What To Wear Golfing If You Don't Have Golf Clothes
Perhaps you’re on vacation and didn’t think you’d make it onto a golf course this holiday. Or maybe you’re just starting on your golf journey are wondering what to wear golfing for the first time. Either way, if you don’t have specialized golf attire, don’t worry. Many people before you have faced this dilemma, and many after you will, too. The point is, you don’t need expensive gear to fit in, and you can certainly get away with ‘makeshift’ gear, too. Keep reading to learn what to wear golfing if you don’t have golf clothes, as well as what shoes would be considered suitable, and some frequently asked questions about casual golf attire.
What to Wear for Men
Tops
When it comes to golf attire for men , a polo shirt is the gold standard when it comes to suitable tops for the golf course. However, if you don’t have a polo shirt, a collared style such as a button-down shirt respects the traditional nature of the game, while a plain, crewneck T-shirt or henley can also work, provided it’s clean, neat, and doesn’t feature any large logos or graphics. This would be considered a good foundation for beginner casual golf attire.
If possible, choose moisture-wicking fabrics such as a plain gym shirt, as golf can be a long game under the sun. Avoid tank tops or anything too casual, such as a graphic tee.
Bottoms
If you don’t have golf-specific pants, a pair of chinos, khakis, or slacks are your best options. Avoid denim, jogging pants, and sweatpants, as these are typically too casual and frowned upon at most golf clubs.
Shorts are also acceptable, but they should be knee-length and tailored. Cargo shorts, board shorts, swimming trunks, or gym shorts are definitely too casual for most courses and are therefore not an option for what to wear golfing when you don’t golf on a regular basis.
Accessories
Accessories can complete your look while also offering some practicality on the course. A baseball cap or bucket hat will protect you from the sun, and sunglasses are a great addition to ensure clear vision for your game on sunny days.
While a belt isn’t mandatory, it can certainly elevate your look when paired with chinos or slacks – especially helpful if you’re not wearing golf-specific pants but want to look the part on the course.
Avoid any accessories that are overly loud or flashy: think jewelry or hats with an oversized logo. Similarly, accessories that simply are unnecessary will look out of place on the golf course: bags, including backpacks, can be stored in your golf buggy, but if you don’t need them on the course, try and leave them at home.
What to Wear for Women
Tops
Similar to men, a collared shirt is the ideal golf attire for women, but if you don’t have one, you can opt for a tidy blouse or a plain T-shirt. Sleeveless tops are acceptable at many golf courses, but they should have wide straps rather than skinny ones similar to those on a camisole.
Personal style is welcome on the golf course – check out styling tips and cute golf outfits here – but, as with men’s clothing, you’ll want to steer clear of anything too casual or overly revealing. A halter top, strapless ‘tube’ top, or cropped top are all inappropriate for a golf course.
Bottoms
Unlike men, who generally need to stick to slacks or chinos, women have a bit more choice when it comes to golf course-appropriate bottoms , including knee-length shorts , capri pants, pants, skirts , or skorts. Like men, adding a belt can bring a touch of polish to your look.
If you don’t own or haven’t packed golf-specific clothing, choose a pair of tailored or chino shorts or a knee-length casual skirt, and, if possible, avoid mini skirts, workout shorts, and jeans. Leggings can work in cooler weather, as long as they are solid-colored and don’t display any obvious, large logos.
Accessories
Accessories like visors, caps, bucket hats, and even a straw hat is an acceptable, stylish, and practical choice for a sunny day on the golf course. The same goes for sunglasses, and luckily for women, many styles of hats and sunglasses would be fine for most courses.
In terms of other accessories, simple jewelry, such as a watch, small pendant necklace, or earrings are acceptable, but you’ll want to avoid anything large or bold: costume jewelry will likely prevent you from playing your best game and potentially be considered a distraction to other players.
