It may surprise you to learn that golf requires you to wear appropriate attire if you are just starting out. Even if you’re just showing up to a lesson, most golf courses have a dress code.
It can be stressful not knowing what to wear for your first lesson of golf. This article will help you to do just that. Here’s a look at what to wear and avoid at your golf lessons.
What’s Acceptable to Wear to a Golf Lesson
Men
If you’re a guy who’s taking your first golf lesson, you must make sure you are wearing some type of collared shirt. This is because most golf courses require men to wear collared shirts. For your first lesson, a standard or short-sleeved shirt is a good choice.
Men can choose between shorts or long pants when it comes to bottoms. You can choose to wear khakis or slacks depending on the weather. If it’s in the heat of summer, any type of golf shorts are perfectly acceptable at most clubs.
Shoes are very flexible. While some golfers prefer to wear tennis shoes on the driving range, others prefer golf shoes. If you choose to wear golf shoes to your first lesson, opt for ones with soft spikes because metal spikes aren’t allowed at some courses.
Women
The top options for women golfers are a bit more varied. Ladies can wear sleeveless tops provided the shirt has sleeves. If the top has sleeves, women can also wear a turtleneck or crewneck top.
Ladies have the option of choosing from golfing pants or shorts. Skorts are a combination of shorts and skirts. Skirts and shorts should be at the knee.
Footwear choices for women golfers are the same as men’s. Any type of tennis or golf shoe is acceptable as long as it has soft spikes or is not spikeless. Socks that reach the ankle are a good idea.
What you should never wear to a golf lesson
Men
While some golf courses have relaxed their respective dress codes over the last few years, the large majority of them don’t allow any type of denim. Unfortunately, this means no blue jeans and blue jean shorts. It’s also a good idea not to show up in workout shorts (aka basketball shorts).
Men shouldn’t wear t-shirts and tank tops to golf lessons. Both of these styles are comfortable, but they are not considered proper golf attire. Remember, golf is a gentleman’s game and you aren’t at the gym.
Don’t wear sandals or flip-flops to your lesson. If you do wear flip-flops or sandals, you should bring golf shoes to change into prior to meeting your instructor. It’s also smart to wear socks to prevent blisters from getting on your feet.
Women
While stylish off the course, women shouldn’t wear capris to a golf lesson. They should also avoid wearing denim shorts or skirts, even though some courses allow them. They should also avoid too-short skirts and shorts.
Ladies should not wear a sports bra to the gym. While this is perfectly fine at almost any gym, it’s not considered proper golf etiquette.
To avoid footwear faux pas, don’t show up to your lesson in boots or heels. This is basic common sense, but as they say, common sense ain’t common these days.
Other things to bring to a lesson
Golf requires many accessories, just like other sports. Let’s go over some of the most important accessories to bring with you to your golf lessons.
1. Visor or Cap
While no headgear is required at a golf lesson, it’s not a bad idea to wear a baseball cap or a visor. This is especially important if you are going to be outside. A quality cap or veil will keep the sun and sweat from your eyes.
2. Sunglasses
Again, sunglasses aren’t essential but they are nice to have on extremely sunny days at the driving range. I don’t wear sunglasses during my golf lessons because I feel it messes with my depth perception when looking at the ball. However, many golfers use sunglasses on the course as well as during lessons.
3. Golf Glove
This is an essential item as you need to be able to grip the golf club well. Your instructor will ask you to make several swings during a lesson. Without a quality golf glove, you’ll likely get an uncomfortable blister or two.
4. Sunscreen
It is always a good idea to keep sunscreen in your bag, especially during the summer months. A nasty sunburn is not only incredibly painful but it’s also unhealthy for your skin.
5. Sweaters and jackets
These will be very useful during winter months. You don’t want to get too cold on the driving range during your golf lesson. Just make sure that your sweater or jacket fits loosely and doesn’t restrict your golf swing in any way.
6. Bottle of Water
Most lessons last between 30 and an hour. You’ll want to have water on hand to stay hydrated during your breaks. Dehydration can cause cramping during your lesson.
7. A Pair of Golf Towels
It’s nice to keep a couple of golf towels on hand for your golf lessons. One can be used to wipe your head and arms, while the other can be used to clean your irons after you’ve used them.
