Matt Cradock
Comfort is critical for peak performance on the course and finding the right golf pants is an integral part of that. More and more brands have recognized this over the years and, during that time, we have seen huge innovation take place in some of the designs and styles, features and technology on offer in some of the best golf trousers. The quality and fit of the trouser has also changed to allow players to fluidly strike through the golf ball without fear of restricted movement or that their pants may start to slide down their waist or split! Nowadays, there is simply no excuse for wearing a pair of pants on the golf course that compromises your game.
Much like the best golf tops, best golf polo shirts, and every other piece of golf apparel you can think of, golf pants have evolved into something much more in keeping with other areas of fashion, without compromising on functionality. Bearing that in mind, we've compiled a list of some of the best golf pants on the market, that will suit all types of golfers. Additionally, you should also take a look at our list on the best golf shorts.
Best Golf Pants
Spring/Summer Pants
Sizes: 28-44
Colors: 5
+ Excellent freedom of movement
+ Versatile, casual style
- Not the warmest
Once wearing the Adidas Ultimate365 5-Pocket Pants you'll find the stretchy twill fabric moves with you, offering unrestricted mobility for every swing and step. The five-pocket design provides a familiar, casual look that’s smart enough for the clubhouse and practical enough for everyday wear.
Made with a significant commitment to recycled and renewable materials, these pants are just one of the sustainable choices offered by Adidas. They feel lightweight and breathable, making them comfortable for warmer days but they may have your legs feeling chilly on the course during winter months. The regular fit and mid-rise offer a balanced silhouette which we preferred over a slim-fit look. While versatile, those seeking very heavy-duty winter trousers will be better looking elsewhere, but for all-around performance and style, these pants are a solid choice for the modern golfer.
Sizes: 28-46
Colors: 9
+ Premium model that performed
+ Color choice
- Pockets could have been bigger
A brand you would've seen worn by the likes of Justin Rose in the past, Bonobos is a company that often makes shirts which stand out from the crowd. However, this is not the case with these classic, traditional looking pants which are available in nine subtle colors.
Constructed from a very soft and comfortable fabric, they allow for great freedom of movement and the fabric also provides UV resistance that allows them to be worn in hot conditions. What's more, they have moisture-wicking and quick drying properties, if you do get caught in an unexpected shower. The button closure is a nice design feature and I also liked the pattern stitching on the inside, two design features which make these Bonobos pants one of our absolute favorites currently on the market.
Sizes: 30-44
Colors: 11
+ Lightweight and comfortable
+ Premium looks and colors
- Price might be only stumbling block
Without doubt my favorite pair of golf pants right now are the eb66 Performance Pants from Peter Millar. As you would expect from the brand, they offer premium performance which does mean they come with a premium price, but given my experience of testing them, they are definitely worth it.
The fabric is 100% polyester and feels comfortable against the skin, whilst the two-way stretch delivered when playing shots, moving around and getting into different stances on the course. They feel extremely well-made and the little details like the five pockets and inner stitching, elevating the pants further. Finally they look fantastic everywhere, come in loads of colors, and have a classic look and fit which many golfers will enjoy. A five-star pair of pants.
Sizes: 30-40
Colors: 4
+ Comfortable and freedom of movement
+ Lightweight and breathable for year-round use
- 32” inseam won’t suit everyone
These trousers are some of the most comfortable and fashionable golf trousers on the market right now. The 4-way stretch warp-knit fabric and lightweight nature means you can stay completely comfortable and mobile while out on the golf course. Thanks to the moisture wicking fabric and breathability on offer from these trousers, they are perfect for use throughout the year in any temperature. While these trousers do offer a smart, traditional look, there are some hints of G/FORE’s modern outlook with silicone scripted logos on one of the belt loops and two zipped rear pockets where the zipper was in hot pink. While there are four color options and multiple waist size options, the ability to only order a 32” inseam on these trousers will not suit everyone.
