What You Should Wear If You Don’t Have Golf Attire
By Bradley Turner Keiser University College of Golf Director of Online Golf Instruction, MBA, PGA
Golf is a sport that combines skill, strategy, athleticism, and a touch of style. What you wear reveals your unique golf personality. For those who are new to the sport, the desire to fit into the golf culture can be very important. Whether you are a seasoned golfer or a novice hitting the links for the first time, the right attire can enhance your game and ensure you adhere to the etiquette and expectations of the game. In this article, we will explore the essential elements of golf attire so you will be comfortable on the golf course and feel a sense of belonging in your golf community.
Understanding Golf Etiquette and Golf Dress Codes
Golf has a long history of traditional protocols and expectations for golfers. The majority of facilities have a golf dress code that requires players to wear approved apparel. Some private clubs will ask men to remove their hats when entering the clubhouse. For the novice golfer, the best solution in choosing golf attire is to wear generally expected tops and bottoms until you know the golf dress codes. You do not want to step up on the first tee and be asked to go back to the golf shop and purchase an appropriate shirt for the day!
Tops: What Works and What Doesn’t
A common expectation at many golf courses is for the men to wear collared golf shirts. A nice T-shirt is going to create a problem, even if it is a high-end brand. Polo-type golf shirts are a popular choice that offers a perfect blend of comfort and style. It is recommended to choose a lightweight performance golf shirt that wicks away moisture on hot and humid summer days. A new trend in golf tops is a long-sleeve shirt that offers protection from the sun while keeping you cool with high-tech golf fabrics. As for women, the rule of a collared shirt does not apply. Remember, golf has been a historically conservative sport, so it is best to keep that in mind when purchasing golf apparel.
Bottoms: Finding the Right Balance
Shorts are a common choice for warm-weather golf. The length of the shorts for men can be an issue as they can be too long or too short for many golf dress codes. Shorts that are just above knee height will work for every golf facility. Avoid overly casual shorts such as cargo shorts. Style continues to change as new generations pick up the sport. It is best if you begin your golf journey conforming to dress code expectations instead of becoming the fashion trendsetter in your golf community. However, don’t be afraid to infuse your style into your golf attire while adhering to the golf dress codes. For women, the only issue with the length of the shorts is if they are too short! The golf course is not the beach, so dress appropriately.
Footwear: Navigating Without Golf Shoes
Before purchasing a pair of stylish golf shoes, you might want to suffice with your basic athletic footwear. Tennis shoes are a good substitute for golf shoes since they are designed to support the change of direction needed in tennis. It is crucial that the shoes you choose to play golf provide stability and comfort. Uncomfortable footwear will make for a miserable day on the golf course. If you are going to invest in a pair of golf shoes, search for comfort first and performance features second. Style is your next consideration, followed by waterproof features to ensure your feet stay dry in various playing conditions. Style without comfort will make for a long day on the golf course.
Headwear: Sun Protection and Style
Headwear serves a dual purpose on the golf course. A wide-brimmed hat can provide the best protection from the sun, but any hat or visor is better than nothing. In addition, headwear can keep you comfortable and focused on your game by reducing the tension from squinting due to the sun. A hat can also provide a touch of classic style to complement your golf attire.
Outerwear: Weather-Appropriate Attire for a Change in Weather
You may be confronted with changes in the weather if you are playing an 18-hole round of golf. A typical round of golf will take over four hours to complete, and you need to be prepared for Mother Nature. A waterproof rain suit can be a valuable piece of outerwear when the weather turns ugly during your round of golf. The essentials would be a lightweight windbreaker or sweater to keep you warm while swinging the golf club with comfort. Dressing in layers on cool spring and fall days is ideal for golf performance and comfort.
Choosing the right attire for a round of golf is about more than just following club rules and etiquette. Golf requires the athletic movement of the body, so optimizing comfort and performance on the golf course is essential. By selecting clothing that blends functionality with style, you will step onto the first tee with confidence, ready to enjoy the round of golf while making a statement with your golfing attire.
Learn more!
Want more tips? If you want to take your game to the next level, contact our team at Keiser University’s College of Golf & Sport Management today. With our dedication and experience, together, we can elevate your game to new heights. Give us a call today at 888-355-4465.
