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
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 3
+ Classy styling
+ Matches easily with other layers
- Some will prefer a less technical fabric
The Empire polo from Peter Millar is a very simple, stylish garment that would be a welcome staple in the wardrobe of any golfer. Made from a blend of polyester and spandex, it keeps its shape over time and yet stretches with your body as you swing to prevent any annoying feeling of restriction.
I wore the Sherwood (green) version of this polo and was really pleased with how smart it was. It also looks good with cream or navy-colored trousers. The fit is described as ‘tailored’ and is on the athletic side. However, I didn’t feel it was too snug and would happily wear it both on and off the course.
Sizes: S-2XL
Colors: 3
+ Subtle aesthetic
+ Fits very well
- Best suited to a slimmer, athletic fit
For those seeking a polo with an athletic fit, the short-sleeve Reserve Polo from Sun Day Red is a worthy consideration. ‘Created for the clubhouse and beyond’, it comes in three subtle colors and features a versatile, polished aesthetic that works both on and off the golf course in my opinion. A design element that aids this versatility is the only logo visible on the polo is on the back of the neck.
As mentioned, the athletic fit comes from the modern, tailored silhouette which I really liked, and it is comfortable too with a polyester/viscose/elastane blend. It feels soft to the skin and lightweight too, and whilst I usually prefer a three-button polo, the two-buttons here are no issue whatsoever. The price is at the top end of the market but given the versatility, you are basically getting two polos in one here.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 4
+ Classic styling
+ Collar is high quality
- More of an athletic fit
The G FORE All Play polo is made with a supersoft stretch knit that is extremely comfortable and stretchy. It’s a joy to play golf in and the simple styling means it can pair with plenty of different outfits across the four different colorways. It fits just as we hoped so would recommend going with your usual size. 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.
The collar is extremely rigid and feels very high quality, while the G FORE embossed buttons are premium, too. UPF 50+ is a welcome feature as well. Overall, it has to be considered as one of the best golf polos you can buy and good value for money considering the quality.
Sizes: XS-2XL
Colors: 4 (Teal, Plum, White, Carbon)
+ Stylish graduated print
+ Very stretchy fabric
- Material is a little clingy to the skin
For those seeking a modern, casual look on the course the Go To Rise polo certainly fits the brief. The dotted background design adds plenty of shelf appeal, enhanced by the soft hand feel of the fabric. The material was a little clingy to the skin but there is so much stretch, it doesn’t impede your movement at all when you swing. It works well with layering over the top and it comes in four colors that offer something a little different.
Perfect for summer days on the course, this polo shirt is the perfect beginning to your go-to outfit, coming in at a very respectable price point. Oh and I should mention it shows adidas' continued effort into environmental manufacturing with 74% recycled polyester used in the construction.
Sizes: S-2XL
Colors: 2
+ Exceptionally soft and stretchy
+ Stylish and unique modern design
- Bold print may not be for everyone
The Puma Cloudspun Garden Golf Polo is an excellent choice for golfers who want a modern-classic looking polo. Puma has done an excellent job of creating a polo that blends its eye-catching floral design and its high-quality performance material. The proprietary Cloudspun fabric is incredibly soft against the skin and offers a fantastic four-way stretch, allowing for a full range of motion during your swing. I found the moisture-wicking properties to be top-notch, keeping me cool and comfortable throughout my round. The sewn-in collar stay is a nice touch that keeps you looking sharp. While the print is bold, the polo's comfort and on-course performance are undeniable. It's a versatile piece that feels just as good as it looks, although I would recommend ordering a size up unless you want a fairly tight fitting shirt.
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: S-2XL
Colors: 5
+ Excellent color options
+ Soft and lightweight
- Creases easily due to fabric
A classic cotton polo, the Gibson polo from B.Draddy is a beautifully soft and lightweight experience. The Peruvian Pima cotton delivers this feather-soft feel, although it’s worth noting it creases relatively easily as a result. It delivers a traditional fit, one that is far from tight fitting like some modern golf polos are, but also one that is a little baggy but doesn’t come close to being ‘boxy’.
