Golf is an ancient and esteemed game, and because of this an entire host of rules regarding etiquette have sprung up around it. These rules of etiquette not only extend to behavior while on the course, but to the type of clothing one wears while playing. Determining what is appropriate though, can be a challenging task for anybody, especially if you are playing with people you don’t know very well.
The first step in deciding what to wear on the golf course is determining who you are playing with, and in what context. As everybody knows, golf has become one of the primary ways for business partners to meet outside of the office, and it makes sense that if you are going to meet your boss or a potential business partner, you would where something different than if you were just going to the community course with a few buddies on the weekend, when, obviously, etiquette is much less important.
While t-shirts and shorts may be fine for the weekend round with your friends, this attire is certainly not appropriate for a more formal or business-like situation. Wearing the proper clothing not only shows a respect for those you are playing with, but for the game itself. Remember, too, that golf is a game, and you want to be comfortable. Playing horribly because you are wearing too formal clothing is just as bad as wearing inappropriate clothing in the first place. Luckily, it is fairly easy to assemble a golf wardrobe that will be appropriate for any situation.
A golf shirt is fairly standard for all occasions. It can be long-sleeved, though most are short-sleeved. Make sure it is has a collar, and doesn’t have any inappropriate messages written on it. Most department stores and sports stores have a wide selection of golf shirts to choose from. If it is a chilly day, a light sweater or vest is appropriate, as long as it is worn over a golf shirt.
Most golfers wear casual pants, such as khakis. They should have belt loops, and should not be made of denim. Most golfers dislike cuffs because they can catch grass and dirt in them. Jeans are not appropriate. Shorts can be worn, if it is exceptionally warm, but they should not be gym shorts or cutoffs. A leather belt that matches your shoes should also be worn.
There are a wide variety of golf shoes to choose from at any sporting goods store. Make certain you buy the kind with special golf-course designed tread or soft spikes. Do not wear metal spikes, as they can ruin the course. Do not wear sneakers or dress shoes, but make sure to bring an extra pair of non-golf shoes, in case you spend time in the clubhouse afterwards. You can keep these in the locker room. Your socks should match your shoes.
Finally, a hat can be both a stylish and practical accessory. Whether it is a golf visor, a baseball-style cap, or a straw hat that some of the older golfers wear, you will find that it adds panache to your outfit and keeps the sun off your face.
Coordinating your colors can be tricky on the golf course. The stereotype of the golfer with the plaid knickers and cap is actually rather outdated. Indeed, if you show up wearing too much plaid people will take you for a novice at best and a fashion-disaster at worst. Most golfers wear basic colored pants and a brighter shirt, though anything that matches is fine.
In the end, you want to look elegant without drawing too much attention to your attire. One way to get some ideas for golf attire is to watch professional golf on the television. All of these golfers wear outfits appropriate to the PGA Tour – they are certainly appropriate for a business meeting on the course.
