When we think of products that help golfers perform on the course, athletically styled tops, leggings and other activewear garments usually come to mind. But what about headwear?
A look at the latest lines from market leaders like Ahead, Imperial, Pukka and others shows that today’s hat offerings have closely followed apparel in terms of technology, breathability and comfort on the course.
Among the technologies being promoted by Pukka, for example, are lightweight tech materials that wick moisture and perform in the heat and during workouts; a sweatband with 4-way stretch to provide a comfort fit; an elastic loop closure for additional stretch; and perforated tech fabrics like Tritech and UV Lite that offer breathability and moisture wicking while providing SPF protection that is inherent in the fabric, not applied to it.
“These elements are growing in importance as the consumer appreciates a comfortable fit and relies on fabrics that can match their fitness levels,” says Ryan Nolz, Pukka’s Director of Sales, Golf Division. “It’s important to blend fit, comfort and performance in today’s marketplace. Pukka promotes all these elements on a consistent basis to offer the most comfortable and reliable fits in the business.”
In another example, Ahead, renowned for three decades of cutting-edge and creative headwear, is seeing strong growth in AeroSphere, the brand’s lightweight, performance-driven fabric that “speaks directly to the on-course experience.” According to Senior Creative Director Mark Kliethermes, performance fabrics like AeroSphere offer the following important benefits:
• Moisture management – A performance fabric like AeroSphere will wick sweat away and dry quickly, keeping the golfer cool and preventing sweat from dripping into the eyes.
• Protection – AeroSphere provides SPF 30+ protection to shield the scalp, face and neck from harmful rays – crucial for long rounds under the sun.
• Breathability – Lightweight and breathable, AeroSphere allows heat to escape, helping golfers stay cool and comfortable during hot or humid conditions.
• Stretch and fit – AeroSphere has built-in stretch, ensuring a snug, comfortable fit that stays in place during the golf swing.
• Durability – Fabrics like AeroSphere are typically more resistant to shrinking, fading and wear, making them ideal for regular outdoor use.
• Lightweight feel – A lightweight cap can reduce fatigue and distraction, and AeroSphere helps keep headwear light without sacrificing function.
“In essence, an AeroSphere tech fabric cap can help golfers maintain focus and comfort, allowing them to concentrate on their game rather than adjusting their cap or dealing with heat and sweat,” Kliethermes adds.
From Imperial Headwear look for small batch collections highlighted by the Breeze Performance Perf, an updated version of “the No. 1 hat in golf,” featuring UPF 50+ protection and perforated side and back panels for enhanced breathability, making it ideal for high-output days “on the course, in the gym or under the sun.” Other styles include the following:
• The Celsius (mid crown pro) and Fahrenheit (retro 5-panel with rope), both featuring moisture wicking, UPF 50+ sun protection and CoolCore performance poly designed to cool up to 30 percent lower than skin temperature when wet.
• The new Lab Series, highlighted by the Gravity and Noble caps, which are crafted with NuYarn merino wool and memory structure technology, delivers adaptive comfort and technical performance. Both also feature buoyant visors, perforated side and back panels and NuYarn sweatbands that help regulate body temperature while offering natural odor resistance and antimicrobial benefits.
• The Honey, a small-fit performance cap with a low profile and unstructured build. This versatile style with perforated back and side panels provides “all-day breathability” and is available in six colors.
“As players become more mindful of performance and wellness, headwear is no longer just a finishing touch; it’s functional gear,” says Dan Parenti, Imperial’s SVP of Product Development. “Moisture-wicking, breathability and cooling technologies help keep athletes focused and comfortable from the first tee to the final putt.”
Lisa Goulian Twiste is a Senior Apparel Writer at PGA Magazine.