
What is the role of clothing in golf?
The clothing in golf is a part of the decorum of the game, perhaps more so than any other sport. Not only is there an unspoken etiquette, but most golf courses have a dress code that requires particular attire in order to play.
What are golfers supposed to wear on the course?
However, the clothes golfers are supposed to wear on the golf course has changed over the years, evolving from what amounts to a full suit with some knickers to a much more relaxed dress code. Acceptable golf attire is slightly different for men and for women, so we've separated what you should wear accordingly.
What is the golf dress code?
There is no one golf dress code as the answer depends upon which club you visit, but there are some common themes as we explain... There is no set or fixed golf dress code. A golf club’s dress code is whatever the club concerned decides. Some clubs are happy to have none, other can have some highly complicated regulations.
Why do golfers wear socks?
Over the years, socks have become an important part of golf attire, mainly because advances in fibers help to keep a golfer comfortable and his feet dry. Golf socks come in a variety of styles. Many golfers who wear shorts choose ankle-length socks that are barely visible above the shoes.

Why do you have to wear certain clothes to golf?
Golf has long had a dress code and etiquette that players must adhere to. This has been a way to keep new golfers as well as veterans of the game in line with the traditions of the game.
Do you have to wear nice clothes to golf?
Mostly no. If the driving range is at the actual course and is near the clubhouse, it may require you wear golfing clothes. But if it's anything else like Top Golf or a standalone driving range, you can hit balls in any clothes you like. There is no need for collared shirts and golf trousers.
What does proper golf attire mean?
Traditional golf attire calls for shorts or long pants, in materials like cotton. Golf clubs prefer dressier options for slacks. Pants or shorts often have a pleat to them or can be flat-front. Players should always wear a belt with their shorts or pants. Note that some courses will only allow golfers to play in pants.
How should you dress for golf?
What's appropriate to wear:Shirt: A golf shirt is perfect. ... Pants, Skirts, Skorts, and Culottes: Pants always will do very nicely—linen, khaki, cotton, or, in cold weather, wool. ... Shorts: Bermuda-length shorts particularly are appropriate virtually everywhere these days, especially in warm weather.More items...
Why do you need a collared shirt to golf?
Most clubs require collared shirts because they fit within the tidy, semi-formal standards. However, not all clubs require collars. Check with your local golf course on their dress requirements.
Do you have to wear golf shoes on a golf course?
Golf Shoes Improve Your Game As far as the actually playing of golf, golf shoes are recommended, but not required. You can play your way around the golf course in tennis shoes, running shoes, cross trainers, or any shoes you wish (so long as they do not damage the turf and are permitted by the golf course).
Why are jeans not allowed in golf?
To be safe, stick to black or grey jeans that are clean and holeless. The reason jeans aren't allowed on most courses is because it's just tradition from back in the day. Quite a while ago, most courses were country clubs with memberships, and most of the people who went there were upper class people.
What is golf club casual attire?
Casual: Golf attire. Country Club Casual: Collared dress shirt and slacks. Smart Casual: Jackets suggested. Formal: Jackets and Tie; suits optional. Black Tie: Tuxedos suggested.
What do you need to golf?
There are several clubs you'll need including the putter, the pitching wedge, the sand wedge, the driver, the three, five, seven, and nine irons, and the three wood. These are the minimum that most golfers need to play the game.
What should I wear first time golfing?
Your best options are to go with golf trousers or slacks. Also, try to stay away from white pants. Your safest color options would be neutral colors, such as khaki, gray, tan, and beige.
What should you not wear when golfing?
Don't wear denim, cargo shorts, jeans, sweatpants, yoga pants or other athletic pants. Don't wear either your pants or shorts too long; it's sloppy. Don't wear pants with cuffs or pleats (fashion faux pas – we're here to help you look good)! If wearing shorts, don't wear them too tight or short.
What is important about a golf shirt?
What is important is that it is comfortable and has a collar . While some pros play in funky turtlenecks and the like, this is probably not the best idea for most golfers at a regular club. Rather play it safe and get a golf shirt with a collar.
Why do you need to wear a few layers when playing golf?
If you are playing in cold conditions or early or late, you might want to add a few layers for warmth and comfort. You want something neutral that will not impede your swing or movement.
What do you need to wear to a sex party?
If you are unsure, check first. At a bare minimum, have a decent pair of shorts or slacks and a shirt with a collar.
What do women wear?
Ladies often wear a skirt or a skort (short with a front and back panel to look like a skirt). Capri pants and culottes are also popular. Some ladies play in a golf dress.
What are golf shoes good for?
Quality golf shoes will give you a firm grip and allow for fast swings. They are also handy when you are on a bank or an uneven lie.
What to wear to play 18 holes?
A Cap or Hat. 18 Holes can take a while and you generally play come rain or shine. The sun can do untold damage and the rain, even a light drizzle, is just unpleasant. A comfortable hat or cap will protect you from the elements and allow you to enjoy the game. You might want one for sun and one for rain.
How to wear a belt for slim people?
