Getting dressed for your first golf game can feel confusing. Many courses have strict rules about what you can wear. This blog on “Golf Attire For Beginners” will guide you through the basics, from shirts to shoes and extras like hats.
Keep reading to dress right and avoid rookie mistakes!
Key Takeaways
- Wear a collared polo shirt for almost all golf courses. It’s required and matches the traditional dress code. Avoid t-shirts or tops with big logos or offensive designs.
- Choose proper bottoms like khaki-style pants, shorts with belt loops, or modest skirts for women. Avoid leggings as mainwear unless paired with skirts or dresses.
- Soft spike golf shoes provide grip without damaging greens. Spikeless shoes work well and double as casual streetwear options for beginners.
- Hats, caps, visors protect against sun glare while adding style; always face caps forward on the course to follow etiquette rules.
- For budget-friendly golf attire, shop at discount stores like Marshalls or online outlets offering deals from brands like Adidas and Waddaplaya.
Essential Topwear for Golf
Golfers value both style and respect for the game. A smart, clean shirt sets the tone for a day on the course.
Collared Polo Shirts
A collared polo shirt is a must for any golf game. It reflects the sport’s classic style and meets most golf course dress codes. A well-fitted option, either long-sleeved or short-sleeved, works perfectly.
Brands like Waddaplaya offer comfort and moisture management, making them ideal on hot days.
Avoid t-shirts or tops with big ads or offensive text; they don’t belong here. Municipal courses may allow relaxed outfits, but stick to a collared shirt—it’s always safe.
Choosing the Right Bottoms
Picking golf bottoms isn’t just about style; the right fit keeps you comfy through every swing, so explore options that suit your game.
Golf Pants, Shorts, or Skirts
Golf pants offer comfort and a polished look. Stick to safe colors like beige, khaki, or gray for a clean appearance. White pants are tricky—they show stains and need confidence to pull off.
Under Armour slacks work well for amateurs seeking solid options with style.
Shorts should have belt loops and avoid drawstrings or three-quarter cuts. Waddaplaya shorts balance function with flair while keeping you course-ready. Women can opt for golf skirts that allow movement without sacrificing elegance.
Keep the length modest—no short shorts here!
Footwear for the Golf Course
Good shoes are a must for golf. They provide grip and keep you steady on the grass.
Golf Shoes with Spikes or Spikeless Options
Soft spike golf shoes are the top choice for most amateur players. These provide stability and grip without damaging the course. Spikeless golf shoes, on the other hand, work well for casual games or courses with dry grass.
They double as streetwear too, adding versatility to any wardrobe.
Steel spikes should be avoided unless playing in a professional PGA Tour. Most amateur courses ban them since they can tear up fairways and greens. Brands like Adidas and Skechers offer great options with comfort-focused soles to avoid blisters during long rounds.
Pairing comfortable footwear now clears the path toward selecting headwear essentials!
Accessories to Complete Your Look
Accessories add flair and function. Choose pieces that keep you sharp and ready for the game.
Hats, Caps, or Visors
A proper hat keeps the sun off your face during a golf game. Baseball caps are a classic choice, offering both style and function. Visors work well for those who want airflow while keeping the glare away.
For more coverage, wide-brim hats or bucket hats are great options.
Etiquette matters on the course. Caps should face forward—no backward styles allowed. Cowboy hats can add flair but stick to casual courses. Hats must come off inside clubhouses or bars to respect tradition.
Golf Gloves for Grip
Golf gloves improve grip and control on the club. Most golfers wear them, though they are optional. Right-handed players use a glove on their left hand, while left-handed golfers wear one on their right hand.
In hot or humid weather, Grip Boost Second Skin gloves work well—they also last longer if rotated in sets of three. MG Dynagrip gloves suit cooler climates, offering durability and comfort for amateurs or seasoned players alike.
A good glove prevents slipping during swings by reducing moisture build-up from sweat. For beginners stepping onto a course for the first time, these small details make noticeable differences in confidence and performance.