Sizes: 30-38
Colors: 4
+ Lightweight fabric
+ Classic chino styling
- Not as flexible as others
The Garvey Pant offers a lightweight feel and solid amount of stretch thanks to its performance woven fabric, engineered for exceptional comfort and freedom. While these pants aren’t as stretchy as others on the market they provide enough mobility for both on course and off the course wear. While these pants are breathable and feature moisture-wicking properties, they are designed for versatile performance rather than providing significant warmth in cold conditions, meaning they are on the thin side of pants and are ideal for warmer conditions.
The tailored fit with moderately tapered leg, ensures a sharp, modern-classic look, allowing them to transition effortlessly from the golf course to the clubhouse, or even into a smart-casual setting. Key functional details include classic chino styling and a practical non-slip interior waistband lining.
Sizes: 28-40
Colors: 4
+ Well tailored slim fit
+ Strong collection of neutral colors
- Golfers with large legs might find them a touch tight
The Nike Golf Tour Repel Slim Fit Chino Trousers offer a modern, slim fit for the stylish golfer. Constructed with lightweight and comfortable Nike Dri-FIT fabric, these trousers ensure superior breathability and moisture management, keeping you dry and comfortable on the course. The water-repellent finish adds practicality, while the subtle herringbone fabric provides a touch of sophistication.
Featuring two front pockets and two rear pockets these trousers blend functionality with style. The branded gripper tape waistband also ensures a secure fit for your polo to prevent untucking, and the Nike Swoosh on the back right pocket adds a subtle touch of branding for the big Nike fan. The slim fit nature of these trousers does mean that golfers with slightly wider legs may find them a touch tight.
Size: 28-46
Colors: 8
+ Incredibly lightweight
+ Great color options
- Material began to pull shortly after first use
Arguably the most value for money of any pant on this guide, the Under Armour Drive Tapered Pant does everything you want a good pair of golf pants to deliver. These pants work perfectly in both warmer and colder temperatures and repel water from unexpected rain showers that strike when you're on the course.
I tested the Halo Gray color and absolutely loved them - I felt like they were a perfect blend of a bright, classy color without being too loud of brash like the white colorway trousers in recent years. These are one of the lightest pairs of trousers I've tested as well thanks largely to the soft feel of the 90% recycled polyester that provides plenty of stretch through the swing. Four well sized pockets round off what is an excellent pant for the golf course.
Sizes: 28-40
Colors: 8
+ Excellent all-round fit
+ Lots of pockets and colors
- Slightly pricier than others
The 101 5 Pocket Golf Pants do the basics perfectly, with a lot of added minor touches making these one of the best golf pants on the market. Firstly, the five pockets provide ample space and storage for your necessities, whilst the positioning of them means it doesn't impede your swing or walk, no matter how full they are with tees, golf balls etc.
Arguably, the stand-out is the fit of the 101s, which sit perfectly on the waist and aren't baggy in the slightest when it comes to the legs. In fact, the bottom of the pants, around the ankles, are almost jogger-like but, unlike a jogger, they aren't elasticated and provide some freedom of movement. Admittedly, the price is slightly more than other brands, but with the overall performance, the higher price tag is justifiable and worth it in this case.
Sizes: 30-42
Colors: 5
+ Incredibly stylish
+ Stretch provides comfort
- Slim fit may deter some
These chinos get their name from how, as TravisMathew put it, you can stay in them all day, or from open to close (OTC) and we would agree that on/off course versatility are one of these pants’ main selling points.
Comfort comes from the moisture-wicking, flexible fabric while the style stems from the five color choices, the subtle pattern on the material as well as the slim yet flattering fit.
The thin, lightweight design means they may not offer as much protection from the elements as others in this guide, but you’d be hard pressed to find slacks with as much visual appeal.
Sizes: 30-44
Colors: 4
+ Classic style in four versatile colors
+ Wide range of waist sizes and leg lengths
- You want something with a little more color to it
You can’t really go wrong with these classy-looking polyester trousers, available in four ‘sensible’ colors that will each go with a variety of different shirt and top colors and styles. With waist sizes from 30-44in and the standard three leg lengths of 29, 31 and 33in you should be able to find the right fit for your size and shape.
