The world of golf shirts has changed a lot over the past few years in terms of design, technology, construction and performance. Nowadays, the best men's golf shirts find a way to be comfortable, light, and also look great on the fairways too. Gone are the days where we would have to wear heavy, cumbersome and uninspiring golf attire because most brands now make modern, cutting-edge designs to help us purely focus on our games whilst looking good. New technology has risen to the fore in terms of moisture wicking, comfort and also making sure the swing is unhampered by the shirt. The best models often help with blocking UV rays, provide anti-odor protection, and have a design that will suit different fashion senses.
This is where the selections below come in. From FootJoy to Original Penguin we have tested a lot of shirts and put together this guide on our favorite men's golf shirts that will seek to achieve everything we mentioned above without breaking the bank. Alternatively check out some of our other guides on golf clothing - such as the best women's golf shirts, best golf tops, or the best golf pants.
Best Men's Golf Shirts
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 2
+ Super comfortable
+ Throwback spread collar boosts style
- Only 2 color options
Few golf shirts blend comfort and style better than Peter Millar’s Retro Jersey Performance option. The soft, lightweight and stretchy material slides on effortlessly and allows you to swing unrestricted. It also maintains these qualities after multiple washes.
The Edwin Spread Collar is a bit of a throwback but really enhances the look in our opinion.
The fit is just right too - not too snug where it pinches in all the wrong places but also not overly loose or baggy either - just right. If you don’t mind spending a little more to get a high quality polo that will last, this is well worth checking out.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 4
+ Very stretchy fabric
+ Comfortable and well fitting
- Camo design will divide opinion
I have been a fan of G/FORE gear for a good few years now so was excited to test the SS25 line as part of our testing day. The new range features this Mapped Icon Camo polo which may divide opinion, but I think the modern twist to a traditional polo silhouette really adds something unique.
But for me the star of the show was the fabric. Made with a combination of polyester and spandex, it stretches easily throughout the swing, offers outstanding comfort and I liked the lightweight feel as well, making it ideal for those hot rounds during the summer. Additionally I liked the overall fit of the shirt, athletic and not restrictive, and it works well with mid-layers or quarter-zips over the top as well.
Sizes: S-2XL
Colors: 3 (Navy, Grey, Red)
+ Fabric gives total performance
+ Total freedom of motion
- Placket snaps not for me
One of the best men’s golf shirts I have tested of late is the Core Stripe polo from Tiger Woods’ Sun Day Red brand. Designed as part of the TW Performance Fit range, the polo features an athletic silhouette all in the name of promoting speed. How so? Well the fit and high-stretch fabric is designed for total freedom of movement and motion, which I certainly felt during testing. Whether it made me swing faster remains to be seen, but at no point did I feel hindered by the polo’s construction.
Other design elements to mention are the cooling vented collar and the underarm areas both helped breathability, whilst the polo itself felt lightweight. Looks wise I think the stripe design looks good for the course but perhaps limited in terms of versatility, and if honest I wasn’t a fan of the placket snaps either, preferring classic buttons.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 6
+ Fantastic selection of colors
+ Lightweight and breathable
- 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: 4
+ Excellent breathability
+ Unrestricted movement
- Print may not appeal to all tastes.
Slip on this polo and you'll first notice the exceptionally lightweight and breathable HEAT.RDY fabric, engineered to keep you feeling cool and comfortable, even when the sun is at its peak. The integrated AEROREADY technology efficiently wicks moisture away from the skin, enhancing the cool-feeling sensation. The material offers a good amount of stretch, allowing for a full range of motion without any hindrance to your swing.
Its modern, all-over print provides a sharp, contemporary look on the fairways although it may not suit everyone’s eye. While the specific graphic design might not be to everyone's preference and its focus on cooling makes it less suited for chilly rounds, this polo excels in hot conditions. The classic three-button placket and sharp collar provide a polished golfing aesthetic, making it an excellent choice for the fashion-forward golfer.
Sizes: S-3XL
Colors: 2
+ Eye-catching print
+ Excellent breathability and stretch
- Limited colors will divide opinion
First things first, the main stand out of the Broken Flower Polo is the eye-catching print, which will no doubt turn heads on the golf course. The Puma MATTR is known as one of the best golf polo shirts on the market and, like other MATTR models, it has all the technology you know and love, such as moisture-wicking material.
