Best Golf Polo Shirts 2026
From classic designs to ones that stand out from the crowd, we collate our favorite golf polo shirts on the market.
Nowadays, the best golf polo shirts look very different to how they did ten or even five years ago, with a whole range of new performance fabrics and technologies used in construction. This is because golf polos have to be able to do a lot of things these days. The best models give a lot of mobility so the athletic movement of the golf swing is not compromised, whilst they also sit comfortably on your torso and arms. A good model will also be lightweight, breathable on those hot days, and even help in terms of wicking sweat, blocking UV rays, and maybe even anti-odor technology.
Finally, they have to look good as well. Some brands and models decide to really push the boat out which is great, whereas some look to have a more understated design so they can be worn anywhere. Acknowledging all of this, below we take a look at some of the best designs on the market. These are shirts that will help you feel and look good on the fairways, allowing you to focus on your game and play your best. Additionally, if you want to complete the ensemble, we recommend checking out some of our other buying guides on the best golf tops and also best golf trousers, so you can get the entire outfit right.
Best Golf Polo Shirts 2026
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 5
+ Versatile for off course
+ Wide range of colors
- Basic design
The biggest compliment you could pay the Essential Performance polo from G/FORE is that its understated design means you could comfortably wear it away from the course.
A lot of golf polo shirts with vibrant patterns scream golf, limiting their versatility. No such problem here with the simple block color design meaning you’ll find yourself wearing this more than post other golf shirts you own.
The fit is snug without pinching and the material is thin and lightweight, boosting the comfort. There will be softer feeling polo shirts out there but the little design touches, like the silicone tab on the front, the collar stand with the colored strip at the back and the classic tail hem make this a staple for anyone looking to stand out on and off the course.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 5+
+ Incredibly breathable mesh construction
+ Premium button detailing
- Tailored fit may run slightly snug
The Soul Performance Mesh Polo from Peter Millar seamlessly blends vintage aesthetics with modern technical functionality. Part of the premium Crown Crafted collection, it is constructed from a lightweight, highly breathable blend of polyester and spandex mesh, that boasts an exceptional four-way stretch, moisture-wicking capabilities, and odor resistance, ensuring you stay cool and comfortable throughout your round, no matter how hot it gets on the course.
The simplicity behind this polo looks great, notably the structured spread collar and the luxurious two-button design that make it versatile and perfectly suited for post-round drinks in the clubhouse. However, it is worth noting that the athletic, tailored fit features slightly shorter sleeves and a trimmer silhouette through the chest and waist compared to standard fits and so because of this, if you prefer a looser, more traditional garment, we highly recommend sizing up.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 2
+ Innovative hybrid construction
+ Versatile “Beyond the Course” styling
- White fabric can be slightly translucent
Slip on the adidas BTC Vent Twistknit polo, and you will immediately notice the intelligent hybrid design tailored for peak performance. The front features soft, stretchy Twistknit fabric for a premium feel, while the entire back is engineered with breathable mesh to maximize airflow during warm summer rounds. This "Beyond the Course" essential replaces traditional buttons with a sleek snap closure, offering a modern, clean-cut aesthetic that transitions effortlessly from the final green to the clubhouse bar.
The regular fit ensures a comfortable, unrestricted swing without excess bulk, and the moisture-wicking properties keep you dry under pressure. Finished with a subtle chest logo, this polo is a sophisticated choice for the contemporary golfer who prioritizes technical ventilation and sustainable materials without sacrificing a sharp, athletic silhouette on or off the fairway.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 6
+ Very cool print that looks great on the course
+ Cool and comfortable fit
- Those wanting a classic look might not vibe with the prints
Under Armour do polo shirts so well, in my opinion, and this latest addition certainly fits the bill. I have worn this on a number of occasions (I am actually wearing it now while writing this), both on the golf course and while at work in the office. It’s super comfortable and uses technology to pull heat away from the skin - helping to keep you cool.
The four-way stretch material allows you to swing freely and look great while doing it - especially if you like a bold print. If you prefer a cleaner, more classic look these designs might not be for you, but for those who want to stand out and turn heads on the course - there are six great options to choose from.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 6
+ Fantastic selection of colors
+ Lightweight, breathable and comfortable
- Collar is quite stiff and loud
Nike polo tops always deliver good performance and this one is no different, the American sporting powerhouse has opted for a contrast collar this season, however, and I have to say it’s a nice change. The colour selection available is also quite abstract, including colours like Cave Purple, which will undoubtedly appeal to those who prefer something a bit more out there than the standard navy polos we see everywhere.