Adding this to your golf wardrobe ensures steady swings under varying weather conditions without ruining the game’s flow!
Understanding Golf Attire Etiquette
Most golf courses stick to a strict dress code. A collared shirt is almost always required. Long or short-sleeved polo shirts work best, but tank tops are frowned upon. For bottoms, golf pants and shorts must have belt loops; avoid sweatpants or soccer shorts.
Skirts for women should be modest in length.
Some public courses may allow casual clothes like khakis and simple tops. Still, it’s better to follow traditional rules for your first game. Stick with soft spike golf shoes or spikeless options that won’t damage the course greens.
Moving on, here’s what you can wear if you don’t own proper golf attire yet!
Alternatives if You Don’t Own Golf Clothes
Not everyone has a full golf wardrobe when starting out. There are simple ways to dress properly without breaking the bank.
- Wear work trousers or chinos. They look sharp and meet the golf dress code, as long as they’re not jeans.
- Try a collared shirt like a buttoned-down work shirt or polo shirt. Avoid large logos that might look too flashy.
- A plain T-shirt under a sweater works for colder weather. Choose subtle colors to stay within golf attire standards.
- Use sneakers or trainers if you don’t own golf shoes. Clean footwear with good grip can pass for beginner games.
- Borrow clothes from friends who play golf. Many golfers have extra gear they’d be happy to share.
- Visit thrift stores or discount retailers for affordable options like polos, slacks, or skirts that match golf fashion.
- Check local pro shops for rental clothes, though prices may be higher compared to other solutions above.
Items to Avoid Wearing on the Golf Course
Certain clothing items are not suitable for the golf course. These choices can clash with the golf dress code and might even cause discomfort.
- T-Shirts
Collared shirts are required on almost all golf courses. Plain t-shirts or those with large graphics do not align with traditional golf attire guidelines. - Sports Jerseys
Jerseys may be ideal for a game of basketball but fall short here. They appear too casual and do not comply with proper golf outfit expectations. - Drawstring Shorts
Shorts with drawstrings give an unpolished impression. Choose well-fitted shorts with belt loops instead. - Steel Spike Shoes
Most modern courses restrict steel spikes as they harm greens. Opt for spikeless golf shoes or soft spike alternatives. - Flip Flops or Sandals
These provide insufficient grip and stability, making them unsuitable for play. Proper golf shoes ensure better traction during your swing. - White Pants (for Beginners)
White pants look stylish but stain easily, especially in damp conditions. Beginners may find darker colors more practical. - Clothes with Large Advertisements
Garments featuring oversized logos or slogans can be distracting and are deemed inappropriate on the course. - Leggings (as Main Bottomwear)
Many clubs do not permit leggings unless worn under a skirt or dress as part of women’s golf attire.
For golfers interested in maintaining a balance of style and practicality, footwear will be covered next!
Tips for Staying Comfortable in Different Weather
Golfers face all types of weather. Dressing right makes the game enjoyable, no matter the conditions.
- Wear UV protection clothing on sunny days. A golf shirt with long sleeves or collars shields the skin from harmful rays.
- Carry a lightweight hat or visor to protect your eyes and face. Golf hats can help with sun glare and improve focus.
- Use breathable fabrics like synthetic blends in warm climates. Cotton traps sweat and feels sticky in humidity.
- Layer up during cool mornings or fall games. A vest over a collared polo works well without restricting movement.
- Invest in waterproof golf shoes for rainy days. Soft spike golf shoes provide traction even on wet grass.
- Keep a rain jacket in your golf bag for sudden showers. Choose one that folds easily to save space.
- Wear no-show socks that wick away moisture to avoid blisters during hot rounds.
- Avoid heavy belts on humid days. Opt for those with simple belt loops for added comfort and flexibility.
- In cold weather, consider gloves made for grip and warmth, like MG Dynagrip gloves.
