If you’re gearing up for your first round of golf, you might be wondering what to wear on the course.
While some golf courses have specific dress codes, most have general guidelines to ensure comfort, functionality, and respect for the course and other players. Dressing appropriately for golf can also help improve your performance and confidence.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the basics of golfing attire for both men and women, as well as essential accessories, to consider when dressing for a quick round of golf. From shirts and bottoms to footwear and sun protection, we’ll cover everything you need to know to dress appropriately for golf.
Read on!
What to Wear Golfing for the First Time: Golf Course Dress Code Guidelines
Golf course dress codes are in place to maintain professionalism and respect for the game, and failing to comply with them could result in being turned away from the course.
Here are some general guidelines to follow when deciding what to wear golfing:
Clothing
- Men and women should wear golf clothes with collared shirts or golf-specific shirts.
- Golf pants or golf shorts made of flexible fabric like polyester are recommended. Jeans, cargo shorts, and gym shorts are not allowed.
- Avoid clothing with offensive messages, logos, or designs that could distract other players.
- Flip-flops, sandals, sports jerseys, and running shoes are prohibited. Golf shoes with soft spikes or rubber soles and ankle-length socks are ideal.
Checking the Course’s Dress Code
Before you play golf, check the dress code requirements. This information can usually be found on the course’s website.
Many golf courses have different dress code requirements for other parts of the course, such as the clubhouse or the driving range, so it’s essential to clarify any specific requirements.
Observing Other Golfers
If you’re playing golf at a club, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and dress more formally.
You can also observe what other golfers wear on the course to understand the general dress code.
Compliance with Guidelines
Remember that the dress code is in place to maintain professionalism and respect for the game, so it’s crucial to comply with the guidelines.
So, if you need help deciding what to wear, ask in advance rather than risk being turned away on the day of your game.
Men’s Golf Clothes
Men’s golfing attire should be stylish, functional, and respectful of the course and fellow players.
In the previous section, we discussed general golf course dress code guidelines for both genders. Now, let’s focus on men’s specific attire on the golf course.
We’ve compiled a list of top picks for each piece of golfing attire to help you feel confident and comfortable on the course.
Shirts and Tops
Men’s golfing attire typically requires a collared shirt, either a traditional button-up or a collared polo shirt.
Golf shirts are made with breathable fabric to wick away sweat and help regulate body temperature, which can be particularly useful on hot days. They may also feature technologies such as UV protection and moisture-wicking capabilities.
When choosing a golf shirt, selecting a size and cut that allows for freedom of movement is crucial, as a golf swing requires a lot of twisting and turning. In addition, choosing a golf shirt with a flattering fit that doesn’t sag or bunch up when you swing is also important.
Colors and patterns are generally a matter of personal preference, but it’s always best to avoid loud, distracting prints or logos.
These are our best picks for men’s golf shirts and tops:
- Nike Men’s Dri-FIT Victory Solid Polo
- Under Armour Men’s Performance Golf Polo
- Callaway Men’s Opti-Dri Golf Polo
Bottoms
Men’s golf pants should be tailored, not too baggy, and allow for a full range of motion. You should always avoid jeans, cargo shorts, gym shorts, or anything too restrictive or casual.
The color of your golfing bottoms is a matter of personal preference.
Still, choosing neutral colors that quickly match various shirts and accessories is generally best. Many golfers also wear belts with pants or shorts to add a finishing touch to their golf attire.
The following bottoms are ideal for the golf course:
- Under Armour Men’s Showdown Golf Shorts
- Adidas Men’s Ultimate365 Golf Pants
- Callaway Men’s Stretch Solid Pant
Golf Shoes or Footwear
Men’s golfing attire for footwear typically includes spikeless golf shoes, soft spikes, or rubber soles. Golf shoes are designed to provide traction and stability on the course, helping golfers maintain their balance during their swing. Most courses prefer soft spikes, as they are less likely to damage the green than metal spikes. Golf shoes also often have waterproofing and breathable features to keep feet dry and comfortable in all weather conditions.
When choosing golf shoes, it’s essential to consider the fit and support they offer, as well as their style and color. It’s best to select shoes that provide good arch support and fit comfortably without being too tight or loose.
The most common colors for golf shoes are black and white, but some golfers choose to express their personality by wearing shoes in bold colors or patterns.
Here are some golf shoes you should consider:
- FootJoy Men’s Flex Golf Shoes
- Skechers Men’s Go Golf Elite 3 Golf Shoes
- Nike Men’s Air Zoom Infinity Tour Golf Shoes
Women’s Golfing Attire
Women’s golfing attire should balance fashion and function to ensure a great golfing experience. To delve deeper into women’s golfing attire, check out our comprehensive guide: “The Ultimate Guide to Women’s Golfing Attire.”