The fit is comfortable, but does come up quite large, which is worth bearing in mind. The only issue I found with this polo was that the collar is very stiff and also quite nosy when moved. Although it wasn’t a massive distraction when playing, it could frustrate golfers who prefer perfect silence during their swing.
Sizes: XS-XXXL
Colors: 14
+ Tailored fit
+ High-quality fabric
- A little short on length in the body
There are a huge 14 colour options in total: too many to list above. I had it in the electric blue Federal Oak colourway with a black pattern that looks rather like someone has taken a Sharpie to it. I like the pattern a lot, however. It’s the perfect combination of loud without shouting too much. Those who prefer a pattern to block colour will love all the other colours and patterns JL has opted for in this design. The detailing and quality of the fabric are exceptional.
Highly breathable, even the subtle JL logo is stitched to such high quality on the collar that you feel like you’re getting every penny of your investment here. My only negative is that it is a little short in length on the body. That means it comes untucked quite a lot if you tuck your shirt in. Then again, perhaps this is one of the polos best worn untucked.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 6
+ Exceptional airflow and cooling properties
+ Extremely lightweight
- Roomier Heritage fit may not suit all
The Crosswind Polo from Sun Day Red is a premium top engineered specifically for peak performance in warm weather. It’s crafted from a custom 90% polyester and 10% elastane blend, where it delivers exceptional ventilation, maximizing airflow and wicking away moisture to keep you completely comfortable and dry for when it gets hot on the course.
Style-wise, it features a self-fabric collar with integrated stays to prevent deforming, which is a nice touch. It also has a traditional three-button placket and a unique, soft-touch embossed 15-stripe Tiger logo that avoids the stiffness of heavy embroidery. While this polo is very breathable, it is worth noting that this polo utilizes Sun Day Red's ‘Heritage Fit’, offering a classic, roomier silhouette with slightly longer sleeves. If you prefer a modern, highly tailored athletic cut, this might feel a bit loose, but for unrestricted mobility, it is top-tier.
Sizes: XS-XXL
Colors: 3
+ Subtle branding looks great
+ Lightweight and incredibly breathable
- Limited selection of colors
Lululemon is a brand synonymous with athleisure and active comfort, and that heritage translates perfectly into its golf line. This polo has clearly been built with flexibility and comfort in mind, and it delivers on both fronts. The material is incredibly lightweight and breathable, while the subtle branding choices give it a quiet luxury vibe.
The slim fit design hugs all the right places while the black on black colour combo I wore certainly provides a complementary silhouette. The shirt is also available in two more vibrant color options (Ping Pearl, Deep Marina) however I would say the selection on offer is slightly underwhelming. If you are in the market for a polo that can be worn on or off course, this is certainly one of the best options on the market.
Sizes: S-3XL
Colors: 1
+ Excellent stretch and mobility
+ Great UPF 50 sun protection
- Print may not suit traditionalists
The Beach Break Performance Polo from Johnnie-O brings a coastal vibe to the fairways without sacrificing any technical performance. Constructed from a lightweight, breathable blend of polyester and spandex, it features exceptional four-way stretch, allowing for total freedom of movement during your swing.
The fabric does a great job in wicking away moisture to keep you cool on warm days, while the UPF 50 rating provides protection against the sun on warm days. The wrinkle-resistant material means it always looks sharp straight from the wardrobe, and the subtle surfing print perfectly balances casual and sporty aesthetics on the course. The Performance is an outstanding, easy-care option that transitions effortlessly everywhere.
Sizes: S-2XL
Colors: 3
+ A unique design that stands out
+ Extremely stretchy
- Collar could be stronger and more durable
The Molalon floral rib polo from Puma is an eye-catching polo shirt that will make you stand out on the golf course. It’s a comfortable garment to wear with a four-way stretch inbuilt, so it’s very enjoyable to play golf in. Every element of it is stretchy, from the sleeve cuffs to the collar. Due to this, the collar could potentially begin to age over time by slumping.