What Shoes to Wear Golfing if You Don’t Have Golf Shoes
If you haven’t packed or don’t yet own a pair of golf shoes, don’t worry. Golf shoes provide extra grip and stability, but there are several suitable alternatives if you are caught off guard.
For both men and women, a pair of sneakers with a flat sole and good grip works well on the golf course. Running shoes or trainers are also acceptable, but take care to avoid anything with a very thick tread or sole, such as cleats, that can otherwise damage the green.
If you're heading out in wet conditions or the course is quite hilly, it's important to choose trainers with good tread. And remember, in this case, traction is more important than style.
Whatever you do, avoid flip flops, sandals, slippers, dress shoes, high heels, or boots: not only are most of these likely to be uncomfortable after a few hours on the links, but anything with a heel can also poke holes in the grass.
Common beginner mistakes when dressing for the golf course
By knowing some of the most common beginner mistakes when dressing for the golf course, you can avoid making them yourself.- Don’t wear denim of any kind
- Wear a collared shirt to be sure to fit in
- Don’t wear anything with loud and large prints and logos
- Make sure the length of your skirt or shorts is appropriate, usually fingertip length or longer
Golf is a sport that is played in all different weather conditions, so don’t forget weather-appropriate gear. If you are hitting the links on a wet and rainy day, make sure to gear up with some waterproofs .
The image above shows a great example of how to dress and how not to dress on the golf course. The man on the left is wearing jeans and an unbuttoned and untucked shirt with very bold and large prints. While bold prints and designs can be appropriate on the golf course, they need to be worn respectfully. He is also wearing a fedora hat and a Hawaiian lei. The hat can sometimes be acceptable, but the lei is not. The man on the right is also wearing a bold and bright shirt, but it's neat and tidy. He is wearing tailored pants, a clean baseball cap, and a matching belt. This outfit is well put together and makes an excellent choice for the golf course.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do You Have to Wear Golf Clothes to Play Golf?
No, you don’t have to wear golf clothes to play golf – especially if you’re playing at a more casual or public course. That said, it’s important to dress in neat, tailored attire that fits well, as this respects the game and other players.
What Should You Not Wear When Playing Golf?
When playing golf, you should not wear anything too casual. This includes but is not limited to, tank tops, graphic tees, jeans, gym shorts, sweatpants, mini skirts, high heels, and flip flops. Always aim for a polished, neat appearance on the golf course.
Can You Wear Tennis Clothes for Golf?
Yes, you can wear tennis clothes for golf; in fact, tennis dresses, shorts, skirts, and polos are appropriate and will meet the dress code for most golf courses as well. Just make sure your tennis clothing isn’t too short or revealing.
What Pants Are Acceptable for Golf?
Pants that are acceptable for golf include but are not limited to, chinos, khakis, and slacks. Tailored shorts are suitable for men and women, and women can also wear skirts, skorts, or capri pants. Avoid jeans, sweatpants, and athletic shorts: these aren’t allowed at most courses.
Summary
Golf is as much about heritage, tradition, and etiquette as it is about skill, so dressing appropriately is a great way to show respect for the game and your fellow players. If you’re heading out for a round of golf and, for whatever reason, don’t have specialized golf attire, the key is to dress neatly, comfortably, and with practicality in mind – all while respecting the traditional style of the game.
Men can opt for chinos, a plain T-shirt, or a collared button-down shirt, while women can wear tailored shorts or a skirt with a casual top. Sneakers or flat-soled shoes are fine substitutes for golf shoes: just avoid flip flops or heeled shoes as these can damage the green.
If in doubt, check in with the golf course to find out if they have specific dress code requirements, but by following these guidelines, you’ll fit in just fine, whether it’s your first time golfing or a casual, unexpected game of golf during a vacation.
Looking for clothing to wear for a game of golf? Check out What to Wear Golfing For Men and What to Wear Golfing for Women. This guide may also be helpful if you’re heading out to watch a tournament .
Written by: Rebecca Tay