It also delivers a good level of stretch, not that it feels like you need it much due to the slightly more baggy fit. Courtesy of the neat color choices that aren’t simply block colors, but rather deliver a soft but classy-looking striped look, this polo is easily worn to the office or smart-casual occasions as well as the golf course.
Sizes: S-2XL
Colors: 4 (Grey, Black, White, Navy)
+ Classic, sleek design
+ Comfortable, moisture wicking material
- Deeper 3-button neck line might not be to everyone’s taste
This stylish polo shirt has very quickly become one of my favourite items in the wardrobe, so much so that it rarely spends any time in there. The regularity of its visits to the washing machine is nothing to worry about either, as the easycare fabric looks and feels just as great after ten washes as it did after one. The suave look provides a classic vibe while also feeling very modern. The comfortable, moisture wicking material is also insulated - helping to keep you dry and warm when faced with those colder winter months. This polo pairs perfectly with a quarter zip, hoodie or rain jacket, but when the elements allow I love to keep things simple and let this polo shirt be the solo star it deserves to be.
Sizes: S-XXL
Colors: 3
+ Athletic fit
+ Very breathable
- Pretty golf-specific design
The Mitchell polo shirt from Galvin Green is a very solid offering from the Swedish brand. The simple block color design works really well, with contrast added with solid stripes added down the back and sides. The athletic design is very flattering and felt snug without ever bunching in awkward areas which is key for on course comfort. In terms of breathability and stretch, the Mitchell is hard to beat.
The construction and premium fabrics deliver not only luxury looks but also five star performance. The shirt was so comfortable at times it felt like I was hardly wearing it, such is its lightweight nature. If you’re a golfer who prioritizes performance without wanting to sacrifice style, then this is a great option. While the color options are fairly limited, Galvin Green have opted for three strong choices that pair up nicely with almost any outfit.
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-2XL
Colors: 1
+ Unique aesthetic
+ Easy care and wrinkle resistant
- All over print not for all
I am a big fan when brands combine their history into modern products and one such example is this Performance polo from Johnnie-O which gives a nod to the brands 20th anniversary. As such it features an all over print celebrating special places and moments from the history of the brand which stands out and yet I don’t think it’s over the top.
Performance isn’t limited to the aesthetic either as the polyester/spandex fabric blend gives plenty of stretch, delivers a lightweight feel, wicks moisture and I found it to be easy to wash which is an underrated part of a good polo shirt. It is wrinkle resistant and built in is UPF 50 sun protection so realistically this is an all-year round polo.
Sizes: S-3XL
Colors: 10+
+ Excellent moisture-wicking and quick-drying fabric
+ UPF 50+ sun protection
- "Loose" fit may not be for everyone
The Under Armour Tee To Green Printed Polo is a polo that should be added to everyone’s rotation, designed for comfort and performance above all else. Its smooth, soft fabric is both anti-pick and anti-pill, ensuring it pulls moisture and sweat and keeps you dry on the course. The built-in UPF 50+ is a huge plus for sunny days on the course and will help protect your skin from the sun. What I loved about this polo the most is the four-way stretch, which allows for complete freedom of movement during the swing, particularly around the back and shoulders. While it has been designed as a "loose" cut fit, I found it to be closer to a more athletic fit. If you're looking for a reliable, high-performance polo that will keep you cool and protected from the sun's rays, the Tee To Green is an excellent choice to add to your wardrobe.
Sizes: S-2XL
Colors: 2
+ Oozes class
+ Beautifully soft
- Fit is on the smaller side
Much like the Kendrick Knitted Zip Sweater we’ve included in our best XXXX guide, the Ruben Knitted Shirt is the perfect polo to pair it with. Beautifully soft and pleasingly stretchy enough to perform well on the golf course, it will likely be a regular in my rotation throughout the year no matter the weather. Made up of 72% viscose/rayon and 28% polyester, it’s the softest polo I’ve ever worn and a nice break from the typically 100% polyester I’m so used to wearing on the course week-to-week.
The JL Navy colorway in particular oozes class, albeit it does fit slightly small, especially on the arms - I’d advise going one size up or if you’re a larger gentleman, maybe two sizes up (trust me).