The floral trim definitely adds an extra something to this polo, which is extremely soft and fits exactly as we expected - so we’d recommend going for your usual size. It only comes in three colors at the moment though.
Sizes: S-2XL
Colors: 3
+ Classy, premium aesthetic
+ Versatile and comfortableReasons to avoid:
- Pocket perhaps unnecessary
I always like a striped polo and one of my recent favorites is the Coffey from B.Draddy. I think the pocket is a touch unnecessary but many people will like the addition. Regardless this is still a premium, classy looking polo that works on and off the course in all three of the colors it comes in.
Made from the brand’s signature Peruvian Pima cotton, I found it to be soft, comfortable and there are a number of other design touches I like. For example the collar is never uncomfortable or obstructive, the overall length of the polo was just right for me, and it comes with built-in sun protection, something to never take for granted.
Sizes: S-3XL
Colors: 4
+ Lightweight
+ Wonderfully stretchy and breathable
- Tightness around the arms won’t suit all
FootJoy rarely makes waves when it comes to the looks of their apparel - that isn’t to say it’s ugly or not pleasing on the eye, but rather that they let the performance of their clothing do the talking. However, I feel both boxes have been ticked with their Wingtip Polo. The navy floral design is subtle but is also a lovely design that looks really classy.
This polo feels featherweight, perfect for warm spring/summer golf thanks to this in addition to the superb breathability. The stretchy material will also compliment swing, not feeling restrictive after you pull the trigger. It’s a little tight around the arms however, which may put off some golfers.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 3
+ Stylish design
+ Excellent moisture-wicking qualities
- Material a little on the thin side
Galvin Green might be known for its waterproofs but its Ventil8 polo shirts are not to be ignored. Its design makes it instantly synonymous with the Swedish brand and has a number of qualities that make it perfect for warm-weather outings.
The soft, stretchy fabric enhances both comfort and range of motion while also being quick drying out of the washing machine. We also enjoyed the tailored collar, which creates a smarter look. The material is on the thin side but that aside, this polo shirt is hard to fault.
Sizes: S-2XL
Colors: 3
+ Good stretch to allow you to swing freely
+ Unique design stands out from the crowd
- More color options would be welcomed
The Maze Polo does everything you want from a trusty golf polo top. Firstly, the 86% polyester and 14% spandex material is light and stretchy, complimenting your golf swing to allow you to swing freely.
The moisture-wicking material will keep you cool during those hot afternoons on the golf course, whilst the eye-catching designs will turn heads on the course and around the clubhouse - but I appreciate that the design isn’t over-the-top. In my opinion, it is just about right. The Maze is available in four different colorways, and part of me wishes there were more to choose from.
Sizes: S-2XL
Colors: 1
+ Smart, comfortable fabric
+ Classic fit without being baggy
- Only one color option available
When it comes to modern golf polo shirts, there is no shortage of identikit technical, patterned fabrics to choose from. This polo from Turtleson is slightly different. The brand has opted for a diamond knit fabric. The feel of this is more natural, premium and luxurious than you will get from most technical polos - and we loved that.
The fit is more classic than athletic and works well with the overall aesthetic of the shirt. It creates a smart overall aesthetic. It is both breathable and wrinkle resistant. We think this could easily be a staple in the wardrobe of any golfer looking for a stylish, sharp look.
Sizes: S-XXXL
Colors: 3
+ Eye-catching design
+ Extremely soft and flexible
- Golf specific
The Foulard Printed polo is a stunning golf polo shirt from Callaway that allows you to stand out from the crowd. It’s a very soft and lightweight polo that has a great amount of stretch built in for free movement. It has three buttons, a high quality collar that does not feel like it will wilt over time and some minimal branding, with the Callaway logo on the right sleeve.
It comes in a classic fit so we’d recommend going with your usual size, or sizing down if you’re in between sizes and prefer a slimmer fit. Overall, there’s not much to dislike in this eye-catching polo shirt.
Sizes: S-2XL
Colors: 2
+ Soft and stretchy material
+ Print great for summer golf
- All over print will divide opinion
Snippet: I’ve been a big fan of Original Penguin gear over the years, as have some of my colleagues at Golf Monthly because it allows you to show a bit of personality and aesthetically do something a bit different. This continues in 2026 with this Bow Tie polo which is an all-over print which blends nicely and almost looks like a solid color when far away, and you can then see the bow tie detailing close up.
