A Golf Vest Outfit Guide: What, When & Why

Looking to elevate your golf game and your style? A golf vest is one of the most versatile yet underrated pieces you can add to your sportswear wardrobe. Perfect for layering if you need a little extra warmth, and stylish both on and off the course, a golf vest is a true MVP. This guide covers the what, when, and why behind the item – plus how to style one.

When to Wear a Golf Vest

Golf vests are all about adaptability. They're the perfect transitional piece for early spring morning tee times, cool fall afternoon games, or even a breezy summer round. You can also wear them off the course, giving your style a sporty, polished edge.

When the temperature is too cool for just a polo shirt but too warm for a jacket, the golf vest really comes into its own. Its sleeveless design lets your arms move freely while your core stays warm—the key to helping you maintain optimal golfing performance and personal comfort.

Best Spring and Summer Golf Vests

As the weather starts to turn, lighter materials and clothing with breathable construction are essential. For the warmer months, look for options that have moisture-wicking properties and offer UV protection without heavy insulation. A few suggestions from Galvin Green include:

Del:

A sleek, soft, and stretchy vest with a quarter zip, for light insulation. Made from breathable, quick-dry fabric, Del is an ideal piece for layering in either warm or cool conditions, with a lightweight, packable design that means it will fit snugly into your golf bag so you’re prepared, whatever the weather.

Lathan:

Windproof and water repellent, this vest is made from an extremely breathable, stretch fabric, with an elastic drawstring hem to ensure your movement isn’t restricted on the golf course. Front pockets mean all your golf essentials are always within easy reach.

Best Golf Vests for Cold Weather

For cool fall mornings or chilly rounds in the winter, insulation becomes key. Look for quilted, thermal, down or down-alternative vests that retain heat without sacrificing flexibility.

Lauro:

Featuring Thermore® recycled polyester padding, Lauro is a windproof, water resistant padded golf vest with paneling on the chest and back that delivers breathability, warmth and comfort. On particularly cold days, it works well as an extra layer under a golf jacket, while in trans-seasonal autumn weather, it can be worn as outerwear over a shirt or midlayer.

Dolph:

Designed to provide an extra layer of thermal insulation, Dolph is made from stretchy, soft, breathable fabric and is an ideal mid layer in cold golf conditions.

How to Wear and Style a Golf Vest

Now for the fun part—styling your golf vest. The great thing about a golf vest is its flexibility. Whether you're on the green or heading out for lunch after your round, a vest can pull your look together effortlessly.

When styling, focus on maintaining balance. Since a golf vest adds a bit of bulk to your upper body, opt for more streamlined bottoms, like tailored golf pants or slim-fit golf shorts. Coordinating colors is also key: stick with classic shades like navy, gray, black, or white for versatility, or use the vest as a pop of color if you want to make a statement.

Here are a few additional style tips to consider when using a golf vest to help create a particular look.

Classic Look:

Emulate your favorite country club look with a white polo golf shirt, navy knitted golf vest, gray tailored golf pants, and white golf shoes. Timeless and sophisticated both on and off the course, this look is all about classics that are made well and will last—think a golf vest in dark, neutral colors and leather accessories.

Sporty Look:

For a sporty finish, consider two-toned or bright pieces. A polo made from high-tech, performance materials, a lightweight golf vest, black jogger-style golf pants, and a matching cap are key pieces to look for in creating this look.

Elevated Office or Evening Look:

If you have more formal occasions or will need to transition seamlessly from the golf course to an evening out, start with a fitted sweater or crisp, collared shirt, then add a golf vest in a luxe fabric or a neutral color. The trick to ensuring you look smart is to avoid unnecessary bulk: tuck your shirt into your trousers (and make sure they’re tailored to fit), and ensure your sweater is fitted, not baggy.

Cold Weather Look:

If you’re heading to the golf course and don’t want to sacrifice your style with a jacket or coat, start with a thermal long-sleeve top and dark golf pants, layer on a cardigan or sweater if needed, then finish with a golf vest for a final layer of insulation.

Given its versatility, a golf vest can also easily be worn off-course for travel days or casual weekends. Throw one over a casual henley and chinos or even jeans for a look that’s relaxed, yet elevated.

What to Wear Under a Golf Vest

When layering under a golf vest, consider both comfort and dress code. Most golf courses expect players to adhere to a specific dress code, which often requires a collared shirt and specific types of pants and shoes. If so, it’s important to respect these and ensure you maintain a clean, polished look that fits the guidelines.

Polo Shirt:

The classic underlayer. Stick to a performance polo for the best moisture management and breathability.

Long-Sleeved Performance Shirts:

These are ideal for cooler days, offering light warmth while staying stylish.

Thermal Base Layers:

Essential for winter golf, these provide warmth without the bulk of heavier clothing.

Summary

A golf vest is an indispensable addition to any golfer’s wardrobe, designed for optimal movement, stylish layering, and functional comfort across seasons. Whether you're braving a breezy spring morning on the course or a crisp autumn afternoon game, there's a golf vest to suit your needs.

Of course, choosing the right golf vest depends on the season and your personal style, but brands like Galvin Green make it easy by offering options built for performance and style. From lightweight, breathable vests for summer to warmer, insulated styles for winter rounds, the right vest can elevate your golf game—and your overall look.

When styling your golf vest, keep the balance of your outfit in mind. Layer your vest over a classic polo, mid-layer or thermal shirt if needed, and slim pants, and always be sure to factor in any specific golf course dress codes, too.

With the right golf vest in your wardrobe, you’ll not only stay comfortable during the game, you’ll always look great, too.

Getting dressed for a game of golf? Check out What to Wear Golfing: Golf Dress Codes and Appropriate Fashion for men’s golf attire and What to Wear Golfing for Women: Female Golf Dress Code. For additional women’s styling tips, you can also check out Cute Golf Outfits for Women for fashion inspiration.

Written by: Rebecca Tay