There’s sufficient stretch in the fabric to retain both comfort and style and, as with the Tech Performance shorts, there’s a rubberised strip around the inner waistline to help with grip against even the shiniest of shirt fabrics to stop things coming untucked. The Ashworth ‘Golfman’ rivets at the bottom of the front pocket openings are a nice touch that both look good and should enhance durability at a common wear point.
Sizes: 30-42
Colors: 3
+ Extremely lightweight
+ Great fit and comfortable
- Not overly warm
I’ve tested Callaway trousers before and they have come up quite tight, but the LT. Weight Tech trousers fitted me perfectly. As the name suggests, they are extremely lightweight thanks to the breathable 89% Polyester / 11% Spandex material - perfect for a warm day when shorts aren’t quite the best option.
They feature side and back pockets ideal for your scorecard and glove with a subtle Callaway logo above the right back pocket. The stretch fabric makes these trousers very comfortable to wear and the Opti Dri Technology means the garment transfers moisture away from the body to keep you cool and dry. The nature of the fabric means these perhaps aren’t ideal for when the weather turns colder, but if you’re looking for a pair of stylish summer trousers, these ticked all the boxes for me.
Sizes: 32-40
Colors: 5
+ Very lightweight and breathable
+ Smart look
- Could come in a few more color options
The Nixon pants from Galvin Green are a high quality and smart pair of golf pants that look great and perform very well on the course.
They’re a very lightweight construction made from quick-dry fabric for hot weather, and come with a nice amount of stretch for playing golf in.
You get four pockets, two side and two back ones, with the back right pocket embossed with some subtle Galvin Green branding.They come in five different colorways from blues to grey and black. They’re premium priced but for good reason, as we believe they’re made to stand the test of time and last a number of years.
Sizes: 29-40
Colors: 8
+ Perfect for a formal golf outfit
+ Excellent choice of colors available
- At tope end of price spectrum
The J.Lindeberg Ellott trousers deliver clean and sophisticated aesthetics with a pleated front and tailored fit. The trousers are still packed with all the modern essentials thanks to the breathability and stretch provided by the polyester construction, while still retaining the classic country club look fashion conscious golfers will love.
These versatile trousers are also water repellent so you will remain well protected from the elements while out on the course. The mid rise construction provides ample space in all the right places, while the deep pockets ensure you will have plenty of space to store your belongings without fear of them falling out mid swing. There is plenty to love about these trousers, but I still can’t help but feel that £130 is still a pretty hefty price tag.
Sizes: 30-48
Colors: 9
+ Super stretchy
+ Quality material
- Extra pockets show these are pants made for golf
After testing the Iver Trousers from Kjus, the first word that comes to mind is premium. These lightweight, breathable pants deliver a comfortable, slim fit without ever feeling restrictive thanks to excellent levels of stretch and a soft feel.
Perfect for warmer summer days, they've also been cleverly designed with the golf in mind by adding a hidden second pocket on the right side for accessories you'd like to carry like a ball marker or pitch repairer, whilst a little strip of silicone tape is added to the back pocket to prevent your scorecard or glove falling out during your walk. The inner waistband is also lined with silicone tape to keep your shirt tucked and your fit stable, allowing you to focus solely on your golf and not your clothes or accessories.
Sizes: 30-42
Colors: 3
+ Smart and stylish
+ Protective yet flexible
- Limited colors
Penguin clothing is often on the more colorful and flamboyant side, but it’s by no means a one-dimensional brand and refined style is very much in the company’s DNA. That description is very fitting when it comes to The Players trousers – a classy garment that looks smart on the fairways.
There’s a nice, tapered fit to the design and there’s no wasted baggy material around the shins, which can often be an irritation. There’s also added stretch in the material to make sure you have complete freedom of movement. While some brands provide more color options, all three offered here are plain, so they will work with a range of different polo shirts, mid-layers and outerwear. It’s hard to fault Penguin’s The Players trousers.