Performance isn’t compromised especially from a comfort perspective. The fabric blend feels lovely and soft, whilst I found it to stretch extremely well too. It is also very lightweight making it ideal for those hot summer rounds and importantly it is easy to wash and dry. There are two colors to choose from with plenty of sizes.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 7
+ Stylish and functional
+ High construction quality
- Quite figure-hugging
This is a polo that blends performance and style. There are three print designs to choose from and a total of seven different color schemes, so you’ll have no issue locating the palette and style that works for you. It has impressive stretch properties and it’s crease-resistant, whilst it wicks moisture nicely to keep you dry in both hot and drizzly conditions and it’s very quick-drying.
The three-button placket and concealed button-down collar add to the overall aesthetic quality and the branding is subtle, with a Ping logo on the arm and the famous eye logo on the back of the neck. Overall, it’s hard to fault if you want functionality and style with a slice of personality on the side.
Sizes: XS-XXL
Colors: 4
+ Comfortable and lightweight
+ Moisture wicking
- Not the most colourful option out there
The Castore Men’s Pique Stripe Short Sleeve Polo is made from performance stretch fabric, meaning it is extremely comfortable and lightweight to wear. It features set-in short sleeves, which means there’s no excess fabric to put you off during your swing, and it includes side slits for improved mobility.
The understated, striped design is subtle but effective, and it gives it a point of difference to other plain polos out there. It uses AerTek technology, which is designed to help wick moisture away from the body, so it is ideal for golf when the temperatures start to rise. The four colour options offer a nice variety, although those looking to stand out on the course may want to look for something with a bit more variety.
Sizes: S-XXXXL
Colors: 1
+ Unique and detailed artwork
+ Four-way stretch and moisture-wicking
- The collar isn’t as strong as some might prefer
Sunday Swagger has over 130 different polo designs, but each has the same 4-way stretch, UPF 40 sun protection, moisture wicking technology and a breathable poly spandex blend that is wrinkle resistant. The mix of features makes it my go-to choice when playing golf, with the only real downside being a slightly flimsy collar that doesn’t stand up if you want to protect your neck from the sun.
Otherwise, it’s long enough in the body to stay tucked into your shorts while playing, the material is perfectly breathable and quick-drying, and the fit is kind to most body types. Having tested Sunday Swagger products several times over the past few years, I can say with total confidence that the brand’s polos are well worth the investment.
Sizes: S-2XL
Colors: 2
+ Vibrant and striking design
+ High quality and comfortable material
- Bold statement on the course
When you are playing a round of golf the most important thing is to feel comfortable and confident in the clothing that you are wearing, the Lyle and Scott Leaf Print Polo certainly makes a statement with its bright and modern design golf polo shirt. The material used is of a high quality and feels nice and light and breathable when you are out on the golf course on those summer days.
Alternatively, this can be layered nicely with other clothing such a light jacket or quarter-zip jumper. I chose the Navy Peony colour which contrasts nicely with a pair of white shorts allowing for a striking look on the course. The fit is comfortable and allows a full range of motion with my golf swing.
Sizes: S-XXXL
Colors: 4
+ Really light feel to the fabric.
+ Use of recycled fabrics will appeal to some customers.
- Arm cuff fit a little snugger than on some shirts.
A polo is just a polo, right? Well, not quite, but finding points of difference is not always easy. What I noticed first about the Hayden was the snug arm cuff fit. Personally, I prefer something a little looser but I’m sure it would ease over time. Beyond that, the fabric feel is excellent and the discreet rather than overt pattern is very much to my taste, as is the knit collar, which has a decent sense of structure to it.
The fact that it has been woven from recycled fabrics will catch the eye of many in a positive way as will its UPF 50+ protection factor in these ever more conscious times re the effects of direct sunlight. Overall, a very nice shirt, although a few more colour options would be good.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 4
+ Clean lines and retains its shaping
+ Very comfortable inside and out
- Fairly limited colour options
As with much of their output, the team at Glenmuir are very admirably using recycled material for this bright, smart polo shirt. As with the Fraser midlayer and Cameron hoodie I have been lucky enough to try, I am greatly taken by the Tahiti blue which is almost dazzlingly bright and bold. The material offers full stretch but happily returns to its stylish fitting without losing its shape.
