It’s not uncommon for apparel companies to overlook the details when it comes to golf equipment.
Few things are more frustrating than putting on a brand new polo and finding loose threads, poorly sewn buttons or a collar that just doesn’t look right. With most golf polos now priced at $50, there’s no excuse for taking shortcuts when it comes to quality.
To quote Randall from Monsters, Inc.: “Do you hear that? It’s the winds of change.”
presenting Alby Golfan OEM that is willing to put its money where its mouth is.
Every outfit comes with one lifetime warranty. Their guarantee is simple: “If your item ever fails due to a manufacturing defect or workmanship problemwe will make it right—for life.”
That’s a bold claim, so I had to check out Alby Golf myself.
Poles
Alby Golf sent me the Bombs Away Polo priced at $88.
The polo came with minimal stitching issues, a comfortable fit derived from 92 percent polyester and eight percent Spandex, and a strong (but not too stiff) collar. The collar is the main part that won me over. I have worn golf polos in the past that struggle to get the collar right. It is either too stiff or too loose. I became Little Red Riding Hood when I put on the Bombs Away Polo because the collar was “just right”.
Aside from comfort, fit and construction, the most important factor is how easy the polo feels during your actual golf swing.
I hit a few shots and noticed no restriction in the arms and minimal baggage near the waist. The Bombs Away Polo felt good and can be compared to other top contenders in the golf apparel world.
There are currently four other models you can buy on the Alby website. You can find them by clicking the button below.
Q-Zip
The Gibson Q-Zip has a basic design, two colors and a great fit.
I was particularly impressed with the fit and comfort of the Gibson Q-Zip. It’s not too heavy, but it’s thick enough to use in spring/fall rotations. The comfort is on par with any other quarter zip I’ve worn, with an emphasis on elasticity and stretch.
As usual, I had to hit a few balls while holding the Gibson to make sure the restriction wasn’t an issue. Nothing to report.
The Gibson quarter zip won’t be enough in full winter conditions, but will do the job in 50 degrees or warmer. At $98, I’d label the Gibson Q-Zip a bit overpriced, but there are much worse ways to spend your money.
caps
Alby Golf makes five golf hats, each priced at $37.
I tested the 3D Bird Hat and noticed a few things I liked and one I didn’t.
What I liked:
The logo is clean. I don’t know for sure, but if I had to guess, the name “Alby” comes from the word “albatross.” If you are new to golf, an albatross is not just a bird, but a rare achievement in the game of golf that scores you a 3-under par for that specific hole. The logo pays homage to this achievement in the form of a bird.
What I didn’t like:
I consider myself a hat enthusiast. Actually, I have about 30 hats. The 3D Bird Hat feels looser than most of the hats I have in rotation. I noticed a lot more creasing than I preferred and it almost didn’t give off a “wrinkled” look. Don’t get me wrong, I’ll still wear the 3D bird hat. I would just say that I lack confidence in terms of long-term sustainability. Only time will tell.
reel
Nothing is taken for granted when it comes to my testing process.
If the gear is sucked in, I’ll tell you it’s weak. That said, the Alby Golf easily avoids the “sucks” category. You won’t find the same quality as a Johnnie-O or a Golf Malbon, but you’re taking a significant step up from what your local discount sporting goods store offers.
The promise of a lifetime warranty is the real kicker. If I had to guess, Alby Golf prioritizes getting it right the first time so that the lifetime warranty is used as infrequently as possible.
As mentioned, your devices are covered in terms of manufacturing defects and workmanship issues.
Here’s what’s not covered: (pulled directly from the ALBYLIFE GUARANTEE page)
- Normal wear and tear (fading, bunching, stretching over time)
- Damage caused by misuse, accidents or improper care
- Alterations or repairs not performed by Alby
- Items purchased second-hand or from unauthorized sellers
