When it comes to dos and don’ts in golf, knowing what to wear is just as important as nailing your swing stance and following course etiquette. That’s because your clothes have a major impact on your comfort level and how well you play. They may also need to align with a dress code set out by course management.
To make sure you’re adhering to golf clothing rules, follow these simple dos and don’ts regarding golf apparel basics and how to choose the right outfit.
What Do You Wear to Golf?
Beyond shopping for your own personal style, keep these dos and don’ts in mind so that you can be sure you’re following proper golf etiquette and are set up for maximum comfort.
DO: Go with a Streamlined Fit
Baggy, oversized clothes interfere with movement and make it harder to get that perfect swing. They also look unprofessional, and, depending on where you’re playing, could be against the dress code. Go with streamlined options instead, such as slim-fit polo shirts and straight-leg pants.
DON’T: Forget Sun Protection
There are several ways that golf apparel can help protect you from the sun, including UV protective clothing and visored caps. And considering that you’ll be out in the elements for a while, it’s essential that you don’t skip on sun protection and expose yourself to harmful rays.
DO: Layer
Weather and temperatures can change at the drop of a hat. Make sure that you’re prepared by dressing in layers – for example, topping your outfit with a light windproof jacket. This way, you’ll be prepared for whatever the weather throws your way, including inclement conditions that could otherwise put an early stop to your game.
DON’T: Wear the Wrong Socks
Ankle socks are the way to go with your golf attire. Likewise, you’ll want to go with socks made from an absorbent material that allows your feet to breathe. Quality is key here, so invest in some good neutral-colored socks and try not to wear them out too quickly by only using them for golf and keeping them out of your day-to-day rotation.
DO: Opt for Soft-Spiked Shoes
Your golf shoes need to fit well and be comfortable. They also need to have soft spikes to protect the green, rather than hard steel spikes. Keep in mind that most courses won’t allow you to wear standard athletic shoes while you play, so you’ll need to have a separate pair of shoes just for golfing.
DON’T: Skip on Waterproofing
Waterproofing technology has come a long way, and there’s no reason not to go with golf apparel that is expertly designed to keep you dry. When you’re shopping for waterproof golf clothing, consider additional features like breathability and stretch, and choose items with a waterproof rating that accurately matches the climate you’ll be golfing in.
DO: Stock Up on Polos
Short- and long-sleeved polos are one of the best options for golfing, offering comfort, versatility, and tons of options for matching your personal style. When in doubt about what to wear, just throw on a polo with your golf pants and know that you’ll be good to go.
Features to Look for in Quality Golf Apparel
It’s worth paying a bit more to get the highest quality apparel for golf. That being said, if you’re going to do that then you want to know you’re getting the maximum value for the price. Features to consider include:
- Breathability
- Sealed seams
- Temperature control
- Thermotechnology
- Anti-odor material
- Stretch
- Waterproof ratings
- UV protection
- Cooling abilities
- Lightweight feel
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