The collar is reinforced to help maintain shape, and another strong touch is the three mother-of-pearl buttons. There is a subtle Glenmuir logo on the right sleeve, and the material, which both protects against the sun and draws moisture away from the body, is very comfortable to the touch, both inside and out. I will enjoy wearing this excellent polo shirt throughout the Summer.
Sizes: S-2XL
Colors: 2
+ Soft fabric
+ Flattering fit
- It’s a bold look
For a fashion-conscious twenty-something ‘lad’ growing up in the UK in the mind-1990s, Ted Baker was a brand that you aspired to be seen in while strutting your stuff in dodgy provincial nightclubs. (Just me then?) A lot has changed in 30-years – well documented financial woes, administration and a relaunch in 2024 – so for the nostalgic middle-aged golfer it’s nice to see Ted Baker back.
Initially, I thought the Barnnes’s design was a bit loud and the upright dark green collar with white buttons too much of a contrast for my (now) more mature tastes. (Probably not nightclub material.) If the looks appeal to you, though, the Barnnes is a decent performer. The soft, stretch fabric is very comfortable and the fit is athletic but flattering. I also appreciated the subtle styling nods like the golf tee print inside the neck.
Sizes: S-XXXL
Colors: 3
+ Vibrant design.
+ Moisture wicking and UPF 50+ protection
- Only three color options
The Ashworth Oasis Polo boasts an eye-catching palm print and stylish finishing touches, including a striped collar and contrast buttons. A soft, matte technical fabric feels comfortable against the skin and offers excellent stretch for unrestricted movement, while moisture-wicking properties and UPF 50+ protection make it a practical choice in warm conditions.
This polo blends standout style with solid on-course performance and is a strong option for golfers wanting to inject a bit of personality into their wardrobe.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: Various collections
+ Bold colors and modern design
+ Moisture wicking fabric
- Bold design not for everyone
Bad Birdie Core Performance Polos come in a vast array of striking designs and bold colors. Four-way stretch ensures freedom of movement, while moisture-wicking fabric and anti-odour technology keeps you dry and fresh in warm conditions. I particularly enjoyed the Stay-Right collar which holds its shape nicely.
I wore the Midnight Muse variant of the Core polo for the Golf Monthly testing day and when I stopped at my local garage on the drive home the young lady behind the counter remarked “nice shirt”. She’s right, it is a nice shirt!
Sizes: S-5XL
Colors: 2
+ Easy to swing in
+ Made from recycled material
- Raised stitching on band can itch
The stretchy material of the Fazer Woolton Cut & Sew Golf Polo Shirt makes it easy to swing in. This stretchiness also helps the shirt to remain tucked into trousers or shorts throughout the swing. The moisture-wicking material helps you stay dry by moving sweat away from the skin. The sleeves are particularly short.
It is made from recycled Polyester so that can give you a fuzzy warm saving-the-planet feeling when you put it on. But putting it on does also highlight that the stitching on the banding is raised which you can feel against your skin.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 3
+ Eye-catching colorway
+ Excellent true to size fit
- More dark color options would be nice
Like other Mizuno polos I've tested, there is an awful lot to like, especially when it comes to the design. It's very subtle and minimalist, meaning it should appeal to a wide range of tastes. The slight issue is the lack of color options and, although the colors offered are very eye-catching, I did wish there were darker choices available.
The colors, I guess, are on brand with Mizuno, as is the quality, with a thinner material used making it a really good spring/summer top. I tested two Mizuno polos on the day and I'm happy to report the fit and stretch is consistent throughout, meaning I had plenty of freedom of movement in the swing, while the lightweight fabric performed really well in hot and humid conditions.
Sizes: S-2XL
Colors: 25
+ Wonderfully stretchy
+ Looks as good as it feels to wear
- Tight around the arms which won’t be to everyone’s liking
Personally, I think the Versa Polo is the perfect golf polo shirt. It feels very premium the moment you slip it on and it performs flawlessly on the golf course courtesy of the four-way stretch. Moisture wicking fabric means you’ll remain cool in hot temperatures, whilst UPF 50+ Sun Protection provides safety against the beating fireball in the sky.
