Rain Gear Being Used at 2009 U.S. Open

FARMINGDALE, N.Y. – Modern foul-weather golf apparel has almost as much technology built into it as a driver. Space-age fabrics make waterproof tops and pants breathable while keeping you dry. Here is a look at what many of the golfers at the 2009 U.S. Open will be wearing. (Click on any of the images for a closer look.)

  Nike Storm Fit Elite Jacket
 $200, nikegolf.com
 Also available in a long sleeve version ($300), this waterproof shell is lightweight and features seams that are completely sealed to keep water out. This top will be worn by Tiger Woods (left), Paul Casey and Stewart Cink.

Dry Joys Tour Rainshirt
$180, footjoy.com
With a two-year waterproof warranty, sealed zippers and Velcro adjustable cuffs, this top will be worn by Ian Poulter (right) and Adam Scott.

 

  Adidas ClimaFit Storm 3-Way Convertible Jacket
 $145, adidasgolf.com
 This jacket unzips to become a short-sleeved rain top or a vest, making it super
 versatile and ideal for golfers who play when it's chilly and when it's warm. This top
 will be worn by Sergio Garcia, Martin Kaymer (left) and Justin Rose.

Polo RLX  Elude Waterproof Jacket
$299, ralphlauren.com
Lots of pockets, all of which are sealed, make this hi-tech jacket extremely functional. It's fitted, but features plenty of stretch through the shoulders to allow golfers to swing freely. This is the top Luke Donald (right) wears.

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(Photos: Woods/John Biever/SI
Poulter, Kaymer/Ross Kinnard/Getty Images
Donald/Chris McGrath/Getty Images)

My New Year's Resolution

Over the last three months, more than one golf company executive has told me the outlook for the 2009 season is not good. When people are worried about the economy, their jobs and the shrinking value of their homes, selling a new $500 driver is about as easy as playing the 17th at Sawgrass during a hurricane.

So my New Year's resolution is going to be for you: Whenever I can, I'm going to let you know about quality products—from companies large and small—that will not only help you enjoy the game more, but will also deliver good value.

Some things will be inexpensive, but good values do not always come with a small price tag. For example, my friend David, who lives in Vail, Colo., loves wearing his FootJoy Classics Dry Premiere golf shoes, which sell for $345. That's expensive, but the shoes could be considered a good value because David has worn them for more than six years. They still look great, and he has no plans to buy new shoes any time soon. If David gets a seventh season out of those shoes, his cost for them will be $49.29 per year. In my book, that's a great value for a comfortable, stylish, waterproof shoe.

Hey, like everyone else, my 401(k) tanked in 2008. But after you have toasted in the new year, rest assured that someone will be helping you find great golf equipment that will leave a few bucks in your wallet.

Jackets that are British Open tested

SOUTHPORT, ENGLAND -- Don't think of a rain jacket as a fashion statement. As the pros who braved the elements Thursday at Birkdale will attest, good foul weather gear is serious equipment and worth investing in. Here are a few things to think about:

1. Waterproof vs. Water resistant
When you get a waterproof jacket it should keep you dry in a steady rain and not allow any water to leak through. The zippers have flaps or seals that prevent water from seeping inside, and the seams inside the jacket will often be sealed as well. What you might be sacrificing is some breathability.

A water resistant top will usually be more breathable, but if you get caught in a long, steady rain you'll get wet. If you are playing in a light drizzle or a light rain, you'll stay fairly dry. On a hot summer day, a water resistant top will help you avoid feeling like a steamed clam.

2. Warranties
If you are looking to invest in a waterproof jacket, look for one that has a warranty. Many, including the tops listed below, promise to keep you dry with normal use for at least two years.

3. Wind resistance
Waterproof jackets should be windproof too, but many water resistant jackets are windproof these days as well. On a chilly day, having a layer that blocks the wind will make you feel a lot warmer.
Here are four rain tops that will keep you dry and comfortable for years to come:

Adidas ClimaProof Storm Full Zip ($240) Waterproof, seam sealed, two-way mechanical stretch with four-way stretch inserts, an internal drawcord, and two-year waterproof warranty. Right on Mike Weir (Photo by Adrian Dennis/AFP/Getty Images)
DryJoys Rainshirt ($180) Waterproof, stretch panels, seam sealed, adjustable waterproof cuffs and front zipper, scorecard pocket and two-year waterproof warranty.  Right on Scott Verplank. (Photo by Glyn Kirk/AFP/Getty Images)
Nike StormFit Elite 1/2 Zip ($250) Waterproof, Velcro adjustable cuffs, sealed front zipper, limited lifetime guarantee. Right on K.J. Choi (Photo by Glyn Kirk/AFP/Getty Images)
Polo RLX Elude Jacket ($395) Waterproof, seam sealed, full stretch, Vercro adjustable cuffs, two-way front zipper, hidden vents under the arms, back collar and yoke, scorecard pocket. Right on Tom Watson (Photo by Glyn Kirk/AFP/Getty Images)