The Clotheshound

Whether you are heading out to the course for a relaxing round of golf or for a power game with business associates, you should always look your best.

Before we get started on the basics, let’s just say right up front, denim is a “no, no”. While blue jeans have an important place in everyone’s wardrobe, keep them off the green.

Men’s Wardrobe Essentials for the golf course include:

1. A Collared Shirt – The polo style shirt is your best bet. You can find them in long and short sleeve, and a range of fabrics from pima to pique cotton, cotton/poly in a variety of weights and blends, and high performance polyester. If you prefer a more crisp look then reach for a sport shirt and layer under a vest or sweater.

2. Pants or Shorts – Either is fine, depending on the weather, but both should have belt loops. Shorts should be knee length and not the gym or basketball variety. Pants should have the average break at the shoe and not drag, which will cause them to collect grass stains and sand.

3. A Belt – They keep your pants or shorts in place, prevent embarrassing slippage and complete the look of any outfit.

4. Socks – Wear socks that match your outfit. It’s a basic rule in any setting.

5. Hats or Visors - They keep the sun out of your eyes and offer some protection from harmful UV rays. Caps, baseball style hats and canvas visors are all appropriate. Avoid fishing hats. Bill Murray can pull it off on the golf course, but he is a comedian after all.

6. Wind Shirts & Vests - These are ideal to have on hand for early morning tee times, when there is a chill in the air. A good wind shirt or vest is water repellent.

7. Golf Shoes – Most golf courses have banned metal spikes. Wear golf shoes with soft spikes or other non-metal cleats, or a sports shoe with a soft sole.

Don’t be afraid to wear bright colors, plaids and argyles on the course. They are all a hallmark of golf apparel. Just remember, you do not have to wear every color or pattern at once. Select a bright top, belt and/or hat and pair it with a neutral, solid color bottom. For example, a bright watermelon colored polo shirt paired with a light khaki bottom is a great way to make a fashion statement without over doing it. If you prefer plaid, select a plaid short and pair it with a solid top in a coordinating color. Argyle sweaters, vests and socks should be accompanied by a solid polo shirt and a coordinating solid color pant or short.

Bobby Jones Pima Cotton Argyle Vest & Cotton Polo Shirt

Even professional golfer, John Daly, well known for his fashion forward, ultra mod (brightly colored and boldy patterned) pants, sticks to the rule of a solid top with a print bottom.

Many private courses have a “dress code”.  Be sure to consult the club for course rules on appropriate apparel any time you plan to golf somewhere new.

Following the rules above when selecting your golf wardrobe, should ensure that you always have what you need to play on any course.