Since rebooting its soft goods business in 2016, PING has quickly gained traction in the golf fashion world. Loyal GolfThreads readers know I’ve been bullish on the brand since slipping on one of its perfectly-fitting polos a couple years ago. Since then, PING’s garms have become mainstays in my on-course rotation. The brand’s European-based design team has mixed the perfect cocktail of classic looks and modern details with razor-sharp fits. Yes, PING is more than an equipment company these days. However, the same passion and commitment to innovation on the hard goods side of the house has been woven into the DNA of its apparel. The latest example of this is seen in the layering pieces in its AW’18 Collection.
PrimaLoft Insulated Jackets
When we talk about PING’s latest collection, the conversation starts with its range of Norse PrimaLoft insulated jackets. Turn back the clock to the PGA Merchandise Show in January of this year. You’ll recall PING’s series of PrimaLoft insulated jackets took home one of our Style Awards thanks to their good looks, innovation, and comfort. The success of the layering pieces in PING’s latest collection is no accident. Its origins can be traced back to the design room. “Warmer, softer, drier,” served as the inspiration for the designers as they approached the AW’18 Collection.
PrimaLoft is a new-age synthetic insulation that epitomizes PING’s mantra. It is lightweight, warm, soft, water-resistant, breathable, and it packs down for easy storage in a golf bag. Until recently, you were more likely to find it on the ski slopes or in sleeping bags than on the golf course. With a high warmth-to-weight ratio, PING designers recognized a thin layer of PrimaLoft would lock in the warmth without adding bulk, making it perfect for executing a swing on a cold day.
Norse PrimaLoft Zoned Jacket
The showcase piece in the series is the Norse Zoned Jacket with PrimaLoft Silver Active insulation. The insulation is strategically placed to keep the core warm while allowing the arms to move freely during the swing. Built for cold temperatures, the Norse Zoned Jacket can extend your golf season into the depths of winter. My first round in this jacket put PING’s “warmer, softer, drier” goal to the test as the jacket stood up to an eerie Bay Area fog. Typically, I grab a rain jacket to combat the mist associated with a damp fall marine layer. This time, the water-resistant shell and insulated channels on the Norse Zoned Jacket was all I needed to stay warm, dry, and swinging freely.
Miles Polo in Stellar Blue, and Lennox Pant in Redwood
This is a jacket that looks as good as it performs. The bomber-style collar plays into one of the biggest trends in men’s outerwear. Not only does the Blue Graphite/Black colorway capture everything I love about rich autumn colors, but it is also highly versatile. It easily pairs with PING’s 5-pocket Lennox pant in Ash, Asphalt, Mineral, Navy, and Black. My favorite combo, though? Wear it with the Lennox Pant in the Redwood color from PING’s AW’17 Collection for a bold and colorful statement.
Fleece for the Fairways
When you think about quintessential cold weather fabrics, fleece is right there at the top of the list with wool. Fleece jackets, in particular, have become the de facto choice for sporty and casual fall outerwear. PING’s AW’18 Collection sees the introduction of two new fleece mid-layers. The brand once again dips into the PrimaLoft technology with the Norse PrimaLoft Fleece Jacket to deliver a mid-layer with thermal warmth, four-way stretch, breathability, and a soft hand feel.
PING Calderon Half-Zip Fleece Pullover 
Joining the Norse PrimaLoft Fleece is the Calderon Half-Zip Fleece, an update on last year’s Austin (one of my favorites, btw). The heathered front and back panels create a striking and stylish contrast against the solid collar and sleeves. Grab the Calderon in the Top Pine colorway. This deep green is one of the unique colors in golf fashion this fall and perfect for the Holiday season.
Sweater Weather
As much as I like a trendy hybrid jacket or a cozy fleece, there is nothing quite like a great golf sweater. PING’s Knowles and Plato Sweaters have been two of my favorites from previous collections. For AW’18, the brand has taken its knitwear game to another level, though.
Again, keeping the “warmer, softer, drier” goal in mind, designers turned to the Zenga Baruffa H2Dry K-Wool. While Baruffa wool is no stranger to the fairways, the revolutionary H2Dry treatment makes it a more practical option for high-performance situations. Think of H2Dry K-Wool as the perfect combination of nature and technology. It dries quickly and wicks moisture. Plus, the high level of breathability helps the body to regulate its temperature.
H2Dry K-Wool also resists wrinkles. Throw it in an overnight bag for a weekend golf outing or a business trip and it will be ready to be worn when you arrive at your destination. Best of all, cleaning H2Dry K-Wool is hassle-free and doesn’t require a trip to the dry cleaners. Toss it in the washing machine without worrying about ruining your favorite sweater.
PING Pax Full-Zip Cardigan 
For its AW’18 Collection, PING has added three new knitwear styles with H2Dry K-Wool to the mix—the Sanford, Pax, and Knox. The Sanford is a contemporary take on the classic ¼-zip sweater. Layer it over a button-down in the office or a polo on the course for a sophisticated look. The Pax puts a modern spin on the traditional cardigan with a full-zip front and a bomber-style collar. For a hipper, more casual vibe, check out the Knox. Hoodies are making inroads into golf fashion and the Knox is one that is certainly appropriate for 18 holes or a laidback day around town.
No matter your style preferences or performance needs, there is something for everyone when it comes to the layering pieces in PING’s AW’18 Collection. Go high tech with PrimaLoft jackets; take a sporty approach with fashionable fleeces; or, opt for a refined look with easy-care sweaters.