Sizes: XS-XXL
Colors: 10
+ Incredibly stretchy and comfortable
+ Fantastic selection of colors and prints
- At the top end of the price spectrum
This polo has quickly become an indispensable part of my shirt rotation and I can’t see that changing any time soon. Lululemon is a brand synonymous with activewear and this shirt has clearly been designed by someone who likes to move. The fabric is so stretchy and lightweight you can often forget you are wearing anything at all.
The simple navy colourway that I own is perfect for not only golf, but tennis and any other outbound pursuit you may be undertaking. Lululemon also offers the shirt in a wide variety of colours and patterns so there should be something to suit everyone’s taste. Comfortable, stylish, lightweight and easy to care for, the Logo Sport ticks almost every box. At £78 this shirt is on the expensive end of the spectrum but it will be a worthy investment.
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-3XL
Colors: 2
+ Lovely fit that isn’t too tight but not too baggy either
+ Easily styled for both on and off-course wear
- Long sleeve design not for all
A super stylish, soft and stretchy long sleeve polo. The Kent LS Polo ticks every box you want for a quality polo, especially those that can be worn all 12 months of the year (unless it gets too hot). The fabric feels very premium but works beautifully on the course - soft, lightweight, and stretchy, yet structured enough to hold its shape throughout the day.
It's a wonderful tailored fit without being too tight or baggy, paired with a collar that is firm and stays in place even after washing. Only three color options may come as a disappointment to some, but we loved the Olive color which paired perfectly with chinos on the golf course and jeans off the course.
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-XXXL
Colors: 5
+ Comfortable fit
+ Easy care
- Style won’t appeal to everyone
Ping has opted for a mainly blue color range with its Julian polo shirt, which also comes in an equally smart silver and a white. Three of these, including the one pictured, are a brush stroke camo design, which is best described as a statement style - not for everyone, maybe, but very on trend. If you want to add a bit of personality and stand out a little, this is the polo shirt for you.
The mini flag design, which is available in white, also catches the eye. It’s hard to fault the performance with features including stretch properties, crease resistant, and quick dry. It’s extremely light and cool, and the fact that it dries so quickly means you can wear it in light showers and not feel uncomfortable.
Sizes: S-XXXL
Colors: 4
+ Classic design, good value
+ Comfortable, moisture wicking material
- Fit might be too casual for some
Golf and cycling clothing isn’t a traditional cross-over, but bear with me. Just after he won the Tour de France and a gold medal at the London Olympics, British cyclist Sir Bradley Wiggins teamed up with fashion brand Fred Perry for a Mod-inspired collection that included a light blue polo shirt that Proquip’s Tri-Stripe Collar instantly reminded me of. The good news for Proquip is that while the Wiggins polo was too tight around the armpits and regularly ended up with highly visible sweat patches, the Tri-Stripe’s lightweight and soft pique knit polyester has done a great job of wicking perspiration - and drying quickly - during some warm rounds. My large sample has a reasonably generous, rather than athletic, fit but with flat-stitched seams in areas prone to chafing it does make for a very comfortable shirt. As an added feature it also boasts some UV protection.
Sizes: XS-3XL
Colors: 8
+ Extremely soft and comfortable
+ Great amount of stretch
- Tight fit
The Reflo Yamuna is a high quality polo shirt that is incredibly soft and comfortable to wear. It has a great amount of stretch thanks to its 100% recycled polyester make-up and is a fantastic hot weather shirt that works well for golf, tennis and other activities. We found it to offer up a slightly tight fit so would recommend going up a size if you’re usually in between or prefer or slightly baggier fit.
The subtle patter on the shirt is striking and has a slight ribbed feel when you brush your hands over it. This polo comes in an impressive eight different color options and sizes all the way from XS-3XL. Overall it has to be considered one of the best golf polo shirts you can buy that is fairly difficult to fault.
Sizes: S-XXXL
Colors: 3
+ Clean, classy design.
