Beginner's Guide to Golf Clothing: Tips for Men's and Women's Golfing Apparel

Not all golf clothing is built the same, but the style is pretty consistent wherever you travel. In general, the golfing community expects men and women to wear nice slacks or shorts. Skirts and skorts are allowed for women. Shirts must have a collar and stay tucked in. Shoes may have cleats, but many golf courses only allow soft cleats and many avoid wearing golf specific shoes. Winter dress can be less formal, with turtle necks, fleece vests, and rain wear also allowed. General clothing made with the same style might work for golf, but in my experience golf specific sports clothing often is more comfortable and cooler to wear during golf.

The real distinction in how golf clothing differs from other sports wear is in the length of shorts and skirts, usually at shortest mid thigh. Sleeveless is allowed if the shirt has a collar, but they can be frowned on due to perspiration, sunburn and cultural differences. Jeans, untailored sweats, ragged cutoffs, are usually not allowed anyplace except public courses. Winter golf clothing should expect a spattering of mud.

Shirts
Our experience is that the lightest weight, most breathable golf shirts are preferred. Lycra in a top is really nice since it helps you bend and reach with your drives. New polyester lycra fabrics breath well and feel cool to the skin, but beware snags that make them look ratty. Most golf stores and golf courses carry the lightest weight fabrics for a decent price.

Slacks
My husband and his father, and I favor cotton slacks or cotton ramie slacks since these tend to be coolest. Pants with built in sun protection are nice in sunny climates.

Skirts and Skorts
My favorite golf skirts and skorts have an elastic waistline and are made of cotton polyester. Most for sale right now have lots of lycra, button closure, and don't bend. Check that you can touch your toes, windmill your arms and sit before buying a golf skirt or skort. If you find a good one, they provide a neat and feminine image.