Golf is like any other sport. There are many rules and nuances to it. Many things that might be considered common off the course are against proper golf etiquette.
One of these gray zones is the dress code on the course. Many people wonder if they are allowed to wear jeans on the course.
This post covers all things golf dress code.
Table of Contents
- Can Jeans be worn to golf?
- What is the most common dress code to play golf?
- Things to Avoid when Golfing
Can Jeans be worn to golf?
You cannot play golf in jeans. There are very few places that allow jeans on the golf course.
An employee at the pro shop might ask you to change your clothes if you show up in jeans to your tee-time. If you don’t have any proper golf pants or slacks with you, you’ll have to buy some from the pro shop. This will not only hurt your wallet but also your pride.
Jeans just aren’t considered appropriate golf attire, so they should be avoided. You may be able to get away with jeans on the driving range, but we wouldn’t advise that either. Denim doesn’t allow your knees and legs the freedom to bend and flex as they need to in a proper golf swing.
Golf: What is the most appropriate dress code?
So, now that we’ve established that jeans aren’t accepted on the golf course, you may be left wondering what you can wear. In this section, we’ll list the specific dress code for both men and women on the golf course.
Men
For golf, men should wear polo shirts or golf shirts. Most courses require that all patrons must wear a collared shirts.
Gentlemen can choose between golf shorts or golf pants for their bottoms. A baseball cap, or visor, is acceptable. It can be very useful for sunny days. You can also choose to go without a cap.
If it’s fall or winter, find a nice-looking sweater or windbreaker to wear on the course. These options will keep your body warm and can be easily taken off when the temperature rises.
Sunglasses can also be useful. They can shield your eyes from the sun’s glaring rays and help you to remain focused. I don’t prefer to wear sunglasses while I play golf because it affects my depth perception.
Golf shoes must always be worn on the course. These shoes are made to assist golfers in their swing. You should also keep in mind that many golf courses do not allow the use of metal spikes on golf shoes. Instead, opt for plastic or the spikeless option.
If your pants or shorts have belt loops, make sure to wear a belt. A lot of golf courses don’t allow folks to wear their shirts untucked. You don’t want to look silly with your shirt tucked in and belt loops showing with no belt.
Women
The dress code for women golfers is similar to the men’s. It can be a bit confusing when it is about top choices. Ladies should ensure they check the course dress codes for the day. If you’re in doubt, simply call the pro shop or visit the course website.
Some courses allow women to wear shirts that have no collars as long as they have sleeves. However, sleeves must have collars if the shirt is not sleeveless. For ladies, it’s probably best to opt for collared shirts or blouses since they are deemed proper golf clothes at every course.
Women golfers should bring a sweater or jacket if it is cold. Most golf apparel companies offer good winter clothing options that are lightweight and won’t restrict any type of movement.
The bottoms are a wide range of options for women golfers. They can choose from golf pants, trousers and slacks as well as shorts and skirts. A skort for ladies is a combination of a short and a skirt.
Women golfers must wear golf shoes, just as men. Although sneakers and tennis shoes are allowed, most people prefer to use golf shoes because they are easier to swing in. Socks aren’t required, but not wearing them could result in some nasty blisters.
Things you shouldn’t wear when playing golf
Nobody likes to be dressed in the wrong attire. Here are some tips to avoid wearing on the golf course. This list can help you save money and embarrassment.
Men
Golf is known as a gentlemen’s game. Men need to be careful about what they wear to the tee. Men should not wear t-shirts or blue jeans to work.
While that type of attire may be perfect for a day at the beach or lounging around the house, it’s not acceptable for a day on the golf course. Guys also shouldn’t show up in a sweatshirt and sweatpants. Golfing is not permitted in any of these clothing, even in very cold weather.
Women
The acceptable attire for women golfers is almost identical to that for men. Ladies shouldn’t show up in tank tops, halters, sandals, or any type of denim. They should also avoid sweatpants, sweatshirts, even in cooler weather.
Women golfers also shouldn’t wear cargos or any other shorts that are super short. While most jackets are permitted in the winter, ladies should make sure that the one they choose isn’t too bulky. You don’t want to hinder your natural golf swing.