persistent.
The Keen Pullover and Steers Midlayer offer another approach to temperature control. Both use thermal, windproof, four-way-stretch fabrics with distinctive ribbed textures.
The Keen takes the traditional crew-neck route, while the Steers incorporates a quarter zip and protective zip guard. Elasticated finishes help the garments retain their fit during movement.
They also give golfers the flexibility to adjust their clothing as conditions change, rather than committing to one heavy outer layer for an entire round.
Performance polos with a little more personality
The polo collection brings a broader selection of textures and finishes into the AW26 wardrobe, with five designs catering for different preferences.
The Urban Performance Polo is the technical offering, featuring moisture-wicking stretch fabric and UPF50+ protection. It is designed for golfers who place comfort and moisture management ahead of decorative flourishes.
The Hustle Polo brings a bit of swagger to the fairway, with ribbed fabric and contrast details that look like they know exactly where the clubhouse is. The Stack Polo and Typhoon Long Sleeve Polo keep things sharp and practical, pairing vertical ribbing with soft blended fabrics and UPF 30+ protection, because looking composed is easier when the sun isn’t trying to turn you into a baked potato.
Completing the selection, the Lit Polo introduces a textured jacquard pattern while retaining the breathability and stretch expected from modern performance clothing.
The variety is welcome. Golfers increasingly want clothing that works just as comfortably away from the course, and the combination of different textures, cuts and understated technical features gives this collection a broader wardrobe appeal.
Trousers, shorts and the accessories worth remembering
The Simp Golf Trouser and Sparrow Golf Short share lightweight, water-repellent, four-way-stretch recycled polyester construction.
Both combine freedom of movement with familiar practical details, including belt loops, functional flies and multiple pockets. Their water-repellent finish should prove useful during changeable conditions, although neither is intended to replace dedicated waterproof trousers.
Stuburt has also given the accessory range considerable attention.
The Quibble and Noble Bobble Hats feature warm, lined knitted construction, while the Cassowary Bucket Hat is designed for wet conditions with waterproof fabric, taped seams and an adjustable fit.
The Argill Braided Belt provides flexible, stepless adjustment, and the fleece-lined Winter Mitt offers thermal, windproof protection when temperatures drop.
There is also a Dual Canopy Umbrella, featuring a large windproof, water-repellent design and a quick-release mechanism. Given the British climate, an umbrella is arguably one of the few pieces of golf equipment that rarely needs an introduction.
A new identity for Stuburt
Beyond the individual garments, AW26 forms part of Stuburt’s wider effort to develop a more cohesive identity, with sharper designs and a collection intended to appeal to both Tour players and everyday golfers.
The recurring use of stretch fabrics, ribbed textures and coordinated technical layers gives that ambition a practical direction. Golfers can build an outfit around the conditions rather than simply choosing between a waterproof jacket and whatever happens to be clean.
Pricing and independent wear-test results will be important in assessing the collection’s value and performance. For now, its most interesting feature is the breadth of the layering system, particularly the combination of lightweight waterproofs and less restrictive insulation.
The atmospheric inspiration provides the names and visual direction. The real examination will come on the course, when the wind gets up, the rain comes sideways and a golfer still has to find the middle of the clubface.
Further information: Stuburt
