Most golf courses have dress codes, and if you show up in the wrong clothes, you're not playing. It's that simple. Collared shirts and proper golf shoes are required at about 95% of traditional clubs. Jeans, t-shirts, and sneakers won't cut it at most places. But the rules vary depending on whether you're playing a private club, a resort course, or your local public track. Here's what you need to know before you show up at the first tee.
What Men Need to Wear
The basics are pretty straightforward. You need a collared shirt. A polo or button-down works. T-shirts and tank tops are banned at most courses. Some traditional clubs require you to tuck your shirt in, so check the rules before you go.
For bottoms, you've got a few options. Tailored golf pants or Bermuda shorts that hit around your knee are your safest bet. Jeans and cargo pants are out at most places, though some modern courses are starting to accept denim. Check with the course first.
Golf shoes with soft spikes are standard. Metal spikes are banned almost everywhere because they tear up the greens. You'll also want to wear a belt. It's a small detail, but it shows you're taking the dress code seriously.
Avoid anything too loose or baggy. It can restrict your swing and looks sloppy.
What Women Need to Wear
Women have more options than men when it comes to golf attire. You can wear a collared polo, a sleeveless blouse, or even a golf dress. T-shirts and tank tops are still banned at most courses.
For bottoms, tailored shorts, skirts, skorts, pants, or capris all work. Just make sure your skirt or shorts hit mid-thigh or longer. Golf dresses have become really popular because they're comfortable and look good.
Denim is usually banned at private clubs, but some public courses allow it. Stick with moisture-wicking fabrics that'll keep you comfortable through 18 holes. For cooler weather, you can layer with a wind shirt or light jacket.
Proper golf shoes are mandatory, just like for men.
There's also John "Buddy" Mulligan, a locker room attendant who supposedly got friendly do-overs from golfers. But his story lacks solid documentation.
The earliest known reference to the term appeared in the Detroit Free Press in 1931. That gives us a clearer timeline for when it entered popular usage. Interestingly, the term might have started in baseball before jumping to golf, though nobody's proven that connection.
What's Not Allowed
Here's what you can't wear. Jeans are banned at most courses, even if they're black or designer. Athletic shorts, sweatpants, and yoga pants are out. Golf requires tailored pants or proper golf shorts.
You need a collar on your shirt. T-shirts, tank tops, and anything with offensive graphics won't fly. For women, halter tops, strapless tops, and spaghetti straps are specifically prohibited at most clubs.
Don't wear regular sneakers or sandals. You need proper golf shoes with soft spikes. Metal spikes will get you kicked off the course because they damage the greens.
Cargo pants are also banned at most places because they look too casual.
When you're buying golf shoes, you're choosing between soft spikes and spikeless designs. Both work on most courses. Metal and ceramic spikes are completely banned everywhere because they tear up the greens.
Public courses might let you wear regular tennis shoes, but private clubs won't. They require proper golf footwear. Period.
Keep your shoes clean and in decent shape. Nobody wants to see beat-up sneakers on the first tee. And don't show up barefoot or in street boots. You'll get turned away immediately.
How Dress Codes Vary by Course Type
Private clubs have the strictest dress codes. You're wearing collared shirts tucked into tailored pants. Zero tolerance for denim or athletic wear. They're preserving tradition, and if you break the rules, you're off the course. Most private clubs also require men to wear a belt.
Semi-private and resort courses are more flexible. You still need collared shirts and proper shorts, but they're less strict about tucking in your shirt or what shoes you wear. Some even accept high-quality non-collared shirts if they look appropriate.
Public courses are the most relaxed. You can often wear t-shirts, clean jeans, and regular sneakers. They want golf to be accessible, so comfort matters more than formality. But each course is different, so check their rules before you go.
If you show up in the wrong clothes, you'll get turned away at the first tee until you change. Some tournaments won't even let you start.
The penalties can get expensive. The LPGA fines players $1,000 for their first violation and doubles it after that. You might also get a one-stroke penalty during competitive play, which can ruin your scorecard.
Tournament committees will disqualify you from current and future events if you keep breaking the rules. Your reputation takes a hit too. Sponsors and other players notice when you can't follow basic guidelines.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Wear Golf Clothes in the Clubhouse Restaurant?
Most formal dining rooms won't allow golf attire. You can usually wear your golf clothes in casual areas like the grill or patio, but the main dining room requires dressier clothes. Remove your hat inside and swap your golf shoes for dress shoes. When in doubt, bring a change of clothes.
Do I Need to Cover My Tattoos?
Most golf courses don't require you to cover tattoos, but some private clubs still have coverage rules. Public courses rarely care about tattoos, while traditional private clubs might ask you to wear long sleeves. Check the dress code online or call ahead before playing somewhere new. Most places accept visible tattoos as long as they're not offensive.
Do Spectators Need to Follow Dress Codes?
Yes, spectators need to follow dress codes. Most clubs require all guests to wear neat, appropriate attire. Collared shirts, golf shorts or slacks, and tennis shoes. No tank tops, jeans, or gym shorts. Spectator rules aren't quite as strict as player requirements, but you're still expected to look presentable.
Can Kids Wear Athletic Clothes?
No, kids need proper golf attire just like adults. Collared shirts tucked in, golf shorts or pants, and soft-spiked shoes. No t-shirts, sweatpants, basketball shorts, or running shoes. Most courses require shorts to stay within 6 inches above the knee. Some clubs allow golf joggers with belt loops for kids, which gives a bit more flexibility.
Conclusion
Golf dress codes exist for a reason. They preserve tradition and show respect for the game. Before you head to any course, check their specific rules online or call ahead. Start with the basics. Collared shirt, proper shorts or pants, and golf shoes. That'll get you on most courses without any issues. When you dress appropriately, you'll feel more confident and play better.