+ Thin, lightweight material
- A looser fit than some
The first thing you notice about the Ashworth Signature Golfman polo is the soft, lightweight feel. It’s extremely comfortable thanks to the 94% polyester, 6% Spandex material, meaning you can swing freely. The stylish, slightly understated matte-finish design incorporates the brand’s Golfman logo throughout, including on a label on the right sleeve.
The one thing to note is that my medium polo came up slightly larger than some, which wasn’t a problem when tucked in but maybe something to note if you’re on the smaller end of your usual size. The material is moisture-wicking and offers UPF 50+ sun protection so ideal to wear all year round. The three-button neck offers versatility when the temperature is changeable. It’s only available in three colours so if you’re looking for something bright this may not be the option for you.
Sizes: XS-2XL
Colors: 6
+ Premium feel
+ Top quality collar
Designed with premium feeling, high quality Pima Cotton fabric, the Hollow Prima Polo from Kjus just oozes comfort and performance. The fabric promotes thermoregulation and quick-drying properties, keeping you cool and comfortable on warmer days whilst not bogging you down on wetter days on the golf course.
Available in a range of colorways from block colors like black and white to the Fresca/Atlanta Blue modeled above, this polo gives you unrestricted comfort through the golf swing and helps you look and feel good in the process. Pleasingly, there are no brash logos plastered on chest or sleeve like with some rival brands - instead, Kjus stick to their process of subtly placing the logo on your back shoulder and letting the design of this eye-catching shirt do the talking.
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: 4
+ Flattering striped design
+ Flexible fabric maximises range of motion
- Limited off course appeal
Turtleson is becoming one of the more established brands in the premium golf apparel space and the Brady is just one example of the quality and performance on offer. The softness and movement in the material makes it highly functional for golf, managing moisture effectively but more importantly allowing you to swing without restricting.
The striped design and tailored fit will suit all body shapes and the wrinkle-free qualities mean it will look fresh however you choose to look after it. With plenty of color options, you’ll be able to match these with your favorite pants for an eye-catching look on the course.
Sizes: XS-XXL
Colors: 2
+ Bold pattern
+ Great fit for ultimate comfort
- Avoid if you don’t want to stand out on the course
This floral number is one that will divide opinion, but I must say it has really grown on me since donning it for the first time. The comfortable, well proportioned fit helps to create that instant connection, encouraging you to dig into the wardrobe to find it time after time. The bold floral print is the perfect nod to autumn while also helping you to cling onto those great summer vibes, meaning you can wear this throughout the seasons.
It goes without saying that this polo will turn a few heads on the course, so if you are someone who loves the limelight this polo shirt is a great addition to your roster. The lightweight, breathable material means you can wear this both on and off the course, adding a touch of flair to any outfit.
Sizes: S-4XL
Colors: 100+ designs
+ Wrinkle-resistant and moisture-wicking
+ Huge color/design choice
- Many of the distinctive prints may not appeal to some
Sunday Swagger polos come in over 100 different prints and offer something different for everyone, whether you prefer a more subtle design or wish to stand out from the crowd as much as possible. Whichever design you choose, the quality of the Sunday Swagger men’s polo will not disappoint. The moisture-wicking stretchy fabric offers UPF 40 protection from the sun while remaining perfectly breathable.
The tailored fit made it feel like I had more than enough room to move out on the course without feeling too loose and looking untidy. You may have to possess a fair amount of confidence to venture out in a handful of the options, but if that sounds like you, I can guarantee you will be the talk of the golf club!
Sizes: S-2XL
Colors: 2
+ Extremely lightweight feel
+ Nice overall fit from different materials
- Can feel a touch tight
I'll be honest, I've never been a fan of a long-sleeved polo and, although the Showdown L/S hasn't changed my mind on this factor, there was still a lot to like about this model, which is very lightweight and comfortable.
Constructed from a blend of materials, it has a stretchy design that means it fits true to size. What's more, because it is lightweight, it didn't restrict my swing, allowing me to commit to every shot I had on the course. The only slight downside is that the material is very thin which, although helps when it comes to layering, almost made it feel like I wasn't actually wearing a top, just a second skin. The look is very modern, which I like, but some may want a slightly thicker construction, especially in autumn/winter conditions.
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.
