Clothes for golf

Short answer: A round of golf lasts four to five hours in changing weather at low intensity. You never really warm up, but you are out for a long time, and the weather can turn several times. Layers you can adjust and an inner layer that does not get in the way of your swing matter most.

Low intensity for a long time

You walk a lot without breaking a sweat, so temperature is what you notice most. Your body makes little heat when you stroll between shots, which means you can feel cold even after hours on the course. Soft trousers that keep you warm without pulling make the round more comfortable. See bamboo sweatpants for men.

The weather changes during the round

Four to five hours is a long time, and a sunny morning can turn into a windy, cool afternoon. Check the forecast for the whole round, not just your tee time. It is better to carry one layer too many in your bag than to stand on the last holes feeling cold because the wind has turned.

Layers you can adjust

Think in thin layers you can take off and put on between holes. A thin inner layer, a light mid layer and an outer layer against wind and showers cover most days. When the sun comes out, the mid layer comes off, and when the clouds roll in, it goes back on. That way you follow the weather.

A layer that stays out of your swing

Anything that pulls across the shoulder is felt in every single swing. Each shot stretches the fabric across your shoulders and back, and a tight inner layer soon becomes a distraction. Choose a thin layer that follows your body and gives when you turn. Try a few practice swings at home first. See bamboo undershirts for men.

Many steps on soft ground

A round is eight to ten kilometres on most courses, often on wet grass in the morning. That is far enough for your socks to matter. A pair that does not bunch up in the shoe or rub at the heel makes the last holes easier. Bring a spare pair in your bag for a long day. See socks for men.

When you wait on the tee

On a busy course you often stand still while the group ahead tees off. Those breaks are when you cool down, especially if you have just walked briskly up a hill and got a little warm. Put a layer on while you wait and take it off again when it is your turn. It takes seconds.

What to carry in your bag

A spare mid layer, a pair of dry socks and something for rain take up little room in your bag but can save a round. Many people pack too little because the morning looks fine. Pack for the worst part of the forecast and leave it in the bag if you do not need it.

Washing and care

Golf clothes get washed often, and that wears on the fabric. Wash at a moderate temperature and let them air dry, so they keep their shape and do not pull across the shoulders after a few washes. Turn them inside out before washing. Keep two inner layers so a clean one is always ready.

Frequently asked questions

What should you wear for golf

Layers you can adjust, plus an inner layer that does not pull across the shoulder when you swing. That way you can follow the weather through the whole round.

How far do you walk in a round

Eight to ten kilometres on most courses. That is far enough for your socks to matter, especially when the grass is wet in the morning.

Why does the shoulder matter

Because every swing stretches the fabric across your shoulders and back. A tight layer is felt a hundred times in a round and takes your focus off the shot.