Carnoustie Golf Apparel Hands-On Review

If you’re driving through Chicago in February and happen to see someone playing golf, you’re probably hallucinating; pull your car over before you hurt someone.  On the off chance that you’re not out of your mind, then you just found a stone-cold (very cold) lunatic.  Don’t worry, I’ve been called worse.

This week, I received a couple apparel samples from Carnoustie. Specifically, their Brushed Fleece 1/4 Zip Pullover and their Modern Plaid Performance Polo.  As someone who works in the Promotional Products industry, regularly selling name brand golf apparel to golfers from corporations around the country, I have a firm grasp on current trends. After trying on these new styles, I can only hope that Carnoustie Golfwear will enter the Promotional Products industry soon.  Their offering is every salesman’s fantasy, because it sells itself.

Before diving into specifics, let me tell you, I simply couldn’t wait to try on my new duds.  In fact, I was so anxious, I wore my pullover/polo ensemble to a business meeting the day after I received my shipment.  Maybe it was my thinning hair during the wind advisory, or maybe I really am a stone-cold lunatic; I am, however, more inclined to believe that my new threads were responsible for the onslaught of glances.

MacKenzie Collection – 1/4 Zip Long Sleeve Pullover

Carnoustie has worked hard since their inception to create a collection of outwear that can be worn year round.  Enter their MacKenzie Collection.  Let me be the first to tell you, this collection is a testament to Carnoustie’s pursuit of changing the golf apparel landscape.  This particular collection offers three styles: 1/4 Zip Vest, Full Zip Vest, and a 1/4 Zip Long Sleeve Pullover.  I had the opportunity to try on the latter- the Unbrushed Cotton ¼ zip long sleeve pullover.  As someone who sweats sitting still (even during a bitter Chicago winter), I couldn’t believe how cool I felt wearing this piece.  The lightweight fabric is the first component that caught my attention.  I typically do what I can to avoid wearing long sleeves on the course (see sweating problem above); however, with my new threads, I was able to comfortably hit 50+ balls at the range—thanks, in large part, to the breathability of the unbrushed cotton material. Usually, when I’m shopping for golf apparel, I treat the cotton section like the back tees at my local club:  I stay as far away as possible.  You can imagine my surprise when, after a rigorous range session, the Pullover didn’t have a single sweat mark.  As a point of emphasis, in case I haven’t been clear, I need to reiterate the fact that I sweat A LOT.

I wouldn’t be doing this pullover justice if I didn’t mention its eye-catching appeal.  I’m not one to pay much attention to the way I look, but I’m also not one to show up to a formal get-together looking like Rickie Fowler.  I’m most appreciative of golf apparel that offers the biggest bang for my buck—allowing me to sport their offering on and off the course, without breaking the bank.  For me, golf apparel needs to meet two specific criterion to make me happy: Comfort and Durability.  Aesthetics has always been nothing more than an added bonus. . .until now.  Resorting to my old fashion trends after sporting this pullover, with its classy flat-knit detailing, would be like returning from Pebble Beach to play a quick 18 at your local garbage dump.  The Unbrushed Cotton Pullover retails for between $95 and $115.00.

Performance Knit Polo Collection

When Carnoustie debuted their performance collection during the Spring of 2014, they aimed to strike a perfect compromise between sophistication and wearability.  Their 2016 collection contributed to this premise by enhancing performance without compromising on look.  When you’re standing over a 200 yard approach shot to a green that’s surrounded by trouble, the last thing you want to worry about is your polo snagging/sticking at the top of your backswing.  Comfort is of the utmost importance.  Carnoustie took a firm stance in admitting that not all performance fabric is created equal, and they aimed to differentiate themselves from the competition with their polyester/lycra blended performance knit polo. I now say with confidence that all performance fabric is, most certainly, not created equal.  I’ve had the chance to test out just about every name brand polo on the market today, and I can say, confidently, that this is the most comfortable polo I’ve ever worn—hands down.

Keep in mind, my little sweating issue that I mentioned earlier persists during the winter months; the summer months are an entirely separate issue.  I can’t remember the last time I started and finished a round with the same color polo.  My first thought when getting dressed before a round is typically:  Which color will hide sweat stains the best?  Once again, Carnoustie changed the way I analyze golf clothing.  The fact that I can wear one of their performance polos without keeping a spare in my bag for the back nine is another testament to their hard work in pushing the envelope with performance apparel technology.  Aside from wearability, Carnoustie made a clear effort to add some additionally fashionability to their performance polo line.  The Modern Plaid Performance Polo is available in white, magenta, grape, and midnight, so you’re sure to find an option that fits your style.  This polo is currently sold for $95.00 retail.

If you haven’t had the opportunity to give Carnoustie a shot, don’t wait any longer (you can find them on the web at CarnoustieSportswear.com).  The sooner you have a chance to try on their offering, the sooner you can finalize your golfing wardrobe and focus on breaking 70, or 80, or perhaps 150.  Either way, you can rest assured you’ll look great doing it.