One of the most important rules of golf etiquette is to make sure you are dressed for the occasion. Many golf and country clubs enforce a strict dress code. Follow this list of basic do’s and don’ts to make sure you are up to standard before hitting the course. We got you covered from head to toe!
Tops
- Do: Wear collared or polo-style shirts made of cotton, microfiber, or polyester blends.
- Don’t: Show cleavage. No t-shirts, halters, tank tops, tube tops, or bathing suit tops.
- Do: Layer for cooler days with sweaters, vests, collared button-down shirts, light jackets, or wind-breakers.
- Don’t: Wear denim jackets, sweatshirts, or hoodies.
Bottoms
- Do: Wear pleated or flat front slacks made of cotton or a polyester blend.
- Don’t: Wear jeans, sweatpants, yoga pants, or other athletic pants.
- Do: Wear capris, shorts, skorts, or golf dresses on warmer days.
- Don’t: Wear booty shorts or mini skirts. It can get windy out there and you don’t want to give everyone a peek at where they could land their ball on your green. Make sure that shorts, skorts, and dresses hit somewhere between the mid-thigh and the knee, at least.
Shoes
- Do: Wear golf shoes with hard rubber, plastic, or other non-metal (soft) spikes.
- Don’t: Wear metal spikes. They are outdated and generally not permitted as they tend to tear up the course.
- Do: Wear running shoes or sneakers with good grip if you don’t have golf shoes.
- Don’t: Wear boots, street shoes, or sandals.
Accessories
- Do: Wear a cool cap, visor, or straw hat, especially on sunny days.
- Don’t: Wear cowboy hats, dressy fedoras, or beanies.
- Do: Wear sunglasses and simple jewelry.
- Don’t: Wear long necklaces or dangly earrings that could get caught or tangled.
- Do: Wear golf gloves. Really, you only need to wear one so make sure to figure out which way you swing before buying.
- Don’t: Go without. Blisters and callouses will surely follow. Ew and ow!
In general, when it comes to golf attire you can have fun with colours and patterns. Often, the crazier the better. The golf course is a great place to try out funky new stuff that you might not wear elsewhere. The only unspoken rule is that your socks should complement your clothing. Otherwise, go nuts!
