Golf is known for its strict dress code. Despite there not being a specific ‘uniform’ that is required to play, following the dress code has become part and parcel of playing the game for both professionals and amateurs. But if you’ve never been to a golf course before, deciding what to wear can be daunting.
While we aren’t knocking the importance of asking your golf course if they have a specific dress code, we are here to help take some of the stress away by providing you with our handy guide on what to wear (and not wear) on the golf course.
What is the standard dress code for golf?
As we’ve already mentioned, it is important to ask your golf club about what they find acceptable to wear. Some clubs don’t have a dress code at all, whereas others have a more regulated approach. If in doubt, dress “smart casual”.
Golf dress code for men
For men, a pair of chinos and a collared shirt or polo should do the trick. Make sure to tuck the shirt in though, as some clubs have rules against un-tucked shirts. Smart shorts are also permitted, as long as they end just before the knee. Any longer is deemed sloppy, and any shorter is considered inappropriate.
Golf dress code for women
For women, a collared-shirt is allowed, but not required. They can either pair their choice of top with well-fitting trousers or capris, shorts or a golf skirt – just make sure skirts and shorts aren’t too short. Shorts should be longer than a ruler and end just above the knee. Tennis skirts are a popular choice for determining skirt length. Depending on the weather, women are also permitted to wear golf dresses.
What are the different types of golf clothing?
Now that we’ve given a brief introduction into the standard dress code for both men and women, let’s delve deeper into the different types of golf clothes, and the rules you need to obey in order to play on the golf course.
Trousers
The top choice for cooler climates, trousers need to be smart, well fitting and not too baggy. Chinos or tailored slim fit trousers are ideal,but make sure they have belt loops – this is a requirement on a lot of golf courses.
The colour of your trousers also matters. Try to stick to neutrals such as beige, khaki and grey – but avoid white! White trousers are almost exclusively worn by those with a very low handicap.
Shorts
When the weather is that bit warmer, or if you’re lucky enough to live in a warmer climate, you probably would rather wear shorts than trousers to be out in the sun playing golf all day. Similarly to if you wore trousers, shorts should be smart, tailored and well fitting.
They should reach to just above the knee – any longer and they could get in the way of your swing, but they also look scruffy so will often not be accepted. Any shorter and you run the risk of them being considered inappropriate.
Neutral colours are your best bet – again.
Skirts and dresses
As we mentioned earlier, women are permitted to wear skirts and dresses, as long as they aren’t too short. A general rule of thumb is that skirts and dresses should reach to just above the knee. Tennis skirts can be repurposed as golf skirts if you already own one. As long as they are comfortable and reach the suggested length, you should be OK.
Anything too revealing will not be allowed.
Shirts or polo shirts
For men, shirts should be collared. For women, it isn’t a requirement, but collared shirts are allowed.
You can choose between a long-sleeved or short sleeved shirt, depending on the weather. Make sure that the material of the shirt also reflects the weather. Cotton is best for cooler climates, however in warmer temperatures, synthetic, breathable materials would be better for both comfort and performance. Women are often permitted to wear sleeveless shirts, weather permitting, if they want to.
T-shirts and sports shirts are completely unacceptable, as are heavily branded polo shirts.
Shoes
There are specific golf shoes that are worn by golfers. These have soft spikes to allow for extra grip without damaging the greens.
Steel spiked shoes are sometimes worn, but not all courses allow them nowadays.
Trainers are generally not permitted on the course, so it is a good idea to purchase a proper pair of golfing shoes before you hit the course for the first time.
Accessories
There are a number of accessories often worn on the golf course. For example, we keep banging on about making sure your trousers have belt loops, so it would be silly not to use them. Not only does it look smart, but it’s also practical, keeping your shirt tucked in and stopping your trousers falling down (obviously!)
Another popular accessory is a hat, in order to keep the sun off your face. The most-favoured option is either a cap or a visor.
Another common accessory that graces the course is the golfing glove. Not necessary, but definitely useful to improve your grip on the club. Right handed players will wear a glove on their left hand, and vice versa. You only ever wear one (think Michael Jackson), so please don’t turn up wearing two – or it will be obvious you are a novice.
How Cash Fore Clubs can help
Here at CashForeClubs, we live and breathe all things golf. We are happy to talk you through anything and everything so that you feel confident before hitting the green. We have a number of resources dedicated to golfing newbies over on our Learn to Play Golf page, and we also offer golf lessons at our Chippenham store.
Looking for top quality golfing clothing and equipment? We have a range of new and used golf clubs, equipment and clothing for sale both online and in store.
Contact us today to find out how we can help you, and visit our store if you’re in the Chippenham area!
