Golf Attire Guide
Golf is a sport that puts as much emphasis on its attire as it does on the game. This means that every golfer should have a wardrobe that contains the ideal golfing clothes and accessories required for an acceptable round of golf. From golf gloves and visors to Burberry socks, the world of golf dress-codes can be quite interesting.
For the most part, what you wear on the green typically depends on the type, of course, you are playing and on and what the conditions are. While some golf clubs have strict dress code regulations, most keep to the more basic attire and by following these simple rules, 99% of all golf courses will welcome you with open arms:
Footwear
We’re starting with golf shoes because they are probably the most important accessory in the game. Like with most sports, golf has specialized footwear that helps to enhance performance. This footwear is generally divided into two styles,
- Spiked golf shoes that feature great traction and;
- Spikeless golf shoes that are a little bit more comfortable but don’t have the best grip.
If your budget can accommodate it, you might also want to consider golf kicks that have been designed using waterproofing materials. This will play in your favor when the rain starts to fall but you refuse to leave the grounds.
Avoid: flip-flops, thongs, steel spikes, and sandals.
Socks
While most clubs are happy with your average sports socks, you do get the pedantic types that insist your socks must be pulled up to just below your knees. As a rule of thumb, just have a pair of long socks at hand if this is the case – if not, breathable ankle moisture-wicking socks will do just dandy.
Avoid: thick socks or socks that sit mid-calf.
Shorts
One of the first things that many beginners ask is if shorts are allowed on the green. In short, the answer is yes. Keep in mind, however, that modesty is required and shorts should sit just above your knee.
For women, golf skirts are also acceptable, but they should keep to the design of the sport.
Avoid: white shorts, draw-string shorts, and three-quarter length cuts.
Trousers
Golf pants range from specifically designed golf trousers to your every-day chinos. The trouser-types are preferable because they breathe better and give a more comfortable fit for the moves you need to make. As long as the pants have loops for a belt – you’re good to go!
Avoid: jeans – they are terribly uncomfortable to play in and won’t be accepted by most clubs.
Shirt
Every golfer, even a beginner, should have at least one collared golf shirt in his wardrobe. It doesn’t matter if it’s a branded shirt or comes from the dollar store – it simply needs a collar.
It’s also common practice to keep your shirt tucked in at all times – you might be asked to leave if you cannot abide by this simple rule.
Avoid: T-shirts and vests, shirts that feature foul language and obscene images, and garments that have been branded for advertising (unless you have been granted permission).
Sweaters
Sweaters are perfectly acceptable but there are two important rules to follow:
- Your collar must be tucked into your sweater and;
- It should be a tighter fit. Loose sweaters look untidy and will interfere with your swing.
Avoid: bulky sweaters and sweaters that have tacky designs.
Waterproof Jacket
Most avid golfers will tackle a course come rain or shine and it’s not uncommon to see the green dotted with players in waterproof rain jackets. These jackets are perfectly acceptable and without them, it would be impossible to play around in poor weather.
Like a sweater, a golf jacket should fit snugly and remain neat in appearance.
Avoid: bulky jackets, sports jackets, and ponchos.
Hats And Caps
Golf hats are certainly not mandatory but they definitely are practical. Playing in the sun for hours on end requires that you put protective measures in place, so donning a hat is the norm.
We just urge you to use a little common sense in this regard. Funny hats with unusual designs simply won’t be permitted. Instead, opt for a sports cap or a visor.
Avoid: wearing the peak of your hat or visor to the back or to the side.
Golf Gloves
Golfers tend to only go for their gloves when they are needed and are not worn at all times – this makes them an optional part of the attire.
More commonly worn for added grip and support, many also appreciate how golf gloves create a barrier between one’s hand and the golf club to prevent calluses and blisters.
Avoid: woollen gloves and gloves designed for other sport types.
Belts
While most clubs will allow you to enter with no belt, trousers without a belt look tacky on the green and it has become custom to add one to your attire.
Avoid: studded belts.
Sunglasses
Sunglasses are not mandatory but are often necessary when playing out in the bright sun. Keep sunglasses to a more modest style and you won’t offend anyone.
Avoid: sunglasses that feature a more “whacky” design.
The Bottom Line…
Our list of attire and suggestions will form a good start to your golfing journey and will save you from awkward moments where you are not granted access to your local club. Apart from dressing according to course etiquette, the key thing to remember is to dress comfortably without caring much about what others think.
Once you have a wardrobe that works, you’re ready to hit the green and make some new mates. While many golf players seem elitist and snobby from a distance, once you’re in your club then you are just another one of the boys.
Sources:
- What to Wear Golfing for the First Time Beginners Guide – Golfsidekick
- The Complete Guide To Golf Attire – Golfing School
- Golf Dress Code – The Essential Guide – Golf For Beginners
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