Obviously, the bright and loud look will divide opinion, but there's no doubt that this design screams summer, with the thinner material very breathable, providing plenty of stretch and freedom of movement. It's also incredibly lightweight and, out on the course, the regular fit means it is a true fit to size that won't cause any distraction when taking a shot or walking to your golf ball.
Sizes: S- 3XL
Colors: 4
+ Simple design with some smart modern detail
+ Lightweight and no ironing required
- Feel of synthetic fabric is not for everyone
This lightweight polo shirt from FootJoy combines a simple, versatile aesthetic with some nice modern touches. We tested the navy blue offering which has a subtle pattern in the collar. The fit is fairly athletic without being too snug and the technical fabric stretches with your body as you swing. One feature we loved was the collar, where the fabric is heavier and more structured. This prevents it from curling up and means the shirt continues to look smart after multiple wears/washes. The synthetic feel of the fabric won’t be for those who prefer classic cotton but there are plenty of benefits, including the fact that you won’t need to iron this one.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 5
+ Strong attention to detail
+ Very breathable
- Requires ironing to avoid creases
The Cool Moore Polo from B Draddy is an extremely comfortable and lightweight design that offers up a soft and stretchy fit. The textured detailing on the cross-hatch print shows how much thought has gone into this polo, which even has B Draddy-embossed buttons.
I think it’s the perfect polo for a warm day on the course, and you have five colorways to choose from. I did notice some creasing so it’s certainly one you’ll want to iron before each wear. I also found the fit to be on the baggy side so would recommend going down a size if you’re in between sizes or like a tighter fit.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 4
+ Eye-catching design
+ UV protection
- Fairly golf-specific so not a polo for off-course life
The Marlon polo from Galvin Green with its abstract argyle print, coming in four colorways, is an eye-catching garment that performs just as well as it looks on the course. The stretch fabric makes for a very comfortable and soft wear, and there’s UV protection 20+ built in to keep your torso and upper arms safe while you play in the sun.
It’s also very breathable and comes with quick-drying properties to keep you in good shape no matter the conditions. I loved the fit of the ribbed arm cuffs as well as the detailing, while the ribbed collar also feels high quality and made to last. I’d recommend ordering your usual size.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 3
+ Exceptionally soft and luxurious Peruvian Pima cotton blend
+ Signature tailored fit
- Some may prefer a more structured collar.
The Strickland Shirt is one of the most versatile and premium polo shirts on the market. The incredibly soft and luxurious feel of its Peruvian Pima cotton and elastane blend, offers both a refined comfort and good amount of stretch. This polo is lightweight and breathable, making it ideal for comfortable wear on warmer days, while being thick enough to provide ample warmth under a mid-layer on cooler days.
The signature tailored fit from Holderness & Bourne ensures a clean, modern look, allowing it to transition effortlessly from the golf course to various casual and smart-casual settings. The design is enhanced by a subtle chest pocket detail, a vintage applied placket, and a relaxed self-collar that contributes to its versatile, laid-back yet sophisticated aesthetic, although this can blow around a little in the wind. If you want a polo that looks smart on and off of the course, this is by far your best option.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 4
+ Ultra-lightweight "Featherweight" fabric for exceptional comfort.
+ Wrinkle-resistant and easy care
- Fairly slim fitting which may not suit all
When wearing this polo, you'll immediately notice how incredibly light and silky smooth the "Featherweight" performance fabric feels against your skin. It’s designed to be significantly lighter than standard polos, offering a barely-there sensation that's perfect for warm days on or off the course, although the athletic fit would have me wearing it more while playing than in a casual setting.
The moisture-wicking and stretch properties ensure you stay dry and comfortable with a full range of motion when playing on the course or grinding on the range. The clean, subtle stripe design and classic three-button placket provide a versatile look that transitions effortlessly from a round of golf to a relaxed social setting, should you wear it out. It excels in providing lightweight comfort and performance features like UPF 50 sun protection, and helps with comfort on those hotter days on the links.
Sizes: XS-XXXL
Colors: 16
+ Lightweight and breathable
+ 16 lovely designs to choose from
- Would prefer a small UA logo
Modest in price but high quality in terms of performance, the Playoff 3.0 polo from Under Armour very much outperforms the price tag - like most Under Armour gear we tested has done! There are an army of 16 colors to choose from for a polo that should become a regular rotation in your golfing wardrobe thanks to the comfortable and stretchy material that helps you swing freely through the ball.