Go for a comfortable belt with a bit of stretch so that it does not dig into you. You can be bold and go for contrasting colors but this is best for slim people. A belt that matches your trousers or shirt will not draw attention to your waist.
What is the dress code for golf?
Dress codes vary in strictness depending on the policies of the golf course that you are playing. A good indicator of whether there is a dress code is the price of the course you plan to play. The higher the green fees, the more likely there is to be a dress code for golfers. In general, a collared shirt and Dockers-style shorts or slacks will get ...
Do golf courses have metal spikes?
Most golf courses have outlawed metal spikes. Make sure you're wearing golf shoes with soft spikes or other non-metal golf cleats; or wear a soft-soled shoe of some other type (tennis shoes, for example—never anything with a hard heel). The higher up you go in green fees, the more likely a course will be to require its customers to wear golf-specific shoes.
Do you wear jeans on golf courses?
In general, a collared shirt and Dockers-style shorts or slacks will get you onto most golf courses (additionally, golf skirts or skorts for women). Many lower-priced courses also permit denim shorts or blue jeans. But most upscale courses require collared shirts and have a no-denim rule.
Can John Daly wear pants?
Or, "sorry, John Daly can wear those ridiculous pants on the PGA Tour, but you can't wear them here.". We know, a collar on a shirt doesn't sound like much, but if the course requires collars and you show up in a t-shirt, you'll either be buying a collared shirt in the pro shop or heading home. So: Know before you go.
Do golf courses have dress codes?
To recap: Yes, many golf courses—especially non-municipal courses— do have golf dress codes. If you wear a shirt with a collar and Dockers-style pants or shorts, you'll meet the dress code of 95-percent of courses. But always call ahead before playing a new course and ask for the specifics.
Can you show up to a golf course without meeting the dress code?
Golf courses will turn away golfers who show up without meeting the dress code if there is one in place (or you can choose to buy expensive pro shop golf apparel in order to bring yourself up to the course's standards).
Do golf courses require collared shirts?
But most upscale courses require collared shirts and have a no-denim rule. A very small number of (mostly private luxury) courses even have no-shorts rules, requiring golf slacks.
Why is golf clothing important?
Golf clothing is important from a comfort standpoint , and many courses have strict rules about attire. The clothing in golf is a part of the decorum of the game, perhaps more so than any other sport. Not only is there an unspoken etiquette, but most golf courses have a dress code that requires particular attire in order to play.
What should women wear to golf?
Women also should wear long trousers, capris or dress shorts, or what are called golf skirts. These garments are made with a cut pleat or V-notch on the front or side to allow for motion in the golf swing and include an undershort. Cut-off jeans and workout, running or basketball shorts usually are not permitted for men or women.
What type of shirt do golfers wear?
In nearly all cases, golf courses require that men wear collared shirts. This usually means traditional cotton, microfiber or polyester golf shirts.
Why do golfers wear socks?
Over the years, socks have become an important part of golf attire, mainly because advances in fibers help to keep a golfer comfortable and his feet dry. Golf socks come in a variety of styles.
What is the purpose of golf shoes?
Golf shoes will help stabilize a player's swing, allow for traction when walking and provide comfort during a round that can last several hours. These shoes include spikes on the soles.
Can women wear golf tops?
Women's golf tops vary greatly, with or without collars, but all adhere to a traditional sense of modesty. This means no bathing suit tops or tube tops. T-shirts or tank tops usually are not permitted for men or women.
Do golfers wear hats?
Golf hats usually are not specified in a dress code, but certain headgear is more appropriate.
What are the clothes that golfers are not allowed to wear?
Usually, the list of clothes that golfers are not allowed to wear on the course can be broadly described as hip and perhaps more controversially, the domain of the working class. Jeans, jogging bottoms, sports tops, collarless t-shirts and training shoes are all frowned upon and deemed unfit for golfing purposes.
Is golf a tradition?
That line depends very much on your viewpoint. Many golf clubs adopt these rules simply because they are expected to. It is a tradition and therefore must be obeyed. The logic is applied here in much the same way as you are forced to spend every Christmas with whacky Auntie Gladys who still sees you as 8 years old and that your ideal Christmas present is a knitted hat and matching mittens.
Should tradition be retained in golf?
Tradition is a key element of golf and should be retained, but with a degree of flexibility. Would golf clubs prefer to go to the wall and lose members, rather than let a man in a neat, stylish and collarless (heaven forbid!) t-shirt play on the course? When golf clubs finally understand this paradox of claiming they are more open to all than ever before, yet their code of conduct and golf dress codes preclude the typical leisure wear of the vast majority, they may start to understand the disconnect and the decline in membership numbers.
Can you play golf in jeans?
A quick visit to any municipal golf course will reveal a different picture. Here the heretics of the golfing world not only play the game in denim, with t-shirts without a collar and even training shoes – but tellingly, and perhaps at odds with the belief that jeans on a golf course can only lead to anarchy. They also play the game with the same adherence to the other rules and regulations of golf, many that you will see exhibited on any private course (and may even be capable of hitting a good score)
Is golf a faux pas?