The material is wrinkle proof and the collar is high quality, maintaining its structure and shape after washes. If you’re not a fan of the colorway I am wearing then fear not, for there are literally dozens of colors to choose from. The polo I am wearing is fitted and therefore quite tight around the arms which won’t suit everyone’s tastes, but you have the option of a regular fit polo for a more ‘roomy’ feel.
Sizes: S-XXXL
Colors: 16
+ Wide range of colours
+ Can be worn in many combinations
- Plain style
Smart, simple, soft, silky. There are many ways to describe the Bullock polo shirt, one that is hard to fault. With 16 colours in the range, it wouldn’t be a bad idea to buy a few, because we’re talking about a luxurious-feeling polo that comes without the premium price tag, and the block colours are easy to match with other items of clothing in Oscar Jacobson’s range.
What golfers will appreciate at the height of summer is the soft, cool feel that it maintains, helping you to stay comfortable even in really hot conditions. The material also has a nice weight that seems to encourage a comfortable fit. It’s hard to pick a standout colour, and you can go quite bold if you want to, but Lavender really catches the eye.
Sizes: S-XXXL
Colors: 4
+ Affordability
+ Classic style
- Doesn’t shout premium
ProQuip has kept things really simple with the Tri-Stripe, maybe a little too basic for some golfers, those who like to wear more patterns and colours. However, this classic pique is very smart, and although there are more luxurious polos out there, not everyone wants to spend three figures on a polo shirt. It’s not just the affordability that’s so attractive - the stripe contrast collar and sleeves do give it an injection of colour. Sometimes that classic look is all you want, and it means it’s easy to mix and match with our pieces in ProQuip’s range.
The fact that it retains its shape well after a wash and doesn’t require ironing is also a big plus. There are four main block colours to choose from, but with various tri-stripe combinations, there are more options. Worth buying a few ahead of a trip.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 2
+ Light, comfortable stretchy material
+ Built in sun protection
- No hiding with bold design
There was some debate at Golf Monthly as to how Stromberg landed on the name Drax for its bold new polo shirt and it was the same for the Drax Geo’s bold aesthetic – some loved it, others were less keen. Luckily, as the tester wearing it I’m a fan. Made from 88% recycled polyester and 12% elastane, my large shirt did exactly what I want a golf shirt to do – let me play golf without thinking about my golf shirt. The fit and stretch meant that I could swing freely – it’s generous without being baggy – and the material wicked well over 18-holes on the hottest UK day of the year so far without finishing up with an artificial fibre stank. An added bonus on a day that I didn’t apply enough sunscreen was the UPF50+ protection. It’s well worth noting that the Stromberg Drax Neo represents good value compared to many similarly jazzy polos on the market.
Sizes: S-XXXL
Colors: 4
+ A nice-feeling fabric at a very decent price.
+ You like a subtle rather than loud pattern.
- Unstructured collar may not be to all tastes.
On opening this shirt I was mildly alarmed to observe that what Stuburt classes as a ‘sand’ colour was certainly, to my eye at least, really a mid-gold. After a while, I warmed to the idea and was relieved – and slightly surprised – that my colleagues at the big Golf Monthly test day felt that it looked good.
With other Stuburt shirts I’ve worn in recent years, I do feel that your get a lot for your money, with a decent look and nice-feeling fabric for less than half of what you would pay for a premium-brand shirt. That opinion hasn’t changed with the Vibe, which I can see getting a lot of wear over the course of a season. The tone-on-tone patterning is most visible in the steel blue version.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 2
+ Classic, comfortable fit
+ Wicks well
- Not everyone remembers the 90s fondly
I’ll admit that I wasn’t sold on Reebok’s Thin Stripe polo’s 1990s (I think) inspired look when I first took it out of the bag. There was something a bit sport’s umpire about it! However, it’s really grown on me with repeated wearing and I especially like it when paired with the brand’s Limoges Navy Tapered Stretch trousers. Of course, some people might think that you’re playing at being a budget Bryson but that’s their problem.
Performance wise, the Thin Stripe Polo has a classic, not too baggy, not too tight fit. The Reebok Dry material wicks well, dries quickly and doesn’t suffer from the sweaty smells that some of the more value offerings on the market can. Breathability is aided by a couple of small ‘vent’ holes under the armpits.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 2
+ Smart and simple design
+ Moisture-wicking fabric
- Golf specific
The Full Lupr Polo is a sleek and smart design which is a great option for those wishing to wear a more understated and modest design. Its moisture-wicking fabric makes it excellent for a warm day while I found the actual fit to be slim but not too tight. It’s set-in short sleeves are designed not to interfere with the golf swing and that’s certainly the case.
