Best Clothing to Play Golf
Dressing the part is a big deal when playing golf. Especially since etiquette dictates that pants, shorts, and skirts should not touch the ground (this is considered a mark of disrespect).
Proper clothing will feature weather-regulating technologies such as moisture wicking fabrics and nanomaterials that help with body thermoregulation. These will keep you cool and dry for a better shot at that par.
Shirts
Whether you're a golf fanatic or just looking to improve your game, having proper clothing for the sport is key. Golf shirts should be made of cotton or synthetic fabrics that let sweat evaporate to keep you cool, and they should also have stretch in them to help with movement as you swing. Many manufacturers have created specialized materials and technologies to make the best clothing to play golf, including moisture-wicking, stretchable, and UV protection technologies.
RLX and Original Penguin are great brands for classic golf apparel, but some newer players in the industry like Swing Juice and Metalwood Studio are making a big splash with their mix of streetwear and golf gear. Their shirts and pants aren't just breathable and stretchy but they have designs that set them apart from the pack.
If you're in the market for a more modern look, check out Nike's Dri-FIT Victory shorts. This polyester pair features a stretchy fit that moves with you on the course, plus the Swoosh's Dri-FIT technology that pulls sweat away from your skin for faster evaporation.
Another option is the no-notes Brady polo from Sid Mashburn, who's known for his menswear-inspired clothing that will turn heads on and off the course. This pique pocket polo is soft to the touch and durable with longterm wear and washes, while the collar and cuffs add a smarter aesthetic that aligns with golf's dress code.
Shorts
Golf is played in many weather conditions, and the right pair of shorts can make or break your day out on the course. Ideally, you want something that is flexible and breathable to keep your legs cool. While golfers often favor solid colors such as navy and white, there are also plenty of stylish printed options that look good on the links as well.
When choosing golf shorts, you should keep your club's dress code in mind. In general, shorts should be at least knee-length and not longer than 34 of the distance between your knees and hips. You should also avoid sun dresses, sweat pants and tracksuit trousers unless you're sure they're acceptable at your golf club.
If you're looking to add some flair to your golf wardrobe, consider a pair of printed shorts like these from Vineyard Vines. They're light, breathable and feature a stylish floral print that stands out on the golf course. The UA Drive shorts are another good choice for those who love to play in warmer weather. These lightweight shorts are made from a stretchy material that's quick-drying and moisture-wicking, which helps you stay dry.
Whether you prefer to go with a traditional color such as navy or white or want to try something a bit more bold, there are golf pants to suit any taste and budget. Some pants are made from cotton, while others use synthetic materials that help to regulate your temperature and wick away sweat. Some pants are also designed with stain resistance so they don't get ruined by rain and dirt, which is important if you play frequently.
Jackets
One of the most essential pieces of golf clothing is the jacket. Whether you're facing an unexpected downpour or windy conditions a quality waterproof jacket will help make your round that little bit more enjoyable.
Fortunately, there's plenty of options out there from some of the best golf brands in the business. Nike, for example, offers a range of versatile waterproof golf jackets that are designed to keep you comfortable in a variety of conditions. Their 'Blocktech' jacket is resilient against all the elements and includes a hood for additional protection from rain or wind.
Other brands such as Peter Millar offer a range of high-performance golf jackets that are suitable for all weathers. Their 'Crown Sport' collection boasts jackets that are fully waterproof, seam-sealed and feature a soft, comfortable two-way stretch to ensure you can move freely and play your best game of golf regardless of the conditions.
FootJoy also provide a range of water-resistant golf jackets including the 'HydroKnit' model which is badged as offering fully waterproof breathable protection for golfers. The jacket is also lightweight, soft to the touch and comes with a range of features for golfers to enjoy such as a zipped chest pocket to store tees or markers and a brushed interior to retain warmth. The jacket also promotes mobility in the swing via a stretchy pair of sleeves with a stylish woven tire finish.
Pants
For most golfers, pants are a key piece in their wardrobe. They need to be comfortable enough for hours of walking and swinging, while looking smart and keeping the player cool. They also need to be durable and quick-drying so they don’t hold onto moisture, and offer flexibility and stretch for a variety of positions. The best golf pants offer the perfect blend of performance and style.
A few years ago, golf pants were typically made of cotton, or a cotton blend with some sort of cooling fabric or stretch. Now, most are polyester – often with additional features like UV protection and moisture-wicking. They are designed to be as durable and fast-drying as possible, with a tailored fit that isn’t baggy and a variety of colors, textures and styles.
This pair from Peter Millar is one of the most premium golf pants on the market, combining performance and style. The EB66 are wind-and-waterproof, but have a slim fit and a weekend-ready five-pocket design. They come in a range of excellent colors and have a smart and functional lining inside the waistband to keep your shirt tucked.
Another excellent option is these trousers from KJUS. They’re slim-fitting (so be sure to order a size up) and crafted from a lightweight, breathable stretch-twill that’s engineered to manage body temperature in hot or cold weather. They’re full of pockets and have a clever flap in the back pocket that acts as a scorecard holder.