Review: adidas ClimaProof Storm 3-Way Convertible Jacket

The adidas ClimaProof Storm 3-Way Convertible Jacket is innovative, technologically advanced outerwear that provides three different options for varying climate conditions. Sleeves are easily shortened, or removed entirely depending on the temperature and level of rain protection required. The design, and advanced materials, allow it to be worn close to the body in comfort without pulling or binding. Additionally, there's no extra material to interfere with a player's swing.

The Pros

• Lean, athletic styling that's flattering, fitted and sporty looking, even on a heavier build.
• Comfort and range-of-motion are assured, and excess bulk is eliminated, by the innovative four-way stretch properties of the fabric. Mesh vents are stylishly concealed but ensure breathability.
• Features such as the convertible sleeves, a removable inner compression layer, an extendable rain-blocking collar and built-in silicone shoulder grippers make this jacket perfect for golf in extreme conditions.

Cons

• A small carrying pouch would be helpful to prevent loss of - or damage to - the detachable pieces.
• The price point is high for those seeking a basic rain jacket.

Description
Critical jacket features developed to increase comfort and convenience while eliminating distraction include:

• A lean cut jacket with technical detailing.
• Long sleeves with fitable cuffs. Sleeves are removable above elbow and at shoulder level.
• Contrasting inner collar that pulls up offers extra rain protection.
• Bonded paneling in critical comfort zones to eliminate seams that can rub, chafe and irritate.
• Supportive removable inner panel.
• Innovative silicone grippers on each shoulder that prevent bag-strap slippage.
• Concealed venting for excellent breathability.
• Hidden pocket.
• Waterproof and breathable.

On a wet, windswept, morning my husband and I went out for round on one of our favorite courses. I suggested to Nick that he might want to test the adidas ClimaProof Storm 3-Way Convertible Jacket, and he accepted with enthusiasm. Autumn days in New England are as famous for changing weather patterns as they are for fabulous foliage, and sure enough, the weatherman was predicting clearing skies and a balmy afternoon. So the idea of a jacket that could adapt to wild weather variations was quite appealing.

It was immediately clear that adidas Golf did not overlook style for substance. The jacket is lean and well cut and it gave my corpulent partner a more narrow, less bulky look than other outerwear he owns, so much so that I was half expecting him to complain that the size (XL) was too small. However, he grabbed his club and took a few practice swings, and said it felt great. The royal blue color, which adidas calls "Barez," is sporty and bright. The jacket also comes in black and zinc-black (think charcoal).

We headed to the practice green and spent some time putting in the relentless drizzle. I was categorically wet, and beginning to shiver by the time it was our turn to head out, while Nick was comfortable and dry. He had flipped up the jacket's inner collar and tightened its adjustable cuffs, and his assessment was that each of these features had protected him from the elements and kept the rain from dripping down his neck and getting up into his sleeves. Remarkably the jacket has no storm flap, but that's because a storm flap (and its extra bulk) isn't needed as the zipper is completely watertight.

One of the cleverest features of the adidas ClimaProof Storm 3-Way Jacket became obvious when Nick picked up his bag. Instead of shifting and slipping like it normally does in wet conditions, the bag stayed put and carried comfortably. This was the because of the grippers; three discrete silicone strips on each shoulder. Brilliant.

Nick's first tee shot confirmed that despite its narrow, close-to-the-body fit, this jacket allowed him full range of motion. He attributed this to the modern design, and a high-tech fabric with distinctly more give than that used in other waterproof rain gear. There was virtually no extra, flapping fabric to slow down his swing either.

By the time we reached the fourth green the rain had stopped. I was still chilled but Nick wasn't. He had been kept warm by a full, thin, inner compression wrap layer, a layer that's removable and eliminates the need for a bulky liner. By the end of the front nine Nick was ready to "go short sleeve," which he did with ease. The lower sleeves just zipped right off, and I made sure to grab and secure them in my bag, because Nick tends to lose things on the golf course.

As we played the back nine the only regret Nick had regarding the jacket was that it didn't allow him to blame his bad shots on bulky or restrictive outerwear. By the time we sat down at the cafe-on-the-green it was, as predicted, sunny and mild. Nick removed the short sleeves and made his jacket a vest. The versatility of the convertible jacket had been fully realized in a single day, though one can easily envision rounds where the vest alone might be enough, or the short sleeves, and there'll undoubtedly be many days where he'll keep the full jacket on, right through to the 18th hole. It's just great to know that whatever the weather, adidas Golf's ClimaProof Storm 3-Way Convertible Jacket is up to the task.

At $275 MSRP some might find it expensive, but when you consider the features, quality styling, comfort and above all, versatility, it seems well worth the price.