24 Jul 2017
The Golfer since 1930
by Gary Burnand
As The Open Championship comes to a close, and with a great showing from Mr Spieth, we thought it was high time we discussed our iconic Golfer jacket, so we got the team together and flicked through our design archives.
The iconic Grenfell Golfer jacket, or the Golfing Jumper (despite having a central zipper) as it was originally known, was first developed in the early 1930's for the purpose of golfing in less than idyllic conditions. It featured an elasticated hem and two lower front patch pockets.
The Golfer as worn by Sir Thomas Henry Cotton.
During the early 1940's, Grenfell dispensed with the patch pockets and replaced them with two angled flap pockets. They also removed the hem ribbing and added two side waist adjuster straps with metal sliders.
The crucial element to the Golfer jacket's design is, of course, the use of Grenfell Cloth. Weatherproof, silent and hard-wearing are the three critical qualities. Effective at keeping the club swinger at the right temperature come rain or shine - breathable and natural. When much of modern golf attire lacks elegance and effortless style... Grenfell excels, better than par for the course!
The beauty of this garment perhaps lies in its simplicity. There are no superfluous features to dislike or to date it.
It features an easy-fitting raglan sleeve for freedom of movement with gusseted cuffs, and two buttoning positions which allow for heavy or light knitwear to be worn underneath.
The front pockets are gently angled and wide enough for easy access. Whilst the flap and button stops rain getting in, or items falling out.
The side strap and slide adjuster not only allows for a flattering waist contour, but also traps air for improved insulation when tightened. The collar can be worn up and buttoned for further wind protection. The double runner zip allows ventilation and an easier stride around the hip.
The Golfer has traditionally had a lining, made from a complimentary shade of our house check, in a warm textured twill weave cotton.
As they say, "less is definitely more" in the case of this wardrobe classic