The anti-pick, anti-pill fabric is extremely breathable and lightweight, performing really well when I played during warmer whether. It also wicks sweat and dries really fast, meaning you won’t feel uncomfortable on either hot days or if you’re caught in an unexpected rain shower. This is a simple but classy polo that combines really nicely with the Drive Tapered Pant, another incredibly well priced, high quality item from the brands’ extensive golf collection.
Sizes: XS-XXXL
Colors: 6
+ Clean sophisticated design
+ Athletic fit looks great
- May not appeal to golfers who dislike bold branding
The KV polo is one of J.Lindeberg’s standout garments due to its simple but effective design, and its standout performance on the course. The sleek athletic fit is particularly complimentary, and the branding on the collar and back give it that extra bit of flair that fashion conscious golfers will love.
Thanks to its synthetic construction the polo is lightweight, breathable and offers plenty of stretch throughout the golf swing making it a dream for warmer summer rounds. The KV is available in a wide range of color options making a great option for those who like to mix and match outfits. Although I love the bold branding on the back it may not suit the eye of those who like a more toned down design.
Sizes: XS-4XL
Colors: 8
+ Comfortable
+ Versatile and loads of colors
- Slim fit will put some off
If you are a classic polo kind of golfer then Lululemon has you covered with the Evolution polo, an ideal model for on and off the course use. Style wise it has a classic, simple look which works well with different colored pants or shorts, thanks to the sheer variety of color choice available. It is worth noting this polo is slim fit so it does hug from chest to waist, which is better for the athletic players among you, but it may put some off.
Construction wise the polo is made from a technical fabric designed to inhibit ‘the growth of odor-causing bacteria’. Basically, that means you should stay fresh throughout a day of golf, and I also really liked the soft feel of the fabric too. It was comfortable and the addition of lycra to the blend gave a lot of stretch and mobility. Hard to fault.
Sizes: S-3XL
Colors: 2
+ Bold statement
+ Comfortable and stretchy material
- Loud design not for everyone
If you’re wanting to make a bold statement on the course, then the look no further than the Callawy Crab Novelty polo. The Galaxy Blue version I tested features a cast of pink crabs which will certainly turn heads in any clubhouse. It’s made using a 56% polyester, 30% recycled polyester and 14% elastane material which is lightweight and stretchy, making it very comfortable to wear.
The Callaway Opti-Dri moisture management system is designed to keep you fresh and dry throughout your round and it certainly lived up to that on a reasonably hot day. It features a three-button placket with an embroidered chevron logo and a Callaway Contrast Tour logo on the on right sleeve, but these are both slightly overpowered by the design. This polo won’t be to everyone’s tastes, but it will certainly get you noticed.
Sizes: S-XXXL
Colors: 3
+ Striking pattern and design.
+ Soft, lightweight material
- Would love to see it in more colors
From the moment I pulled the Ping Diego Polo on I instantly knew that I loved it. It was that feeling you get when something fits well, in all the right places, aided by the soft comfort of the lightweight fabric. I tried it with a gilet, midlayer and solo in the sunshine - and I loved each variation as much as the next.
The quick dry, crease resistant properties make it very low maintenance, meaning it’s ready to go at a moments notice when the urge to hit the fairways calls. For anyone who likes to stand out on the golf course with a striking pattern, but while also maintaining an aura of style associated with Ping products through the classic colorways available, this polo shirt is the one for you.
Sizes: S-XXXL
Colors: 4
+ Colorful and characterful
+ Comfortable and stretchy
- All-over patterns are never universally popular
Penguin clothing is fantastic for those who want to show some personality on the golf course, with the All-Over Lifesaver polo proving a great option for those who fall more on the flamboyant side of conventional. All-over prints are becoming increasingly popular as outside-the-ropes fashion works itself onto the fairways.
Here, you can choose from two bright and summery options that both work with a range of outfits. The All-Over Lifesaver polo is lightweight, flexible and stretchy and the moisture-wicking properties will keep you cool and stylish in the hotter months. It’s also machine washable and available in a wide range of sizes, although a couple of additional colour options wouldn’t go amiss.
