The golfclubs4cash ultimate guide to golf clothing and shoes
Everyone wants to look and feel their best when they head out on a round of golf. But knowing what golf clothes to wear on the course can be overwhelming. Keeping up with the latest golf clothing trends, making sure you feel comfortable throughout the game, while also ensuring you are adhering to the rules of golf when it comes to clothing can get very confusing.
But don’t worry, there is absolutely no need to feel intimidated. As long as you look smart and presentable you won’t go far wrong, but it’s always a good idea to familiarise yourself with what not to wear so you don’t make any inadvertent mistakes. This is more for your comfort than it is anything else - if you feel good then you’ll look good - and hopefully play well too!
We’re here to answer all your questions so you can step out onto the course in full confidence. We’ll answer some of your most burning questions about clothing choices and golf shoes, before taking a closer look at the different types of golf attire so you can find the perfect outfit for you.
What are the rules when it comes to what to wear on the golf course?
The first thing to know is that, traditionally, golf has had a reputation for being overly formal and stuffy. Luckily, this is certainly no longer the case, and in a drive (if you’ll excuse the pun) to get more people into golf, the stricter golf dress codes are no longer enforced.
Back in the 15th century when golf first started in Scotland, it was pretty cold. So golfers tended to opt for thick fabric like tweed or plaid to keep them warm. They’d pair their ‘plus fours’ with flat caps and heavy jackets, and while things have moved on a lot since then, this original style still influences golf trends today.
What CAN’T I wear on the golf course?
These days, a more relaxed approach is taken to golf attire, but it is still expected that you will be on the smart side of casual. Denim is almost always a no-no, but this is for good reason - it’s not just that it’s a little too casual for the sport, but also that it gets pretty uncomfortable if you’re caught in the rain. So leave your jeans and denim jackets at home.
Sweatpants, or jogging bottoms are also frowned upon. Golf may be a little more casual these days, but it’s still expected that you will look smart. Most players don’t mind this at all, as getting ready for a game of golf is all part of the fun.
Football shirts are also generally not accepted, and neither are T-shirts, jersey hoodies, tracksuit tops or anything with big-banner advertising. It’s also advisable not to wear any clothing with offensive language or swear words on it, but we don’t need to tell you that!
Three-quarter-length shorts are out - they look too beachy and casual, and a lot of clubs rule against draw-string shorts in general. In terms of shoes, it’s fairly obvious but flip-flops and sandals won’t cut it, and trainers may be accepted in some places but they’re not the most practical choice. Caps worn backwards generally don’t go down well, either (and on the subject of caps, it’s generally good etiquette to remove any headwear before entering the golf club bar or restaurant - colloquially known as the 19th hole).
That may sound like a lot of things you can’t wear, but don’t fret - read on and we’ll talk you through all the options that you can choose.
What do I do if I’m unsure what to wear for a round of golf?
Most golf clubs have their own dress code, but it won’t tend to vary much from club to club. It’s always best to ask before you visit a golf club so that you don’t get caught out - and most will publish their golf clothing rules on their website. Likewise, any other rules that are implemented are far more likely to be about ensuring your comfort on the golf course, rather than any outdated, old-fashioned rules that are just there for the sake of it. If you’re in any doubt, check with your local golf club who will be only too pleased to help.
How do I stay up to date with the latest golf fashion trends?
If you’re keen to look up-to-the-minute then it’s a great idea to keep an eye on the PGA tournaments and celebrity pro-ams to see what the professionals are wearing. You’ll also find plenty of inspiration online, and at golfclubs4cash we often report on what the latest trends are so keep an eye on our blog.
I’m new to golf and don’t want to spend a fortune. What do I wear?
As a beginner in golf, even when you invest in second hand golf clubs and equipment, you can still end up spending quite a lot in order to get set up in golf. That’s totally understandable, but nobody expects you to go out and buy an entire new wardrobe. However, you will find that wearing the right clothes on the golf course will aid your game, so, in general, go for clothing that is smart and tight-fitting, while still loose enough that you’re comfortable.
If you’re on a budget, you don’t have to let that stop you from playing a round of golf. You can usually wear smart work trousers or chinos, a work shirt with a collar and buttons, a coloured polo shirt or a jumper with or without a zip. And when you’re ready to upgrade, take a look at our fabulous range of brand-new golf clothes and shoes for an unbeatable choice of golf attire that combines fashion with practicality on the golf course.
Do I have to stick to the golf clothing rules when I go to the driving range?
