How To Dress Properly For Golf Whatever The Weather

Golf is arguably one of the most difficult sports to dress for. Not only do you have the inevitable changing weather conditions from the fact it takes place outside over the course of four hours (hopefully no more than this), but you then have the sometimes complex etiquette rules of the indoor settings pre and post round that needed to be factored in.

To master the "golf look" while staying functional, your wardrobe needs to be as adaptable as your on-course strategy. I once experienced sun, rain, wind and a hail storm during a round at Carnoustie one April, which goes to show the extent to which golfers need to prepare their clothing choices with proper attention and disaster planning!

The Foundation: A Breathable Base

The primary layer of your attire should be based on the temperature. For most of a year, a breathable polo is the appropriate starting point (almost every golf club requires a collared shirt). Avoid 100% cotton, which holds onto sweat and becomes heavy. Look for "performance" polyester or piqué material that blends with 4-way stretch.

If it’s particularly cold, say 8 degrees celsius or under depending on the wind chill, you'll want to opt for a base layer underneath. These keep the cold out while also allowing you to swing relatively freely, and are an essential item if you play a lot of winter golf.

On summer days, a polo shirt, shorts (or pants) and a belt (not white, please) topped off with a cap will serve you well. Avoid matching the colours directly (blue shorts with a blue polo) but match block colors on one with the trim on the other.

You'll Need A Mid Layer But Choose Wisely

In the spring or autumn, or when the weather is forecast to be changeable during your round (always check before you get dressed, ideally on the morning of your round), you need to build a layering system that can adapt to these conditions.

So once you’ve chosen your primary layer(s), add a lightweight mid layer, which can easily be removed as you get into your round and the body heats up. These come in many forms - a hoodie (if your course permits!), a full zip, quarter zip or sweater. Which one you choose depends on personal preference but bear in mind there are different types of mid layer designed to do different jobs.

Thermal mid layers will be a little thicker and are designed primarily for warmth on cooler outings. Then you have thinner soft mid layers for milder rounds and thinner still mid layers with a focus on keeping out the wind. A vest or gilet is an excellent alternative for golfers in that it keeps the body warm while providing additional freedom for the arms to swing.

Wind tops come in long and short sleeved options, an excellent example of the latter being the Galvin Green Luis (pictured below), which reduces any snagging at the wrists and elbows for maximum comfort and range of motion.

Fail to prepare, prepare to fail

Playable rainwear is also an essential for any golfer serious about performing when the weather isn’t favourable. Nowadays, jackets and the matching pants can offer 100% waterproof protection and breathability without the bulk. You can get waterproof jackets that offer thermal insulation too but the general advice would be to go thin here so you can remove the jacket when the rain stops, revealing the thermal layers underneath that will continue to keep you warm.

A few final points. Don’t underestimate the importance of the humble golf sock. Thicker is generally better here to keep your feet warm in the winter but also fill any gaps inside your shoe that could cause unwanted movement. Be sure to check the course’s policy on socks before travelling, especially in the summer, as some clubs dictate a certain length or colour!

Accessorise correctly

Headwear is also an integral part of your outfit. It comes in many forms and while it’s a good chance to accessorise and showcase your personality, it can also impact your comfort and temperature regulation. In the summer, a cap protects your face from harmful rays while shading your eyes so you can track your ball in the bright conditions more easily.

In the winter or when the temperature drops, you’ll want to opt for a woolly hat, be it a beanie or a bobble. Some, like the Galvin Green Leighton, even offer windproof protection via a special lining around the ears, which is a nice bonus when the breeze picks up.

Then you’ve got your clubhouse etiquette, which again often varies and means you should always check the club’s specific dress code before you arrive. While many modern clubs are relaxing their rules, the "standard" remains a tucked-in shirt, a belt, no hats and "tailored" pants. Avoid wearing your spiked golf shoes inside as well as denim, cargo pockets, or hoodies unless you are certain the venue is "streetwear friendly."

So there you have it, your guide to dressing properly for golf. Did we miss anything? Let us know in the comments section below.