Etiquette Made Easy: What to Wear on the Golf Course

If you’re heading to the golf course, your first question might be: what do I wear? Our experts are here to deliver the advice you need to feel great on the fairway.

Golf season is in full swing, and whether you’re looking to tee up for the first time or are a seasoned weekend warrior, picking your outfit for the course can give you the confidence you need to play your best round.

What do men wear to golf? What do women wear to golf? What is proper golf attire? Is there a dress code? Do I have to wear a polo? Can I wear shorts? Don’t worry; you’re not alone in these questions, and our golf stylist experts are here to deliver a magnitude of looks you can rock from the tee box to the ‘19th hole’ and beyond.

There is no one consensus on a golf dress code, and each course or club you visit may have different “rules”. Before you head to your tee time, our first suggestion is to check out the course’s website for any hard and fast dress code rules.

While some clubs are more lenient than others when it comes to dress code, according to the experts, the vast majority of golfers and courses agree on two things:

1. No jeans. Whether you’re sliding on shorts, a skirt, pants or joggers, just avoid the denim. Not only is it uncomfortable to play a round in, but any golfer, at any level of play, will tell you that jeans just aren’t for the course.
2. Shoes matter. You need a good pair of golf shoes, and in today’s world, there’s a vast array of spike and spikeless golf shoes to pick from. Most of the higher-level country clubs require spikes, but if you’re just getting into the game, and don’t have spikes yet - most municipal courses allow regular tennis shoes.

While those are the two main, agreed-upon attire rules - there are still a few questions left unanswered. Let’s get into it.

What to Wear Golfing, for Men:

Do I have to wear pants? I’ve heard golf joggers are a hot topic. Can I wear them? Does my shirt have to be tucked? Do I need a belt?

The #1 rule for men’s golf attire is to wear tailored pants and a well-tailored shirt. Some courses require trousers and a tucked-in polo; others are fine with a crisp henley and your favorite chino shorts. As long as you leave your old, ratty college t-shirt and baggy shorts behind, you’re free to let your personal style shine.

A few, final notes to keep in mind for the men. You’ll want plenty of storage in your selected bottoms -- pockets for your tee, scorecard and glove will be key. A lightweight, breathable shirt will also be ideal. Days on the course can get hot, and you’ll want a shirt that keeps you cool. Lastly, in case you hit unexpected weather, or an early, chilly tee time, you’ll want an easy layer to throw on and off. We suggest a ¾-zip pullover that is water-resistant to keep you dry.

Our top picks for men’s golf apparel:

• 7” On Par Short- a modern take on a classic chino, this men’s golf short is long enough for the country club, and comes with plenty of secure pocket storage
• Remastered Short - the more ‘formal’ golf short for men, with re-imagined, functional details. It features a classic front fly zip, belt loop and plenty of pockets.
• Harrison Jogger - a men’s golf jogger that still looks and plays like a trouser. Complete with a fully-functioning belt loop, pockets and quick-drying, durable fabric perfect for cold-weather rounds.
• Newport Polo - a classic polo with intricate, course-friendly details. A lightweight, breathable material, traditional 3-button placket and reinforced shoulder seams that won’t pull even if you’re carrying a bag.
• Harrison Shirt Jacket - the perfect lightweight golf layer, designed with cold-weather rounds in mind. A mock neckline that layers perfectly over a polo, ¾ zip and secure pocket storage.

What to Wear Golfing, for Women:

Do women have to wear pants, too? Are collared polos required? What if it’s hot and I want to wear a tank top? Can I?

While each course may have different rules, there are a few general rules to keep in mind for women’s golf attire. Coverage is key for women -- you’ll want bottoms that are on the longer side (not more than a few inches short of your knee) and crewneck tops that cover your midriff.

Crop tops, spaghetti straps and short bottoms are largely frowned upon, and won’t be comfortable to wear either. Dresses made for golf are widely accepted, while your average sundress likely is not going to cut it. Same with golf skirts and shorts. Make sure the length provides enough coverage to grab your ball or swing.

At the end of the day, use your best judgment, and be sure to check with the course before planning your outfit. There is no shortage of comfortable, chic and fitted golf attire for women that can help you tee up the perfect look.

Our top picks for women’s golf apparel:

• Striped Sweater Tank - a modern sweater tank with a classic look, and superior coverage. It’s ultra-lightweight and breathable so it won’t slow you down on warm days.
• Sleeveless Club Dress - sophisticated and golf-inspired, this dress provides the coverage, pocket storage and look you need on and off the course.
• Play On Skirt - a sleek, yet sporty skirt that comes equipped with a liner, a longer length for utmost coverage and pockets for your course essentials
• Essex Sweater Polo - in case a polo is required, look no further than the Essex. A modern sweater polo with a traditional 3-button placket, hip length and breathable Coolmax yarn.

Gone are the days when you had to sacrifice style on the course. The next time you’re ready to hit a round, tee it high and look fly. Shop our latest men’s and women’s golf styles for even more apparel designed for the course, and make sure to follow @wilson on IG for style inspo.