Sizes: 30-44
Colors: 3
+ Lightweight, premium feel material
+ Excellent shaping
- Limited colors
The Ping Locke trousers are everything a golfer needs to look stylish on the course and feel comfortable throughout the round. The material’s stretch design and sleek shaping make them a true apparel staple, plus their quick dry and crease-resistant properties make them very easy to use over and over again. Two front pockets, a handy tee slot, and two at the back provide the perfect solution for transporting anything you might need on the course.
The gripper waistband keeps everything in place and provides confidence that you will always look your best whether you are climbing out of the bunker or striding onto the green. My only minor complaint is the limited colors available, as I could easily see myself adding more and more pairs of the Ping Locke trousers to my wardrobe ready for whatever the season brings.
Sizes: 28-46
Colors: 12
+ Incredibly comfortable
+ Lightweight, stretchy material
- Relaxed fit not for everyone
A brand that’s made major waves within golf apparel in recent times is Lululemon. Throughout its golf range, it offers simple, classic designs using technical fabrics and these ABC trousers are a perfect example of that. We tested the khaki option but there are a whopping 12 colors to choose from. The first thing we noticed was how lightweight and stretchy the fabric is. If you are looking for a classic pair of cotton chinos, these probably aren’t for you but there’s no doubt they look very smart.
The major plus point from the technical fabric is how comfortable these trousers are. The fit is relaxed without being baggy and that makes these ideal for long days on the golf course. Given the simple aesthetic, you could also easily wear these off course, which makes them an excellent value for money option.
Sizes: 32-40
Colors: 5
+ Crisp and premium feel
+ Excellent shaping
- Quite a tailored fit
Pull on the Bowen tapered trousers and you'll instantly appreciate the smooth, flexible feel of the performance fabric, allowing for unrestricted movement throughout your swing. Their tapered cut provides a modern, streamlined silhouette, eliminating any excess material that could impede your game or movement, and while not specifically designed for harsh weather, their breathable nature ensures comfort in milder conditions.
The smart, understated styling makes them versatile enough to wear both on and off the course, and they pair well with a crisp white T-shirt to create a smart, casual look. Practical side and back pockets offer convenient storage for essentials like scorecards and tees, making these an excellent choice for the golfer who values a contemporary fit and sophisticated design without compromising on comfort.
Sizes: 29-44
Colors: 3
+ Comfortable stretchy material
+ Good range of size options
- No fastening on back pockets
As a large gentleman, freedom and movement on the course is vital to me to enjoy my round and stay comfortable. The stretchy material certainly means that these trousers are lightweight and easy to swing in. The trousers have five pockets, which include a marker or coin pocket within the front right pocket, it was not particularly useful for me, but it is a nice touch.
The rear pockets do not have a button or zip fastener, so there is the fear that your scorecard could escape at times. There are only three color options, all on the dark side, but will suit most requirements for players. A solid option.
Sizes: 28-40
Colors: 2
+ Can wear all year round
+ Allow full range of movement
-Lack of color choice
These Rockliffe Trousers by Abacus exemplify comfort. When I first put them on, I immediately knew I would have no issue swinging a golf club in them. Their lightweight material, stretch, and flexible waist allow you to move freely on the golf course.
With Drycool and wicking effects, these trousers will also help keep you warm, making them ideal to wear throughout the year. Their two front and two back pockets also make them perfect for storing everything you need on the course. Colour-wise, I think there is a lack of variety on offer. However, the two bold colors of Atlantic Blue and Forest Green provide a bold alternative look to your staple trouser tint.
