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Zero Restriction Review: Superior Protection from the Elements
Outerwear is an integral part of any golfer’s wardrobe. Dealing with wind, rain, and the cold is an inescapable component of the game.
Over the years, I’ve found that the quality of your outerwear can have a significant impact on your comfort level (and scores). If you go for the cheaper stuff, it usually doesn’t provide too much protection. My bigger problem is that budget brands can be uncomfortable while you swing, and don’t last as long. Conversely, premium offerings keep you adequately protected and remain viable for years.
When you invest more, you can expect to get products that have a lot of thought in their design and anticipate all of the issues golfers have when the weather is less pleasant. In my experience, this is one of the categories in golf I’m willing to spend extra money on because there is a significant difference.
One of the leaders is Zero Restriction. For years I have heard about their reputation, and I finally got a chance to try out some of their products. Overall, I think the brand provides some of the highest quality outerwear in the industry but doesn’t charge prices that are too expensive compared to its ultra-premium competition (check out the end of the article for an exclusive discount code).
Rain
Depending on where you play your golf, moisture can become a big problem. As you know, you may have to deal with a pop-up shower or a more prolonged downpour if you play golf enough.
There is nothing worse than having the wrong outwear for the job when it rains. I’ve found that cheaper brands don’t do a great job of keeping the water out, are uncomfortable while you swing, and don’t breathe very well.
I tried out a newer release from Zero Restriction, the Power Torque 1/4 sleeve, which is intended for warmer-weather rain storms. My first impression (and perhaps most important for me) is that it’s a breeze to swing while wearing. It’s snug enough around the lower part of the jacket that it doesn’t bunch up, which is one of my biggest pet peeves with some other rain gear. Additionally, it’s looser around your chest and shoulders to make your swing feel unencumbered. Zero Restriction is definitely an appropriate name for the brand.
All Zero Restriction waterproof gear is treated with something called Durable Water Repellent. It serves two purposes – to allow water to bead up and not penetrate the outer layer, but more importantly, enable the material to breathe so you don’t feel like you’re inside of a steam room underneath.
After wearing the jacket during a rainy round, I can say that the material delivers on both promises. It’s a great rain jacket, plain and simple.
Wind & Cold
Perhaps the most essential piece of outerwear is a versatile jacket. When it gets colder, windy, and in the rain, you need something to protect you from some mixture of all of these elements.
I’ve had quite a few of these kinds of jackets in the past, but the Z710 from Zero Restriction is perhaps my favorite.
Similar to the rain jacket, my first impression was the comfort when I first put it on. The sleeves are incredibly soft and stretchy, making it very easy to swing a golf club with it on. Additionally, the fabric in the center portion of the jacket is made from a warmer, more durable shell. It provides water protection, plenty of warmth, and shelter against the wind without being too bulky. I think most people will have a similar reaction to me when they first slip it on and declare, “this is really nice.” You can tell a lot of thought was put into the design of each element – the sleeves, pockets, or even how the collar interacts with your neck when fully zipped.
Previously, my go-to jacket was the Galvin Green Lance Interface, but the Zero Restriction Z710 has changed my mind (it’s also considerably less money).
Worth The Investment
At this point, I’ve written a lot of reviews on different products in the golf industry. Sometimes, it doesn’t make sense to spend more money on “premium” brands anymore. Distance measuring devices and golf balls come to mind with the direct-to-consumer movement. However, not every category can function that way.
With outerwear, you generally get what you pay for. I’ve found that if you’re willing to spend a little more money upfront, you’ll get a product that performs better and can last you comfortably up to 5-10 years. Going with a budget can leave you a bit dissatisfied, and you might end up replacing what you initially purchased several times.
While there aren’t a ton of options, I’d say Zero Restriction does one of the best jobs of giving you quality designs that protect you on the course, without going too crazy with the prices. Yes, you will spend more, but some of the ultra-premium brands do charge eye-popping numbers for their products.
Luckily for you, Zero Restriction is part of the Summit Brands family. If you use coupon code PG25 on their site, you receive a 25% discount.
