Oscar Jacobson have forged a reputation as makers of premium, high-quality apparel which marries up both technical performance and fashion-inspired designs.
For me it sits with the likes of Galvin Green and J.Lindeberg, two of the other large Scandivanian golf brands, as a high-end brand that guarantees quality and their apparel is usually stylish and sophisticated.
As part of their new range for 2024 they have introduced a new Hackney Thermal Padded Jacket, designed to add wind and water protection for colder days on the course.
Who Is It Aimed At?
Oscar Jacobson gear is typically aimed at golfers who are fashion-conscious - they want to look their best on the course and don't mind paying a premium for it. The designs are usually pretty classy, with relatively simple patters and colourways.
Historically, their apparel has been pretty expensive, true to their history as a high-end fashion tailor, so you may not have seen much of their stuff in your local Pro Shop (depending on where you play of course).
In recent years though, their offerings seem to have become a bit more reasonably priced, with plenty of their clothing available through online retailers, whilst retaining the same refined designs as years gone by.
The Tech
The Hackney is a full zip thermal jacket featuring a padded top panel, which is water resistant and windproof, as well as a lightweight breathable fabric on the rest of the body for a contemporary look.
A water-resistant full length zip provides added wind and weather protection, as well as completing the stylish look for what the brand are calling a 'performance garment'.
The full list of features are as follows:
- 92% Nylon, 8% Elastane
- Filler - 100% Polyester
- Water repellent fabric
- Padded upper body
- Zippered pockets
- Ribbed back hem
- Centre front waterproof zip
- Lockable branded zip puller
The Hackney Jacket is available in a choice of three different colourways: Navy, Black and Lunar Grey.
Oscar Jacobson Hackney Jacket Review
I was a big fan of the jacket's minimalistic design, featuring just a couple of subtle logos on the arm, shoulder and collar. Some brands have a tendency to make their logos too big or too garish on their clothing but I was pleased to see that OJ have resisted the temptation.
On their website this colour is described as 'lunar grey' but I'd say it's more like an off-white than a grey, particularly when in the sun when it appears even lighter.
As well as the light grey colourway that I tested, the jacket is also offered in Navy and Black if you wanted something a little darker (that might be easier to keep clean). I'm not a massive fan of wearing golf gear off the course, but I can imagine plenty of people would be more than happy to wear this jacket casually as it looks pretty stylish.
The padded sections of the jacket reminded me a little of the Abacus PDX Waterproof Jacket we reviewed last year, and provided a nice contrast from the breathable fabric elsewhere, I was surprised at how warm it kept me during a chilly morning of testing despite how lightweight it felt. I was able to swing without feeling any restrictions, as the slight stretch material gave a full range of movement.
The sleeves were really comfortable, and it was also easy to keep them out of the way during the golf swing which was a good thing. You don't want sleeves that are too long or baggy, or too tight, and the balance was just about right here.
The collar section on the back of the neck, complete with OJ logo, seemed to be a little larger than a normal collar which I liked because it added a little extra padded comfort and helped to keep the wind out, making the jacket feel a little bit warmer too.
Sealed zips are great for keeping out any moisture whilst also adding a nice touch in terms of design too, with the OJ logo appearing near the neck as you zip all the way up to the top.
One small downside that I did find was that the jacket had an elasticated hem at the bottom which was tighter than the rest of the jacket. This was great for a tighter fit, but it also meant that it tended to ride up a little at the bottom which was a bit annoying - I think I would've just preferred a standard fit that was a little more loose.
Oscar Jacobson Hackney Jacket Verdict
This was my first time testing OJ clothing and I was impressed as the Hackney offered the classic styling and premium quality that I was expecting.
It's not fully waterproof, but it could be perfect for chilly mornings or evenings, and would probably be fine in a light shower too. I could imagine wearing it pretty much all year round too, particularly in the Lunar Grey colourway which would look great in the spring/summer.
The jacket has an RRP of £129.99, although you can already find it a little cheaper than that online, which I think represents really good value for money for a versatile, comfortable and stylish jacket, particularly if you're someone who would get usage from it off the course too.
Would I Use It?
Absolutely, and I'm looking forward to taking it out on the course again soon.
Oscar Jacobson Hackney Jacket Pros and Cons
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Abacus PDX Waterproof Jacket Review
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