Autumn/Winter Pants
Sizes: 28-44W
Colors: 3
+ Very warm
+ Tapered leg
- Too warm to wear in summer
These are a brilliant pair of golf pants to wear in colder conditions. They’re made from a soft, textured fabric that is extremely comfortable and keeps your legs warm when playing on those windy days, while there’s a nice amount of stretch incorporated too. They’re not officially listed as water repellent but they’ll do a job in keeping your legs dry during small showers. We loved the detailing of the subtle stripes and the tapered legs ensure a smart look. They come with four pockets, two front, two back for all the items you need on you whilst playing golf. These pants are very hard to fault. They’re fairly golf-specific so probably not a pair that you’ll want to wear away from the course and they’ll be too warm to wear on hotter days.
Sizes: 30-42W, 30-36L
Colors: 3
+ Water resistant
+ Infrared technology
- Loose fit may not please everyone
The Under Armour ColdGear Infrared Tapered Pants are a great option for those who like to do battle with the course on a cooler day. The infrared technology on the inside of these trousers is incorporated into a soft lining that, not only provides great comfort, but also insulates these pants superbly well.
They remain extremely lightweight, considering the additional technology, and the fluorine-free water repellent technology allows water to seamlessly fall off these pants if you find yourself caught in a shower. The 4-way stretch on these pants also means mobility is not restricted and you can still make an athletic swing while remaining warm and dry.
Sizes: 30-40W, 30-34L
Colors: 2
+ Very warm but also breathable
+ Good water resistance
- Have a baggy fit
The Puma Warm Trousers are great for those colder days with a splash of rain around. Because of their water repellent fabric, they will keep you dry in showers which ensures you stay comfortable during your rounds.
Designed with UPF 50 protection, they also provide protection from the sun's harmful rays, with a fleece lining providing great temperature control. In testing, during a wet and warm day, we found these trousers to do exactly as expected, with a nice fit including stretch in the fabric that is very breathable. All in all, these Warm Trousers will really help you out in the unpredictable weather and, with a number of sizing options, there should be a fit for everyone.
Sizes: 36 combos of waist and leg
Colors: 3
+ Incredibly stretchy and soft
+ Made from sustainable materials
- Quite baggy around the lower leg
An incredibly stretchy golf pant with a smooth sensation to the touch. It makes some something that is very comfortable in all weather conditions. The water-repellent finish on top will handle a short rain shower with ease but isn’t a fully waterproof option. Thanks to the fact they’re made by a company the size of Nike, there are a whopping 36 different size options covering all waist and leg combinations.
It’s by far the most we’ve ever seen in a golf trouser so, if you’re something of an awkward-to-find size, here’s your new golf trouser! These certainly aren’t the modern, tapered trousers that we’ve become accustomed to. If you prefer a more traditional, tailored fit then these will be great, but those who prefer a tapered fit best look elsewhere.
Sizes: 30-40
Colors: 2
+ Stylish alternative to waterproof pants
+ Keeps winter chills out
- Not fully waterproof
Not everyone enjoys the baggy look of traditional golf waterproof trousers, which is why these slim fitting thermal trousers are a compelling alternative for the style-conscious golfer that plays all year round. They look like any normal pair of golf pants but are actually made of a thick and stretchy thermal material that does an incredible job of keeping any chill at bay.
On milder days, they didn’t provide the breathability we were hoping for, but on colder outings these remove the need for an additional pair of pants and the soft inner lining means they’re comfortable to wear against your skin. While they’re not technically fully waterproof, we wore them during some heavy showers on the course and didn’t get any water coming through.
Sizes: 30-40
Colors: 5
+ Good amount of stretch
+ Plenty of color choices
- A little tight around the crotch
For golfers seeking a technical, high performing pair of golf pants you’ll like what you experience from Galvin Green’s Noah. These slim fitting pants come in a whopping 21 size options, so you’re sure to find a pair that will fit you perfectly, although even in our size they do come up a little snug around the crotch area.
They incorporate a shirt gripper waistband to help keep your shirt tucked in and with both front and back pockets, these pants are as functional as they are stylish. The UV protection of 20+ provides a barrier from the sun’s harmful rays and the stretch in the material maximises comfort and freedom of movement while you’re playing golf. It also dries quickly for added convenience, making them a near-perfect option for the course.