Golf is unwavering adherence to certain principles and golfing etiquette that, while not part of the rules of the game, remain central to how golf is played. Chatting audibly while people are taking their shots and standing on another golfers line on the putting surface are definite “faux pas”. But perhaps most obvious of all, it is a game that requires its own peculiar, understated golf fashion and its own golf dress code.
Why do people wear golf shoes?
Golf shoes are used to create traction, employing soft or metal spikes. Most golf courses no longer allow metal spikes. Golfers who damage a golf green with their shoes should repair the damaged area. When you wear golf shoes, bring a divot repair tool to fix any holes you make on the course.
What to wear when playing golf in cold weather?
When playing in cooler weather, wearing a vest, sweater or golf jacket is acceptable. These clothing items are often light-weight but will protect you from rain and cold weather.
What material should I wear for golf shorts?
Cotton is a popular material for golf shorts, with khaki shorts a common choice. Similar material is common for golf pants, but not required. Many golfers wear pants made of water-resistant material. Pants normally don't have cuffs, which can collect dirt and grass. Jeans or jean shorts are usually prohibited.
What to wear on a professional tour?
You may want to choose a brightly colored shirt with neutral-colored shorts. If you wear plaid, only use one paid element, shirt or pants.
What to ask before booking a tee time?
Before booking a tee time, make sure to ask the course pro shop about any clothing requirements.
Can you wear a t-shirt on a golf course?
T-shirts may be allowed on some public courses, but they are generally not considered appropriate golf attire. Golfers should never wear sleeveless T-shirts or play without a shirt.
Do golf shirts have a collar?
Golf shirts should always be worn with a collar. Many golf shirts have a breathable material that allows sweat to evaporate, causing less discoloring in shirts around sweat-prone areas of your body. This type of shirt may be a better choice over cotton shirts.
What should I wear for golf?
Bottoms: Golf pants, shorts and skirts should be made from a fabric that allows your skin to breathe, wicks away moisture, and doesn’t restrict your movement. You can’t go wrong with the colors khaki, black or white but you can also have fun with color.
What to wear to golf on sunny days?
Socks should come to your ankles and not rise above them. Wear a cool cap, visor, or straw hat, especially on sunny days.
What to wear to a country club?
Wear collared or polo-style shirts made of cotton, microfiber or polyester blends and tuck them into your bottoms. Same is true as a spectator or while dining. Most country clubs require collared shirts inside the clubhouse and dining area so dress accordingly. Ladies on hot days, sleeveless golf shirts are appropriate.
What to wear on a cooler day?
Layer for cooler days with sweaters, vests, collard button-down shirts, light jackets or windbreakers. If you layer a crewneck sweater over a sport shirt, keep the collar in for a trim clean look. Don’t layer with denim Jackets, sweatshirts, or hoodies. Don’t oversize.
What to wear to avoid blisters?
Wear simple jewelry and a golf glove to avoid blisters and callouses. Wear a belt (you have belt loops for a reason). Match your belt to your shirt or pants. Wear a good watch that is sweat proof and waterproof. Don’t wear cowboy hats, dressy fedoras, or beanies.
How high should shorts fall?
If wearing shorts, they should fall to just above your kneecaps. Ladies have more of variety with skirts, skorts and dresses. These should hit between mid thigh and the knee, no more then two inches above the knee. And it’s best if the skirt has shorts built into it.
What should golf pants be made of?
Golf pants, shorts and skirts should be made from a fabric that allows your skin to breathe, wicks away moisture, and doesn’t restrict your movement.
What shirt did Tiger Woods wear to the 2005 Masters?
Tiger Woods won the 2005 Masters wearing a collarless shirt.
Do shorts have to be tailored?
Well not so much the shorts themselves - most clubs require that they are tailored and long - so release your inner Victorian explorer striding through the jungle with your pith helmet on, not your inner tennis player or an eighties footballer - but in the matter of the accompanying socks.
Can you wear golf shoes without a golf shoe?
Shoes can be an issue. Trainers used to be out, as it has to be golf shoes at most courses. They still are, but the good news for those without golf shoes is that the modern golf shoe often looks so like a pair of trainers it is hard often to work out what people are wearing.
Do golf clubs require socks?
Some clubs require long socks, so that the only bare bit of flesh left is a knee cap; others allow any type of socks; some only allow short socks when they are white .
Do golf clubs have rules?
Some golf clubs have very strict rules, some do not care what you wear. Roderick Easdale dons a jazzy pair of trews and tiptoes through this particular minefield
What are Golfers Expected to Wear at a Prestigious Golf Course?
This usually means wearing a collared shirt, dress trousers or skirts, and formal shoes. Again, this is done to create a sense of professionalism and respectability.
Does the clubhouse have the same dress code as the golf course?
In most cases, the clubhouse has more relaxed rules than the golf course. A collared shirt is still required, but you're allowed to wear other types of clothing as well. This gives players a chance to change into something more comfortable after they finish their round.
