Elevate Your Game With These Golf Outfits
After a long week in the office, a modern (and fashionable) guy will want to wind down and head to the golf course to play a few holes. However, you will always want to keep your style status in check. In my latest article, I will offer a few ideas to elevate your golf outfit game.
Polo & Cropped Trousers
If you are looking for a classic staple, which is perfect for warmer days, grab a fun-looking polo and pair it with cropped trousers to ensure you stay cool during the game. This outfit adheres to almost all dress codes, is comfortable, keeps your body temperature regulated, and is suitable for all players.
Complete the look with a pair of breathable golf shoes and a quality belt (to add a touch of formality), and throw on a cap to complete the entire ensemble.
Golf Jacket, Polo & Khakis
Next, we have an outfit that adopts a more casual vibe and is also perfect for colder days—a luxury golf jacket worn over a polo shirt with comfortable khaki trousers. This particular style easily adheres to the majority of dress codes yet is visually less “stiff” than a traditional golfing outfit.
Choose a golf jacket that is lightweight and breathable. It will protect you against the cold but allow ease of movement, avoid excessive perspiration, and won’t weigh you down. For an eye-catching colour combo, select a white polo shirt and pair it with a green jacket.
Polo & Shorts
When the summer season hits, it is vital to keep yourself cool and comfortable (so your game does not suffer!), no matter the temperature. Once more, slip on a regular-fit polo (for breathability) and a pair of tailored shorts. This ensemble is easy to pull off and perfect if you want to spend a day on the course during those hot days.
Opt for golf shoes (again!), a sensible (yet stylish) hat, and a bold pair of socks that complement your ensemble in colour and pattern. However, be aware that many clubs require ankle socks (avoid straying from this rule, as you may be forced to abandon your game or go “sockless” on the course!).
This combination is undoubtedly one of the cleanest looks available for both casual golfers and seasoned pros – even world-class players are typically seen rocking this style! (And there is definitely no indication that it will fall out of fashionable favour anytime soon!).
Golf Jersey & Chinos
If a polo and shorts combo is the go-to option during the summer, then a golf jersey and chinos are the stand-out equivalent for the winter seasons. They follow the golfing attire rules, work for almost any body shape, and are available in a wide variety of colours and styles, allowing much-needed experimentation!
Classic Polo & Tailored Trousers
If you want to play it cool with a timeless ensemble, then go basic (but always chic) with a fitted polo and tailored trousers. This outfit type is popular among all walks of life, from casual players to world-class professionals, and will be on-trend for many more years to come.
Always aim for neutral colours and a minimal amount of accessories to ensure a simple yet ultra-stylish appearance.
Hoodie & 5-Pocket Trousers
Rather than sticking to the standard golfing rules, why not go for something different with an out-of-the-box ensemble? Invest in a quality hoodie and a pair of 5-pocket trousers (which are typically cut like denim). However, it is important to be aware that many clubs (especially super-formal varieties) will not allow this clothing choice on their grounds.
5-pocket trousers often boast a tailored fit (unlike the typically loose cargo trousers), which visually resembles golf trousers. Certain (less strict) clubs may welcome this modern take on the classic golfing outfit.
White & Grey
As a final idea, why not choose a monochromatic colour scheme? Black and white can easily be achieved in a variety of outfit choices and is an easy fallback option for almost any golfing event—from a relaxed Sunday on the course to a competitive tournament. It is a simple yet stylish affair suitable for every season.
Additionally, you can incorporate a long-sleeved undershirt or jersey for layering (which is always an effective style method). When the temperature drops, pull on a beanie (black or charcoal works well), and on those scorching summer days, slip on a pair of grey shorts.
Golf Attire Rules To Remember
Almost every golf club and tournament has its own rules and regulations, but the following clothing practices are common across the board (so always keep them in mind!).
Keep It Simple
Wherever possible, make sure your outfit is simple (yet stylish). Select a neutral colour palette, basic shapes and patterns – which will be fully acceptable in the majority of golf clubs (as sometimes high-end establishments will frequently ban overly bright colours and bold patterns).
The majority of clubs will require that you wear a collared shirt, tailored trousers (or shorts) and closed shoes (ideally, golf footwear). By following these specific rules, you will have no fear of running into any dress code issues, allowing you to focus your attention on the game.
More and more modern-day golfing ensembles (especially those with a minimalist appearance) can easily be worn off the course – a smart polo (with little to no branding), fitted trousers in an understated colouring, and an array of simple accessories. As soon as the game ends, you can head out to a much-deserved meal or a casual drink to celebrate your win (or quickly forget your loss!).
Avoid Overly Casual Clothing
On the other end of the spectrum, it is paramount that you avoid super-casual clothing such as drawstring trousers and shorts, denim jeans and T-shirts (otherwise, you may risk a total ban!). You will always need to maintain a certain level of “golf formality” to ensure you are welcomed by the club and your fellow members and enjoy a long-lasting membership.
Even so, some clubs have been known to relax their rules, especially if you are just playing a relaxed round with friends (or even colleagues)—just remember to call ahead and double-check if your casual clothing choices are acceptable (avoiding any unwanted issues upon arrival).
In recent years, there has been a shift towards younger golfers taking up the sport, and fashion choices have blurred the lines of what’s acceptable. A large number of those within the Gen Z generation are focused on apparel that values sustainability and authenticity – this has broken the unwritten golf dress code wide open, with many more people wearing casual outfits (sooner or later, even the very strictest of clubs will have to lower their terms to stay relevant and, more importantly, inviting to new members).
Shoes
When it comes to footwear, there can often be a greater level of flexibility. It is well known that many first-time players may not necessarily own a pair of dedicated golf shoes (especially if they only plan to play a handful of times, or even just once!).
Choose closed shoes (rather than anything more flashy, such as loafers) for your golfing session (although golf shoes are always preferred). Be sure to avoid anything totally open, such as sandals and flip-flops (as they are a big no-no at every club).
Many of the top sportswear brands have dipped their toes into the golfing footwear market, such as Nike, Adidas, and Reebok – some of the top sellers toe the line between golf aesthetics and street style. Even the classic Gazelles and Air Force 1s have been rocked on the course (as long as the colour palette sticks to neutral tones, you will be good to go!).
Accessories
Lastly, we have accessories—typically, there are no specific requirements (but there are certainly a variety of different rules of note). For hats, a cap, a visor, and a beanie are acceptable on the course (just avoid anything unusual, such as a cowboy or straw hat!).
There are also a number of functional extras a golfing enthusiast can invest in to make their game more fun, accessible, and even easier. For instance – golfing clubs (which can elevate your grip, control, and help you avoid unwanted blisters and callouses), a range finder (a handheld device which allows you to measure the distance from yourself to a specific area on the course), or even a custom golf ball marker (used to mark the exact position of the ball so it can be removed to avoid interference with other players balls during putting).
These unique items may not be essential to the game, but they can make everything much more seamless and, overall, more enjoyable for you and your group.
Summary
After checking out my latest fashion guide, you will be more than prepared to hit the golf course in a get-up that follows the dress code rules, is comfortable and functional, and showcases your personal style to the max. Will you be taking these tips on board the next time you want to play a few rounds? Please share your thoughts below!
