Walter Hagen Rain Pants

Everything You Need to Know Before You Shop

If you’re an avid golfer like me, you know that the weather doesn’t always cooperate when you want to get out on the course. While a little drizzle may not stop me from teeing off, heavy rain showers certainly put a damper on my game. That’s why having a good pair of Walter Hagen rain pants is an essential part of my golf gear.

But buying rain pants can be confusing if you don’t know what to look for. With so many technical features and considerations like waterproof ratings and breathability, it’s hard to decide which pants will keep you dry without getting clammy.

After testing out numerous pairs over the years in all sorts of wet conditions, I’ve learned what makes for an ideal pair of golf rain pants. So if you’re in the market for some new Walter Hagen rainwear, read on for my complete buying guide. I’ll tell you everything you need to know before you shop!

What Exactly Are Walter Hagen Rain Pants?

First things first – Walter Hagen is one of the top golf apparel brands known for making high-quality gear that performs but also looks great on the course. The company was started by legendary golfer Walter Hagen himself back in the 1920s.

The Walter Hagen rain pants are designed specifically with golfers in mind. They are made to be 100% waterproof, shielding you from wet weather while also allowing flexibility for your golf swing. They feature a relaxed fit to layer over your golf clothes comfortably.

Unlike regular rain pants, Walter Hagen’s rainwear is light, breathable, and takes into account golf-specific needs like extra stretch in key areas. You don’t have to feel weighed down or restricted when you tee off in the rain if you choose pants designed for moving through your backswing!

Where to Buy Walter Hagen Rain Pants

You can find Walter Hagen rain pants at most retailers that sell golf equipment and apparel, both in-store and online. Some of the best places to buy them are:

• Golf specialty stores – Check larger golf stores like Roger Dunn Golf, PGA Tour Superstore, Golf Galaxy, and Edwin Watts Golf to try them on in person.
• Sporting goods stores – Dick’s Sporting Goods, Sports Authority, and Modell’s carry a selection of Hagen rainwear.
• Online – Websites like Golfsmith.com, Worldwidegolfshops.com, and Walmart.com offer the pants too.
• Walter Hagen website – You can buy the rain pants directly from the source at www.walterhagen.com.

I’d recommend trying the pants on if you can, since the fit can vary slightly between styles. Order a few sizes and return what doesn’t work if you have to order online without trying in person first.

How Much Do Walter Hagen Rain Pants Cost?

Walter Hagen rain pants generally range from $50 to $150 depending on the specific model and features. Here’s what you can expect from each price range:

• Under $70 – Basic packable pants that offer waterproofing and breathability. Great for an occasional shower on the course.
• $70 – $100 – Mid-range pants with microfiber fabric, taped seams, and adjustable elements. Ideal for regular play in wet conditions.
• $100 – $150 – High-end golf rain pants with premium technical features and fabrics. Built to withstand downpours and heavy use.

There are frequent sales around holidays and clearance events where you can grab Hagen rain pants for under $50. Sign up for email lists from retailers to be notified of deals.

How Waterproof Are They?

The number one job of any golf rain pants is keeping you dry, so waterproofing is the most important technical spec. Walter Hagen uses industry-leading waterproof fabrics and sealing methods.

Their lower-priced pants may be water-resistant, meaning they shed light moisture but can become saturated. Mid-range and higher-end pants rate around 10,000mm – 20,000mm for waterproofing. This means they can withstand heavy rain while staying breathable.

Look for details like taped seams, waterproof zippers, and DWR coating which make the pants fully waterproof even through hours of wet play. Walter Hagen’s premium Storm Series is best for seriously rainy days.

Sizing and Fit Options

Walter Hagen rain pants come in both men’s and women’s sizing, generally ranging from S-3XL. Check the size chart for each style to get your ideal fit.

They are cut roomy enough to layer over bulky golf clothes in the legs and seat. Most styles have adjustable waists with snap, elastic, or velcro closures for a customized fit.

Some pants also feature adjustable leg openings so you can choose how far they extend over golf shoes. I like this feature because it keeps my ankles covered without getting baggy.

For the best freedom of movement, look for articulated knees and gusseted crotches on Walter Hagen’s higher-end designs.