Here are our top picks for women’s golfing attire –– from shirts and shorts to shoes and accessories.
Shirts and Tops
Women’s golf-specific tops are designed with stretchy, moisture-wicking materials that allow for a full range of motion while keeping the body cool and dry. Sleeveless tops are generally acceptable, but tank tops or spaghetti straps are inappropriate.
It’s essential to select tops that are not too tight or too loose but instead have a comfortable and flattering fit.
Bright colors and patterns are often seen on the golf course, but it’s always best to avoid any prints or logos that could be distracting.
These are some of our favorite women’s golfing shirts and tops:
- Adidas Women’s Club 3-Stripes Polo
- Titleist Women’s Performance Golf Shirt
- Under Armour Women’s Zinger Golf Polo
Bottoms
Women’s golfing attire for bottoms typically includes golf pants, shorts, or skorts made of flexible, moisture-wicking fabric. Leggings or yoga pants are generally inappropriate on the golf course unless designed explicitly for golfing.
Golf pants should be tailored to provide a flattering fit while allowing for a full range of motion. Shorts and skirts should be appropriate – not too short or long – and should always be paired with socks.
The color of your golfing bottoms is a matter of personal preference. Still, choosing neutral colors that easily match various tops and accessories is generally best.
Here are three ideal golf bottoms for women:
- Tail Activewear Women’s Golf Essentials Ankle Pant
- Nike Women’s Dri-FIT UV Victory Golf Skirt
- Puma Golf Women’s Pwrshape Tech Pants
Golf Shoes or Footwear
Since soft spikes are less likely to harm the green than metal spikes are, most golf courses favor them. In addition, golf shoes frequently contain waterproofing and breathability characteristics to keep feet dry and comfortable in any weather. When selecting golf shoes, it is essential to consider fit, support, style, and color.
Choosing shoes that fit comfortably without being too tight or loose and offer sufficient arch support is best.
Although white and black are safe golf shoe colors, some golfers show their personalities by donning shoes in vibrant hues or patterns. In hot weather, women may also decide to wear golf sandals. But ultimately, the most crucial aspect of women’s golfing footwear is that they are comfortable, functional, and respectful of the course.
Check out our top golf shoes or footwear for women:
- FootJoy Women’s FJ Flex Golf Shoes
- Skechers Women’s Go Golf Eagle – Major Golf Shoes
- ECCO Women’s Biom Hybrid 3 Boa Golf Shoe
Must-Have Golf Accessories
In addition to the main components of golfing attire, several accessories can enhance a golfer’s performance and comfort on the course.
Among these accessories, sun protection, outerwear, belts, and gloves are some of the most common and crucial items that golfers should consider when dressing for a round of golf.
Sun Protection
Sun protection accessories are essential to any golfer’s attire, particularly during summer.
- Sunglasses with polarized lenses can help reduce glare and improve visibility, while hats with wide brims or visors can provide shade for the face and neck.
- Sunscreen with a high SPF is also essential to protect exposed skin from the sun’s harmful rays.
- Additionally, some golfers wear arm or compression sleeves to protect their arms from sun exposure.
When choosing sun protection accessories, it’s essential to consider the level of protection they offer and their comfort and fit. For example, sunglasses should be lightweight and fit snugly without causing discomfort, while hats should be breathable and fit securely without being too tight.
Outerwear
When choosing outerwear for golf, it’s essential to consider the level of warmth and protection it provides, as well as its breathability and water resistance.
For colder weather, a heavier jacket or sweater made from wool or fleece provides warmth while allowing for a full range of motion during swings. Waterproof jackets or windbreakers are also essential for golfers in wet or windy conditions.
Additionally, many golfers opt for vests, which provide extra warmth to the core without restricting arm movement.
Golf Glove
Golf gloves provide added grip and support during swings, particularly in wet or humid conditions. Golf gloves are typically made from a synthetic or leather material and come in full-finger and fingerless styles. Full-finger gloves provide warmth and protection, while fingerless gloves allow for more flexibility and breathability.
A well-fitting glove should be snug, not too tight, and provide enough grip to prevent slipping during swings, such as the following:
Level Up Your Golfing Game with Proper Attire and Accessories
Choosing appropriate attire and accessories can enhance your performance, protect your skin, and make you look great on the course.
Of course, even the best attire and accessories won’t replace the importance of golfing skills and techniques. That’s why we invite you to check out our blog post on whether golf lessons are worth it. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced golfer, investing in golf lessons could be the key to unlocking your full potential.
So, what are you waiting for? Put on your golfing attire, grab your golf clubs, and head to the course to test your newfound knowledge and skills. Good luck and happy golfing!