The Full Lupr Polo may be more suited to a slightly more athletic build and seems very golf specific to my eye, but overall its sharp and clean with an affordable price tag to boot.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 8
+ Simple and understated
+ Good value
- Fabric feels basic
If you want a polo that is easy on the wallet and easy on the eye, then the Greg Norman Shark Polo should be on your radar. Even at full price you’ll be able to pick up at least three Shark polos for the same cost as some of the higher end shirts in this guide. Tthe fabric is rather shiny which I think reflects its price point and that does mean it doesn’t shout ‘technical’ However, despite its lower cost the Shark is constructed from recycled material and boasts anti-micro and -odour properties.
I didn’t find that it wicked as well as more expensive shirts I’ve worn, but I also didn’t end up reeking of body odour. Which was nice. Fit errs on the generous side, so there’s plenty of freedom when swinging, but I didn’t feel as if the shirt carried an excess of material.
How we test golf apparel
We test golf apparel in the same way we test all golf equipment, by using products properly. In relation to polo shirts this means putting them to the test out on the golf course to see if the design is well thought out, if it moves nicely throughout the swing, and simply is the polo is usable. Additionally, wearing it on the course in different conditions gives us an idea on breathability, warmth if needed, and looks.
We would also wear the polos off the golf course as well because versatility to use a garment anywhere is a great way to get value for money. It is worth saying that the entire Golf Monthly team are regular golfers meaning from an apparel perspective we are all testing gear out on the course on a regular basis as well. This allows us to properly test products over a period of time and to see what they are actually like to live with.
The final point we wanted to mention here is no manufacturer can pay for a good review because our thorough testing team tells it how it is.
How to choose the right polo shirt
As mentioned, there is a lot to think about when picking the right polo shirt for you. With that in mind, we have come up with several things for you to think about before purchasing.
1. Length
During the golf swing if you find your shirt coming untucked often, or your belly starts to show then you should think about a polo with a longer length. That way it will remain tucked in throughout the round and beyond.
2. Fit
Do you want a more loose fitting polo or something with more of an athletic fit? Slim fit or classic fit? Most polos come in lots of sizes so be wary of getting something that isn't fitting correctly for you.
3. Sleeves
It doesn't sound that important, but a polo with sleeves too long or too short can be annoying. They should come to the middle of the upper arm, and the seam should align with the middle of the shoulders.
4. Fabric
Have a think about what fabric you would like the polo to be made from. For example, there are loads of materials used these days such as polyester, spandex, lycra, nylon and cotton. Often polos are made with a combination of these.
5. Technology
Most brands make polo shirts that offer technology to help in a variety of ways. For example, many help with moisture management and sweat wicking which keeps the body dry and comfortable. Some also offer UV protection and anti-microbial properties too, so it is worth thinking about what aspect you find important here. Of course, several of the models above have been designed with all of these facets in mind.
6. Design
Striped? Floral? An all-over print? Gone are the days of drab boring polo designs and in modern golf most brands really push the boat out. The sheer array of polo shirts we picked out above shows this clearly. Whatever fashion sense you have, there will be a polo for you.
7. Price
Of course the price is always something people should think about. There is great value to be had with the models above but there are also more premium models for those wanting to spend a little more. Put simply, there is something for everyone.
FAQs
What is the difference between a polo shirt and a golf shirt?
The main difference between a normal polo shirt and a golf shirt is the fabric used in construction. Most polos are made from fabrics like cotton and linen whilst golf polos are often made with a combination of fabrics like spandex, polyester and also cotton. After all, the golf polo has to be able to stretch and deal with the athletic movement of a golf swing.
Can you wear golf polos casually?
The short answer here is yes but it has to be the right shirt. Many of the models we selected in our best golf polos guide have understated designs that would look at home off the golf course, whilst others are perhaps best suited for the links and not many other places.
What makes a good golf polo?
A good golf polo does a lot of things. It has to be breathable, lightweight, help with sweat, protect from the sun, feel comfortable, and also look good as well. We also think the best designs can be versatile enough to be used anywhere.