Key Materials to Look For

Waterproof coated polyester is the most common material used. But there are some variations that offer improved performance:

• Microfiber – Very lightweight and breathable, almost feels like cotton.
• Ripstop fabrics – Nylon or polyester woven tightly to resist tearing. Adds durability.
• GORE-TEX – The gold standard of waterproof/breathable fabric technology. Hagen’s premium pants feature this.
• Fleece lining – Some pants have soft interior fleece to retain warmth while wet.

Are They Breathable for Hot, Humid Play?

Standing in summer showers can get unbearably hot in non-breathable rainwear. Thankfully, Walter Hagen rain pants use advanced fabrics and venting to allow perspiration and heat to escape.

Look for key terms like “waterproof AND breathable”. GORE-TEX offers the highest level of moisture wicking for complete dryness and comfort in muggy conditions.

Many of Hagen’s pants also have ventilation zips on the lower legs to allow adjustable airflow. Some styles even have cooling mesh lined pockets.

Caring for Your Walter Hagen Rain Pants

With proper care, quality Walter Hagen rain pants should last through many rounds in tough conditions. Here are some tips:

• Machine wash cold, gentle cycle – Turn pants inside out first to protect coatings. Use mild detergent.
• No fabric softeners – They can ruin the DWR coating.
• Air dry only – Avoid heat which degrades waterproof layers. Hang pants instead.
• Reactivate DWR – If wetness persists, restore water beading treatment with wash-in formulations.
• Patch leaks – Seal any small holes with waterproof seam tape. Catch problems early before they expand.

With light maintenance, your Hagen’s can stay watertight for seasons of wet golf.

Adjustability Features for the Perfect Fit

One of my favorite things about Walter Hagen rain pants is the adjustability built into many styles. This lets you tweak the fit for your body shape and golf swing freedom.

• Waist snaps or elastic – Get just the right tightness around your middle.
• Drawcord waists – Cinch up a looser but comfortable fit.
• Zippered hems – Adjust how far down the legs extend.
• Velcro ankle closures – Keep hems sealed around golf shoes without grabbing.
• Articulated knees – Allow natural bending motion.

Look for adjustable rain pants so you’re not stuck with an ill-fitting pair.

Wearing Them Over Your Golf Clothes

A common question about rain pants for golf is whether they can be comfortably worn over your regular golf outfit.

Walter Hagen’s are designed to be roomy enough to layer over clothes and allow free movement:

• Wider through the hips and thighs with athletic cuts.
• Lightweight, thin materials don’t add bulk.
• Stretch paneling conforms around your swing.
• Extra length in most styles to cover golf shirts.

I recommend sizing up if you’ll wear them over bulky layers. And choose adjustable leg openings for getting them over golf shoes easily.

How Do They Hold Up Playing in Heavy Rain?

As an all-weather golfer, I’ve tested Walter Hagen pants in some absolute downpours and can vouch for their performance. Here’s what makes them ideal for heavy rain play:

• Fully seam-sealed waterproofing up to 20,000mm rating.
• Durable ripstop fabrics resist tearing when soaked.
• Taped seams prevent leakage through stitching.
• Waterproof zippers keep pelting rain out.
• GORE-TEX options stay breathable when fully drenched.

As long as you choose their premium Storm Series rainwear, Walter Hagen pants lock out heavy rain all day long.

Pockets – How Many and What Type?

Storing essentials like scorecards and balls when the weather’s nasty can be frustrating without secure pockets.

Most Walter Hagen rain pants have these handy storage features:

• Side seam pockets – Two standard open pockets fit hands and essentials.
• Back pockets – One or two sealed, zippered rear pockets for valuables.
• Leg pocket – Small zippered pocket holds tees, marker, etc.
• Cargo pockets – Some styles feature these larger open outer thigh pockets.

Interior mesh pockets provide breathability if lined. Check exact pocket locations and types on each pair you’re considering.

How Lightweight Are They for Hot Weather?

Thick, heavy rainwear quickly gets unbearable as you heat up walking the course on muggy days.

Walter Hagen’s pants are specially constructed using thin waterproof fabrics to remain lightweight and cool:

• Most weigh under 1/2 pound for the whole pair.
• Breathable mesh panels add ventilation.
• No bulky insulation or fleece lining on most styles.
• Athletic-inspired designs eliminate excess material.

I’d recommend their microfiber or ripstop pants for the most featherweight feel and freedom of movement.

Durability – How Long Should They Last?

