Plaid Jackets: A Golf Tradition's Rich History

The Charles Schwab Challenge, a staple on the PGA Tour for 80 years, honors its champions with a distinctive plaid jacket. This tradition, which began in 1952, replaced the initial navy blue jackets awarded to winners. The vibrant plaid design, inspired by Scotland, is crafted from wool imported annually from Scotland and features seventeen colors in its original iteration.

Golf legend Ben Hogan was the first to don the iconic tartan jacket in 1952, having previously won the tournament multiple times. Since 1989, Barry Smith has been the sole tailor responsible for creating these personalized jackets, meticulously measuring champions for their custom-fitted garments. Winners receive the Leonard Trophy alongside the jacket during the ceremony.

The club maintains a collection of these jackets for past champions, who return annually for the tournament. While the plaid design has been consistent since 1952, the tournament briefly reverted to navy blue for its 30th anniversary. The jacket's value is estimated at approximately $1,500.

Numerous golfing greats, including Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus, have been honored with this prestigious award. Only nine players have achieved the distinction of winning both the Colonial plaid jacket and the Masters' green jacket, highlighting the tournament's significance.