1. Shirts
The number one rule here is to wear polo shirts. This is the most traditional and popular item of clothing to wear on the top half. Football shirts are a big no-no, same with any other sport-related shirts. T-shirts are also frowned upon.
You have probably seen that on the pro tour that some of the players are wearing tops with no collars. This does not necessarily mean that the club you choose to play at will accept non-collared tops as each club has its own golf dress code.
So, in order to play safe, wear a polo shirt.
2. Bottoms
Because we aren’t expecting a lot of sun right now, we can forget about wearing shorts whilst on the course. So instead, any type of tailored trouser will have you covered.
Now, we are sure that you will already know this golden rule, but just to remind you: no denim jeans or shorts. Some golf courses may find it acceptable for you to wear a t-shirt but the rule of no denim has been going on for years and it looks like it's set in stone at the majority of golf clubs.
This serves as a simple reminder to always check the golf club dress code before venturing onto the green!
3. Shoes
Footwear is straightforward with golf; on the course you have to wear shoes with appropriate spikes on the base of the shoe. Hard rubber, plastic, or any other soft material spike is acceptable. Any metal spike will damage the course so this should be avoided at all costs.
Any shoes without spikes could put you at risk of slipping; not only that but the majority of golf courses will not allow this type of footwear.
When you are off the course, trainers are not permitted. This is simply because this goes against the game’s etiquette. Any other plain shoe with no white sole will be adequate.
4. Appearance
Your appearance in golf is an important part of the decorum of the game, more than any other individually played sport. Every course has a dress code and a protocol that players have to adhere to in order to help maintain the game’s traditions. Whilst women don’t have to tuck their shirts in, it is mandatory for men to tuck their shirt in order to comply with the etiquette of the game.
When it comes to summertime, golfers can choose to wear shorts. But the same applies, a polo top must be tucked into the shorts with a plain belt.
A lot of new golfers will not know the rules applied to socks: there is unwritten etiquette that requires a player to wear socks that complement the clothing. Golfers simply just have to wear plain black or grey socks or white socks when wearing shorts.
5. Headwear
Golf hats usually are not specified in a golf dress code, but certain headgear is more appropriate.
Baseball-style hats or visors, for men and women, are the most popular on a golf course. Their primary function is to help provide protection from the sun. Straw hats of many varieties and what are known as Ben Hogan caps also are permitted.
But headgear such as cowboy hats, dress fedora-style hats, beanie caps and gag hats are generally not appropriate for a golf course and are usually rejected as part of a golf club dress code.
What should you not wear when golfing?
When it comes to things you shouldn’t wear, there are a few items that are frowned upon and that are not considered as part of a golf dress code.
Don't wear denim, cargo shorts, jeans, joggers, yoga pants, or other forms of gym pants. Additionally, don't wear either your trousers or shorts too long. This is considered sloppy and is not accepted as part of the golf dress code.
Are shorts appropriate for golf?
Although, as indicated in many golf club dress codes, the wearing of shorts is allowed, you should always keep it in mind that shorts should not be too short or too tight.
Additionally, your shorts should be tailored like casual trousers and should be just above the knee.