Investing in rain gear means you want it to protect you through countless rounds in the elements. Walter Hagen constructs their pants to be highly durable:

• Reinforced stress points at knees, crotch, and hems.
• Tough ripstop fabrics avoid tearing or abrasions.
• Rust-proof zippers, snaps, and hardware.
• Durable DWR coating lasts through washes.

Barring any damage from carts, tree branches, etc., you can expect Hagen rain pants to realistically last 2-4 years with proper care. Rotate multiple pairs to extend their lifespan even longer.

Available Color Choices

While most golf rainwear comes in safe, neutral shades, Walter Hagen offers some stylish color options:

Men’s colors: black, white, navy, steel gray, royal blue, olive green, burnt orange

Women’s colors: black, white, navy, light blue, dark purple, bright pink

Their more vivid shades like royal blue or pink make a fun statement on the course when skies are dreary.

Choose darker hues to avoid visible dirt, or white/light colors that reflect heat if you play mostly in hot climates.

Reviews From Fellow Golfers

Before buying my first pair of Walter Hagen pants, I scoured online reviews to learn from other buyers’ experiences.

Here’s what real golfers praise about Hagen rain pants:

• True waterproofing even in torrential conditions
• Athletic cut allows free swing movement
• Lightweight for walking multiple rounds
• Details like adjustable waists and leg openings
• Packable into included pouch for easy portability
• Nice quality and construction for reasonable prices

I’d recommend sorting reviews by your torso and inseam measurements to find feedback from golfers with similar fit needs.

How Do They Compare to Other Top Golf Brands?

Walter Hagen rainwear stacks up very well against competitors from other major golf companies like Callaway, Adidas, Under Armour, and more.

Key advantages of Walter Hagen rain pants:

• Frequent sales with prices $20-50 less than other brands
• Wide selection of technical and casual styles for any golfer
• Established reputation with decades in the golf industry
• Offer sizes not carried by some competitors
• Includes handy storage pouch; other brands charge extra
• Widely available both online and in golf/sporting goods stores

For the combination of quality, value, and performance – Hagen is tough to beat!

Are They Windproof Too?

There’s nothing more annoying than cold winds piercing right through your rain gear on an otherwise pleasant day. That’s why I look for pants that provide wind protection too.

Many Walter Hagen styles are made of tightly woven, coated fabrics that act as a barrier against blustery gusts. Features like full-length leg zippers, drawcords, and lined pockets also seal out drafty winds.

Their Storm Series offers the most complete protection from both howling winds and driving rain. Look for windproofing specs when you shop.

Finding the Best Discounts and Deals

The biggest dilemma with buying quality golf rain pants is that top brands can get pricey. The good news is Walter Hagen rainwear goes on sale frequently – you just have to know where to look!

Some tips for finding the best discounts:

• Check Walmart.com for online-only reduced pricing.
• Sign up for email lists from large retailers for instant sale notifications.
• Shop at the start and end of each golf season for clearance closeouts.
• Look for coupons and promo codes on shefinds.com and offers.com.
• Buy previous year’s styles on eBay or Amazon for big savings.

With strategic shopping, you can grab premium Hagen rain pants for under $50!

Return and Exchange Policies

It’s hard to know if rain pants will fit properly until you try them on and move around. That’s why I only buy from retailers with hassle-free return policies, like:

• Dick’s Sporting Goods – 90 days to return for any reason, even if washed/worn.
• Roger Dunn Golf Shops – 90 day guarantee with receipt.
• Walmart – 90 days with receipt on most new items. Easy online returns.
• Amazon – 30 days for refund. Pay return shipping on clothing.

Make sure to try pants on as soon as possible and move through your swing. Return or exchange immediately if sizing is off.

The Right Rain Pants Can Keep You Playing Through Any Weather

Hopefully this comprehensive buying guide gives you all the must-know info for choosing the perfect Walter Hagen rain pants for your golf game and budget. Investing in waterproof gear designed specifically for golfers can mean the difference between heading for the clubhouse or finishing 18 holes when the weather sours.

I’d recommend trying on pants in person whenever possible, but the adjustable waists and hems make sizing less of a guessing game if you have to purchase online. Focus on technical features like breathable waterproof ratings over 10,000mm and adjustable leg openings for the best performance in wet conditions.

Once you’ve found that ideal pair of Walter Hagen’s that check all your boxes, you’ll gain the confidence to walk through the pouring rain to your golf ball without sacrificing your swing – or getting drenched! Here’s to many more comfortable and carefree rounds playing through the elements. Let it rain!