Ping AquaDrive Ladies Jacket: Tour-Tested Waterproof Performance Review

The era of golf waterproofs feeling bulky, stiff, and restrictive has passed. The new Ping AquaDrive ladies waterproof jacket in blue indigo stands out as one of the lightest options available, with fabric that feels surprisingly soft and offers noticeable stretch. While I previously considered Ping’s Milli waterproof jacket to be ultra-light, this model surpasses it in lightness.

Creating genuinely feminine women’s golf rain gear is often challenging, as function typically outweighs fashion when prioritizing dryness and freedom of movement. Ping, however, achieves an excellent balance in this design. Along with a subtle curved hem, I appreciated the internal adjustable shock cords at the waist. Tightening these toggles creates a custom, pinched-in fit at the back, avoiding a boxy, straight silhouette.

Adjusting the waist toggles results in a tailored, pinched-in silhouette.(Image credit: Future)

Regarding features, the two slanted front zipped pockets provide ample storage for essentials, while the deep drop-in internal pocket located behind them offers significant bonus space for additional items. The padded collar features a velour-feel lining for added comfort, and a fold-away adjustable hood is neatly concealed behind a Velcro flap at the back. Similar to ProQuip’s Paige jacket, I valued the hood’s cinch toggles, as a loose hood blowing up and obstructing vision during a shot is a common frustration.

I tested the jacket through several heavy downpours, and it performed exceptionally well. The 2.5-layer high-performance fabric, fully seam-sealed construction, two-way waterproof front zip, and adjustable Velcro cuffs prevented any water ingress. This level of protection was not entirely surprising; if the fabric was sufficient to protect the European Solheim Cup team during heavy rain at Bernardus Golf, it was certainly adequate for my needs.

The adjustable hood can be stored neatly at the back of the collar.(Image credit: Future)

While it does not provide significant warmth, that is not its primary function, and it successfully delivers lightweight, highly breathable waterproof protection. When paired with the matching AquaDrive trousers, it forms an excellent rain suit. Available in UK sizes 6–20 and three other colorways, it is an effortless, comfortable jacket that allows players to focus on their game without weather concerns.