Sizes: S-3XL
Colors: 14
+ Plenty of color and print options
+ Thin material works great in hot conditions
- Tends to crease slightly easily
Featuring in an array of different styles and colors, there is a lot to like about the Tagus Polo shirt from Reflo, which has 14 different options. The model I tested was the Coronet Blue and, with its Reflo branding on the right shoulder and smart all-over print, it goes well with both shorts and pants. What's more, the neutral look will go with pretty much any other color scheme.
Being a summer model polo, its thin material is extremely lightweight and breathable. This means that, in warm conditions, it kept me cool and comfortable, with the great stretch properties striking the balance, fit wise, really well. The only slight downside is that, because it is a thin material, it does crease a bit, but if you're looking for a polo for hot, summer conditions, there's not many better.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 3
+ Ease of movement
+ Breathable
- Pattern not to all tastes
The Stuburt Bullfinch Polo Shirt is an excellent option for those looking for a new golf polo that stands out. It's comfortable and easy to swing a club in, plus it has moisture-wicking and UF-protection properties, and dries relatively quickly.
The material’s elasticity allows for perfect ease of movement throughout the swing. The shirt is long in the body so it can be tucked into pants or shorts and will stay there throughout the swing. Another plus is that the material does not crease and so can be scrunched up tight in your packing, which makes it a handy item to take on a golf trip.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 5
+ Quick drying
+ Stretchy and comfortable
- Collar could have more structure to it
It’s refreshing to see new performance-focused brands enter the golf apparel space and Municipal’s SportCross polo certainly impressed us during testing. While we can’t point directly to the TurboDry tech in the fabric for keeping us cool and comfortable on the course, this shirt was certainly a joy to wear on hot days.
The material also has a subtle texture to it, which gives it a slightly more substantial feel, but it remains lightweight and incredibly stretch so as to not impede your swing in any way.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 8
+ Stretchy and lightweight fabric
+ Clean and classic look
- Design might be too unimaginative for some
For what is a very simple yet effective polo shirt offering, it is quite difficult to find much wrong with the Golf Club Essential Polo from Castore. Available in eight colors across the spectrum, this polo could easily be your go-to option for most outfits. The design is clean and simple, which could be a pro or a con depending on your view. But either way, it’s a great polo shirt with plenty more positives than negatives.
The Essential Polo fit my unathletic body shape wonderfully on and off the course and was particularly unintrusive around the shoulders and back - key areas when swinging a golf club. It has enough material down the trunk to comfortably tuck into your pants/shorts while retaining its sleek fit and was not constrictive around the throat even when buttoning up to the top.
How we test golf shirts
Our testing ethos for golf apparel, as well as all golf products, revolves around using products properly. This means when we test men's golf shirts we put them to the test out on the golf course to see if the product lives up to the performance promised in relation to comfort, breathability, looks and so on. We also use the polos in different conditions to see how they get on in changing conditions, for example if a polo claims to wick sweat and moisture away, we endeavor to test the garment in hot conditions to see if it works and keeps us cool, breathable and comfortable.
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. 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 a golf 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 when choosing a golf polo.
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.
Fit
Do you want a more loose fitting polo or something with more of an athletic fit? Slim fit or classic fit? Most brands offer lots of different sizes so be wary of picking something that doesn't fit correctly.
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.
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.
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. That being said we would recommend going for a model designed with all these facets in mind.
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.
Budget
Of course you always need to think about your budget. Whatever number you decide upon, there will be a model for you, ranging from the top premium models, down to the ones offering excellent value.
Why not pair your golf polo up with a pair of the best golf trousers or one of the best golf sweaters on the market.
FAQs
What shirts do PGA players wear?
PGA players tend to wear shirts from whatever brands they are signed to. For example players like Rory McIlroy and Scottie Scheffler wear Nike shirts, Collin Morikawa and Ludvig Aberg wear adidas, and there are some players signed to more niche brands like Adam Scott and Uniqlo or Wyndham Clark and Municipal. We see a lot of players also wearing brands like FootJoy, Peter Millar and Puma.
What is the best material for golf shirts?
From our experience the best material for golf shirts often includes a combination of polyester, spandex, lycra, nylon and cotton. This is because they need to be lightweight, stretchy and breathable.
For more golf apparel buying advice, be sure to have a read of our guides on the best golf rain jackets, best golf vests or best golf hoodies.
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