ProQuip Stormforce PX8 Rain Jacket Review

I took to the course zipped up in the ProQuip StormForce PX8 Rain Jacket to see if it delivers on its ‘best-in-class’ billing.

The StormForce PX8 Rain Jacket is part of ProQuip’s PX (Performance-Xtreme) Series of technologically advanced rainwear. With a host of features promising freedom of movement, optimal breathability, a ‘Swing Silent’ design, and most impressively a lifetime waterproof guarantee – I expected it to stand up against the very best waterproof jackets available.

First impressions out the packaging were positive. Simple and sophisticated, but with sufficient detailing and paneling to give the jacket an aesthetically pleasing look. The two-tone grey colorway I received was my preferred option, although the black and insignia blue designs look equally appealing and non-offensive.

I was out early to put the garment through its paces. Conditions were overcast and breezy with intermittent light showers. Here’s how the jacket performed against our five waterproof review criteria…

Protection – 4.5/5

The rain, while not particularly heavy, was persistent over two hours, and I was pleased to see the jacket beading from the off. I soaked myself back home with the hose just to make sure, and as you can see below, my hoodie remained bone dry.

Fully waterproofed zips, adjustable side adjustor tabs, and an internal drawstring skirt ensure complete protection so you can be confident rain won’t creep in through pocket seams or up your sleeves either.

For really chilly days you will need a decent mid layer under this jacket as it’s a reasonably light outer layer. Conditions were mild and humid when I was testing though, so the jacket provided more than enough insulation just over a polo shirt.

• Best Golf Mid-layers.

Playability – 3.5/5

The four-way stretch fabric provides the freedom of movement promised. I didn’t feel restricted at all throughout my swing, and as mentioned the jacket carries no unnecessary bulk. I agree that the ‘Swing Silent’ design is effective at limiting noise distraction. It’s not completely silent, but as good as. The cushioned protective collar was just about low enough to not irritate me. I noticed it on a couple of occasions, although I don’t think this would be a deciding factor for me.

The jacket features two amply-sized side pockets and one on the right chest. My only grumble here is that as a right-hander, I would have preferred it on the left chest as it would be more convenient to access with my non-gloved right hand. It also features a handy concealed inner pocket.

Despite being constructed with an ‘advanced membrane technology’ for optimal breathability, the jacket did cause me to feel a little clammier than expected. This is perhaps the one area where I felt the garment fell a touch short. That said, it was a particularly humid morning so this may have been unavoidable to some extent.

Versatility – 4.5/5

This is a jacket that could absolutely be worn for a range of outdoor activities, and I see myself getting as much wear off the course as I do on it. It’s smart and stylish in equal measure, so whether you’re walking the dogs or wearing it over office clothes – it will feel just as appropriate.

• Best Waterproof Golf Trousers.

While the PX8 only comes in three colorways (grey, black, blue), I can’t imagine the majority of golfers struggling to find at least one design that works with the rest of their wardrobe. The jacket comes in sizes ranging from small to XXXL.

Innovation – 4/5

ProQuip has packed a fair amount of tech into the lightweight PX8 to offer a great balance of protection and playability in this jacket. Golfers will really appreciate the robust waterproofing, ‘Swing Silent’ design, and four-way stretch. Another great selling point is its crease-resistance, meaning you can unscrunch it from your bag when the heavens open and it will have retained its smart looks.

It’s comfortable to wear too with the fine mesh lining and soft outer fabric combining to give this jacket a pretty cozy feel. The jacket is constructed from 100% polyester with no mention of sustainability credentials which is something eco-conscious golfers may want to bear in mind.

Warranty – 5/5

ProQuip’s confidence in the quality of this garment is demonstrated by the lifetime waterproof guarantee the jacket carries. The guarantee is valid for the waterproof functionality of the fabric, membrane, and laminate. Other parts of the jacket such as zips, lining and stitching carry ProQuip’s standard three-year guarantee.

You can register your guarantee by simply visiting www.proquipgolf.com/guarantee.

Final Verdict – 4.5/5

Across the board, this jacket scores highly in my book. With a more conveniently placed chest pocket (for a right-hander), and a touch more breathability, I may well have given this jacket top marks.

The lifetime waterproof guarantee is a massive benefit and gives me the confidence that I’ll get all the protection I need from this jacket for many years. On the course I found the jacket to interfere minimally with very little noise distraction or restricted freedom of movement.

If you’re looking for the best thermal rain jacket, then you might want to look at other options. But other than that, I don’t see why any golfer wouldn’t be pleased to have this in their wet-weather wardrobe. It’s smart, stylish, versatile, comfortable, and easily packs down into your bag without creasing. ProQuip has a reputation for producing quality waterproof golf clothing, and the StormForce PX8 is no exception to that rule.

About the author

Ross Tugwood – Senior Digital Writer

Ross Tugwood is a Senior Digital Writer for todays-golfer.com, specializing in data, analytics, science, and innovation.

Ross is passionate about optimizing sports performance and has a decade of experience working with professional athletes and coaches for British Athletics, the UK Sports Institute, and Team GB.

He is an NCTJ-accredited journalist with post-graduate degrees in Performance Analysis and Sports Journalism, enabling him to critically analyze and review the latest golf equipment and technology to help you make better-informed buying decisions.

ProQuip Stormforce PX8 Waterproof Jacket

RRP: £180 - VIEW OFFER

Sizes: S-XXL

Colors: Black, Dark Grey/Light Grey, Insignia Blue/Light Grey

Material: 100% Polyester