- Swap shorts or skirts for lined golf trousers when temperatures drop below 50°F for added insulation and style!
Women’s Golf Outfit Suggestions
Sleeveless collared shirts work well, especially on warm days. Shirts with sleeves and no collars are also acceptable. For bottoms, golf skirts or shorts look stylish and stay within the rules.
Shorts should hit just a few inches above the knee for a proper fit. Golf dresses combine comfort and elegance, making them popular in women’s fashion.
Stick to classics like spikeless golf shoes or soft spike options for footwear. Avoid jeans or leggings unless allowed by specific courses; they often fall outside the standard golf dress code.
Pairing outfits with caps or visors adds practical sun protection, while keeping things polished on the course.
Men’s Golf Outfit Suggestions
Opt for a collared golf shirt made from breathable fabric. This keeps you cool on sunny days. Choose solid colors or simple patterns to maintain a classic look. In cooler weather, layer with a quarter-zip pullover or a sweater that matches the course’s dress code.
Stick to khaki-style trousers or shorts that end just above the knee. Avoid cargo pockets as they can seem too casual for most courses. Pair your bottoms with a sturdy belt and wear spikeless golf shoes for comfort and grip on any turf type.
Keep it functional yet stylish—balance is key!
Proper Attire for the Driving Range
Golf ranges like Top Golf allow casual clothing, so a simple t-shirt and jeans may work. For club-based driving ranges, stick with standard golf attire. A collared shirt paired with golf pants or shorts fits the dress code well.
Women can wear skirts or dresses designed for golf.
Soft spike or spikeless golf shoes help improve grip on mats. Avoid flip-flops or sneakers that lack traction. Practicing in proper attire gets players comfortable before stepping onto the course.
Adding a hat or visor shields from sun glare during practice sessions too!
Where to Shop for Affordable Golf Apparel
Finding gear for the driving range doesn’t mean breaking the bank. Pro shops carry golf shirts, pants, and accessories but often charge steep prices. For budget-friendly finds, local outlet malls or popular stores like TJ Maxx and Marshalls offer great options.
These places frequently stock brand-name golf attire at discounted rates.
Waddaplaya is a standout choice for comfort and moisture-wicking materials without high costs. Online retailers also provide excellent deals on soft spike golf shoes, UV protection hats, and breathable polo shirts.
Check clearance sections at big brands like Nike or Adidas Women’s collections to snag affordable items that look sharp on any course.
Conclusion
Dressing right for golf isn’t tricky. Stick to the basics: collared shirts, proper bottoms, and comfy golf shoes. Don’t skip sun protection like hats or gloves for grip. Focus on comfort while respecting the game’s dress code.
A smart outfit sets you up for fun on the course!
FAQs
1. What should I wear to my first golf game?
You’ll need proper golf attire. A collared shirt, a pair of pants like golf trousers or shorts with belt loops, and spikeless or soft spike golf shoes are good choices. Avoid casual clothes like jeans.
2. Can women wear leggings for golf?
Yes, many courses allow leggings as part of women’s golf attire, especially if paired with a longer top or skirt. However, check the specific course’s dress code before wearing them.
3. Are bucket hats and fedoras acceptable on the course?
Bucket hats are common for sun protection during amateur golf games. Fedoras might be less practical but can work in some settings if they fit your style and provide UV protection.
4. Do I need special shoes to play golf?
Yes, you’ll want either spikeless or soft spike golf shoes for grip without damaging greens. Regular sneakers may not give enough traction on wet grass.
5. Is there a difference between men’s and women’s clothing rules in golf fashion?
There can be slight differences depending on the course’s dress code. Women might wear skirts or dresses designed for golfing while men stick to items like collared shirts and trousers.
6. Should I bring accessories like gloves or hats?
Absolutely! Golf gloves improve grip when using clubs, while hats—like baseball caps or wide-brimmed options—help protect from the sun during long games outdoors.