Sizes: 30-40W, 30-34L
Colors: 3
+ Added warmth without having to layer up with waterproof trousers
+ Comfortable and classic-looking
- Not fully waterproof
The first thing you’ll notice is the thickness of the material courtesy of the fleecy lining. It comes as a bit of a surprise but, of course, that’s what these trousers are all about – added warmth in a bitter north wind without you needing to don your waterproof trousers over the top of your normal ones. The feel of the material is somewhere between those two due to their water-resistant properties.
They boast a classic, simple look, ample pocket space, and a waistband with a hint of stretch should you put on a pound or two over winter. You’ll need to check the weather forecast carefully to know when it’s going to remain cold enough to need these, but some of us prefer to be slightly too warm than too cold and these trousers are definitely more for the former.
Sizes: 30-44
Colors: 1
+ Warm yet breathable
+ Water resistant
- May prove too warm in changeable weather
The Ping Sensorwarm Winter Trouser II features the perfect combination of warmth and comfort that you need when the temperatures drop. They are extremely comfortable thanks to the brushed-back fabric, which is made from 92% polyester and 8% elastane. They are also water resistant, meaning you’ll only have to reach for the waterproof trousers when the rain turns very heavy. There is ample storage, with two front pockets, a concealed zip pocket, and two back pockets, including a scorecard pocket and a button-down pocket. They feature a Ping Eye logo on the back and the Eye Mark logo on the front under the left-hand pocket. The fit is comfortable without feeling baggy and the gripper tape elastic on the inner waistband offers a secure fit.
Sizes: 30-40W – 29-33L
Colors: 3
+ Very comfortable product to wear
+ Magnetic pocket a great touch
- Styling means that they are tight around large calves
These trousers are a great all-rounder that are hard-wearing and will keep you warm as well as cool. First things first, they provide an exceptional fit, with the mixture of polyester and elastane an excellent combination that means this product is very comfortable to slide into. There are also clever designs to help with your golf, the magnetic back pocket flap is the perfect place for a scorecard.
There is also a non-slip waistband so that your polo won’t ride up, while the trousers are also water repellent, without really looking like they should be. We did find that they were slightly tight around the calves, but the material meant that we were still able to very much enjoy them on the course. An excellent option for a day of light showers and perhaps softer ground conditions.
How we test golf apparel
When it comes to testing the best golf pants our comprehensive methodology revolves around, as you would expect, playing a lot of golf. We feel putting golf products to the test on the golf course, on the range and in practice is the best way to find out how usable and well-designed some pants are.
On that note, we feel it is particularly important to use all golf pants in different conditions, in the rain, in the snow and in the sunshine to ascertain how each performs. We also looked to use pants off the course as well to see how versatile they were in social situations or when wearing them to work. Importantly, every member of the Golf Monthly team is a regular golfer so we put golf pants to the test over a number of rounds. The final point we should mention is no manufacturer can buy a good review. This is because our testing team tells it how it is and we seek to be as insightful and honest as possible.
How to choose the best pants
When it comes to buying golf pants, what are some of the key factors you need to consider? Let's take a look
Size
First things first you should know what size you are in terms of waist and leg. The best way of doing this is to go and try models on or find the best fitting pants you have and see what size they are.
Material
What kind of material do you want your golf pants to be made of and what kind of material do you like the most? Knowing this will narrow your search. Additionally be aware of which materials stretch more because us golfers have to get into different stances and positions on the golf course and a good pair of golf pants will stretch to help.
Color
Out on Tour you will undoubtedly have seen lots of players with different colored pants and more brands are offering us amateurs more pant colors too. Therefore it is just a case of finding the right one for you.
Budget
How much do you want to spend on a pair of golf pants? As you can see above there are models at different price points so have a clear idea of budget before starting your search.
FAQs
What kind of pants are best for golf?
The best pants for golf are ones that offer good freedom of movement, are comfortable, look good, stretch nicely and don't break the bank. If you find a pair that delivers on all these things, then you are good to go.
