Apparel Review: Ashworth Golf
by Jeffrey Reed, Editor, LondonOntarioGolf.com

When I think of Ashworth Golf, I think of Fred Couples, recently named as U.S. captain for the 2009 President’s Cup. Boom Boom is the epitome of cool style and grace on the golf course, and Ashworth Golf apparel is just that: stylish, dependable – and now, high-performance.

For the Summer/Fall 2008 season, Ashworth believes the fabric is the most important part of the garment. The first thing the company did was to research and test the newest and most innovative blended fabrics, 100% natural fabrics and Organic fabrics to see which ones could work into its design philosophy. Ashworth designs more to a mindset than to an age demographic. 

In its R&D process Ashworth has discovered a few incredible “Technical Performance” blended fabrics made of a combination of fine Pima cotton and polyester, the unique way the yarns are blended will basically give you the best of both worlds. These are light weight fabrics that breathe, wick moisture and are comfortable. Ashworth is calling this category of golf shirts “third groove performance” which simply means the ultimate in performance. 

A fabric category Ashworth is continuing from prior seasons and improving on is its EZ tech Hi-Def 100% luxury cotton. They have added a specialized “innosoft” finish that gives the fabric a lustrous and luxury feel but is easy care and does not wrinkle. This light weight cotton has a special no roll collar and is super comfortable to wear. This area of the Ashworth line is geared for a more classic and refined look.

Another new fabric category Ashworth has developed is a 100% Organic cotton that will be a small capsule line under the label “Ashworth Organics.” The colors in Ashworth Organics will be able to cross merchandise with the other pieces in the line. Ashworth is very excited about this direction as it incorporates some very comfortable fabrics and classic styles that are in keeping with what’s important in the world today and taking a step for environmentally friendly products.

Another new area Ashworth is developing is a capsule line called ASHW 33, which is geared for a slightly younger, hipper mindset. This group is very graphic oriented with interesting stitching details and will have a slimmer fit. Again this part of the collection is similar in color and will cross merchandise with other parts of the line.

Also, Ashworth Weather Systems is now more than ever dedicated to innovative and interesting second layer and outerwear pieces that will be technical, functional and suited for golf or daily life. 

As well, Ashworth pants and shorts are more unique in pattern with unexpected details, mostly flat front styles and in colors that will complement its knit top collections. Ashworth has some great core basic models in addition to a variety of novelty choices in the bottoms category.

A few samplings from the 2008 Ashworth Golf men’s collection caught our eye. The Classic Crewneck Linen Sweater will make you look like a champ on the course, and is stylish yet sophisticated enough to wear to work on casual Friday – or in the grille room after a round. The same can be said for Ashworth’s 100% cotton polo offerings, available in a rainbow of colours.

Want to look casual cool yet sophisticated on and off the course, just like the 2009 U.S. President’s Cup captain? Then check out the offerings from Ashworth Golf’s 2008 catalogue, online at www.ashworthcorporate.com.