Most driving ranges are far more relaxed, and it’s not uncommon to see jeans and more casual attire when people are there just to hit balls and practise their golf swing. But again, it’s always sensible to ring ahead and check to save yourself a possible wasted journey.
What fabric is used to make the best golf clothes?
A range of fabrics are used depending on the type of clothing. For golf jumpers, Merino wool is a popular choice. When it comes to shorts and polo tops, you’re looking for a lightweight, good-quality fabric such as cotton, a cotton blend, or polyester. You might also come across golf clothes that are made from spandex or Rayon, too.
Women - what to wear on the golf course
Let’s start by looking at women’s golf clothes and shoes.
You can play it fairly safe with a pair of slimline black golf trousers that are suitable for all occasions. Pair them with a more brightly coloured golf top or polo shirt for a splash of personality. A gilet or vest is always a good idea for an extra layer of warmth should the weather conditions change, and you’ll be grateful for a thermal layer in the colder months.
Ladies often opt for a golf skirt, skort or shorts in warmer months. Most golfers like to invest in a good-quality waterproof golf jacket that can be kept in the golf bag for when it’s needed. This not only adds a layer of comfort and warmth, but it will also protect you from everything from showers through to torrential rain too.
We’ve got a great range of ladies’ golf shoes - both in brand-new and good condition, and our collection changes regularly so download our app to keep an eye on the latest additions.
Men - what to wear on the golf course
Gentlemen - it’s your turn! Smart trousers paired with a collared polo top or shirt is a classic golf wear combo. You can add in a belt to add a touch of style (along with practicality of course!).
Throw a smart, warm golf jumper or pullover in the golf bag and a waterproof layer for inclement conditions, and you’ll be well-equipped for most conditions.
Smart golf shoes are a must, along with some white golf socks, and consider investing in some shorts for the warmer seasons, and a thermal layer for the colder ones.
What are the rules for golf shoes?
You can choose soft spike golf shoes, which are good for gaining a little more grip on the ground, but bear in mind that the soles are very hard and uncomfortable to wear for a full 18 holes. Or, you can opt for spikeless shoes. Either are fine, but it’s useful to know that, when there is a lot of rain, spiked shoes can often be banned from the course due to the damage that they can inflict on the greens.
What about golf accessories?
A sunhat is always a sensible thing to pack, and don’t forget the umbrella for the inevitable British downpour! We may be straying from golf clothing slightly here, but many golfers like to bring a rangefinder or a wearable GPS watch out on the course with them to help them with the trickier shots.
Do I have to wear a golf glove?
No, golf gloves aren’t compulsory, but you will find that they are so useful that you’ll not want to head out for a game of golf without one. You don’t need to spend much on your golf glove - cheap and durable is fine. Find a glove that is comfortable and fits well, and remember that if you’re right-handed you’ll need a left-handed glove, and a left-handed golfer will need a right-handed glove. If you see someone that’s wearing two golf gloves, this is a dead giveaway that they’re a total beginner!
What are some of the most common golf wear brands?
Many of the leading gold brands such as Callaway and PING manufacture their own golf clothing ranges too. Beyond the obvious golf brands that you’d expect, high-street stores and high-end fashion houses have also got in on the fun. It’s not uncommon to see brands such as Calvin Klein, Hugo Boss and Ralph Lauren make an appearance. But - the main thing to remember when it comes to branded golf wear is that less is always more. Big logos are out, and subtle brand stamps are in - and we can’t see that changing.
What are the rules on golf caps and hats?
Generally speaking, you can wear a baseball cap (but only worn the right way round!) or a sun visor (avoid this option if you’re bald for obvious reasons!). Cowboy hats and bucket hats can be spotted on the golf course albeit less regularly, and wide-brim hats are accepted - but again - it’s a sure sign that you’re a newbie to golf, so avoid them if you don’t want to give the game away! And do we even need to tell you that sombreros are a bad call?! Probably not… but in the interests of a comprehensive round up of golf clothing we’ll include it!
Caption: A baseball cap (worn the right way around) is an acceptable choice for the golf course
No matter your size, shape or fashion preferences, we’ve got the perfect golf wear for you at golfclubs4cash, that’s the perfect blend of fashion and practicality, so that you can always feel confident and comfortable while you’re playing golf.
Our range of ladies’ and men’s golf clothing and shoes is growing and changing all the time, so if there’s something in particular you’re looking for let us know and we’ll see what we can do to help.
Everything we sell is covered under our comprehensive returns policy, so you can buy with 100% confidence. Check out our range of golf accessories today, and while you’re here, why not treat yourself to a new-to-you second hand golf driver, golf bag or putter?
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